The Church: One and Holy

Abstract

In chapter 1, book 4, of Institutes of the Christian Religion, John Calvin sets forth the unity of the true church, from which we must not separate ourselves. In chapter 2 he compares this true church with the false one, from which we must separate ourselves. The church one and holy needs yet today to hear both of these together. Moreover, today's denominations function as provincial churches governed by provincial councils, as depicted in chapter 9. Finally, threats to church constitutions, which provide for worship, order, and discipline, threaten the existence of the church, as shown in chapter 10.