John Wycliffe

John Wycliffe (1320-1384) was an English theologian, philosopher, and early proponent of reform in the Roman Catholic Church during the 14th century. He is most famous for his role in the translation of the Bible into Middle English and for his beliefs on church reform.

Wycliffe studied at Oxford University and became a master of arts and a fellow of Merton College. He was a highly regarded teacher and was known for his critical thinking skills and his ability to challenge traditional church teachings. He believed that the Bible was the ultimate source of religious authority, rather than the Pope or the Church, and that all Christians had the right to study and interpret it for themselves.

Wycliffe's views were seen as controversial, and he faced opposition from the established Church. Nevertheless, he continued to advocate for his beliefs and gained a large following of supporters, who were known as Lollards. He was also instrumental in the establishment of the first English-language Bible, which was translated into Middle English and made available to the general public. This translation had a profound impact on English society, helping to spread Wycliffe's ideas and challenging the authority of the Church.

Wycliffe's writings and teachings were seen as a threat to the Church, and he was eventually excommunicated and declared a heretic. Despite this, his ideas continued to influence the development of the Reformation in the centuries that followed. He is now considered one of the forerunners of the Reformation, and his legacy continues to be remembered as an important figure in the history of the Christian Church.