Lessons from the Reformation in France
Dykstra examines the French Reformation as a case study demonstrating that church reformation is fundamentally God's work rather than human achievement, arguing that the Holy Spirit sovereignly raises up reluctant instruments and works personal conviction and godliness in their hearts. Using the sixteenth-century French context—marked by papal corruption, political entanglement, and institutional resistance—the author illustrates how God's providential governance overcomes seemingly insurmountable human obstacles to accomplish His reforming purposes.
The Reformation is the work of God, not man. God reforms His church. God raises up men of understanding, courage, and strength for the purpose of using these men for church reformation, just as God raised up judges in the Old Testament. But even then, reformation begins in the heart of such men. The Spirit works a personal conviction of sin and unworthiness, a strong faith in Christ, and the assurance of salvation. The Spirit works in these men godliness and integrity. And God uses them in His...
Full article available on sb.rfpa.org