The Reformation: How a Monk and a Mallet Changed the World

Stephen J. Nichols

Crossway Books, 2007 - Religion - 159 pages

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.

“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, professor at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida; an author and teacher on Key Life, nationally syndicated radio program

“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

“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, Senior Pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Columbia, South Carolina

What people are saying

Review: The Reformation: How a Monk and a Mallet Changed the World

User Review  - Stephen Mizell - Goodreads

A good birds-eye view of the reformation, with some excerpts of some reformation literature.

Review: The Reformation: How a Monk and a Mallet Changed the World

User Review  - Jennifer - Goodreads

Excellent review of the reformation from a reformed perspective. I learned a lot I didn't know about the individuals who inspired so many denominations.

About the author

Stephen J. Nichols (PhD, Western Theological Seminary) is a professor in the Division of Biblical Education at Lancaster Bible College. He is the author of several books, including The Reformation: How a Monk and a Mallet Changed the World. Nichols lives with his wife and children in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Bibliographic information

• Title: The Reformation: How a Monk and a Mallet Changed the World
• Author: Stephen J. Nichols
• Edition: illustrated
• Publisher: Crossway Books, 2007
• ISBN: 1581348290, 9781581348293
• Length: 159 pages
• Subjects: Religion / Christian Theology / General; Religion / Christianity / History