©2002, Grace & Truth Books, 102 pp., pbk.

Our day is one of looking for heroes and champions. This book provides a brief account of a hero of the Reformation.  Gustavus Adolphus was born in December 1594 into Swedish royalty. His childhood was full of contemporary political turmoil. Rather than isolating his son from ongoing international problems, his father prepared him to rule. By 1611, the year his reign began, he was leading troops into battle. He battled threats from Danes & Poles to his rule of Sweden. He faithfully led his troops in defense of their nation.

Greater fame came to him for his leadership of Protestants in the Thirty Year War. His entry into the war was for God’s glory, not for personal or national advancement. This fact is in contrast to what society considers as heroic reasoning today. This decision resulted in great personal sacrifice. He had to leave his family and the borders of his country. He had to withstand plots against him and the fickleness of supposed allies.

What stands out in this king’s life is not his wealth or battlefield heroics. Repeatedly his Christian faith is lived out on and off the field of war. The author provides numerous examples of the king’s faith in action. He was never disquieted by the secret plans of his enemies. He realized that the sovereign God would not call him home until his earthly work was done. He did not fear death or the battlefield. Adolphus knew that if he did die, God would raise up another to take up His cause. Adolphus died on Nov. 6, 1632 as a result of injuries suffered in the Battle of Lutzen.

Fame did not go to his head nor did he wield power for his glory or advancement. There are many character traits and much Christian commitment that our generation needs to know existed in Christian leaders of a bygone era. By conveying Adolphus’ life story, the author also conveys the living out of Christianity as a normal part of life, even for Christian leaders. This is a much-needed reminder for us and our children in our day of emphasis on image and political correction.

This is a good book to place in the hands of young men or to read and discuss together as a family.

©2010 Byron Snapp, Hampton,Virginia