Michael Baius

Educated in philosophy and theology at Leuven, Baius was appointed professor of sacred scripture in 1551. Along with his colleague John Hessels, King Philip II of Spain sent him to attend the final sessions of the Council of Trent in 1563 as a royal theological expert.

Baius rejected scholastic Aristotle-based theology, advocating a direct return to scripture and early church fathers, especially Saint Augustine. Although Pope Pius V issued the 1567 papal bull Ex omnibus afflictionibus condemning 76 propositions attributed to him, Baius submitted obediently and served as Chancellor of Leuven until his death.