The Reformation in 16th Century Switzerland

Overview

• The Reformation advanced via secret activities, dynamic preaching, scholarship, and rediscovery of the Bible.
• It involved peasants and the privileged, theological debates, and violent conflicts.
• Focus on Switzerland's key leaders: Ulrich Zwingli in Zurich and John Calvin in Geneva.

Ulrich Zwingli in Zurich

Early Life

• Born January 1, 1484, in Wildhouse, near Zurich.
• Came from a large family; father was a mountain farmer and bailiff.
• Talented musician, educated in Basel, Vienna, and Bern.

Priesthood and Early Reformation Efforts

• Ordained in 1506; became parish priest in Glarus.
• Witnessed the Battle of Marignano in 1515; opposed mercenary service.
• Moved to Einseilden, influenced by Erasmus and the Greek New Testament.
• Became People's Priest at the Grossmünster in Zurich in 1519.

Challenges and Reforms

• Survived the plague in Zurich, influencing his theological stance.
• Challenged Catholic practices not found in the Bible (e.g., indulgences, transubstantiation).
• Married Anna Reinhardt against Church permission.
• Gained backing of Zurich City Council; implemented reforms including:
  • Use of simple wooden communion utensils.
  • Rejection of monastic vows and redistribution of resources.
  • Social reforms to aid the needy.

Conflict and Death

• Faced opposition from Anabaptists; led to Felix Muntz's execution.
• Attended Marburg Colloquy with Luther; disagreed on the Eucharist.
• Died in the Battle of Kappel in 1531; opposed by Catholic forces.

John Calvin in Geneva

Early Life and Education

• Born July 10, 1509, in Noyon, France.
• Educated in Paris; initially prepared for the priesthood.
• Turned to law studies by father's decision.

Reformation Influence

• Fled Paris due to ties with Reformation ideas and Nicholas Kopp.
• Experienced a conversion; developed Reformation convictions.
• Authored "Institutes of the Christian Religion" at age 26.

Geneva and Leadership

• Arrived in Geneva in 1536; persuaded to stay by William Farrell.
• Implemented reforms following city council's adoption of the Reformation.
• Faced opposition from citizens; expelled in 1538.
• Returned to Geneva in 1541; remained until his death.
• Influenced Christianity significantly, establishing Geneva as a Reformation center.

Controversies and Legacy

• Criticized for predestination doctrine and the execution of Michael Servetus.
• Despite criticisms, had a substantial impact on Protestantism and Western civilization.
• Died May 27, 1564; buried in an unmarked grave.
• His influence lives on through the World Alliance of Reformed Churches.

Conclusion

• The Reformation in Switzerland, led by Zwingli and Calvin, involved significant religious and social changes.
• The legacy of these leaders continues to shape Christian theology and societal norms globally.