I recently had the opportunity to read William Boekestein’s contribution to the bitesize biographies series focusing on protestant reformer, Ulrich Zwingli.
I have to admit that I was looking forward to reading through this particular biography by Rev. Boekestein due to my experience with his prior children’s works on the Heidelberg Catechism, the Belgic Confession and the Canons of Dort. I commend these works to you if you have not already had the pleasure of reading through them.
I knew that Rev. Boekestein was an able historian in light of my former comments on his prior works but I didn’t expect the caliber of scholarship that I received in this particular biography on Zwingli; it’s wonderful! Let me preface by saying that indeed this is my first biography on Ulrich Zwingli, but this particular work gave me a well-researched overview of his life, work and influence. What you are handed when you pick up this book is an unexpected depth of scholarship provided.
The book is written in chronological order climaxing well with the legacy of Zwingli, especially making mention of his contribution to paedobaptism and his view of the nature of the covenant for baptizing children in the church.
The extent of his humanism, rise and fall of influence in Zurich were noteworthy points brought to the forefront in Rev. Boekestein’s work. There was indeed even an emotional touch in viewing Zwingli particularly as a man, more than a mere theologian.
After reading through this particular I highly commend Boekestein’s biography as a worthy contribution to any pastor, layman or scholar genuinely desiring a brief introductory overview or “bitesize biography” of Ulrich Zwingli, of his life and legacy.
Do yourself a favor and pick this book up and enjoy an excellent, readable account of this late great (yet often overlooked) Protestant reformer.
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