The Reformation: How a Monk and a Mallet Changed the World (Nichols)

Description

Mention history and some might struggle to stifle a yawn. But when presented as a narrative it can often be compelling reading. Stephen J. Nichols takes a key period in time, the Reformation, and presents its major players in a fresh way. From Martin Luther, a simple monk who wielded the mallet, to kings and queens, this book goes behind the scenes to uncover the human side of these larger-than-life Reformers. Along the way readers meet Luther, Ulrich Zwingli, John Calvin, Kings Henry VIII and Edward VI, Lady Jane Grey, Anne Bradstreet, and many others.

For those wanting to see history in its context, Nichols also provides a sampling of primary source materials. It is an engaging read that will remind readers of the foundational truths that can never be taken for granted by the church in any age. Includes numerous illustrations. 

Table of Contents:

1. Five Hundred Years Old and Still Going Strong: Why the Reformation Matters Today
2. A Monk and a Mallet: Martin Luther and the German Reformation
3. Some Middle-Aged Men and a Sausage Supper: Ulrich Zwingli and the Swiss Reformation
4. The Not-So-Radical Radical Reformers: The Anabaptists and the Reformation
5. An Overnight Stay in Geneva: John Calvin and the Swiss Reformation
6. A King and a Divorce: The Anglicans and the British Reformation
7. Men in Black: The Puritans and the British Reformation
8. Women in Black Too: The Untold Story of Women and the Reformation
9. Appendix: In Their Own Words: Selections from Documents of the Reformation  

Endorsements

"Dr. Nichols has done it again! He's written a history book that will teach you without boring you to death. In fact, this book is fun! But more than that, this is a book that will cause you to rejoice in the Reformation and renew your commitment to the truths of the Reformation for our time. Read it! You'll be glad you did." - Steve Brown, Host, Key Life Radio Program; author, Three Free Sins: God Isn't Mad At You 

"Beyond merely summarizing Reformation history and teaching, Nichols draws us into the life and times of this era-as if the issues that inflamed an era still mattered. And they do. Read this book and you'll be glad that the Reformation isn't over." - Michael Horton, J. Gresham Machen Professor of Systematic Theology and Apologetics, Westminster Seminary California; author, Calvin on the Christian Life

"Professor Stephen Nichols is already well-known for his remarkable ability to make history live and sing. This new work is no exception and will simply enhance his well-deserved reputation. It is a scintillating helicopter tour of the amazing men-and wonderful women-of the Reformation. Here conviction joins with courage, holiness with humor, in a wonderful medley of Christian heroes and heroines." - Sinclair B. Ferguson, Professor of Systematic Theology, Redeemer Seminary, Dallas, Texas.

Author

Stephen J. Nichols (PhD, Westminster Theological Seminary) is president of Reformation Bible College and chief academic officer of Ligonier Ministries.