Reformation Collection Volume 1 is a comprehensive anthology that brings together a diverse range of writings from the Reformation era. The collection includes works from major figures such as Martin Luther, John Calvin, and Huldrych Zwingli, as well as lesser-known theologians and reformers.

One of the strengths of this collection is its breadth and depth. The editors have selected a wide variety of texts, including sermons, treatises, letters, and theological works, providing readers with a multifaceted view of the religious debates and controversies of the time. The texts are presented in their original languages, with facing-page translations for those who are not fluent in Latin, German, or French.

The introductions and annotations provided for each text are also very helpful, providing valuable context and background information that enhances the reader's understanding of the material. The editorial team has done an excellent job of selecting and organizing the texts in a way that allows readers to trace the development of key ideas and themes across the Reformation period.

Overall, Reformation Collection Volume 1 is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of the Reformation and the development of Protestant theology. It provides a rich and varied selection of texts that shed light on the complexities and controversies of this pivotal moment in Christian history.

Book Description:
This volume of the Reformation collection begins with a summary of Protestant belief in the form of the Belgic Confession and John Calvin's 'cover letter' to Francis I of France requesting that he read Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion to understand the Protestant doctrine from its source rather than secondhand. 100 aphorisms summarising the contents of the Institutes follow as well as some instructions given by Thomas Cranmer showing the effect of the Reformation for clergy and parishes, as does a short protestation from the reformer William Tyndale expressing the Reformation methodology privileging the Bible as the source of doctrine and practice. It continues with several debates where both sides have been recorded: Cardinal Sadoleto's measured letter to Geneva and Calvin's reply, Pope Paul III's letter to emperor Charles V and Calvin's comments, with outrage expressed on both sides, followed by Thomas Cranmer's writings on the relationship between the Papacy and the state. The leads naturally into some writings from the English Reformation where King Henry VIII required the Pope to be "driven out of England" and William Turner, botanist turned theologian, considered the command incompletely executed. There follow writings on the subject of the sacraments, ceremonies and attire which were a key area of dispute in the Reformation period. Afterwards come several expressions of Reformed piety in the form of prayers and a simple catechism for children. Other volumes of this collection: Volume 2 Volume 3