It is not good for us to trust in our merits, in our virtues or our righteousness; but only in God's free pardon, as given us through faith in Jesus Christ.

The quote "It is not good for us to trust in our merits, in our virtues or our righteousness; but only in God's free pardon, as given us through faith in Jesus Christ." is attributed to John Wycliffe, a 14th-century English theologian and early reformer often called the "Morning Star of the Reformation." This statement reflects Wycliffe’s emphasis on humility, grace, and faith as central to Christian belief, challenging the idea that human efforts alone can earn salvation.

Wycliffe’s words highlight the belief that human merit—such as good deeds or moral behavior—is insufficient for forgiveness and reconciliation with God. Instead, he points to the necessity of relying on God’s free pardon, which is a gift granted through faith in Jesus Christ. This idea was revolutionary for its time, laying the groundwork for later reformers who emphasized salvation by grace through faith.

The quote serves as a reminder that righteousness is not something we achieve by our own power but is a result of God’s mercy. It calls believers to place their trust not in their own abilities or worthiness but in the divine grace freely offered.

In essence, John Wycliffe’s message encourages a faith grounded in humility and dependence on God’s forgiveness rather than on personal accomplishments. It captures a key theological principle that shaped the course of Christian history.