Final answer:
John Calvin's theological doctrine of predestination held that God predetermined salvation, influencing his formation of a theocratic society in Geneva. His beliefs shaped daily lives and practices, and his influence extended to various Protestant denominations beyond Geneva.
Step-by-step explanation:
John Calvin was a significant figure in the Protestant Reformation, differentiating himself from Martin Luther through his doctrine of predestination. Calvin believed that God had predetermined which souls would receive salvation and which would not, a concept that underscored human powerlessness in the face of divine will. In Geneva, Calvin established a theocratic government where the Church held considerable power and guided daily life, aligning closely with his interpretations of the Bible. The residents of Geneva were expected to live morally exemplary lives, marked by hard work and piety, as they hoped these traits indicated they were among the elect destined for heaven.
Calvin's influence spread beyond Geneva, impacting the formation of various churches and affecting Protestant communities worldwide, including the Dutch Reformed Church, the Presbyterian Church in Scotland, and the Huguenots in France. His emphasis on scripture and daily reflection deeply influenced the Puritans, especially in their quest for signs of election in their own lives.
Despite the seemingly fatalistic nature of predestination, Calvin's followers attempted to live virtuous lives, not as a means to earn salvation, but as a reflection of their potential chosen status. Calvin's legacy is evident in many aspects of the Protestant faith and the shaping of societies that prioritized religious devotion, discipline, and moral rectitude enforced by religious authorities.