The value of Theodore Beza’s inaugural address at the Geneva Academy for Christian Higher Education

Abstract

At the founding of the Academy of Geneva, Theodore Beza was appointed rector, and he had to give the inaugural address. Beza’s inaugural address provides a crucial window into the ideas of the founders of the Academy of Geneva. This Academy can rightly be regarded as one of the most influential instruments for the spread of the Reformation of the sixteenth century. Today, the founding and management of the Academy of Geneva serves as a valuable example for a deeper understanding of Christian higher education. Although today’s curriculum, assessment and academic structures will not look like that of the Academy of Geneva, the principles are still as relevant as they were in the sixteenth century. Beza’s short inaugural address provides an important window into the core principles of Christian higher education through the ages. Some of these core principles include creating a disciplined environment where students learn a Christian worldview, create a healthy learning culture while not losing sight of their duty to help reform society.

Keywords

Academy of Geneva Christian Higher Education John Calvin Reformation Theodore Beza

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