Truth Unites
John Wycliffe's Bible: Correcting a False Narrative
Apr 16, 2025
Gavin Ortlund delves into John Wycliffe's groundbreaking translation of the Bible into English, highlighting the fierce opposition faced during medieval times. The discussion uncovers the Lollards' mission for biblical accessibility and their challenges against church authority, particularly regarding transubstantiation. As the Lollard movement evolved, it took on a radical edge amidst social upheaval. The podcast also explores Lollardy's lasting impact on later Protestant movements and the historical limitations that hindered its growth.
19:41
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- John Wycliffe's advocacy for translating the Bible into English challenged ecclesiastical authority, highlighting the tension between religious access and institutional control.
- The severe penalties imposed on Wycliffe and the Lollards for their translation efforts illustrate the historical resistance to vernacular scripture and its implications for faith accessibility.
Deep dives
Opposition to Vernacular Bible Translations
There was significant opposition to the translation of the Bible into vernacular languages, particularly during the 15th century in England. The Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Arendelle, enacted the Constitutions of Oxford in 1407, which explicitly forbade individuals from translating scripture into English. This law sought to quell the influence of John Wycliffe and his followers, the Lollards, who advocated for making the Bible accessible to the laity. Violating these rules could result in severe penalties, including excommunication or execution, highlighting the intense resistance against making the Scriptures available in a language understood by common people.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
