John Calvin, The Puritans, and John Frame: Worship Theology and Praxis Among Regulative Principle Adherents

Abstract

This thesis presents a taxonomy of views concerning the regulative principle of worship among John Calvin, John Frame, and the Puritans. Chapter 2 explores Calvin’s impact on worship regulation, and his theology is mapped through communion with God, liturgical sins, and material pessimism before exploring discontinuities between Calvin and the Puritans. Chapter 3 highlights the emergence of the Puritans within the Church of England before the Westminster Assembly. Core motivations are revealed in the debates and theological concerns during the Assembly. Chapter 4 highlights John Frame’s broad view of the regulative principle and identifies Frame’s unique view of elements and circumstances and his interaction with the Westminster formulations. Chapter 5 analyzes and synthesizes disparities regarding the application of the regulative principle. Implications are drawn from unwarranted hierarchies and their impact on worship praxis.