Extraordinary book- Bible 2

Unsung heroes..

Ever heard of John Wycliffe? He is a guy who gave it all so that we'll have the English version of the Bible.

He lived in the 1300s, when most people in Europe were poor and uneducated. Life was so hard that everyday living consumed all their energy. They had little time for leisure or schoolings. Even if they could get their hands on a Bible, it was written in Latin, which only the elite and educated can read. As a result, many people could not read the Bible by themselves.

John Wycliffe, who was a leading Theologian and philosopher in the University of Oxford, England, grew increasingly distressed that the people had little access to the Scriptures. After much prayers and thoughts, Wycliffe decided to do something about it. Christian historian Donald L. Roberts described Wycliffe's journey this way:'' It was not until the twilight of his career that he came to a fully developed position on the authority of the Scriptures. He declared the right of every Christian to know the Bible''

With great risks, Wycliffe began translating the Bible into English. Because of his very vocal beliefs, his reputation was damaged and friends deserted him. He was eventually placed under house arrest, and the pope demanded that he appear in Rome to be tried. Because Wycliffe's health was poor, he was never forced to make the trip. Instead, he used the time to continue his translating works. He saw it finished before he died. And those who supported his works kept alive his English Bible and passed it on to the next generation-even in the face of death and persecution.

Forty years after Wycliffe's death, religious authorities tried to silence his influance by digging up his bones, burnig them, and scattering the ashes over the river Swift, But they were too late to stop the inpact of the transelator's works. Wycliffe's commitment to the Scriptures and his English translation ignited a firestorm over Europe over the next several hundred years. Today, he is considered ''the Morning Star of the Reformation''

So, the Bible that you hold on your hands were payed with a high price..and it is very precious, hold it dear. :)

*source: Discover the Book, Bill Bright.