  This paper attributes the sudden emergence of mathematical probability and
statistics in the second half of the seventeenth century to Calvin's Reformed
theology. Calvin accommodated Epicurean chance with Stoic determinism and
synthesised \emph{phronesis/prudentia}, founded personal experience and
employed to deal with \emph{tyche/fortuna}, and \emph{episteme/scientia},
universal knowledge. This meant that matters of chance, which had previously
been considered too particular for mathematical treatment, became part of
\emph{episteme/scientia}. Clear evidence of the significance of Calvin in
mathematics is in the facts that Huygens considered using the word 'hope' to
describe mathematical expectation and French mathematics still uses
\emph{esp\'erance} for mathematical expectation. Calvin asserted that Hope
represented a universal, objective and indubitable idea making it
characteristic of mathematics. The argument is built on a review of how the
ideas of Hope, Faith and Prudence have evolved in European thought that
highlights Calvin's innovations. The conclusion identifies contemporary issues
in the application of mathematics in society that are illuminated in light of
Calvin's doctrine.
