Lefèvre: Pioneer of Ecclesiastical Renewal in France

by Philip Edgcumbe Hughes

Book by Hughes, Philip Edgcumbe

Genres: Biography, Theology, Church History, History

210 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1984

About the author

Philip Edgcumbe Hughes (Sydney, Australia, 1915 – Rydal, PA, USA, 1990) was an Anglican clergyman and New Testament scholar whose life spanned four continents: Australia, where he was born; South Africa; England, where he was ordained; and the USA, where he died in 1990, aged 75.

Dr. Hughes was born in Australia and received his B.A., M.A., and D.L.H. from the University of Cape Town, B.D. from the University of London, and Th.D. from the Australian College of Theology. From 1947 to 1953 Hughes taught at Tyndale Hall in England. From 1953 to 1956 he was Secretary of Church Society; and from 1959 to 1967 editor of Church Society’s journal, The Churchman. From 1964 to 1968 he taught at Columbia Theological Seminary, Decatur, Georgia. From 1964 he moved to the United States to teach at American seminaries, including Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia, PA, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, South Hamilton, MA, and Trinity School for Ministry, Ambridge, PA.

Reviews

[Chad · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a meticulously researched tribute to one of the most influential (and almost forgotten!) figures of the late 1400s and early 1500s. Jacques Lefèvre d’Étaples’ scholarship and commitment to Scripture helped pave the way for the Luther and especially Calvin.

The book delves into Lefevre’s influential translation of the Bible into French and his commentaries, especially his work on the Psalms and Pauline Epistles, which emphasized salvation by grace alone through faith alone. His theological breakthroughs not only challenged the prevailing scholastic traditions but also resonated deeply with the early evangelical movement, providing a scholarly foundation for key Reformation principles.

For readers interested in understanding how the seeds of the Reformation were sown beyond Germany, this book is an indispensable resource. Lefevre’s legacy shines as a testament to how one man’s faith and intellect helped shape Christian history.

[Alan Yau · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a life! Did not regret reading this even for a little bit. Started off as a commentator on philosophy but God worked in His life that he became a man focused on Christ and the Scriptures, and what a work He did in and through him. And he has connections with many Christian figures that you would know too. Anyways, this guy is one guy worth getting to know.

[Steve · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story of a precursor to Calvin and Farel in France.