January 23, 2016

The Portland Vase was an exquisite discovery near Rome in the late sixteenth century. An artisan had crafted the vase during the reign of Tiberius Caesar (AD 14-37). After many generations, it eventually passed from memory. Rome fell, and the Dark Ages came with the Renaissance and Reformation periods following. Through it all the vase […]

Then Farel raised his hand toward heaven and exclaimed with the deepest solemnity: “John Calvin! If you forsake us in this time of need, when your scholarship and capacity to organize and guide our churches are absolutely necessary, then from this time forth the curse of God will rest upon you and your idolized studies!”[1]

Hallelujah! for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. The kingdoms of this world is become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of His Christ: and He shall reign for ever and ever. King of Kings, and Lord of Lords. These glorious words hail from Handel’s Messiah. Charles Jennens, a devout Anglican, wrote the text to challenge