Conv. Calvin (Duckworth) n. 5

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5. (1) I asked Calvin whether, on the basis of these words, he had admitted or thought of three Gods, although he had talked and was still talking about one God. He replied that he had thought of three like-minded Gods.

(2) I asked how he could reconcile what he thought and said, and make them one, when it was permissible to confess each person as God in himself. He answered that he could not.

(3) I put the question, How can three be one? by unanimous consent, or in some other fashion! He replied, By influx.

(4) I asked how one person all the time could chink the same thoughts as another. Did the one not think anything for himself? He answered that he had not thought of this before, but on thinking it over he saw that each one person would think for himself.

(5) I asked, Then how are they one indivisible essence! Does not that essence get divided? He said that sometimes it was so divided, but eventually the parts fitted together again.

(6) Was that essence divided when the Son as a mediator and intercessor was speaking to the Father! He replied that then it was, but only at that moment.

(7) I asked, Then have there not been three creators of the universe! He answered, Yes; but one has acted through another - the Father through the Son, and the Son through the Holy Spirit.

(8) I asked him what idea he had about the Lord's birth from eternity. He replied, A vague idea.


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