Commentaries on the Catholic Epistles

Less than fourteen years before his death, John Calvin wrote his Commentaries on the Catholic Epistles. The work was dedicated to Edward VI of England, whose reign saw true Protestantism waxing strong, and was made glorious by the names of Cranmer, Ridley and Hooper. The dedication bears the date of January 24, 1551. All of the Catholic Epistles are dealt with except 2 and 3 John. The difference in the order of the books is accounted for by the unsettled opinion concerning positional sequence rather than canonicity. The omissions are most probably explained by their address to individuals rather than to a church. All the writings of Calvin are characterized by clarity and simplicity. George Park Fisher uses the words, "clearness, thoroughness, and conciseness." This volume is no exception. All the writings of Calvin are characterized by courage to face the problems. Fisher writes: "He never evaded difficulties; he grappled with them." Again, this volume is no exception. - Introduction