Abstract

This thesis is an examination of John Calvin's theology focused on his understanding and application of the fundamental soteriological reality of union with Christ. The underlying argument of this thesis is that the union with Christ motif in Calvin's thought is the controlling theological principle for his understanding of the application of salvation. While Calvin's interpreters have long acknowledged the significance of this motif in his theology, there has not been a consensus regarding either the centrality of union with Christ in his soteriology, the nature of the union he describes, or the implications of his understanding for his doctrines of justification and sanctification.

A preliminary chapter of this thesis explores the union with Christ motif as it appears in the broader spectrum of Calvin's theology. Although the motif is fundamental to his understanding of the application of salvation, the significance of the motif is not limited to his soteriology. Calvin refers to union with Christ within several theological rubrics, all of which provide important contexualization for the specific interests of this thesis.

Two following chapters examine Calvin's understanding of the nature of the union that obtains between Christ and the believer. They involve Calvin's assertions that one is engrafted into Christ by faith, that the union is "spiritual", and that the believer "truly" participates in the flesh and blood of Christ. Integral to this thesis is an examination of Calvin's understanding of the communion with Christ that occurs in the Lord's Supper, a context which provides important clarification for his more general soteriological understanding. These chapters are considered the necessary foundation for an investigation of the effects that issue forth from union with Christ.

Three subsequent chapters explore Calvin's doctrines of sanctification, justification, and their respective relationship, in light of the centrally important theme of union with Christ. It is argued Calvin grounds sanctification and justification in the logically prior reality of this union, which grounding has significant implications for his understanding of the character of the salvific benefits.

Lastly, a chapter is included that appraises potential theological influences on Calvin's thought with respect to the union motif. Undertaken as an appreciation of the historical/theological context in which Calvin wrote, this chapter considers the union with Christ theme as it was utilized in the theologies of Calvin's contemporaries, Martin Bucer, Martin Luther, and Heinrich Bullinger.