The Unquenchable Flame: Discovering the Heart of the Reformation

by Michael Reeves, Mark Dever (Foreword)

Burning pyres, nuns on the run, stirring courage, and comic the Protestant Reformation is a gripping tale, packed with drama. But what motivated the Reformers? And what were they really like? The Unquenchable Flame , a lively, accessible, and fully informative introduction to the Reformation by Michael Reeves, brings to life the movement’s most colorful characters (Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli, John Calvin, The Puritans, etc.), examines their ideas, and shows the profound and personal relevance of Reformation thinking for today. Also included are a lengthy Reformation timeline, a map of key places in the Reformation, further reading suggestions, and, in this U.S. edition, a new foreword by 9 Marks Ministries president Mark Dever.

Genres: History, Church History, Christian, Theology, Nonfiction, Christianity, Religion

208 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2009

About the author

Michael Reeves (PhD, King's College, London) is President and Professor of Theology at Union School of Theology in the UK (www.ust.ac.uk). He is Director of the European Theologians Network, and speaks and teaches regularly worldwide. Previously he has been Head of Theology for the Universities and Colleges Christian Fellowship and an associate minister at All Souls Church, Langham Place, London.

Reviews

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reeves is an excellent writer. So easy to read. Of course, if you don't like history, you will find some parts dry. But this book is so good at explaining the main ideas and characters of the Reformation, it's worth picking up and reading. You'll be encouraged by how God used His Word to change the world.

[Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

To date, I don't think that I have found a better, more concise introduction to the Reformation's characters, events, and theology. This book is so good. It's readable, exciting, and at times very funny. In under 200 pages, Reeves manages to capture the pastoral implications, as well as the spiritual fervor of what began in Germany in the 16th century.

Whenever people now ask me for an introduction to the Reformation, I will hand them this. I am certainly indebted to Reeves for such a great book!

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A concise, introductory history of the Reformation and its biggest characters, like Luther, Zwingli, Erasmus, Calvin, and many many more. I appreciated how easy it was to read, and how entertaining Reeves' is while tackling weighty, theological issues and complex historic timelines. If you'd like to dive into the Reformation but don't want to read something long or overwhelming, start here.

[Matty Lavelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved learning about the reformation and its leaders. I didn't know much about the fact, very interesting!

[Alan Rennê · Rating 5 out of 5]

A maneira de Michael Reeves narrar os acontecimentos é apaixonante! Não se trata simplesmente de um livro de história da Reforma. É uma brilhante análise da providência divina em curso.

[Denis Ispan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really interesting to read, loved it!! I could not put it down once I started. Very informative and well-summarized making me feel that I knew so little about the reformation and that I have learned so much! Also, I liked the focus and highlight of doctrinal statements made throughout the book. On the other hand, the language and words used are not the easiest, and sometimes it needed a bit more thought to follow the story chronologically.

[Brian Parks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent primer on the Reformation. Written with verve and humor. Will whet your appetite to learn more.

[Kyle Nieber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Downright phenomenal.

[Tacy Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was extremely thankful for the way this book was laid out, and how it brought in each character who played a part in a huge shift in Christian history. I truly started out with only knowing that Martin Luther nailed some kind of thesis on the door, and that he was a monk. While that is true, my how it is such a teeny tiny part of the whole story! Written well and kept your attention. I took notes to help myself retain information, and now I find myself bringing these subjects up at social events. Thanks to a fascination for history, and books that are captivating in thought!

[Tim Michiemo · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.7 Stars

Michael Reeves’ “The Unquenchable Flame” is probably the best introduction to the history and theology of the Reformation. In this book Reeves skillfully presents not only Reformation history - but an argument for the Reformation’s validity today. He covers the most important figures, addressing the stories of Luther, Zwingli, Calvin, the Radical Reformation, the English Reformation and the Puritans.

Reeves book is excellent for a few reasons. First, Reeves presents the Reformation as a thrilling and engaging story. This is no dry history, but a story of the battle for faithfulness to the Scriptures and the defense of the grace that was rediscovered in the gospel. Yet Reeves still shows no favorites and tells of both the successes and personal failures of each Reformer. But Reeves best contribution is a reminder of the gospel truths that compelled the Reformers to not rebel against the church, but seek its Reformation. Justification by faith alone was the gospel truth that bound these Reformers, and by telling their stories, the story of the gospel, Reeves reminds us of the importance of this doctrine for today! I highly recommend this book as the introductory book to use for Reformation history and theology.

[Dylan Brady · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr Reeves could make the process of paint drying sound exhilarating so when he has something as huge and groundbreaking like the Reformation to work with, it makes for great reading. Thought I should acquaint myself with the whole issue as it's some sort of anniversary this year apparently. This is a fantastic whistlestop tour of the important bits and means that when the anniversary actually comes round in October, I may be able to add something to the conversation.

[Jamie Dyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very helpful and inspiring, has definitely cleared up my understanding of the reformation and encouraged my own understanding of faith and Justification, pretty decent.

[Andrew Gates · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great intro to the events and theology of the Reformation. The chapter on Luther was particularly encouraging.

[Jack Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reeves is stellar. Wonderful overview of the Reformation

[Cory · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably my favorite book on the Reformation.

[Shawn Enright · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a wonderful, short introduction to the reformation. Reeves weaves history and theology into a singular, compelling narrative. If you are a protestant and want to answer the question, “Why might I believe the things I believe, and where might those beliefs come from?” start with this book!

[Rachel Meyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was excellent!!!!!

[Alex Strohschein · Rating 2 out of 5]

I cannot recall a book I flip-flopped over more when it came to the rating. I initially was going to rate it 3, then 4, then back to 3 (3.5 would have been good!). While Michael Reeves provides us in this book with a good primer to the Reformation, there were some areas I felt the author did not go into enough detail. Some of this I feel is because the book reads a bit too much like an uncritical piece of Protestant hagiography. For one, while briefly mentioned, the division of Luther and Zwingli over the Lord's Supper is not examined as thoroughly as it could be (indeed, the term "consubstantiation" does not even show up). Similar is the Peasant's War; Reeves does not mention how the peasants were spurred on (even if unintentionally on his part) by Luther's teaching. Certain Reformers are portrayed in a positive light, especially Luther, Calvin and the Puritans. Conversely, those Reeves disagrees with are often portrayed negatively (I think it is entirely reasonable critique historical figures, but one has to try to stand in their shoes and appreciate the angle from which they held their views and even the subtle language choices Reeves makes betrays a lack of charity in this respect. Something I've noticed (and not necessarily directed to Reeves), is the tendency for Christian apologists to adamantly stand for objective morality, which includes "murder is wrong" but then in the case of Michael Servetus, a heretic, Christians try to contextualize the situation. It's one thing to admit that at the time of Servetus' execution, death for heresy was the normal punishment, but one has to call out the perpetrators of the execution. In the forward by Mark Dever, the pastor of Capitol Hill Baptist Church laments that recent narratives of the Reformation have laid a lot of the success of the Reformation on the economic and political interests of European rulers but Reeves does the same for the Catholics, pointing out that indulgences were a method the popes could gain revenue for building their magnificent cathedrals. Reeves also takes umbrage with Mark Noll and Carolyn Nystrom and their conclusions in their fascinating book "Is The Reformation Over?" Reeves is emphatic that the Reformation is NOT over and writes, "For as long as doctrine is ignored, we must remain captives of the ruling system or the spirit of the age." I find this ironic because I think those (usually Calvinists) who demand rigorous theological precision in terms of doctrine are often channeling an Enlightenment notion of absolute certainty. For Noll and Nystrom, one of the indications of the Reformation being over is that Catholics are now participating in Bible studies (and wasn't Bible study one of the rallying cries of the Reformation?); in this case, the ORTHOPRAXY, if not necessarily the ORTHODOXY, of the Reformation has succeeded. I did learn new things and some interesting anecdotes from this book, such as the story of how the Europeans, after repelling an Islamic onslaught, ate croissants to celebrate (which are, of course, shaped like crescents) and it gave me a greater appreciation for the Puritans who sought to reform the Church of England which they considered to be a bit too wishy-washy theologically (and even Henry VIII's attempts to use Leviticus to secure his marriage's annulment). Again, as a primer for the Reformation, this book does an admirable job and it is fast-paced and easy to understand, but for those interested in the Reformation (especially evangelical Protestants), one should read more books that present a more nuanced narrative.

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Michael Reeves. Finished his Delighting in Christ recently and loved it and now this one is also great. He makes the Reformation come alive in this book! A great read if you want to familiarize yourself with it without getting lost in too many details. I didn't find it too dry at all. There are so many interesting and funny stories he shares (like the time Luther smuggled nuns away from the convent on a wagon). I found a lot of parallels to our day and why there is still a need for Reformation today, not as "progress" but "regress," back to believe again and again that justification is truly by faith alone.

[Becky Pliego · Rating 5 out of 5]

2019: Really helpful to understand the heart of the Reformation and how it is still burning today.

2017:I really liked this book. -I have read three books of Michael Reeves this year and I can honestly say that he is now one of my favorite authors. The heart of the Puritans has clearly influenced his writings and sermons. It is always a delight to read what he has written.

