Geneva had not fared well in Calvin’s absence. They had expelled many of the preachers who supported Calvin, and there was constant infighting and even calls to return to Rome.

Often the things that are most painful cause the most growth. Calvin was unceremoniously kicked out of Geneva in 1538, and honestly, he deserved it.

When Calvin arrived in Geneva the Reformation had just penetrated her walls. William Farel was a gifted speaker who could move a crowd, however, his tone was harsh and his personality abrasive.

Calvin continued his studies bouncing between Paris and Orleans, and in 1533 experienced a sudden conversion and saw the corruption of the papacy and the Roman Catholic Church.