Today’s Readings Podcast Description

What kind of men are made bishops under the Papacy, and by what process are they appointed? In these sections of the Institutes, Calvin sets the hierarchical system of his day beside the order of the early Church and finds almost no resemblance left. He shows that examination of doctrine has been abandoned, that the people’s ancient right in election has been stripped away, that boys and men of open vice are advanced to the episcopal office, and that the ordination of presbyters and deacons has been turned into an empty ceremony for creating sacrificing priests rather than true pastors and servants of the poor. The result, he argues, is not the continuation of the apostolic ministry but its near total corruption.

Readings:

John Calvin — Institu ...