“Reformer” Before the reformation: Regarding the issue of proto-protestant views of John Wycliffe

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to analyze the teachings of the English Christian thinker of the 14th century John Wycliffe, in particular those of his provisions, which were later developed by the Protestant reformers of the sixteenth century (on the supremacy of Holy Scripture, the abolition of the papacy, the use of preaching, etc.). Using the method of text analysis, the authors of the article point to the same interpretation of thinkers belonging to different historical epochs, the most important religious and political doctrines. The authors also pay attention to the fact that all the works of John Wycliffe were devoted to the development of the correct approach to the study and interpretation of the Bible. The English theologian claimed that Holy Scripture is the main guide in all matters of man’s spiritual life, and that only in it alone is revealed the true meaning of faith. In addition to translating the Holy Scripture into the mother’s language, J. Wycliffe concertize his views on religious organization, secular power and the relationship of these two spheres. The works of the Evangelical Doctor were devoted to the active apologetic of monarchical power, the creation of a strong secular state led by the king, which was subsequently reflected in the works of Anglican and then Puritan theologians: U. Tindela, T. Cranmer, J. Rogers, H. Latimer and others.