The new translation of On the Christian Life by John Calvin, skillfully rendered by Raymond A. Blacketer and published by Crossway, breathes fresh life into this timeless theological classic. Blacketer’s translation aims to maintain Calvin’s theological depth while making the work more accessible to modern readers. As part of Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion, this short treatise is a vital exposition on how believers should live out their faith, emphasizing self-denial, cross-bearing, and a Christ-centered outlook.

One of the strongest features of Blacketer’s translation is its clarity. Karin Maag, Director of the H. Henry Meeter Center for Calvin Studies in Grand Rapids, calls this translation, “a breath of fresh air for twenty-first century readers,” a statement in which I am in total agreement. Calvin’s original text, though rich in content, can often feel dense due to its 16th-century language and rhetorical style. Blacketer takes great care in preserving the weight of Calvin’s arguments while ensuring that the flow of the text is smooth and readable for today’s audience. The translator’s ability to strike this balance makes the book approachable for those unfamiliar with Reformation-era writings, allowing readers to grasp the depth of Calvin’s insights without being overwhelmed by archaic language.

The theological core of Calvin’s message remains uncompromised in this translation. Calvin’s central themes—self-denial, submission to God’s will, and bearing life’s trials with a focus on eternal life—are articulated with precision. Blacketer’s translation enhances the accessibility of these ideas while retaining the profound seriousness with which Calvin approaches the Christian life. Readers will find themselves challenged by Calvin’s high standards of godliness and encouraged by his emphasis on grace and divine sovereignty.

In addition to the translation itself, the edition by Crossway is thoughtfully presented. The introduction and footnotes provided by Blacketer offer helpful context for readers who may not be well-versed in Calvin’s broader work or the historical period in which he wrote. The additional notes clarify difficult passages and provide theological background that enriches the reading experience. This combination of an updated translation and careful scholarly apparatus makes the book both a devotional guide and a resource for deeper study.

Raymond A. Blacketer’s translation of brings Calvin’s vital teachings to a contemporary audience in a way that is faithful, accessible, and theologically rich. This edition by Crossway offers not only a fresh take on a classic text but also the tools for readers to apply Calvin’s timeless wisdom to their own spiritual journeys. Whether used for personal reflection or academic study, this translation is an invaluable resource for understanding the Reformed tradition and Christian living.

(I received a copy of this book from Crossway in exchange for an honest review)