John Knox was a central figure in the Protestant Reformation in Scotland during the 16th century. Born in 1514, Knox was one of the most influential leaders of the Reformation movement and is widely regarded as the founder of Presbyterianism. His life was marked by intense religious and political struggle, as well as by his fervent commitment to the Protestant cause. Knox was born in Haddington, a small town east of Edinburgh. He studied at the University of St Andrews, where he probably received an education in liberal arts and theology. He was initially ordained a Catholic priest, but the influence of the Reformation ideas of figures such as Martin Luther and John Calvin led him to abandon Roman Catholicism and adopt Protestant beliefs. In the 1540s, Knox became increasingly involved in the Protestant movement in Scotland. He became an ardent supporter of Reformation ideas, openly criticizing the Catholic Church and its leaders. In 1546, following the assassination of Cardinal David Beaton, Knox joined the Protestants who had seized St Andrews Castle. This action, however, led to his capture by French forces, allies of the Catholic Queen of Scots. Knox was taken prisoner and spent 19 months as a slave in French galleys. After his release in 1549, Knox went into exile in England, where he continued to preach and teach. During his time in England, he served as royal chaplain to King Edward VI. However, the accession to the throne of Mary Tudor, a fervent Catholic, forced Knox to leave England in 1554. He settled in Geneva, where he developed a close relationship with John Calvin, whose ideas profoundly influenced his own beliefs and practices. Knox returned to Scotland in 1559, at a time when the country was on the brink of religious civil war. He quickly became a leading figure in the Scottish Reformation movement. In 1560, the Scottish Parliament, influenced by Knox and his followers, declared Scotland a Protestant country, abolishing the Catholic Mass and adopting a new confession of faith inspired by Calvinist doctrines. Knox's life was marked by frequent clashes with the monarchy, especially with Mary, Queen of Scots. He was openly critical of her policies and her Catholic faith, which led to several tense encounters between the two. Despite Mary's attempts to suppress the Protestant movement, Knox and his followers managed to keep Scotland firmly on the path of Reformation. John Knox died in 1572, but his impact on Scottish religion and society was lasting. He is remembered not only for his role in the Reformation, but also for his contribution to the formation of the Presbyterian Church of Scotland, which became the dominant denomination in the country. Knox left a legacy of religious fervor, reformist zeal, and tireless dedication to the cause of religious freedom. His work and leadership profoundly shaped Scotland's religious and cultural identity, influencing future generations and leaving an indelible mark on the history of Christianity. ============================== BE A SUPPORTER OF THE CHANNEL Make a Pix - CPF Key - 021346154-43 COME SAY HI TO ME ON MY SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: Romildo Saldanha Twitter: @RomildoSaldanha Instagram: @romildosaldanhadacamara Telegram: https://t.me/CanalProfessorRomildoSal... #JohnKnox #ScottishReformation #Martyrs of the Reformation #GeorgeWishart #Religion #History