'Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book 4' Summary

In *Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book 4*, Calvin delves into the nature and function of the Church. He argues that the Church is the body of Christ, composed of all those who are united to him through faith. He elaborates on the sacraments, emphasizing their role as visible signs of God's grace and the means by which God strengthens and nourishes the believer. Calvin also addresses the issue of church government, criticizing the Papacy and its authority while advocating for a system of governance based on the principles of Scripture. He contends that the Church should be governed by elders chosen by the congregation, with pastors serving as spiritual leaders. Throughout this book, Calvin underscores the importance of the Christian community and its role in fostering faith and promoting the spread of the Gospel. He also emphasizes the necessity of discipline within the Church, arguing that it is essential to maintain purity of doctrine and uphold the moral standards of the faith.