Ulrich Zwingli (1482-1531) started a new practice in Zurich, Switzerland: he systematically preached through the New Testament. Zurich accepted his teachings that pointed to Christ as the head of the church, the authority of Scripture, and salvation by faith rather than ritualistic works. Roman Catholic rulers in Switzerland declared war against Zurich. Zwingli was killed in the Battle of Kappel, but his influence lived on in the Swiss Reformed Church.
John Calvin (1509-1564) was born in France. Around 1530, he left the Roman Catholic church after intensive studies in the Bible, along with other writings. Persecution forced him to flee to Switzerland where Geneva installed him as its spiritual leader, with great influence over the secular rulers (1541). Calvinism became influential, leading eventually to “Reformed Churches” and their many divisions. National examples include the Dutch Reformed Church, the Reformed Church of France, and the Reformed Church of Scotland also called Presbyterian, led by John Knox. Like Augustine’s teachings, elements of Calvinism still influence many Evangelical Churches.