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John Wycliffe: A Life from Beginning to End
John Wycliffe
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John Wycliffe was known as the “Morning Star” of the Reformation. His doctrines of strict adherence to the Bible and his attacks on the wealth and corruption of the Catholic Church would be the spark that would later ignite the fires of the Protestant Reformation.
Inside you will read about...
✓ Early Years
✓ Accused of Heresy
✓ Conflict with the Church
✓ Translating the Bible
✓ Transubstantiation and Exile from Oxford
✓ Later Life and Death
And much more!
John Wycliffe was a man of the people who believed that all should be allowed a personal relationship with God, and his Scriptures gave the world the first English translation of the Bible. He is remembered as a brilliant scholar, philosopher and theologian, and a compelling preacher who touched the hearts and minds of noble and commoner alike.
* * *Download for FREE on Kindle Unlimited + Free BONUS Inside!* * *
Read On Your Computer, MAC, Smartphone, Kindle Reader, iPad, or Tablet.
John Wycliffe was known as the “Morning Star” of the Reformation. His doctrines of strict adherence to the Bible and his attacks on the wealth and corruption of the Catholic Church would be the spark that would later ignite the fires of the Protestant Reformation.
Inside you will read about...
✓ Early Years
✓ Accused of Heresy
✓ Conflict with the Church
✓ Translating the Bible
✓ Transubstantiation and Exile from Oxford
✓ Later Life and Death
And much more!
John Wycliffe was a man of the people who believed that all should be allowed a personal relationship with God, and his Scriptures gave the world the first English translation of the Bible. He is remembered as a brilliant scholar, philosopher and theologian, and a compelling preacher who touched the hearts and minds of noble and commoner alike.
52 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 17, 2018
129 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
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Hourly History
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
April 20, 2021
I didn't think that anyone during the 14th Century will ever try to argue the rule of Pope and Church. That was until I learnt about John Wycliffe. A man who debated the Pope's judgement and the ways through which Cristianity is followed.
The book was written in a short, simple, and concise manner. An easy-to-understand, short but informative - only Hourly History can complete a book like that.
The book was written in a short, simple, and concise manner. An easy-to-understand, short but informative - only Hourly History can complete a book like that.
January 13, 2021
John Wycliffe did not believe anything that was not in the Bible. He came long before there was a Reformation. However, since his word was based on the Bible, he was fearless. At that time, only the clerics and nobility could read. Wycliffe believed that the common man should read so he could read (and understand) the Bible for himself.
John was born in 1320, in Yorkshire, England. I liked that the author established John's going off to Oxford at 16 was quite an accomplishment; also confirming that it would be a 10-day trip. The author also explained a bit about life amongst the common folk at the time. This helps the reader understand the challenges a person faced in England during that age. Throughout this book, the author explained the significance of things because he was talking about the Middle Ages. Otherwise, readers might not have a good frame-of-reference about the importance of points the author made.
Ministers of that time seem to have read the Mass book in Latin and generally, the commoners did not know what he was saying. Wycliffe translated the Bible and spoke in English, so the commoners could understand. The clerics wanted to keep the Bible in Latin so they were the only knowledgable ones. However, Wycliffe changed that. He was charged with heresy; one of the several issues was transubstantiation -- the belief that the wine and bread (of the Mass) changed into the body and blood of Christ. Wycliffe said that was a man-made theory; it did not appear in the Bible.
The author of this book did an excellent job of explaining concepts within the text for the understanding of the reader. This was a great overview for anyone wanting to know more about the great John Wycliffe, without spending a great deal of time in the research.
John was born in 1320, in Yorkshire, England. I liked that the author established John's going off to Oxford at 16 was quite an accomplishment; also confirming that it would be a 10-day trip. The author also explained a bit about life amongst the common folk at the time. This helps the reader understand the challenges a person faced in England during that age. Throughout this book, the author explained the significance of things because he was talking about the Middle Ages. Otherwise, readers might not have a good frame-of-reference about the importance of points the author made.
Ministers of that time seem to have read the Mass book in Latin and generally, the commoners did not know what he was saying. Wycliffe translated the Bible and spoke in English, so the commoners could understand. The clerics wanted to keep the Bible in Latin so they were the only knowledgable ones. However, Wycliffe changed that. He was charged with heresy; one of the several issues was transubstantiation -- the belief that the wine and bread (of the Mass) changed into the body and blood of Christ. Wycliffe said that was a man-made theory; it did not appear in the Bible.
The author of this book did an excellent job of explaining concepts within the text for the understanding of the reader. This was a great overview for anyone wanting to know more about the great John Wycliffe, without spending a great deal of time in the research.
