During the Protestant Reformation, a significant shift in the interpretation of II Corinthians 4:4 emerged, largely influenced by John Calvin. Calvin became the primary and most vocal advocate for a new perspective, asserting that the verse refers to satan rather than the true God. He wrote that no one of sound judgment could doubt that the apostle was speaking of satan in this context. Calvin further criticized earlier interpretations, stating that if those early writers had read Paul's words with a calm mind, they would not have twisted them into a forced meaning. Despite acknowledging that God Himself takes responsibility for blinding, Calvin maintained his stance through rationalist assertion, suggesting that failing to see satan in this verse indicated a lack of sound judgment or a calm mind. His influence was so profound that his view gained widespread acceptance, altering the prevailing understanding that had persisted for centuries.

John Calvin emerged as a pivotal figure during the Protestant Reformation, significantly altering the interpretation of II Corinthians 4:4. He boldly asserted that the verse refers to Satan, claiming that anyone of sound judgment would see this clearly. Calvin dismissed the perspectives of early writers, suggesting that their interpretations were forced due to a lack of calm reasoning. Despite the scriptural evidence that God Himself takes responsibility for blinding, Calvin's influence was profound, and his view became widely accepted without challenge. His assertions shaped the theological environment during the translation of the Bible into English, establishing Satan as the one responsible for blinding in the prevailing interpretation, overshadowing the earlier consensus that recognized the true God as the agent of such actions.

John Calvin's doctrine, much like that of Eliphaz, is marked by a profound sense of hopelessness. Calvin held the belief that the road to hell is paved with the souls of children, asserting that dead children have no hope. His teachings echo the despair found in Eliphaz's views, denying the power of God's regeneration and the possibility of change or trust in God's saints. This perspective stands in stark contrast to the truth of God's Word, which affirms God's ability to transform and trust His people.