John Wycliffe

Date of Birth: c. 1320

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: December 31, 1384

Biography

John Wycliffe, born around 1320 in Yorkshire, England, was an English scholastic philosopher, theologian, biblical translator, reformer, and seminary professor at the University of Oxford. Known as the “Morning Star of the Reformation,” Wycliffe was a precursor to the Protestant Reformation. His advocacy for the translation of the Bible into the vernacular laid the groundwork for future church reformers and translators. Wycliffe’s teachings challenged the authority of the Pope and the church hierarchy, emphasizing the primacy of Scripture over church doctrine. His followers, known as Lollards, played a significant role in the spread of his ideas. Despite facing strong opposition from the church, Wycliffe’s influence endured, and his works continued to inspire reformers like Jan Hus and Martin Luther.

5 Interesting Facts about John Wycliffe

1. John Wycliffe was one of the first to translate the Bible into English, making it accessible to common people.

2. He was a prominent critic of the Catholic Church, particularly its wealth and political power.

3. Wycliffe’s followers, the Lollards, were instrumental in promoting his ideas and faced severe persecution for their beliefs.

4. After his death, the Council of Constance declared Wycliffe a heretic, and in 1428, his remains were exhumed and burned.

5. He is considered a forerunner of the Protestant Reformation, influencing later reformers such as Jan Hus and Martin Luther.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Wycliffe

1. “Holy Scripture is the highest authority for every believer, the standard of faith and the foundation for reform.”

2. “The gospel alone is sufficient to rule the lives of Christians everywhere—any additional rules made to govern men’s conduct add nothing to the perfection already found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”

3. “I believe that in the end, truth will conquer.”

4. “Trust wholly in Christ; rely altogether on his sufferings; beware of seeking to be justified in any other way than by his righteousness.”

5. “It is not good for the Christian community to have laws and teachers in addition to the Word of God.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

John Wycliffe did not accumulate wealth in the conventional sense, as he was primarily an academic and a cleric. His net worth in modern financial terms is not applicable.