the new testament was first translated into english in 1382 by john wycliffe, and his associates translated the old testament. the translation was made from the vulgate latin bible. wycliffe did this so that people could see for themselves what the bible said. the translation was completed in 1382. there were some later editions by other people to the wycliffe bible, as it is called. it was translated into middle english, the language of his day. wycliffe did not have church permission to do this, but he was protected by john of gaunt, one of the most powerful men in the kingdom. after both wycliffe and his protector were dead, the church declared wycliffe a heretic in 1415, and banned his writings. the council of constance decreed wycliffe's works should be burned and his remains exhumed (dug up). why was the church so opposed? the translations challenged the church's authority over the people. in church, explaining the bible was the priest's work. whatever he said could not be challenged. once the ordinary people could read the bible, they might have other opinions.