Tag: Weekly 2019

John Calvin of Geneva – Swiss Reformation

By the middle of the 16 century John Calvin was the dominant figure of the Protestant Reformation. After Luther’s death in 1546 all who had become convinced of the errors of the Roman Catholic Church looked to Calvin for guidance and instruction. The geographical position of Geneva, and the growth of the reformed movement in most parts of Europe caused the city and its leader to be regarded as a rallying point. This was especially the case with those who fled from persecution. Geneva became a haven of refuge to Protestants whose lives were endangered; its gates were ever open to provide fugitives with security. One such person was John Knox of Scotland. Young men often went to Geneva to be prepared for the work of the ministry of the gospel in central and western Europe.

It was in Geneva that several of the English and Scottish refugees set about the task of preparing a new translation into English. The first edition was printed in 1560 and it soon became the favourite version of Protestants in England and Scotland. Of course,

Calvin was not directly involved in its production, but as he had very great influence upon those responsible for it, in an indirect way he and his teachings were related to it, and especially perhaps to the marginal notes which belonged to it. It was a a potent influence in promoting the growth of Puritanism in England. Even when the famed Authorized version of the Bible appeared in 1611, another 30 years passed before the Geneva Bible ceased to be printed.

In the Cross of Christ I Glory

– Hymn Story

For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. (1 Corinthians 1:18)

It is claimed by some writers that Sir John Bowring had visited Macao, on the South Chinese coast, and was much impressed by the sight of a bronze cross towering on the summit of the massive wall of what had formerly been a great cathedral. This cathedral, originally built by the early Portuguese colonists, overlooked the harbour and had been destroyed by a typhoon and left crumbled in its wake – except for one wall topped by the huge metal cross.

This scene is said to have so impressed Bowring that it eventually served as the inspiration for this beloved hymn. John Bowring was born at Exeter in Davon, England, on October 17, 1792. He was considered to be one of the most remarkable men of his day as well as one of the greatest linguists who ever lived. He was a member of nearly every learned society in Europe. Before he was sixteen years of age he had mastered five languages without the aid of a teacher. It is said that he could converse in over 100 different languages before his death. He also did much in translating literary works from these various languages. Throughout his life he was noted as a biographer, naturalist, financier, statesman and philanthropist. He served two terms in the House of Commons and in 1854 was appointed governor of Hong Kong. This same year he was knighted by Queen Victoria for outstanding service to his country.

God Comforts the Downhearted

“…God, that comforteth those that are cast down…” 2 Corinthians 7:6

Are you cast down because of the distresses of life? There is comfort in God. He provides true comfort. Do we look for temporal escapes in eating and drinking or simply becoming very despondent blaming our closest loved ones?

The Apostle Paul was in much distress for the sake of the gospel advancing into Europe for the first time. He testified in 2 Corinthians 7:5 “For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears.” He described his troubles to be overwhelming. He was physically and mentally exhausted. Yet, he declared that God is the comfort of the downhearted and depressed.

Why are we cast down? Is it from the overwhelming needs of the family expenses? Is it because we feel oppressed in our workplace? Is it because of some relationships that not seem to work no matter how hard we try? Is it because of sins in our lives? Have we struggled against sins and failed, and have decided to give in and give ourselves up to our sins?