–

John Wycliffe: Complete Biography (c. 1328–1384)

Early Life and Formation

John Wycliffe was born around 1328 in the Yorkshire village of Hipswell, England. Little is known about his early life, but he likely grew up in a devout Catholic household during a time of significant social and religious upheaval.

Wycliffe entered Oxford University, where he pursued a rigorous education in theology, philosophy, and law. His exceptional intellect and commitment to biblical truth soon distinguished him as a scholar and reformer.

Intellectual Development and Education

Wycliffe excelled academically at Oxford, earning multiple degrees and becoming a prominent voice in scholastic and theological debates.

Key milestones:

1356: Wrote The Last Age of the Church, reflecting concerns about ecclesiastical corruption.
1372: Earned his doctorate in theology, solidifying his position as one of England’s leading theologians.
Role at Oxford: Served as a professor, where his teaching began to challenge traditional Catholic doctrines.

Wycliffe’s studies in Scripture and philosophy deepened his conviction that the church needed reform, particularly regarding its reliance on tradition over biblical authority.

Major Works

On the Truth of Holy Scripture (1378)
- Defended Scripture as the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice.
  Purchase on Amazon
On Civil Dominion (1376)
- Criticized the wealth and power of the clergy, advocating for a return to apostolic simplicity.
The Wycliffe Bible (1382)
- The first complete translation of the Bible into English, though primarily credited to his followers.
  Purchase on Amazon
On the Eucharist (1379)
- Rejected the Catholic doctrine of transubstantiation, emphasizing a symbolic understanding of the Lord’s Supper.

Theological Method

Wycliffe’s theology was rooted in Scripture and shaped by his philosophical training.

Key principles:

Biblical Authority: Scripture alone should govern Christian life and doctrine.
Opposition to Clerical Corruption: Denounced the moral failings and materialism of church leaders.
The Priesthood of All Believers: Advocated for lay access to Scripture and direct communion with God.

Influences and Innovations

Wycliffe was influenced by:

Augustine of Hippo: Adopted his views on predestination and grace.
Scholastic Philosophy: Utilized rigorous logical argumentation to challenge ecclesiastical practices.

His innovations include:

English Bible Translation: Pioneered efforts to make Scripture accessible to laypeople.
Proto-Reformation Thought: Laid theological groundwork later developed by Martin Luther and other Reformers.

Persecution and Controversy

Wycliffe’s critiques of church authority and doctrines drew significant opposition:

1377: Condemned by Pope Gregory XI in a series of papal bulls, though protected by English political allies.
1382: Declared a heretic by the Council of Blackfriars, leading to his removal from Oxford.

Despite these challenges, Wycliffe continued his writing and teaching until his death.

Family and Personal Life

Little is documented about Wycliffe’s personal life, as his work and public ministry dominate historical records. He remained celibate, dedicating himself wholly to scholarship and reform.

Legacy, Influence, and Impact

John Wycliffe’s contributions earned him the title “Morning Star of the Reformation,” highlighting his role as a precursor to the Protestant Reformation.

Significant contributions:

Scriptural Accessibility: His translation efforts inspired the spread of vernacular Bibles.
Lollards: His followers, known as Lollards, carried forward his teachings, advocating for reform and influencing later movements.
Posthumous Condemnation: In 1415, the Council of Constance declared him a heretic, and in 1428, his remains were exhumed and burned as a symbolic act of condemnation.

Wycliffe’s commitment to Scripture’s authority continues to inspire Christians, affirming the enduring power of God’s Word.

Subscribe to our newsletter

$5.99

Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God

by Jonathan Edwards

Buy Now