"What is most important in the study of Calvin today is to reveal what the Reformer himself actually said, in order that misconceptions about his teaching may be cleared away. Therefore this work is not a critical study of Calvin but an attempt to express his teaching as copiously, fairly, and sympathetically as possible." This synopsis is taken from the preface of Calvin's Doctrine of the Word and Sacrament.

Ronald S. Wallace wrote this book after a thorough study of Calvin's Commentaries, Institutes, Sermons, and Tracts. He draws material from these different resources in pulling together the essence of Calvin's perspective rather than taking a piecemeal approach to isolated biblical topics with a Calvin twist.

The first eight chapters focus on the authority and revelation of Scripture. Wallace tackles the unity and uniqueness of revelation as well as the nature of revelation under the Old and New Covenants. Chapters 8 and 9 focus on ministry as the interpretation of Scripture and man's openness to its revelation. The remaining eight chapters of the text identify Baptism and the Lord's Supper as the sacraments of the Church and discuss the significance of these sacraments.

Calvin's Doctrine of The Word and Sacrament would be a valuable tool for any individual who wishes to better understand Calvinism, who is studying the Reformation and the key figures of this era, or who is comparing various views of Scripture and the sacraments. This book would also serve as a strong doctrinal basis for parents wishing to train their children in the teachings of Calvin.

Due to the level of the vocabulary used and the seriousness of the subject matter, Calvin's Doctrine of The Word and Sacrament would be most appropriate for high school students and adults.