Three Moments That Changed Christianity Forever

Faith Facts

• Reformed theologian John Calvin returned to Geneva on September 13, 1541, after three years of exile, establishing a Christian governance model that influenced Western civilization
• Christian apologist Nabeel Qureshi, a Muslim convert who defended the faith through powerful testimony, passed away from stomach cancer on September 16, 2017, at age 34
• George Leslie Mackay was ordained as a Presbyterian minister on September 17, 1870, before becoming a pioneering missionary to Taiwan

This week marks the anniversaries of three pivotal moments in Christian history that demonstrate God’s providence in advancing His kingdom through faithful servants across different centuries and continents.

On September 13, 1541, French theologian John Calvin made his historic return to Geneva, Switzerland, after spending three years in exile in Strasbourg. Calvin had initially been expelled from the city in 1538 due to conflicts with civic authorities over church governance and discipline.

During his time away, Geneva descended into religious and moral chaos, prompting city leaders to invite Calvin back to restore order and provide spiritual leadership. Upon his return, Calvin established a comprehensive system of church governance and discipline that became a model for Reformed churches worldwide.

His teachings on God’s sovereignty, biblical authority, and Christian living profoundly shaped Protestant theology and influenced the development of representative government in Western nations. Calvin’s Geneva became a refuge for persecuted Christians from across Europe and a training ground for missionaries who spread Reformed theology throughout the world.

Fast forward to September 16, 2017, when the Christian community mourned the loss of Nabeel Qureshi, a brilliant apologist and former devout Muslim who converted to Christianity after years of intensive study and prayer. Qureshi passed away at the young age of 34 after a courageous battle with advanced stomach cancer.

Born into a loving Muslim family, Qureshi’s journey to Christ began during his college years when he befriended Christian students who challenged him to examine the historical evidence for Christianity. His subsequent conversion cost him deeply, as it meant estrangement from his beloved family and community.

Despite the personal cost, Qureshi dedicated his life to sharing the gospel with Muslims and equipping Christians to engage in loving, truth-filled dialogue with their Muslim neighbors. His books, including “Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus,” have touched millions of lives and continue to bear fruit for the kingdom.

The third anniversary this week commemorates September 17, 1870, when George Leslie Mackay was ordained as a Presbyterian minister in Ontario, Canada. Shortly after his ordination, Mackay felt called to missionary service and set sail for Taiwan (then known as Formosa) in 1871.

For nearly three decades, Mackay served the Taiwanese people with extraordinary devotion, establishing churches, schools, and Taiwan’s first medical clinic. He learned the local languages, married a Taiwanese woman, and fully immersed himself in the culture he served.

Mackay’s holistic approach to missions—combining evangelism with education and medical care—resulted in the establishment of over 60 churches and the training of numerous native pastors. His legacy continues today through Oxford College (now Aletheia University) and MacKay Memorial Hospital, institutions that still serve Taiwan’s people.

These three events, though separated by centuries and continents, share a common thread: faithful servants who answered God’s call despite opposition, exile, illness, and cultural barriers. Calvin’s theological reforms, Qureshi’s courageous testimony, and Mackay’s sacrificial service all demonstrate how God uses willing vessels to advance His purposes in every generation.

Their stories remind us that God’s work in history continues through ordinary believers who trust Him with extraordinary faith. Each left an enduring legacy that continues to bear fruit for God’s kingdom today.

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