Advocates of Reform: From Wyclif to Erasmus

by Matthew Spinka (Editor)

This volume in the Library of Christian Classics series offers fresh translations of works by several early reformers. Inlcuded among the authors is John Wyclif, whose work is often characterized as a precursor to the Protestant Reformation. Long recognized for the quality of its translations, introductions, explanatory notes, and indexes, the Library of Christian Classics provides scholars and students with modern English translations of some of the most significant Christian theological texts in history. Through these works--each written prior to the end of the sixteenth century--contemporary readers are able to engage the ideas that have shaped Christian theology and the church through the centuries.

Genres: Church History

396 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1953

About the author

Matthew Spinka (1890 - 1972)...

Reviews

[Catherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

A decent overview of the couple centuries leading up to the reformation. Abridged works from John Wyclif, Henry of Langenstein, John Gerson, Dietrich of Niem, John Major, John Hus and Desiderius Erasmus. Obviously not up to theological par with what you'll find from Luther, Calvin, Bucer, Bullinger, Knox and others when the Reformation hits, but a key bridge in getting there. You can see in the writings where scholasticism and medieval mysticism are having their rough edges and gangly, gangrenous limbs hacked off, and the growing discontent with the papal machine. Personal favorite was the history and intro to the conciliarists. We don't get much of that taught, even in church history.

[Greg Mathis · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great reader of primary sources leading up to the Reformation. Spinka’s introductions to each section could more helpfully aid the reader, though.