Melchior Leydecker (1642-1721): Reformed Scholasticism of a Catholic character in Calvin's footsteps

This article argues that the theological position of Melchior Leydecker as a Reformed scholastic theologian is especially characterised by a broad orientation with respect to the theological tradition. He is undoubtedly a theologian in Calvin's footsteps. At several very important points in his theology, such as the doctrine of Scripture and the doctrine of the Trinity, this is clear. Nevertheless, his orientation with respect to pre-Reformation (scholastic) theology is broader. Leydecker's position is to be seen and interpreted as an extension of the theological insights of authors like Augustine, Bradwardine, and Turrettini. This conclusion is based upon an examination of some of Leydecker's principal works in systematic theology, namely his De providentia Dei (1677), Fax veritatis (1677), and Synopsis (1684). © 2011 Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden.