Abstract
This chapter gives an introduction to Calvin's basic instinct in theology, and particularly to his theology of participation and ascent. This chapter examines his earliest Christian treatise, the Institutes . Calvin makes clear that the death and resurrection of Christ are not simply things that happened to Christ in the past. Believers, through the Spirit, participate in his death and his resurrection now through union with him. It is Calvin's pioneering pneumatology that paved the way for a renewed understanding of human participation in the triune life of God. The Spirit created in the life, death, and resurrection of the Son a real possibility for humanity to share in the love of the triune God. The Son's ascent to the Father has enabled humanity's ascent which is an ascent of loving participation that is not based upon, but includes, our imitation of Christ. Keywords: the Institutes; Aristotelian categories; ascent mysticism; Calvinism; Christian treatise; theology of participation
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