In what major way did Calvin's beliefs differ from Luther's?

Calvin's approach to church governance significantly diverged from Luther's beliefs primarily through the emphasis on a structured church hierarchy. Calvin advocated for a system that included elders and a more defined governance framework, which he felt was essential for maintaining order and discipline within the church. This hierarchy was integral to Calvin's idea of a disciplined Christian community, which exercised control over both spiritual matters and the lives of its members.

In contrast, Luther's model focused more on the priesthood of all believers, promoting the idea that individuals had direct access to God and could interpret scripture for themselves. This emphasis diminished the role of a formal church hierarchy, allowing for greater individual autonomy in religious matters.

The other options also reflect important theological distinctions, but they do not capture the same level of systemic difference in church governance that characterized Calvin's beliefs compared to Luther's. Calvin's structured predestination and communal governance were pivotal in forming the Reformed tradition, creating a distinctive identity within Protestantism.