Reformation History

Using the collection

The planned sequence begins with movements before the Reformation and continues through several of its principal figures and traditions. It is intended for Sunday school teachers, youth leaders, and small-church teaching groups.

Choose the topics that fit your class. Adapt the depth, questions, and pace to your students rather than assuming every group needs the same approach.

These are introductory outlines. Lesson objectives and formats may be refined as the teaching materials are prepared; downloads will appear with each lesson when published.

Collection files

Browse the Reformation teaching materials in the collection folder.

Google Drive controls access to these files. You may be asked to sign in or request access. Individual lesson files will be linked here as they are reviewed.

Explore the six lessons

1. Lesson 01

   The Waldensians

   Consider the Waldensians and the place of Scripture, preaching, and reform before the sixteenth-century Reformation.

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2. Lesson 02

   John Wycliffe

   Explore John Wycliffe, debates about church authority, and the importance of Scripture in a language people can understand.

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3. Lesson 03

   Martin Luther

   Explore Luther’s place in the Reformation and the questions about grace, faith, and authority that shaped his work.

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4. Lesson 04

   Ulrich Zwingli

   Consider reform in Zurich, the role of biblical preaching, and differences among the Reformers.

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5. Lesson 05

   John Calvin

   Explore Calvin’s place in the Reformation and the connection between biblical teaching, church life, and reform.

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6. Lesson 06

   The Anabaptists

   Explore the diversity of Anabaptist movements and their questions about baptism, discipleship, and the church.

   Planned lessonExplore the lesson outline →

Before you teach

Begin with the lesson’s historical setting. Identify the theological questions being debated, distinguish a movement’s own claims from later interpretations, and give your class room to ask questions.

Use the Interpreter for related biblical study; it does not replace the collection’s historical sources or your review of the material.