I’ve been rereading chapter 8 a few times now (book 1 of the institutes) and I pretty much agree with all of our various comments on this somewhat contradictory use of logic. I say contradictory because in this chapter Calvin goes through a series of Old and New Testament proofs that the Holy Scriptures are the Word of God; however, he concludes with the statement: “it is foolish to attempt to prove … that Scripture is the Word of God. This cannot be known, except by faith.” I agree with Calvin, about the faith, for as folks work to prove or disprove this truth they only end up wandering in circles. I pick-up out of this dialog that Calvin feels the Holy Scriptures are able to produce and increase our faith because God the Father manifests His presence in them. An interesting thought that I had not considered or at least I can’t remember having considered before. Besides the Old and New Testament proofs, Calvin also points to the diversity of faith and the acceptance of Holy Scripture across time, cultures and peoples. I liked this proof as, looking at the natural world, diversity seems to be a hallmark of God’s presence and intervention in His creation. This was a thoughtful chapter with a lot of side topics, I like the development of holiness, that we have a thread started on, though for me that topic will need some study and thought. I'd never quite put the spiritual attributes of wisdom, knowledge and understanding together in this way and it's lead into a dialog on the meaaning of 'fear of the Lord" is thought provoking. This juxtaposition of "reverence" and "fear" does seem to impact the meaning of holiness in a person's life. If we "fear" God then the insertion of "holy" people and objects between us and God seems to be a natural response - sort of like insulation around an electric wire. However if the perspective is one of "reverence" then we'd probably want to be as close to God and we'd want Him as close to us as possible. A lot to think about; in the mean time, I'll get started on chapter 9.