Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book 1

Institutes of the Christian Religion, written by John Calvin and first published in 1536, is a foundational text in Protestant systematic theology. It serves as an introductory textbook on the Protestant faith, addressing key theological topics such as the doctrines of church, sacraments, and justification by faith. The work is notable for its emphasis on God's sovereignty in salvation and election, and it critiques the teachings of Roman Catholicism. The first book focuses on the knowledge of God as Creator, Preserver, and Governor of the world.