Calvinism did not spring from Calvin. We believe that it sprang from the great Founder of all truth.
This quote suggests that the origins of Calvinism, a major branch of Protestantism, are not solely attributed to John Calvin, after whom it is named. Instead, the fundamental principles and truths inherent in Calvinism are believed to come directly from God or Jesus Christ – the ‘great Founder of all truth’. In other words, Spurgeon is asserting that while Calvin might have articulated and systematized these beliefs during the Protestant Reformation in 16th century Europe, he did not invent them. Rather they were divine truths that have always existed.
The idea behind this quote can be applied in various ways today. For instance, it serves as a reminder that ideas or concepts often have roots deeper than their most famous proponents. Just as Calvinism isn’t just about John Calvin’s teachings but about timeless spiritual truths he espoused; similarly many philosophical or scientific theories we attribute to specific individuals often stand on the shoulders of centuries of prior knowledge and wisdom.
In terms of personal development, this perspective encourages humility and respect for collective wisdom. It suggests acknowledging our influences and recognizing we’re part of an ongoing dialog spanning generations rather than viewing our accomplishments in isolation.
Moreover, it also speaks to authenticity – just like Spurgeon argues for an original divine source for what’s known as ‘Calvinist’ thought; likewise each individual has unique insights springing from their own inner truth which can contribute to personal growth and self-understanding without necessarily having been dictated by external figures or trends.
Lastly, it underscores faithfulness to core principles over adherence to personalities or authorities – implying one should seek alignment with enduring universal truths rather than attachment with transient human figures who merely serve as conduits for those truths at different points in history.
