Reformation Profiles

Produced by Ligonier Ministries, an international Christian organization founded by theologian Dr. R. C. Sproul in 1971, the 2012 documentary-style series Reformation Profiles dives into the rich history and impactful teachings of key figures from the Protestant Reformation. A result of Ligonier Ministries’ commitment to faithfully present historical and theological truths, Reformation Profiles blends academic rigor with easy-to-understand explanations, making it suitable for viewers of all levels of familiarity with church history or theology.

Shot in pristine quality, the series paints a vivid picture of the Reformation, a historical era of profound change in the religious, cultural, and political landscape. This impactful period in European history during the 16th century marked the birth of Protestantism as the Catholic Church faced widespread criticism and demands for reform. It was a time of challenging established norms and paradigms, rooted in a quest for truth, justice, and access to the Bible for all.

Reformation Profiles spotlights key figures of the Reformation period, including Martin Luther, John Calvin, Ulrich Zwingli, and others. Each episode typically focuses on the life, contributions, and teachings of one figure, unpacking their doctrine, cultural context, and lasting impact on the church and the world. The show’s emphasis is often on these reformers’ adherence to a Christ-centered, Bible-based faith, their commitment to expressing this faith amidst severe persecution, and their enduring influence on modern Christian thought and practice.

Through extensive research, compelling storytelling, and expert commentary, Reformation Profiles doesn't merely address dry historical facts. Instead, it delves into the soul of the Reformation period. It revisits the theological debates that shook the foundations of the then-dominant Roman Catholic Church, leading to unprecedented religious, societal, and political changes. Moreover, it captures the essence of the reformers' passion for the gospel and their unwavering commitment to biblical truth, even in the face of significant opposition and risk.

Viewers can expect to explore a wide variety of subjects, such as the principle of sola Scriptura ("Scripture alone"), the doctrine of justification by faith alone, and various aspects of church governance and sacrament practices. The series also provides insights into the diverse traditions and branches of Protestantism that have their origin in the Reformation.

In each episode, the viewer is given an authentic glimpse into the reformer's struggle, their unwavering faith, and determination. It walks you through the significant events in these reformers' lives, such as Martin Luther nailing his Ninety-Five Theses to the church door in Wittenberg, sparking the Protestant Reformation. It immerses you in John Calvin's theological reflections that led to the development of Reformed Christianity. It also discusses the often-overlooked but equally important figures like Ulrich Zwingli and his battle for religious reform in Switzerland.

The series is not just a historical study; it aims to connect the teachings and reforms of the past to the present context. As such, Reformation Profiles raises questions about today's church practices, inviting viewers to evaluate current religious norms and beliefs in the light of historical and biblical truths.

Reformation Profiles offers a wealth of knowledge for anyone interested in understanding the roots of Protestant Christianity and the men who played a key role in shaping it. It offers a historical, theological, and spiritual journey into a pivotal era, providing a valuable resource for both individual study or group discussions. Whether you're a history buff, a theology student, a Protestant Christian seeking to understand your faith roots or someone simply interested in the intersection of religion and social change, this series offers profound insights you wouldn't want to miss.