Abstract
In this article the curtain is raised on the interesting and fascinating relation between Augustine of Hippo and John Cal- vin from Geneva, as seen through the eyes of the Dutch scholar Johannes van Oort. The influences of and links between Augustine and Calvin are immense. This has been the focus of various studies in the past. The purpose of this article is, however, not to re-invent the wheel about these relations, but rather to reflect on one of the most eminent scholars on Augustine, i.e. Van Oort’s vision on these links and to enter into a dialogue with him so as to shed some new light on this topic and on some aspects related to ecclesiology. After attention to the use of Augustine by Calvin, the focus is on the discussion with Van Oort and eventually on the relevance of this for us in South(ern) Africa. It is concluded that in this era of post- modernism and relativism as well much can be learnt from both Augustine and Calvin, and especially with regard to the well- being of the church.
Highlights
The attention for John Calvin in this 500th celebrations year of his birth in 1509 is of special importance for us living on the outskirts of his world of influence
The purpose of this article is, not to re-invent the wheel about these relations, but rather to reflect on one of the most eminent scholars on Augustine, i.e. Van Oort’s vision on these links and to enter into a dialogue with him so as to shed some new light on this topic and on some aspects related to ecclesiology
In this era of postmodernism, relativism and revisionism influencing virtually every aspect of our society and of theology, it is of the utmost importance to come to a new understanding, and a new appreciation of the traditions that we are part of
Summary
The attention for John Calvin in this 500th celebrations year of his birth in 1509 is of special importance for us living on the outskirts of his world of influence In this era of postmodernism, relativism and revisionism influencing virtually every aspect of our society and of theology, it is of the utmost importance to come to a new understanding, and a new appreciation of the traditions that we are part of. In this article, being aware as an historian of the pitfalls and the challenges of our times, I find it important to shed new light and to go into a discussion with Van Oort, one of the top current Augustine scholars from Utrecht in the Netherlands on the relations between John Calvin and Augustine of Hippo It is precisely because of his scholarship on this relationship together with his very specialised knowledge of Augustine that this is an important and stimulating endeavour for us here in South(ern) Africa. We are privileged as South Africans to have him involved in local academic circles and discussions
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