The earthen vessels of the Reformation
Engelsma examines the lives and character of major Reformation figures (Luther, Calvin, Knox, and others) while cautioning against hero-worship by emphasizing that these men were merely instruments in God's hands rather than the primary agents of reform. The article redirects readers from focusing solely on the Reformers' achievements to understanding their humble dependence on God's sovereign grace in accomplishing the work of reformation.
When you think about the Reformation, what comes to mind? Perhaps your mind drifts to Germany and a humble monk, hammer in hand, pounding ninety-five theses into a church door. Or maybe you remember that same monk making a courageous cry before the Diet of Worms: "Here I stand, I can do no other, so help me God. Amen." Perhaps your mind drifts south to the Swiss Alps and the great Reformer of Geneva, whose powerful preaching and voluminous writing did more to advance the cause of reform than...
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