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Hugh Latimer, one of England’s most powerful voices during the Reformation, was known for his vivid preaching style. Not only did he call sin what it was from behind the pulpit, he also called out his fellow pastors for not doing the same. Unsurprisingly, he stepped on more than a few toes…and according to Bryan Chapell, on at least one occasion, those toes were royal.
During his ministry, Rev. Latimer was invited to preach at Hampton Court before none other than King Henry VIII. During the sermon, some of Latimer’s lines offended the historically self-centered king. After the service, Latimer was informed that the king had commanded him to preach again the following Sunday and that the sermon should include an apology.
The next week, when Latimer returned, he began his sermon by speaking to himself:
Hugh Latimer, do you know before whom you are to speak this day? To the high and mighty monarch, the king’s most excellent majesty, who can take away your life if you offend. Therefore, take heed that you speak not a word that may displease. But then consider well, Hugh, do you not know from where you come and upon Whose message you are sent? Even by the great and mighty God who is all present and sees all your ways, and Who is able to cast your soul into Hell! Therefore, take care that you deliver your message faithfully.
And then, having encouraged his soul to do the job he was sent by God to accomplish, Rev. Hugh Latimer preached the exact same sermon he’d preached a week before – this time with even more zeal!
Resource’s Origin:
1 – 2 Timothy and Titus by Bryan Chapell. Crossway Publishers, 2012, page 51.
