John Knox (c. 1514–1572) was a prominent Scottish religious reformer and preacher who played a pivotal role in the Protestant Reformation in Scotland. Born around 1514 near Haddington, Scotland, Knox’s journey to becoming a leading figure in the Reformation was marked by his fervent advocacy for reforming the Church and his steadfast commitment to his beliefs.
Knox initially studied theology and became a Roman Catholic priest, but his views gradually shifted towards Protestantism. Inspired by the teachings of figures like John Calvin, Knox emerged as a vocal critic of the Roman Catholic Church’s practices and doctrines.
His fiery sermons and speeches delivered throughout Scotland stirred a growing movement seeking to break away from Catholicism and embrace Protestantism. Knox’s most notable work, “The First Blast of the Trumpet Against the Monstrous Regiment of Women” (1558), challenged the authority of female monarchs, including Queen Mary I of England and Queen Mary of Scots.
Knox’s involvement in shaping the Reformation in Scotland was instrumental. He participated in the drafting of the Scots Confession of Faith (1560), a foundational document of the Scottish Reformation, and played a significant role in establishing Presbyterianism as the dominant form of Protestantism in Scotland. His indomitable spirit, sharp rhetoric, and dedication to religious reform earned him both admirers and adversaries, solidifying his place as a key figure in Scottish history and the broader tapestry of the Reformation movement.

John Knox
If you are interested to know more about John Cox, it’s surely recommended to look at these 23 interesting facts about him.
- John Knox was born around 1514 in Giffordgate, near Haddington, Scotland.
- He studied at the University of St. Andrews and became a Roman Catholic priest.
- Knox’s views shifted towards Protestantism, influenced by the teachings of Martin Luther and other reformers.
- He joined the movement led by Scottish preacher George Wishart, who advocated for religious reform.
- Knox was present during the execution of George Wishart in 1546, an event that deeply affected him.
- He became a bodyguard for Wishart’s accuser, Sir John Hamilton, before joining the Castle of St. Andrews defenders during the Scottish Reformation.
- Knox was captured by the French in 1547 and spent 19 months as a galley slave on a French warship.
- After his release, he spent time in England and Geneva, where he was influenced by John Calvin’s teachings.
- Knox returned to Scotland in 1555 and became a prominent preacher, delivering powerful sermons calling for religious reform.
- His most famous work, “The First Blast of the Trumpet Against the Monstrous Regiment of Women” (1558), criticized female monarchs.
- Knox played a significant role in drafting the Scots Confession of Faith (1560), which outlined Protestant beliefs in Scotland.
- He was a leading figure in the establishment of the Reformed Church in Scotland, which later became known as the Church of Scotland.
- Knox’s strong opposition to Catholic practices and hierarchy often led to controversy and clashes with authorities.
- He wrote extensively on theology, including works like “The Book of Common Order,” a guide for worship in the Church of Scotland.
- Knox’s influence extended to politics, where he advocated for a system of church governance independent from royal authority.
- He supported the Protestant Lords of the Congregation in their efforts to remove Catholic influence from Scotland.
- Knox’s fiery sermons earned him both admirers and adversaries, making him a polarizing figure in Scottish society.
- He was appointed as the minister of St. Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh, a significant position within the Reformed Church.
- Knox had a strained relationship with Mary, Queen of Scots, due to his criticism of her Catholic faith.
- He was involved in political and religious conflicts, including the Reformation Parliament and the signing of the National Covenant in 1638.
- Knox’s health deteriorated in his later years, but he continued to preach and write.
- He passed away on November 24, 1572, in Edinburgh.
- John Knox’s legacy endures through his role in shaping the Scottish Reformation, establishing Presbyterianism in Scotland, and leaving an indelible mark on the religious and cultural history of Scotland.
John Knox, a resolute and unwavering figure, left an indelible imprint on the course of religious reform in Scotland and beyond. His fiery convictions, fervent preaching, and unyielding commitment to transforming the spiritual landscape of his homeland marked him as a central force in the Scottish Reformation. Knox’s legacy lies not only in his influential writings and foundational role in establishing Presbyterianism, but also in his embodiment of a tenacious spirit that defied tradition and authority for the sake of profound change. As a man driven by his convictions, he ignited debates, polarized opinions, and, ultimately, inspired a movement that left an indomitable mark on the fabric of Scottish identity and the trajectory of Protestantism.