Psalm 119 Sermon Series #3 (Psalm 119:17-24) by Reformer John Calvin | International Christian Classics

In John Calvin's third sermon on Psalm 119, John Calvin focuses on verses 17-24, which speak about the psalmist's longing for God's instruction and his hatred of deceitful ways. Calvin emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance in all areas of life and avoiding the influence of those who would lead us astray.Calvin argues that the psalmist's prayer for understanding and wisdom is not just a personal request, but a desire for God's guidance in fulfilling his duties as a member of the community. He emphasizes the importance of seeking God's will in all areas of life, including our personal relationships and our responsibilities as citizens.Calvin also highlights the psalmist's rejection of deceitful ways, which he argues are a manifestation of the devil's influence in the world. He stresses the importance of avoiding those who would lead us away from God's truth and warns against the dangers of false teachings and worldly philosophies.Finally, Calvin emphasizes the importance of God's law as a guide for righteous living. He argues that the psalmist's love for God's law is not just a matter of intellectual appreciation, but a genuine desire to conform his life to God's will. He encourages his listeners to cultivate a similar love for God's law and to seek God's guidance in living a righteous life.Calvin's sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance in all areas of life, avoiding deceitful ways, and cultivating a love for God's law. He warns against the dangers of false teachings and encourages his listeners to seek the truth in God's word. JOHN CALVIN John Calvin (1509-1564) was a French theologian and reformer who played a major role in the Protestant Reformation of the 16th century. He is best known for his influential work, "Institutes of the Christian Religion," which served as a systematic theology for Protestantism. Calvin was born in Noyon, France, and studied law and theology in Paris. While studying, he became influenced by the teachings of Martin Luther and other reformers, which led him to embrace Protestantism. After being forced to flee Paris due to his beliefs, Calvin settled in Basel, Switzerland, where he began writing his famous "Institutes." In 1536, Calvin was invited to Geneva, Switzerland, to help reform the church and establish a new Protestant government. During his time in Geneva, Calvin implemented many reforms in the church and worked closely with the state council representatives. Calvin's theology emphasized the sovereignty of God, predestination, and the authority of Scripture. He also believed in the necessity of living a righteous life and living in accordance with God's law. He was very pastoral and sent many missionaries around the world including France and Brazil. Calvin's influence spread throughout Europe and beyond, with his teachings shaping the development of Protestantism and contributing to the rise of Puritanism in England and America. He is considered one of the most important figures of the Reformation and his ideas continue to have an impact on Christian theology today, particularly the Reformed and Presbyterian churches.