Jean-Henri Merle d'Aubigné

Jean-Henri Merle d'Aubigné (1794-1872) was a Swiss Protestant minister and historian of the Reformation. He is best known for his multi-volume work A History of the Reformation of the Sixteenth Century, which is considered to be one of the most comprehensive and authoritative accounts of the Protestant Reformation ever written.

Merle d'Aubigné was born in Geneva, Switzerland, in 1794. He studied theology at the University of Geneva and then served as a pastor in the Reformed Church of Switzerland. In 1831, he moved to Paris, France, where he devoted himself to writing his history of the Reformation. The first volume of the work was published in 1835, and the final volume was published in 1872.

Merle d'Aubigné's History of the Reformation was an immediate success and was translated into many languages. The work is praised for its accuracy, its readability, and its sympathetic portrayal of the Reformers. Merle d'Aubigné was also a popular speaker, and he traveled throughout Europe and North America giving lectures on the Reformation.

Merle d'Aubigné was a staunch defender of Protestantism. He believed that the Reformation was a return to the true teachings of the Bible and that it had played a vital role in shaping Western civilization. He was also a strong advocate for Christian unity and believed that Protestants could learn from each other and work together to advance the cause of the gospel.

Merle d'Aubigné died in Geneva in 1872 at the age of 78. He is remembered as one of the most important church historians of the 19th century and as a leading figure in the Protestant Evangelical movement.

Principles

Merle d'Aubigné's principles were based on his deep commitment to the Protestant faith. He believed in the authority of the Bible, the priesthood of all believers, and the importance of personal conversion. He was also a strong advocate for Christian unity and for the separation of church and state.

Notable Works

Merle d'Aubigné's most famous work is A History of the Reformation of the Sixteenth Century. He also wrote a number of other books, including:

• Luther and Calvin (1843)
• The Protector of the Reformation (1847)
• History of the Great Revival in the Eighteenth Century (1857)
• History of the Reformation in the Time of Calvin (1862-1873)

Philosophy

Merle d'Aubigné's philosophy was shaped by his Protestant faith. He believed that God is sovereign and that he has a plan for history. He also believed that the Bible is the authoritative word of God and that it should guide our lives. Merle d'Aubigné was also a strong advocate for individual liberty and freedom of conscience.

Death and Legacy

Merle d'Aubigné died in Geneva in 1872 at the age of 78. He is remembered as one of the most important church historians of the 19th century and as a leading figure in the Protestant Evangelical movement.

Interesting Facts

• Merle d'Aubigné was a gifted linguist and could speak and read several languages, including French, German, English, and Italian.
• He was also a talented musician and played the piano and the violin.
• Merle d'Aubigné was a close friend of the American evangelist Charles Finney.
• He was also a supporter of the abolitionist movement and spoke out against slavery.

Merle d'Aubigné's life and work had a profound impact on the Protestant Evangelical movement. His History of the Reformation inspired millions of Christians around the world and helped to shape their understanding of the Protestant faith.