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The STUDIA UNIVERSITATIS BABEŞ-BOLYAI issue article summary
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Abstract: In the present study we have analyzed the correspondence of the young Calvin, until the era, when he had started the major part of his church edifying work in Geneva. The time period analyzed is the and of 1530s and beginning of 1540s. We are convinced
that this era makes Calvin – through the influence of role models – be the church edifying theologian, that we know from later periods. In this period, when his character is developing, Melanchthon is one of his most important role models, whom he knew well in that time.
In the correspondence of Calvin preceeding his first Strasbourg period Melanchthon’s
name is not mentioned with that tone than in the later times, even though he then follows the events of the European Reformation, the activity of Luther, the evolution of the theological debates, the political milieu on which depends the future of Protestantism.
Melanchthon’s name appears accentuated in the correspondence and the life of the young Calvin in the years of his exile in Strasbourg, and his personality becomes the role model of the church leader, not regarding his lifestyle but his theological attitude:
he writes about his with much respect, considering his opinion influential not only for himself, but also for the Protestantism, which was struggling in the treaties regarding the union.
Regarding the tone of the letters, as it becomes possible, the relationship of master and disciple turns into personal friendship, the usual humanist expressions of the letters become full of honest feelings. Calvin regards his elder friend with the respect,
which belongs to the older and more experienced theological authority, but remains devoted to his own ideas. Melanchthon on his side considers him a useful comrade and a promising young talent.
Reading the letters of this period I had the feeling that for the young Calvin these were the most glorious years: he took part in the bustle of the events of the European
Ptotestantism, he considered himself important in the company of fist class theologians, he had a real sense of achievement in the process of theological discussions
and formulation of propositions, and could feel beside him as an older friend the greatest theological authority of the debates, Melanchthon, who on his side also showed special respect towards him, and considered him probably the theological talent with the highest hopes. In his Strasbourg period the tone of Calvin’s personal life has been given by the cheerful friendly advice, which was given by his newest friend and spiritual father with jolly, almost teasing, but good willing tone: “John, you should get married!”
Keywords: Calvin, Melanchthon, Strasbourg period of Calvin, humanism, theological debates, correspondence.
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