What was one of John Calvin's key beliefs regarding salvation?

John Calvin's key beliefs regarding salvation are closely associated with the concept of predestination, which emphasizes that salvation is determined by God's will rather than individual actions or merits. Although the choice regarding the supremacy of individual conscience touches on relevant theological discussions, it does not accurately encapsulate Calvin's fundamental views on salvation.

Calvin believed that individuals could do nothing to earn their salvation; it was solely at the discretion of God. Instead of individuals standing as the ultimate authority in spiritual matters, Calvin asserted that God's sovereignty and authority played a central role in determining who would be saved. Consequently, the belief in predestination—where God has preordained who will be saved—highlights the idea that salvation is primarily an act of divine grace, not subject to individual conscience in the way that the chosen answer suggests.

In Calvinist theology, justification is through faith, reflecting the belief that salvation is a gift from God, received through faith in Christ alone, rather than through personal merit or actions, which aligns more closely with justification by faith alone. Thus, the proper understanding of Calvin's views on salvation emphasizes God's authority and grace rather than the individual's conscience.