On This Day: Eighty Years' War: Siege of Antwerp: Antwerp is captured by Spanish forces under... (1585)

On August 17, 1585: Eighty Years' War: Siege of Antwerp: Antwerp is captured by Spanish forces under Alexander Farnese, Duke of Parma, who orders Protestants to leave the city and as a result over half of the 100,000 inhabitants flee to the northern provinces.

This historical event can serve as a powerful sermon illustration about renewal and reformation in the life of the church. Consider using it when preaching about reformation.