The opening book of Calvin's systematic masterpiece lays the theological foundation: the knowledge of God and the knowledge of self are inseparable. Moving from Scripture to creation to the corruption of human nature, Calvin builds the framework that defined Reformed theology for centuries.

Book Two traces the fall, original sin, and the bondage of the human will, then shows how the law reveals our need for a Redeemer. Calvin expounds Christ as the one Mediator foreshadowed throughout the Old Testament and fully revealed in the New.

Book Three explains how we receive Christ and his benefits through faith. Calvin covers regeneration, repentance, justification by faith alone, the Christian life, prayer, and predestination, building toward the hope of the final resurrection.

Book Four addresses the external means by which God gathers and sustains the church: its marks, ministry, discipline, and sacraments. Calvin closes with a treatment of civil government and the relationship between church and state.