When we think of sword-threats and the Protestant Reformation, the example that immediately springs to mind is that of John Knox standing with his two-handed broadsword, ready to defend his mentor George Wishart against would-be assailants.
Yet the Reformer John Calvin had his own encounters with peril at the tip of the blade. Notable among them is an altercation that took place in 1547 as the ministers of Geneva sought to advance spiritual and civil reform in that troubled city. My good friend Marcus Serven describes the scene in an article entitled, “Sword Fight: The Courageous Character of John Calvin.” This episode offers a fine example of Calvin’s courageous character, positive reputation, and frank outspokenness. Click here to read the article.