15. John Wyclif

The man often called the 'morning star' of the Reformation, John Wyclif, lived during the stormy Hundred Years War that raged between England and France. As the Pope threw his support behind the enemies of England, Wyclif's message resonated increasingly with many of his countrymen. More than politics, however, informed the life of this influential figure. His translation of the scriptures, and his deep study of their content, convinced Wyclif that the church had strayed from its central message and mission, and Wyclif courageously called for a renewed devotion to Christ and the scriptures, even though doing so put his life at great risk.