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John Rogers

Sealed with blood

First Maryan martyr

JOHN ROGERS
Sealed with blood
By Tim Shenton
Day One. 144 pages. £7.00
ISBN 978-1-84625-084-2

This paperback recounts the life of John Rogers, who may not be as well known as other Protestant martyrs of the 16th century. Rogers was a scholar and, being acquainted with William Tyndale, began to examine the Scriptures for publication, through which he was led to conversion.

Then follows the thrilling story of the translation of the Scriptures into English and Rogers’ involvement. There is an honest account of the death of Joan Bocher; this incident was a dark blot against the Reformers, including Rogers.

When the evangelical boy-king Edward VI died, Rogers suffered persecution for his biblical stand when Mary Tudor became queen. He was imprisoned, repeatedly examined and condemned to death as a heretic, becoming the first Protestant martyr during Mary’s reign.

All Christians should know something about the Protestant Reformers and here Tudor history is brought into our reach. It also inspires faith in Christ, who alone is worth living and dying for. Short chapters with subdivisions and frequent illustrations help to bring this period of history alive. Over 450 years later, the great unchanging truths of Christianity present the same challenge to keep the faith today. Rogers’ examinations remind us of the difference between the true catholic church of Christ and the Roman Catholic Church.

Reflecting on martyrdom for Christ may not be in the thoughts of most Christians today, but we need to understand what following Christ involves. Highly commended.

Peter Fenne,
pastor of Chilworth Free Church