Golden Booklet of the True Christian Life

by Calvin, John

• ISBN13: 9780801065286
• ISBN10: 0801065283
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2004-12-01
• Publisher: Baker Books

Summary

In this classic devotional, John Calvin urges readers to apply the Christian life in a balanced way to mind, heart, and hand. Rather than focusing on contemplative other-worldliness, the book stresses the importance of a devotedly active Christian life. In style and spirit, this book is much like Augustine's Confessions, Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress, or Thomas a Kempis's Imitation of Christ. However, its intense practicality sets it apart, making it easily accessible for any reader seeking to carry out Christian values in everyday life. Chapter themes include obedience, self-denial, the significance of the cross, and how we should live our lives today.

Table of Contents

Preface	9	(6)
Prayer of Calvin	l3
CHAPTER I Humble Obedience, the True Imitation of Christ
I. Scripture is the rule of life.	15	(2)
II. Holiness is the key principle.	17	(1)
III. Holiness means full obedience to Christ.	18	(2)
IV. External Christianity is not enough.	20	(1)
V. Spiritual progress is necessary.	21	(4)
Chapter II Self-Denial
I. We are not our own, We are the Lords.	25	(2)
II. Seeking Cods glory means self-denial.	27	(2)
III. Self-denial means: sobriety, righteousness, and godliness.	29	(2)
IV. True humility means respect for others.	31	(3)
V. We should seek the good of other believers.	34	(3)
VI. We should seek the good of everyone, friend and foe.	37	(1)
VII. Civil goodness is not enough.	38	(2)
VIII. No happiness without God's blessing.	40	(2)
IX. We should not be anxious to obtain riches and honors.	42	(2)
X. The Lord is just in all his ways.	44	(3)
CHAPTER III Patience in Crossbearing
I. Crossbearing is more difficult than self-denial.	47	(2)
II. The cross makes us humble.	49	(2)
III. The cross makes us hopeful.	51	(1)
IV. The cross teaches obedience.	52	(2)
V. The cross makes for discipline.	54	(1)
VI. The cross brings repentance.	55	(2)
VII. Persecution brings God's favor.	57	(2)
VIII. Persecution should bring spiritual joy.	59	(1)
IX. The cross should not make us indifferent.	60	(2)
X. The cross makes for submission.	62	(2)
XI. The cross is necessary for our salvation.	64	(3)
CHAPTER IV Hopefulness for the Next World
I. There is no crown without a cross.	67	(3)
II. We are inclined to overestimate the present life.	70	(2)
III. The blessings of this present life should not be despised.	72	(2)
IV: What is earth, if compared with heaven?	74	(2)
V: We should not fear death, but lift up our heads.	76	(3)
VI: The Lord will come in his glory: Maranatha	79	(4)
Chapter V The Right Use of the Present Life
I. Let us avoid extremes.	83	(3)
II. Earthly things are gifts of God.	86	(1)
III. True gratitude will restrain us from abuse.	87	(2)
IV. Let us live with moderation.	89	(1)
V. Let us be patient and content under privation.	90	(2)
VI. Be faithful in your divine calling.	92	(3)
Notes	95