John Wycliffe (–1384)

It doesn't have to be said that John Wyclif was instrumental in the early stages of the reformation. His English works seem to be the only ones currently available even though his most influential were the ones he composed in Latin. Jan Hus (the founder of the first true Protestant church) was heavily indebted to Wyclif, so much so that today we would probably consider him guilty of plagiarism; but it is doubtful that Wyclif would have seen it that way since both Hus and Wyclif always stated that they were just teaching the Gospel. It also seems that Wyclif and Hus were both indebted to Gratian's decretals to some extent.
Most of the writings contained here are Wyclif's (and maybe other Wyclifite writings mistakenly attributed to Wyclif) polemics against: indulgences, immorality of priests, abuses of the poor by clergy, instituting of non-Biblical dogmas, priests not being dedicated to poverty etc.
Excellent book and really a must for any library that features influential Christian works. It must be stated upfront that this book is in 14th century Old English. I did not know this when I purchased it. It takes a little while to read it fluently. There is a glossary and a marginal synopsis which makes it easily doable if one wants to take the time to do it, otherwise I would say that you may want to find a modern English translation because at first look 14th century English looks almost like a foreign language.
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I started reading the Bible when I was 5 years old - random readings. I was a 'born again' Christian by the age of 15 years old. Then as a young adult, I started studying the Bible via church leaders and scholars. I participated fully in church and church related activities. Took many courses from seminaries and bible schools. Then in my thirties, I found the need to read the Bible without outside influence. So, I read it cover to cover -- Gen. 1:1 to Rev. 22:21 -- six times from 1980 to 1986. I filled dozens of spiral notebooks with my findings, feelings and thoughts. About half-way through my 7th reading I discovered I had become an atheist - a lack of belief in god(s). The Bible and all religious tomes (I have read the major ones) have stories, proverbs and parables that can offer insight into the kinder, gentler side of humanity. They also show us how fear, power and prejudice can cause people to assign responsibility for these 'failings' to a god or gods. So yes, I think the Bible is worth reading but not just the 'feel good' parts -- read all of it if you are going to read it.… (más)