The last chapter is SO VERY GOOD!

[Amber Hammond · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who didn’t attend church regularly growing up, I don’t know much about the history of the Reformation. But after much encouragement from my dear husband, to which this is one of this favorite books, I finally opened it. And I am so grateful I did. Michael Reeves does a phenomenal job of explaining history in a compelling and simplified way. This book should be read and discussed by all evangelical Christians. He explains the history of the reformation and why it was important and how it affects us today.

There were so many great quotes, but this one sums up the book and its importance: “Today we are all bombarded with the message that we will be more loved when we make ourselves more attractive. It may not be God-related, and yet still it is a religion of works, and one that is deeply embedded. As Luther put it, ‘sinners are attractive because they are loved; they are not loved because they are attractive.’ Only this message of the counterintuitive love of Christ offers a serious solution.”

[Brenden Wentworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book of triumph, no less! The triumph of Christ & His gospel over the darkness of both legalism & licentiousness.

Best intro to the reformation, hands down. Reeves is an exceptional storyteller and weaves a powerful history of characters and leadership, but he’s also one that has a handle on sound biblical theology, so as to helpfully guide the reader at what the Reformation was truly about:
- that someone is right with God is by grace alone through faith alone on account of Christ alone as testified by Scripture’s supreme authority alone, all to the glory of God alone

These are truths that worth defending & dying for, since they affect one’s eternity.
Take up & read. Be inspired. Gaze upon Christ.

[Karla Thor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m very thank for this book, it is not an in-depth book on the Reformation but a great overview! I feel like if you consider yourself to be reformed, even just protestant, this is a must read.
While reading it, I felt transported into the times in which men would “die on a hill” over their beliefs, literally. I understand why they thought heretics must be punished if they are leading people astray and cause revolts. Yeah, they were extreme, but our culture is at the other end where people don’t even know what they believe in and would never take a stand for the sake of being “open minded.”
The Reformation tackled many issues, but the most important one was declaring salvation to be not just “by faith” but by “faith ALONE.” And that is, faith in the saving work of the Eternal Son of God, Jesus Christ. His life, death, and resurrection ALONE are sufficient for my salvation. What a wonderful Savior 🙌🏼

[Faith · Rating 2 out of 5]

(2.5) The reformation is quite shocking...on both sides.

I do wish Reeves would have left out a few of his adjectives. His word choice made the text feel a bit bias and dramatic, otherwise, the read would have felt more factual and like I didn't need to sort through whether I was being persuaded towards one side or not. However, I do believe this book clearly exemplifies the diverse beliefs within the Protestant movement, showcasing drastically unique theologians of this 'new' church.

Overall, I learned how crazy humans are (on both sides of the divide) and it'd do us all some good to cherish the Beatitudes in our hearts.

[Sam Rempe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shoutout Griffin Gade for this fire rec! I had little knowledge of the Reformation and he recommended I read this book. Michael Reeves does an outstanding job of walking the reader through the essentials and history of the Reformation from a Birds Eye view. It was a page-turner and really helped me understand the importance of Sola Scriptura and Justification by faith alone. Great read and will recommend to anyone wanting to learn more about some church history!

[Joshua Freeman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely incredible read; my eyes were opened to my ignorance that martyrdom within civilized society for the Protestant-Christian faith was not only around Biblical times, but also not even 500 years ago as many men and women were burned at the stake for simply asserting that justification is by faith alone. From my 21st-century American perspective, its inconceivable people would be punished, let alone executed in such an excruciating manner, for that simple truth. Its even more inconceivable that these God-fearing and Jesus-loving people were executed at the hands of the Church of that age. Sola Scriptura, Sola Fide, Sola Gratia!

[Jarod Grubbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is flames (pun intended)! An excellent dive into the story of the reformation. It is brief but exciting. Reeves does a great job at covering theology and history in a way that captures the heart behind the reformation. Will be my number one recommendation to anyone who asks about the reformation!

[Jake Busch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid introduction to the history of the reformation. Very readable. Overall I enjoyed the book and Reeves’ narrative writing style. He does a great job of getting to the heart of the reformation, how is man right with God?

“While Luther and Calvin were emphatic that true saving faith would always produce such works of love, they were equally emphatic that such works were the consequence, and not the cause, of justification. Making that distinction was the heart of what they fought for… (180).” Amen!

[Luke McEwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible summary of the Reformation, why it happened, and why it was and still is necessary. Very easy read. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn about the Reformation.

[Noah Buresh · Rating 4 out of 5]

A concise yet clear exploration of the heart of the Reformation, and its contemporary relevance