112 - Calvin's Institutes: A New Compend

Calvin's Institutes: A New Compend
By Hugh T. Kerr, ed.
Louisville, Westminster/ John Knox Press, 1989. 180 pp. $12.95.

Hugh Kerr is celebrating the jubilee of the old compend with a new version. Like the old, this is comprised of excerpts from the Institutes, arranged

113 - Calvin's Institutes: A New Compend

according to the four books of the 1559 edition, and focused on "Calvin's positive convictions."

What is new? First, the translation; Battles' more readable version replaces Allen's. Secondly, there are a few changes in the excerpts: some omissions (notably on reprobation!) and some minimal additions, excising most of the frequent ellipses of the first compend to make reading more smooth. Thirdly, inclusive language, by the editor, although Calvin's own exclusive language has been retained to respect his historical context. Fourthly, the new compend is slightly shorter but the print is larger and the page layout is better.

Kerr's new compend will be welcomed by friends of Calvin who would like a slim, handy, meaty meal from that large and somewhat daunting feast, the Institutes.

Elsie McKee
Andover Newton Theological School
Newton Centre, Mass.