Here We Stand

Discover the transformative journey of Martin Luther, who shifted from monastic fears to a powerful advocate for Scripture's authority. His lightning vow led him to embrace a life of relentless preaching and teaching. Unravel Luther's emotional struggles as he sought certainty of God's grace and his groundbreaking revelation of justification by faith. Plus, learn how he wielded the Bible as a weapon against corruption and challenged the status quo. Ultimately, Luther's insistence on standing firm on Scripture transformed the landscape of faith.

Discover the remarkable story of Katharina von Bora, who escaped a convent and married Martin Luther. Their union challenged societal norms and shaped the role of the pastor's wife. Hear about the daring escape plan involving a fish wagon and the risks nuns faced returning to everyday life. Katharina's innovative domestic management turned her home into a thriving parsonage, where she blended faith and everyday tasks. The couple's shared grief through loss adds a deeply human element to their powerful legacy.

Discover the life of Johannes Bugenhagen, a key yet often overlooked figure of the Reformation. His dynamic partnership with Luther and Melanchthon shaped Wittenberg's church and civic structure. From self-taught theologian to social reformer, his contributions included insightful commentaries and a transformative Bible translation. Bugenhagen's organizational genius led to practical models that intertwined church and state, accelerating the Reformation's reach. His deep personal bonds and emotional responses to Luther's death further illustrate his profound impact on this pivotal era.

Zacharias Ursinus emerges as a key figure in the creation of the Heidelberg Catechism, a cornerstone of Christian faith. His insights reveal the critical importance of finding comfort through Christ. Delve into Ursinus' theological journey under influential Reformers like Melanchthon and Calvin. Discover his intentional language crafted to minimize divisions among Protestants. The impact of his teachings on human sinfulness and regeneration echoes through history, emphasizing joy in redemption as a source of holiness.

Explore the life of Theodore Beza, the pivotal figure who shaped Calvinism and supported John Calvin. Discover his dramatic conversion and commitment to the Reformed movement in Switzerland. Delve into Beza's leadership in Geneva amidst persecution, and how he defended Protestant beliefs. Learn about his doctrinal contributions, emphasizing predestination and God's sovereignty. Beza's influential New Testament annotations impacted Bible translations, including the Geneva Bible and King James Version. His teachings on spiritual renewal provide comfort and insight.

Discover the remarkable story of Lady Jane Grey, a teenage martyr caught in a storm of political and religious turmoil. Explore her profound theological debate with a Catholic chaplain just before her execution. Dive into contrasting views on her life, seeing her as either a political pawn or a woman of deep faith and knowledge. Experience her poignant final writings and her unwavering faith in Christ as she faces her tragic fate with grace. This narrative reveals a young woman's strength amid societal conspiracies.

Discover the life of Balthasar Hübmaier, a pivotal figure in the Reformation known for his courage and conviction. He boldly challenged prominent theologians like John Eck while advocating for believers' baptism and the supremacy of Scripture. His unwavering faith led him to endure torture and ultimately face execution for his beliefs. Delve into his controversial actions during the Jewish expulsion and witness his intellectual engagements with luminaries like Erasmus and Luther. Hübmaier's legacy is a testament to the struggle for religious liberty.

Discover the fascinating life of Robert Estienne, the key printer for the Protestant Reformation. He made the Bible accessible to everyone and introduced a revolutionary verse numbering system. Delve into his scholarly contributions, including his work with Hebrew, Greek, and Latin texts. Estienne's journey from royal printer to Geneva highlights his dedication to the Reformation. His 1559 edition of Calvin’s Institutes shaped Protestant thought and spread widely, showcasing the enduring impact of his work.

Explore the fervent life of John Calvin as he illustrates his zeal to glorify God, turning a sudden conversion into a powerful theological vision. Discover how a reluctant call to pastor led him to transform Geneva, despite his academic ambitions. Delve into his critique of Roman practices that he felt diminished Christ's glory and learn about his lifelong pursuit of understanding Scripture through the lens of God's majesty. Ultimately, uncover how passion, not just intellect, defined Geneva’s theological genius.

The podcast dives into the life of John Knox, a fearless reformer battling church corruption in 16th-century Scotland. It highlights his transformation following the martyrdom of George Wishart and his harrowing experience as a galley slave. The narrative explores Knox's influential years in England and Geneva, shaping his radical ideas. His return to Scotland sparked a movement against Catholic influence, cementing his legacy as a champion of the Kirk. Finally, it reflects on Knox's belief that simple men could bring profound renewal through divine empowerment.