Pierre Viret

Pierre Viret (1509/1510 – 4 April 1571) was a Swiss Reformed theologian, evangelist and Protestant reformer.

Early life Pierre Viret was born in 1509 or 1510 in Orbe, then in the Barony of Vaud, now in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland.

Preaching William Farel, a Protestant preacher, called Viret to the ministry when he returned to Orbe. On 6 May 1531, Viret preached his first sermon. His preaching was received with astonishment and acclamation, and many were soon converted to the Reformed Faith, including Viret's parents.

In 1561, Viret moved to Southern France, possibly for health reasons.

Expelled from the city two years later, in 1567 he accepted an invitation from Jeanne d'Albret, Queen of Navarre, to introduce the Reformation to the Béarn. Linder concludes that "Viret deserves a far more prominent place in the story of the Reformation than he has been accorded thus far, especially by historians in the English-speaking world."

Translated works Viret authored over fifty books, many of which have been translated into English, including:

Anchor of the Soul: An Exposition of the Apostles Creed The Catechism of Pierre Viret The Christian and the Magistrate: Roles, Responsibilities, and Jurisdictions Exposition of the Ten Commandments His Glorious Bride Jesus Christ, the Believer's Comfort and Joy Letters of Comfort to the Persecuted Church Marvelous Trinity Simple Exposition of the Christian Faith

Decalogue Commentary Series No Other God Nothing Like God Taking His Name in Vain Remember the Sabbath Day Honor thy Father and Mother Thou Shalt Not Kill: A Plea for Life Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery Thou Shalt Not Steal Defend the Truth Thou Shalt Not Covet