Review: John Knox and the Reformation

This little book has been published to commemorate the forthcoming 500th anniversary of the birth of John Knox, the great Scottish reformer. It consists of the transcripts of two addresses given by Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones in the 1960’s and a new biographical sketch written by Iain H. Murray.

In the first address Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones outlines what we can learn from John Knox and what we should emulate in his life. The lecture soon turns into a sermon with many searching applications.

In the second address Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones examines the character of John Knox and sets out the case for him being the founder of Puritanism. He shows that he was a man of amazing talent and great shrewdness and wisdom. Knox stood firm for Biblical truth, but was willing to compromise where the fundamentals of the Gospel were not at stake.

The final article provides a brief but fascinating overview of his life concluding with three lessons we can learn.

Many have a sadly one sided view of John Knox as a fiery character who openly preached violence. This book helps to redress the balance. Here we find a picture of a man of deep feeling; a man of prayer and above all a man who loved to serve Jesus Christ. This is a most edifying and thoughtful read.

This review was first published on GoodBookReviews.org.uk. The site has been closed as of March 2019