Lesson 9:
The Swiss Reformer
Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. 1 Timothy 6:12
Introduction
The scene opens in Switzerland. Another light will stand up in dark places. With the same conviction as Luther, Ulrich Zwingli purposes in his heart to stand up for truth amid a church enslaved in darkness and superstition. With fervor and the authority from the Holy Scriptures, he marches forward to face the enemies of God.
What are the elements of this chapter?
People: ULRICH ZWINGLI (1484-1531)
Swiss reformer and pastor
Ulrich Zwingli came from humble beginnings as a herdsmen. He was educated at an early age and became a great scholar priest and preacher.
Contemporary to Martin Luther.
He was killed in the battle of Kapelle near Zürich.
Growing in God’s Word
Zwingli hears the gospel message preached in Basel and becomes acquainted with God’s grace which contrasts between God’s Word and the teachings of his professors. (TGC 173.3)
Zwingli preaches at the convent of Einsiedeln and sees the corruption of church for himself.
Event: ZWINGLI EVANGELIZES ZURICH (1519-1521)
Zwingli is assigned to preach and instructed to minister only to people with money and influence.
He resolves to preach gospel focusing on the gospel of Matthew, teaching with the authority of scripture.
The monks condemn his teachings.
Indulgences come to Zurich
A Franciscan Monk named Sampson came from Italy to sell indulgences. Before he arrived in Zurich, he was met by leaders and told not to come in.
Zwingli preaches anti-indulgence and victory over sin
Well received by the people, advancing the reformation in Zurich.
As a result, Sampson was unable to sell indulgences in Zurich.
Zwingli is falsely accused for causing anarchy in society (TGC 180.3-181.1)
People: JOHANNES OECOLAMPADIUS (1482-1531)
Protestant reformer, theologian and professor.
Sent to Disputation of Baden as a representative in Zwingli’s place.
Event: DISPUTATION IN BADEN (1526)
A public debate between representatives of the pope and reformers that were designed to silence Zwingli.
The council in Zurich forbid Zwingli to attend, fearing for his life. Another representative is sent instead while Zwingli secretly advised by letters.
The Bible vs. tradition was debated between Followers of Zwingli and Johann Eck, the representative of Rome.
As a result of the debates, Bern and Basel join the reformation.
What does this have to do with me today?
Am I following traditions in my church that are not rooted in Scripture?
Would I be willing to go against the grain to stand up for God's Word?
Have I noticed pastors favoring parishioners with money and influence? How would Jesus respond to that?
Is there salvation through Christ whether I’m a member of a church or not?