John Knox: The Fiery Revivalist Who Shook a Nation for Christ

“Give me Scotland, or I die!” – John Knox

John Knox is one of the most powerful voices of the Protestant Reformation, a man of fervent prayer and unwavering conviction. He is remembered not only as the founder of the Presbyterian Church of Scotland but also as a courageous reformer who stood for truth in the face of immense opposition. His life is a testimony to what God can do with a surrendered vessel, even in the darkest times.

---

Birth and Early Life

John Knox was born around 1514 in Haddington, a small town in East Lothian, Scotland. While exact records of his birthdate are scarce, it is widely accepted that he was born into a middle-class family. His father, William Knox, was believed to be a farmer or merchant, and he ensured young John received a good education.

Knox studied at the University of St Andrews, one of the leading academic centers in Scotland. Here, he came under the influence of the early reforming voices and began his journey toward gospel truth.

---

Spiritual Awakening and Early Ministry

Knox was originally ordained as a Roman Catholic priest, but the corruption and spiritual decay he witnessed in the Church led him to question many of its doctrines. His heart was stirred as he read the writings of reformers like Martin Luther and John Calvin, which opened his eyes to the biblical truths of salvation by grace through faith.

His spiritual turning point came under the ministry of George Wishart, a Scottish preacher and martyr. Knox was deeply influenced by Wishart’s bold gospel preaching and eventually became his bodyguard, often seen carrying a large two-handed sword to protect him.

After Wishart was executed in 1546 for his faith, Knox’s convictions deepened, and he began publicly preaching the Word of God.

---

Imprisonment and Suffering

Knox’s boldness came at a cost. In 1547, he was captured by French forces at St Andrews Castle and spent 19 months as a galley slave, chained and forced to row in brutal conditions. Yet even in these harsh circumstances, Knox’s faith did not waver. His time in the galleys was foundational in shaping his resolve and dependence on God.

---

Marriage and Family

John Knox married Marjorie Bowes around 1553, during his exile in England. Marjorie was from a noble family in the north of England, and their marriage produced two sons. Sadly, Marjorie died young in 1560.

Years later, in 1564, Knox remarried Margaret Stewart, the daughter of Andrew Stewart, a Scottish nobleman. Margaret was only 17 at the time, while Knox was 50, but she proved to be a faithful partner and supporter of his ministry. They had three daughters, all of whom remained devoted to the Reformed faith.

---

The Ministry and Reformation Work

John Knox’s life was devoted to preaching, reforming, and praying. After his release from slavery, he fled to England, where he served as a chaplain under King Edward VI and helped shape the English Reformation. However, when the Catholic Queen Mary Tudor (Bloody Mary) ascended the throne, Knox fled to Geneva, Switzerland, where he developed a close relationship with John Calvin.

Geneva became a theological training ground for Knox. Under Calvin’s mentorship, Knox refined his reformed doctrines and developed a strong vision for a biblical church governed by elders—not by bishops or kings.

In 1559, Knox returned to Scotland and became the primary leader of the Scottish Reformation. He boldly preached against Catholicism, idolatry, and the misuse of church power. His sermons were so fiery that they often led to public riots and the destruction of Catholic icons and monasteries.

Through tireless preaching and organizing, Knox helped establish the Reformed Church of Scotland, which would later become the Presbyterian Church. His influence helped Scotland embrace Protestantism as its national faith.

---

Confrontation with Mary, Queen of Scots

One of the most famous aspects of Knox’s ministry was his confrontational relationship with Mary, Queen of Scots. He met with her several times, confronting her with the truths of Scripture. He boldly challenged her lifestyle and Catholic faith, famously declaring:

“I am not afraid to offend you, madam, for I speak the truth.”

These interactions showed Knox’s unflinching courage. Though Mary was a queen, Knox stood before her with the authority of heaven, knowing he was accountable to God above all.

---

Death and Legacy

John Knox preached his final sermon on November 9, 1572, from his pulpit in Edinburgh. Just days later, on November 24, 1572, he went home to be with the Lord. His final words reflected the peace and assurance of a life poured out for Christ:

“Now it is come, for I have desired all my life to rest with Christ.”

Knox was buried in Edinburgh, and though the exact location is debated, tradition holds that he was laid to rest in the churchyard of St Giles’ Cathedral.

---

Conclusion: The Man Who Changed a Nation

John Knox was more than a preacher; he was a reformer, an intercessor, and a spiritual warrior. His fearless preaching and commitment to the Word of God laid the foundation for the Presbyterian movement, not just in Scotland but across the world.

His life reminds us that one man, surrendered to the will of God, can change the course of history.

Let us, like John Knox, pray boldly, preach faithfully, and live with eternity in view.

---

Scripture Inspiration

“The righteous are bold as a lion.” – Proverbs 28:1

“For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.” – Acts 4:20