Institutes of the Christian Religion

A systematic presentation of Christian doctrine organized around the Apostles' Creed, first published in 1536 and expanded through four editions.

John Calvin first published the Institutes in 1536 as a brief introduction to Christian doctrine. The final edition of 1559, organized into four books corresponding to the Apostles' Creed, is the basis for most English translations. Calvin addresses the knowledge of God as Creator and Redeemer, the nature of salvation, the role of the church, and the means of grace. The work has been central to Reformed theology and has influenced Protestant thought broadly.