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John Calvin, a seminal figure in the Protestant Reformation, was born on July 10, 1509, in Noyon, France. He initially pursued a career in law before undergoing a religious conversion that steered him toward a life dedicated to the study and exposition of Christian theology. Renowned for his influential role in the development of the system of Christian theology later called Calvinism, his contributions extensively shaped Reformed theology. In 1536, Calvin authored the first edition of his magnum opus, 'Institutes of the Christian Religion,' a foundational work articulating the tenets of his theology. Calvin's considerable body of work also extends to commentaries on most books of the Bible, which provided an exegesis reflecting his doctrinal positions. His 'A Treatise on Relics' is another notable work that presents a critical perspective on the veneration of religious relics, which he considered idolatrous. Calvin's literary style is characterized by rigorous logical argumentation and clarity of expression, allowing him to effectively communicate complex theological ideas. John Calvin passed away on May 27, 1564, but his writings continue to exert influence in Christian theology, education, and Western thought. |