October 27 – Jan Łaski: The Organizer of Reformed Churches

The Reformation was not only about bold preachers and brilliant theologians; it also required wise organizers who could shape churches according to Scripture. One of the most important of these was Jan Łaski (also known as John à Lasco), a Polish nobleman turned reformer. Though less well-known than Luther or Calvin, Łaski’s work in structuring churches left a lasting impact on the Reformation across Europe.

Early Life and Humanist Training

Born in 1499 into a noble family in Poland, Jan Łaski grew up in privilege and influence. His uncle was the powerful primate of Poland, and Łaski himself was destined for a high position in the church. He studied law and theology, traveling widely in France and Italy.

Like many educated men of his age, he was shaped by Renaissance humanism, which emphasized a return to the sources (ad fontes). This prepared him to receive the gospel when he later encountered the Reformation.

Conversion to the Gospel

During his travels, Łaski came into contact with Reformers, including Erasmus and eventually Ulrich Zwingli. Convinced by their emphasis on Scripture and salvation by grace, he broke with the Catholic Church. This was no small decision; as a nobleman, he gave up wealth, privilege, and position to follow Christ.

A Leader in Exile

Because of political and religious opposition in Poland, Łaski spent much of his life in exile. He ministered first in East Frisia (modern-day Germany), where he helped organize Reformed churches. His skill in church polity—structuring congregations according to biblical patterns—made him an invaluable leader.

Later, he traveled to England, where he became superintendent of the “Stranger Churches” in London, congregations of Protestant refugees from the continent. Under his guidance, these churches worshiped simply, according to Scripture, and became models for others to follow.

Theology and Convictions

Łaski’s theology aligned with the Reformed branch of the Reformation, emphasizing:

• Sola Scriptura: Scripture alone as the authority for the church.

• Justification by Faith Alone: Salvation is God’s gift, received through faith in Christ.

• Christ-Centered Worship: He emphasized preaching, prayer, and the sacraments, rejecting unbiblical traditions.

• Biblical Church Order: He believed elders and ministers should govern the church collectively under Christ, not bishops or popes.

His writings on church order were influential, shaping later Reformed and Presbyterian structures.

Return to Poland

In 1556, Łaski finally returned to Poland, where he sought to advance the cause of reform in his homeland. He worked to unite the various Protestant groups—Lutherans, Calvinists, and others—into a common confession. His efforts, though not fully successful, strengthened the Protestant witness in Poland.

Legacy

Łaski died in 1560, but his influence endured. He is remembered as one of the great organizers of the Reformation, a man who gave structure and stability to young churches. His emphasis on biblical polity helped shape Reformed churches across Europe.

Though overshadowed by more famous Reformers, his life testifies that God uses not only preachers and writers but also administrators and shepherds to build His church.

Biblical Reflection

Łaski’s ministry reflects the truth of 1 Corinthians 14:40:

“But all things must be done properly and in an orderly manner.”

He understood that reform was not just about preaching truth but about structuring the church according to God’s Word.

Application for Today

From Jan Łaski’s life we learn:

1. Use Your Gifts for the Church – Łaski’s organizational skills were as vital as preaching. Whatever our gifts, God calls us to serve His people.

2. Value Biblical Church Order – Structure matters. Churches thrive when governed according to Scripture, not human tradition.

3. Stand Firm Despite Opposition – Exiled from his homeland, Łaski persevered in serving Christ wherever God placed him.

Conclusion

Jan Łaski may not be as well-known as Luther, Calvin, or Knox, but his organizational genius and theological convictions were crucial for the Reformation’s growth. He reminds us that the body of Christ requires many gifts—preachers, teachers, pastors, and administrators—all working together under the headship of Christ. His story encourages us to use whatever gifts God has given us to strengthen His church and advance His kingdom.