November 7, 2019
A man far ahead of the reformation
John Wycliffe was a forerunner to the reformation, exposing the hypocrisy of the Roman Catholic Church centuries before Martin Luther. He exposed the rich living of the Popes and friars via land grabbing and demands from the church for alms that they did not need but used to grow the wealth of the hierarchy. He also taught against the doctrine of transsubstantiation which is not found anywhere in the Bible. He translated much of the Bible into English knowing it is God's intention for all men to read and study it. Although short, this history provides a good understanding of this great man of God.
John Wycliffe was a forerunner to the reformation, exposing the hypocrisy of the Roman Catholic Church centuries before Martin Luther. He exposed the rich living of the Popes and friars via land grabbing and demands from the church for alms that they did not need but used to grow the wealth of the hierarchy. He also taught against the doctrine of transsubstantiation which is not found anywhere in the Bible. He translated much of the Bible into English knowing it is God's intention for all men to read and study it. Although short, this history provides a good understanding of this great man of God.
March 9, 2020
Concise, clear and encouraging
Whilst this is an overview of Wycliff's life and work there is enough detail to allow an appreciation of the spiritual and intellectual forces that enabled him to take a stand against the corruption and self-interest of the church of his day. He stood for a more humble, transparent, Christ-centred, Bible-focused church that was independent of Rome and open to the general population OF England - all before Luther and Henry VIII
Whilst this is an overview of Wycliff's life and work there is enough detail to allow an appreciation of the spiritual and intellectual forces that enabled him to take a stand against the corruption and self-interest of the church of his day. He stood for a more humble, transparent, Christ-centred, Bible-focused church that was independent of Rome and open to the general population OF England - all before Luther and Henry VIII
April 28, 2025
Here are the five main takeaways from John Wycliffe: A Life From Beginning to End by Hourly History, based on available information about the book and its content:
1. Pioneer of Bible Translation: John Wycliffe (c. 1330–1384) was instrumental in translating the Bible from the Latin Vulgate into Middle English, making it accessible to laypeople for the first time. His conviction that everyone should have access to the Scriptures challenged the Catholic Church’s control over religious texts and laid groundwork for later reformers.
2. Critic of Church Corruption: Wycliffe, known as the “Morning Star of the Reformation,” fiercely criticized the wealth, corruption, and power of the Catholic Church, particularly targeting practices like indulgences and the privileged status of the clergy. His doctrines emphasized strict adherence to biblical teachings over Church authority.
3. Advocate for Personal Faith: Wycliffe believed all individuals should have a direct, personal relationship with God, independent of Church mediation. This idea, radical for the 14th century, promoted literacy and scripture reading among the common people, influencing the Lollard movement and Protestant ideals.
4. Conflict and Heresy Charges: His outspoken views led to accusations of heresy, multiple trials, and eventual exile from Oxford in 1381. Despite papal condemnation and opposition, Wycliffe’s powerful allies, like John of Gaunt, and his resilience kept him from imprisonment during his lifetime.
5. Lasting Reformation Legacy: Wycliffe’s ideas, including his attacks on transubstantiation and Church wealth, sparked early reformist thought, influencing figures like Jan Hus and the broader Protestant Reformation. His work continued to inspire even after his death, despite attempts to erase his influence, such as the posthumous burning of his remains in 1427.
These takeaways highlight Wycliffe’s role as a scholar, reformer, and theologian whose efforts reshaped religious thought. The book, part of Hourly History’s concise series, provides an accessible overview of his life, though some readers note minor inaccuracies, like confused dates.
1. Pioneer of Bible Translation: John Wycliffe (c. 1330–1384) was instrumental in translating the Bible from the Latin Vulgate into Middle English, making it accessible to laypeople for the first time. His conviction that everyone should have access to the Scriptures challenged the Catholic Church’s control over religious texts and laid groundwork for later reformers.
2. Critic of Church Corruption: Wycliffe, known as the “Morning Star of the Reformation,” fiercely criticized the wealth, corruption, and power of the Catholic Church, particularly targeting practices like indulgences and the privileged status of the clergy. His doctrines emphasized strict adherence to biblical teachings over Church authority.
3. Advocate for Personal Faith: Wycliffe believed all individuals should have a direct, personal relationship with God, independent of Church mediation. This idea, radical for the 14th century, promoted literacy and scripture reading among the common people, influencing the Lollard movement and Protestant ideals.
