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Light Breaks in England
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was the source of that stream of blessing which has flowed down the
ages since the fourteenth century. Educated to regard Rome as the
infallible authority and to accept with unquestioning reverence the
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teachings and customs of a thousand years, Wycliffe turned away
from all these to listen to God’s Holy Word. Instead of the church
speaking through the pope, he declared the only true authority to be
the voice of God speaking through His Word. And he taught that the
Holy Spirit is its only interpreter.
Wycliffe was one of the greatest of the Reformers. He was
equaled by few who came after him. Purity of life, unwearying
diligence in study and labor, incorruptible integrity, and Christlike
love, characterized the first of the Reformers.
It was the Bible that made him what he was. The study of the
Bible will ennoble every thought, feeling, and aspiration as no other
study can. It gives stability of purpose, courage, and fortitude. An
earnest, reverent study of the Scriptures would give the world men
of stronger intellect, as well as of nobler principle, than has ever
resulted from the ablest training that human philosophy affords.
Wycliffe’s followers, known as Wycliffites and Lollards, scat-
tered to other lands, carrying the gospel. Now that their leader was
removed, the preachers labored with even greater zeal than before.
Multitudes flocked to listen. Some of the nobility, and even the wife
of the king, were among the converts. In many places the idolatrous
symbols of Romanism were removed from the churches.
But soon pitiless persecution burst upon those who had dared to
accept the Bible as their guide. For the first time in the history of
England the stake was decreed against the disciples of the gospel.
Martyrdom succeeded martyrdom. Hunted as foes of the church and
traitors to the realm, the advocates of truth continued to preach in
secret places, finding shelter in the humble homes of the poor, and
often hiding away even in dens and caves.
A calm, patient protest against the corruption of religious faith
continued to be uttered for centuries. The Christians of that early
time had learned to love God’s Word and patiently suffered for its
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sake. Many sacrificed their worldly possessions for Christ. Those
permitted to dwell in their homes gladly sheltered their banished
brethren, and when they too were driven forth, they cheerfully ac-
cepted the lot of the outcast. The number was not small who bore