When the Church Made History This Week

Faith Facts

• The Church of England voted to allow female bishops this week in 2014, marking a controversial shift in Anglican tradition
• Medieval priest John Ball, who led the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381, was executed for his radical teachings mixing faith and social upheaval
• John III became pope in 561 A.D., leading the early church during a time of Byzantine influence in Rome

Throughout the centuries, the middle of July has witnessed pivotal moments that shaped Christian history. From ancient papal appointments to modern debates over church governance, these events continue to resonate with believers today.

On July 14, 2014, the Church of England’s General Synod voted to allow women to serve as bishops, ending years of intense theological debate. The measure passed with support from all three houses of the synod—bishops, clergy, and laity—though not without significant opposition from traditionalists who argued the move departed from biblical precedent and historic church practice.

The decision represented a major departure from centuries of Anglican tradition and sparked ongoing concerns among conservative Christians about the authority of Scripture in determining church leadership. Many traditional believers continue to view the ordination of women to the episcopate as inconsistent with the complementarian understanding of biblical gender roles.

Centuries earlier, on July 15, 1381, English priest John Ball was executed for his role in the Peasants’ Revolt. Ball had become notorious for preaching sermons that mixed Christian teaching with radical egalitarian politics, including his famous question: “When Adam delved and Eve span, who was then the gentleman?”

While Ball invoked Scripture to challenge social inequalities, his methods and message became increasingly revolutionary. His execution served as a warning against using the pulpit to incite civil unrest, a tension that has echoed through Christian history between prophetic witness and political rebellion.

Much further back, on July 17, 561, John III was consecrated as Bishop of Rome, becoming pope during the tumultuous period of Byzantine control over Italy. His seventeen-year papacy was marked by navigating the complex relationship between the church and imperial power.

John III’s tenure reminds modern believers that the church has always faced the challenge of maintaining spiritual independence while engaging with earthly authorities. His leadership during uncertain times offers lessons for Christians today who seek to remain faithful amid political and cultural pressure.

These historical moments—separated by centuries but united in their significance—demonstrate how the church continues to wrestle with questions of authority, tradition, and faithfulness. For Christian conservatives, they underscore the importance of grounding decisions in Scripture rather than contemporary cultural trends.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.