4. Conflict and Heresy Charges: His outspoken views led to accusations of heresy, multiple trials, and eventual exile from Oxford in 1381. Despite papal condemnation and opposition, Wycliffe’s powerful allies, like John of Gaunt, and his resilience kept him from imprisonment during his lifetime.
5. Lasting Reformation Legacy: Wycliffe’s ideas, including his attacks on transubstantiation and Church wealth, sparked early reformist thought, influencing figures like Jan Hus and the broader Protestant Reformation. His work continued to inspire even after his death, despite attempts to erase his influence, such as the posthumous burning of his remains in 1427.
These takeaways highlight Wycliffe’s role as a scholar, reformer, and theologian whose efforts reshaped religious thought. The book, part of Hourly History’s concise series, provides an accessible overview of his life, though some readers note minor inaccuracies, like confused dates.
May 6, 2021
JOHN WYCLIFFE: AN EARLY VICTIM OF THE "CANCEL CULTURE"
A rebel with a cause, John Wycliffe, never gave up bringing the good news of the gospel to the masses. This book summarizes his life. Surely other longer books reveal much more of it.
The official church did its best to "cancel" Wycliffe by any means possible, finally failing to silence or kill him but after he died his post death cancellation consisted of digging his body up from the grave and burning it. That may have salved the hatred of some but in the end we all wound up with the Bible available in all languages and the freedom to read, preach and discuss it as well.
Wycliffe won after all. The Lord protected him from cancellation!
A rebel with a cause, John Wycliffe, never gave up bringing the good news of the gospel to the masses. This book summarizes his life. Surely other longer books reveal much more of it.
The official church did its best to "cancel" Wycliffe by any means possible, finally failing to silence or kill him but after he died his post death cancellation consisted of digging his body up from the grave and burning it. That may have salved the hatred of some but in the end we all wound up with the Bible available in all languages and the freedom to read, preach and discuss it as well.
Wycliffe won after all. The Lord protected him from cancellation!
March 1, 2024
Predecessor of the Reformation
The two John’s, Wycliffe and Hus were the predecessors to the Protestant Reformation that has revealed the heresies and untruths of the Roman Catholic Church. This book helps to show some of those and if church history is studied, you’ll see how many Godly saints were burned at the stake by the hypocritical Roman Catholic Church. Instead of following the teachings of the LORD JESUS CHRIST and the Holy Scriptures, they have followed the false teachings of man, those that they call popes. Even though it’s short, it covers the ministry of John Wycliffe which every Christian should know!
The two John’s, Wycliffe and Hus were the predecessors to the Protestant Reformation that has revealed the heresies and untruths of the Roman Catholic Church. This book helps to show some of those and if church history is studied, you’ll see how many Godly saints were burned at the stake by the hypocritical Roman Catholic Church. Instead of following the teachings of the LORD JESUS CHRIST and the Holy Scriptures, they have followed the false teachings of man, those that they call popes. Even though it’s short, it covers the ministry of John Wycliffe which every Christian should know!
April 14, 2020
A brief biography of John Wycliffe
John Wycliffe was in many ways a great influence and advance guard of the Reformation in the Christian Church. This gives a quick summary of some of the scholar's life and beliefs. Designed to be read in an hour or less, this book gives a good basis for understanding his views and fights with the Catholic Church.
Needs a good proofreader though, especially the first chapter.
John Wycliffe was in many ways a great influence and advance guard of the Reformation in the Christian Church. This gives a quick summary of some of the scholar's life and beliefs. Designed to be read in an hour or less, this book gives a good basis for understanding his views and fights with the Catholic Church.
Needs a good proofreader though, especially the first chapter.
June 16, 2020
I was drawn to John Wycliffe by Foxe's Book of Martyrs. It was odd to me how many people were being persecuted by upholding Wycliffe's beliefs. What was it Wycliffe was promoting? This book gives a taste of the ideas which later started the reformation, but even today have the power to ignite a new reformation. Wycliffe would not be satisfied with the American evangelical church. Neither would Lord Jesus.
April 22, 2018
Scripture Or Outrageous Selfserving Dictates
I see this as the beginning of the faithful exposing the Catholic church for its OWN HERESY!! Wycliffe was a courageous! man who insisted on the common people having the right to read the scriptures and decide for themselves what they believe. Ironically the Catholic church contigo in its arrogant ways!
I see this as the beginning of the faithful exposing the Catholic church for its OWN HERESY!! Wycliffe was a courageous! man who insisted on the common people having the right to read the scriptures and decide for themselves what they believe. Ironically the Catholic church contigo in its arrogant ways!
