The Trial of the 16th Century: Calvin & Servetus

by Jonathan Moorhead

A faithful examination of the role of John Calvin in the execution of Michael Servetus.     The execution of Michael Servetus (1511–53) is one of the most debated events in the life of John Calvin (1509–1564). It has left an indelible stain on Calvin’s reputation, and unfortunately, the retelling of the story is often dependent on the historian’s relationship to Calvinism.   Jonathan Moorhead here seeks to give a faithful narrative of the role of John Calvin in the execution of Michael Servetus. He examines the life of Servetus, with emphasis given to his education, publications, and relationship with John Calvin. Moorhead also gives attention to the role of Calvin in Servetus’ arrests, trials, and execution.   Understanding the extent of Calvin’s power in Geneva at the time of the trial is critical to understanding the events, as is the context of executing heretics throughout history, and in particular, in the 16th Century.   This book will challenge readers to think critically about the ethics of telling history, the standards of properly judging previous generations, and the benefits of this study for the building up of the Body of Christ.    

Genres: Church History

104 pages, Paperback

Published September 10, 2021

Reviews

[Dr. David Steele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Church history has its heroes and villains. Tragically, some heroes are unfairly caricatured as villains. One such man is John Calvin. While he has been accused of being mean-spirited, bigoted, and narrow-minded, nothing could be further from the truth. Even in the days after he was exiled from Geneva, he refused to grow bitter. He resisted the urge to feel sorry for himself. He rejected the urge to retaliate. Rather, he pursued a posture of humility. He encouraged his friend, William Farel, to tread upon this God-centered path: “Let us humble ourselves, therefore, unless we wish to strive with God when He would humble us.” Calvin not only commended this path to others; he was constrained to walk this path himself. By God’s grace, he maintained the posture of humility for the remainder of his earthly days.

Some refuse to acknowledge that Calvin was not only a godly man; he was a top-notch exegete and theologian. His works continue to be reprinted over 450 years after his death. Instead of celebrating Calvin, some choose to point the finger of blame for his role in the execution of the heretic, Servetus. Jonathan Moorhead clears up any misconception about this tragic event in church history in his book, The Trial of the 16th Century: Calvin & Servetus.

The great strength of Moorhead’s work is his clear-headed approach to church history and especially his view on Calvin’s role (or lack thereof) of Servetus’s execution. The author sets the stage by highlighting the heresies that were aggressively promoted by Servetus. He tracks Servetus’s steps that eventually led to his demise in Geneva. But he also gives readers an inside look at who is ultimately responsible for the death of the Spanish false teacher.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book about a complicated history

This is a very enjoyable read for those who really wants to know real history not just assumptions and false facts.
Highly recommend.

[Aaron Irlbacher · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent little book on a highly controversial subject. This moment of reformation history is often cited, but rarely understood. With a small investment of time, this book will helpfully walk its reader through the facts of the case, cultural powers of the day, and helpful quotations from leading Reformers on the trial of that Trinitarian heretic.

[Dave · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short but thorough examination of the event often used to discredit Calvin. Excellent use of primary sources- Servetus’ writings, Calvin’s writings and the official records of the day. The difference between the popular view of Calvin’s role in Servetus’ execution does not hold up when the historical evidence is reviewed and evaluated.

[Stephen Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting and balanced presentation of the Servetus affair. Calvin has been demonized by opponents of Calvinism and excused by some of his supporters. The author places the affair in the context of the times in which Calvin lived. Calvin is neither exonerated for his approval nor made responsible for Servetus' execution. Calvin had influence; he did not have a vote.

[Ronnie Nichols · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Fair Summation

This book is clear and concise. I enjoyed the authors framework and objective to give the reader an accurate and historical view of the life, trial, and death of Servetus and John Calvin’s involvement. A very quick read and great case to present to those who wish to wrongly blame John Calvin solely for having him executed . Good stuff!

[Timothy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clearly written and explained.
Moorhead provides a helpful summary of the laws and view of magistrates and pastors toward heretics, and also the extent of Calvin's involvement in the execution of Servetus.

[Thomas Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

An unbiased account of an intriguing event in history. The facts the author provide prove that while Calvin certainly was not a fan of Servetus, he should not be held responsible for his execution. Great read for those who enjoy church history.

[Evan Cruse · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a theological history nerd, like me, then read this book! Keeps your attention throughout and provided great historic depths and insights.