Chapter Eight. Exegesis And Theological Method

Abstract

This chapter argues that there were in fact several approaches to the use of loci communes and that, however prominent Melanchthon and Calvin were as proponents of a usage that resulted in what can be termed systematic theological statement, this use was not the only one to which loci communes was put. It provides full examination of the concept within the context of the early sixteenth century, and the Reformation in particular. With respect to the use of loci communes , the chapter draws attention to the method in reference to biblical humanist approaches to the practice of theology within the context of and in service of exegesis. It looks to the background of the practice in the Renaissance, and then highlights four representative Reformers in whose work loci communes played an important part in its development within the context of the Reformation: Melanchthon, Calvin, Peter Martyr Vermigli, and Martin Bucer. Keywords: John Calvin; loci communes ; Martin Bucer; Peter Martyr Vermigli; Philipp Melanchthon