Often people ask me for a “go-to” book on the Reformation. They want something accessible but informative. To date my choice is The Unquenchable Flame by Michael Reeves. The book moves through the key figures in the Reformation while providing appropriate historical, theological, and cultural context. Reeves has a knack for telling the story with clarity and substance.
I appreciate how the book shows the seeds for the Reformation in the ground prior to Luther. In the 13th and 14th centuries the ground was being stirred for the reformers to come. Figures such as John Wycliffe (1300s), Jan Hus (1400s), and others drove people back ad fontes (to the sources). With the Gutenberg’s printing press (late 15th century) and the work of Erasmus (early 16th century) the ground was being tilled for a Bible movement.
Reeves then walks readers through the history and key figures of the Reformation. As expected he gives substantial attention to the monk turned reformer, Martin Luther. He also sheds light on Ulrich Zwingli and other reformers. Calvin, of course, is given his own chapter as well. While the book is not exhaustive, it is honest. He reminds us that while the men were used by God they still had clay feet; they weren’t perfect.
Another aspect of the book that I enjoyed was the way Reeves traced the Reformation to Britain and into the age of the Puritans. Showing this continuity is helpful for students of the Reformation, especially those with limited exposure to it. Seeing the connection of a guy like Richard Sibbes to Martin Luther is especially helpful.
Then in the conclusion the author asks some helpful questions about status of the Reformation. Is it over? Has it accomplished all that it needed to? The short answer is, “No.” There is more. The reformers were driving people back to the Scripture in effort to reform or purify the church. Contemporary Christianity needs to hear the reformers’ cries as much as any other generation.
One other helpful feature of this book that is appreciated is the cutouts and illustrations. Throughout the book the author will pull away from the flow of the book to feature a character or incident in detail. These stories help to provide further texture to the history of the time. Further, there are illustrations throughout that put a face with a name, if you will.
As I mentioned, this is my “go-to” book on the Reformation. It is used in our residency program, and it is what I would recommend for any who would like to freshen up or begin their familiarization with the Reformation.
