[CCWoody]

I am asking because Calvin, in this opening chapter, talks about us being urged by our evil natures to consider the “good things of God.” ~ ksen

Well, not having ever read the Institutes (or much Augustine) I'd say that with a chapter title of Book I: The Knowledge of God the Creator Calvin would not focus on the nature of man.

Nevertheless, it seems to me that, given the title and the context of what he is saying, that Calvin is more presenting the free offer of the gospel than he is the Depravity of man. It really makes no difference that, with his evil nature, the unregenerate man doesn't ever want to repent of his evil, even as/if he considers the "goodness of God".

Woody.

Romans 2:4
Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?

[ksen]

...Calvin would not focus on the nature of man.

Well, Calvin does say that the natures of God and Man are mutually connected.

[Revelation 911]

Well, not having ever read the Institutes (or much Augustine)

I have the worst case of deja vu all over again LOL