Thomas Cranmer (1489–1556)

Abstract

Abstract Thomas Cranmer (1489–1556), despite producing a paucity of scriptural commentaries, is probably the man most responsible for the expansion of scriptural knowledge among English-speaking laity through his liturgical and homiletic works, especially the former, which continues to influence millions of Christians. Under the influence of humanists like Erasmus, as well as the Continental reformers, Cranmer’s own theology and understanding of Scripture became increasingly Reformed, developing around three main themes. First, the authority of Scripture is based on its nature as the word of God, so that Scripture is its own best interpreter and is the sole foundation for Christian doctrine. Second, the Holy Spirit has a role in illuminating the reader of Scripture; divine assistance is key to understanding the Bible and to following its commandments. Following from this is the third theme, the transformational nature of Scripture, which works on the hearts and minds of those who encounter it.