On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses on the Wittenberg Chapel door (or mailed them) and thus sparked the Reformation. Today, Reformation Day, commemorates that event and the work of Reformers. CT asked scholars what books they recommended for better understanding the Reformation. Here’s what they suggested.

The Reformation, Diarmaid McCulloch (Penguin)

“McCulloch is one of the foremost Reformation historians in our day. His works are expansive and thorough. While this book is large, it’s definitely worth the time to invest in reading it.”

~ J. V. Fesko, professor of systematic and historical, Theology Westminster Seminary California

Reformers in the Wings, David Steinmetz (Oxford)

“In this book, Steinmetz covers a number of Reformers largely unknown in the present day, who stood in the massive shadows of figures like Calvin and Luther. They were giants in their own day, however, so it behooves us to learn about their contributions to the Reformation.”

~ Fesko

The Unquenchable Flame, Michael Reeves (B&H)

“Michael Reeves' book is a thoughtful, concise, and clear account of the major events, people, and ideas that shaped the Reformation. With theological sensitivity and historical acumen, Reeves explains why the Reformation happened. And at a time when many are declaring that the Reformation is over and that its concerns no longer apply, Reeves gives a charitable and thoughtful explanation of why it is still important for Christians today and what difference it should make.”

~ Carl Trueman, professor of church history, Westminster Theological Seminary, Phildelphia

Getting the Reformation Wrong by James R. Payton, Jr. (InterVarsity Press) “Many ...

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