January 12, 2019
Wycliffe
It might be good for the writers to realize events of so long ago many details will be missing thus one should not read between the lines for the readers, give the facts it also might be good at times to consult those in the faith so certain mistakes are not made. Nevertheless, a good work about a great man
It might be good for the writers to realize events of so long ago many details will be missing thus one should not read between the lines for the readers, give the facts it also might be good at times to consult those in the faith so certain mistakes are not made. Nevertheless, a good work about a great man
January 21, 2019
John Wycliffe a man worthy of remembering!
An excellent brief study of the man and the political/culture in which he lived. Anyone interested in the Church and its impact on culture during dark ages will discover the value of biblical truth over man made institutions. You shall know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
An excellent brief study of the man and the political/culture in which he lived. Anyone interested in the Church and its impact on culture during dark ages will discover the value of biblical truth over man made institutions. You shall know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
July 1, 2020
This was a typical Hourly History installment. The information was surface and concise, with a few unknown details. This is of course good for someone with no subject knowledge, or one who wants to refresh their knowledge. Great refresher for me, I learned all that I forgot and a couple of rarer facts. 4 stars.
May 23, 2021
Poor history. The Bible was not available in Latin in the first century. Bohemian is not modern Germany. How can one rely on the other facts? Latin
This is a poor work. It contains obvious errors. For instance since when was the Bible available during the first Century and then in Latin? And Christianity already in England? Since when is Bohemia modern Germany?
This is a poor work. It contains obvious errors. For instance since when was the Bible available during the first Century and then in Latin? And Christianity already in England? Since when is Bohemia modern Germany?
May 1, 2018
A powerful book about a fascinating man. John Wycliffe is an inspiration for anybody standing firm in their convictions against seeming overwhelming forces. He reminds us that remaining calm and respectful is the key to winning arguments and attacks on your reputation.
April 15, 2020
Informative
I haven't had these kinds of educational subjects presented to me since I was growing up. It reminds me how fortunate young people are and how important life-long learning is, especially foundational history.
I haven't had these kinds of educational subjects presented to me since I was growing up. It reminds me how fortunate young people are and how important life-long learning is, especially foundational history.
October 26, 2021
A Defender of Truth
This Biography of John Wycliffe is really quite remarkable considering its length
The life of a man who would not let the powers that be in his day whether they were political or Religious deter him from declaring his convictions.
This Biography of John Wycliffe is really quite remarkable considering its length
The life of a man who would not let the powers that be in his day whether they were political or Religious deter him from declaring his convictions.
April 26, 2018
Who knew
A fascinating review of a man I must say I had little knowledge of. It is interesting how the religious community wanted him suppressed but they did not debate him.
A fascinating review of a man I must say I had little knowledge of. It is interesting how the religious community wanted him suppressed but they did not debate him.
December 22, 2019
Well written
A great accurate overview of John Wycliffe whose conviction were based upon the authority and sufficiency of scripture. This is worth reading.
A great accurate overview of John Wycliffe whose conviction were based upon the authority and sufficiency of scripture. This is worth reading.
April 23, 2020
A wonderful introduction to the life of John Wycliffe.
This book is a wonderfully short introduction to the fascinating life of John Wycliffe. A must read for all Christians.
This book is a wonderfully short introduction to the fascinating life of John Wycliffe. A must read for all Christians.
July 7, 2020
Definitely biased. Pro reformation.
January 6, 2021
Ecclesiastes 1:9
April 9, 2021
Excellent book
December 26, 2021
Religious history.
Well worth a read of you are at all interested in history.Very well written.easy to follow and enjoyable.I recommend it.
Well worth a read of you are at all interested in history.Very well written.easy to follow and enjoyable.I recommend it.
May 16, 2022
I learned much
I had heard of Wycliffe mainly through his translation of the Bible to English. Now I know of his toughts and teaching.
I had heard of Wycliffe mainly through his translation of the Bible to English. Now I know of his toughts and teaching.
April 9, 2023
A True Father of Our Faith
So much more than the name of a Bible translator mission. Essential to understanding and taking the challenge of knowing who we came from.
So much more than the name of a Bible translator mission. Essential to understanding and taking the challenge of knowing who we came from.
January 7, 2024
Excellent, quick introduction to the life of John Wycliffe! Just a quick read, if you want more details read something else.
July 15, 2024
Not my usual reading material, but it was informative and gave me a bit of framework for facets of religious history I was unaware of.
July 23, 2024
This was fine. A basic outline of John Wycliffe's life and work. Feel like if this is something that interests you then you could read better but for a beginner it was OK.
August 28, 2025
Excellent introduction and resource for Wycliffe's life. Great quotes included from Wycliffe as well.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews