1. Readers and readings -- A moment for method -- Calvin and scripture -- Calvin and history -- Calvin and the church -- Conclusion -- 2. Hermeneutical principles -- Hierarchical epistemology -- Scripture's authority -- God's accommodation -- Unity of the two testaments -- The mind of the author -- Hermeneutical circles -- Edification -- Example of hermeneutical process -- Conclusion -- 3. Exegetical practices -- Paraphrase -- Contextual interpretation -- Scripture interprets scripture -- Tradition's possibilities -- The stance of humility -- Simplicity's sake -- Exegesis' goal -- fuller meaning -- Conclusion -- 4. Scopus Scripturae, interpretation's aim -- Scripture's Scopus -- Jesus Christ -- Christ and faith's reception -- Calvin's theological center -- Doctrina et Communitas -- Conclusion -- 5. Tradition received through fire -- Augustine's interpretation -- Augustine's prodigal heir? -- Conclusion -- 6. Reception through transformation -- Calvin transforming Augustine -- Calvin, transforming tradition -- Religionis per Ignis -- Conclusion -- 7. Traditions renewed -- Calvin's tasks -- Calvin's circle: Scripture, history, and church -- Understanding or eisegesis? -- Conclusion -- the reception of tradition.