Ebook
This accessible book introduces the life and work of Martin Bucer (1491-1551), the significant sixteenth-century Protestant Reformer. Bucer shared theological insights with other Protestant Reformers but also provided his own unique contributions. Donald McKim and Jim West help us to understand Bucer's thought in the historical, political, and ecclesial context of his times. They also explore its ongoing importance for the contemporary church.
“Martin Bucer has often been considered a reformer ‘in the wings,’ standing in the shadows of his contemporaries Luther, Zwingli, and Calvin. In this volume, Donald McKim and Jim West lead Bucer from the wings out onto the main stage of the Reformation, lucidly portraying him as not only a theologian and churchman of the first order but also the premier Reformed irenicist of the first half of the sixteenth century. Tolle lege!”
—Lyle D. Bierma, Calvin Theological Seminary
“This short book offers an engaging look at the life and teachings of the Strasbourg Reformer Martin Bucer. Donald McKim and Jim West are to be commended for their thorough yet concise study that introduces English-speaking readers to an under-appreciated central figure in the Reformation.”
—Karin Maag, Calvin University
“The richness of historical reality can never be encompassed accurately if only told from the perspectives of a few figures and their easily accessed texts. This is also true for the Reformation, a difficult time where the cradle of Reformed theology resides. We are thankful to the authors for presenting Martin Bucer, his impressive personality, and his important but often neglected contributions to the Reformation in an academic but comprehensible way.”
—Peter Opitz, University of Zurich
“Donald McKim and Jim West have masterfully provided an extraordinarily accessible gateway for learning about one of the most significant theologians of the Reformation, Martin Bucer. Far more straightforward than some of the more academic treatments and dealing more with his thought and its impact than a strict biography, this wonderful volume offers an accessible path that leads to greater understanding of the Reformer and of his ongoing significance for believers today.”
—R. Ward Holder, Saint Anselm College
Donald K. McKim is a former seminary dean, professor of theology, and executive editor for theology for Westminster John Knox Press. He is a retired minister of the Presbyterian Church (USA) and author and editor of numerous books.
Jim West is lecturer in biblical studies and church history at Ming Hua Theological College, Hong Kong, and pastor of Petros Baptist Church, Petros, Tennessee. He has written and coedited several volumes.