How did John Calvin's beliefs differ from those of Martin Luther?

John Calvin's beliefs are distinguished by his doctrine of predestination, which asserts that God has already determined who will be saved and who will be damned, independent of individual actions or faith. This concept significantly diverges from Martin Luther's views, which emphasized justification by faith alone, suggesting that faith in Christ is sufficient for salvation. Additionally, Calvin promoted a stringent moral code that dictated how individuals should live their lives according to biblical principles, reflecting his belief in God's sovereignty and the importance of a disciplined Christian community.

This focus on predestination and moral rigor set Calvinism apart not only from Lutheranism but also from broader Christian practices of the time, positioning Calvin's ideas as a unique theological framework within the Reformation. Thus, the correct answer highlights this key theological divergence between Calvin and Luther, illustrating distinct approaches to salvation and the role of human agency in faith.