Calvin concludes his exposition of the law by showing that true obedience directs life away from self-love and toward the good of others. The command to love our neighbor as ourselves means that the natural energy of self-concern must be redirected outward so that we seek the welfare of others with the same eagerness we show for ourselves. This love extends even to enemies, for Christ’s command to bless, pray for, and do good to those who oppose us is not optional advice but a binding requirement for all who would be called children of God. Calvin also warns against the dangerous teaching that some sins are harmless or “venial” in themselves, reminding us that every violation of God’s law deserves death because it rebels against the authority of the Lawgiver. Yet the gospel offers hope: while sin in its nature is deadly, the faults of believers are forgiven through the mercy of God. In this way the law ultimately exposes our need for grace while directing us toward a life shaped by love for God and for all people.

Readings:

John Calvin — Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book 2, Chapter 8 (Sections 54–59)

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