INTRODUCTION
Speaking specifically, the Reformation may be understood as a north-western European phenomenon; all its principal events were played out there. Its impact, however, has been globally transformative and radical. Not only did it consume, quite literally, millions of lives in the wars that resulted, it changed the theological and cultural shape of the Church as well as the political structure of Europe for ever. It is impossible to understand the evangelical culture and theology within which we now live without an adequate understanding and appreciation of this vital piece of her collective history. Many of the theological debates taking place in the modern Church remain greatly influenced by the discussions and formulations which took place then.
Today, 31 October is celebrated in many evangelical churches as Reformation Day in remembrance of the day in 1517 when Martin Luther nailed his famous 95-Theses on the doors of the Castle Church in Wittenberg. 1517 has, therefore, been taken traditionally as the start of the Reformation. In truth, of course, such a specific date for such a momentous event (chains of events, in fact) is a mistake. Luther may have provided the vital spark that set the fire going, but the events of the Reformation as we now know it would not have been possible if the fuel for the conflagration had not already been gathering for a long time. Choosing a suitable starting date for an appreciation of important historical events have always been risky business. We think, nonetheless, that the first publication of the Bibles by Johannes Gutenberg in 1454 represents a more wholesome date to begin our exploration of the Reformation. This date will also provide more space to appreciate the impact of the Renaissance on the Reformation with which it overlapped.
NOTE: In order not to crowd up the turf, only the life-lines of particularly important persons are shown in their entirety. Others are shown in their period of active contributions.
©ALBERITH, 2021.
Prepared and annotated by Low Chai Hok
