The Fiery Fate of William Tyndale

William Tyndale was an English theologian who challenged the authority of the Catholic Church and the newly created Church of England. 

Tyndale denounced King Henry VIII for immorality in marital affairs, and he went on to denounce the practice of praying to the Virgin Mary and the saints, and challenged other core church teachings as well. But the act that most angered the authorities was his unauthorized work of translating the Bible into common English. As copies of his New Testament were smuggled into England, the King was all the more determined to hunt him down. 

While carrying out his translation work in Belgium, Tyndale was befriended by Henry Phillips. Phillips was from a wealthy and influential English family, but he had gambled his way into poverty and considered taking his own life. When he learned there was money to be made by kidnapping Tyndale, that was just the financial break he needed. 

While imprisoned, Tyndale continued his work of writing and translation. Despite the efforts of supporters, he was tried and condemned for heresy. On October 6, 1536, he was bound to a wooden stake in Vilvorde, Belgium, strangled, and burned before the public. Prior to his execution he was heard to say, “Lord, open the King of England’s eyes.” 

Shortly after Tyndale’s death, various English translations of the Bible began to surface based largely upon his work, including the Geneva Bible taken by the Mayflower Pilgrims during their voyage to settle in New England. 

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“I will speak also of thy testimonies before Kings, and will not be ashamed. And my delight shall be in thy Commandments, which I have loved.” 

(Psalms 119:46-47; 1599 Geneva Bible)

“The beginning of thy word is truth, and all the judgments of thy righteousness endure forever. Princes have persecuted me without cause: but mine heart stood in awe of thy words.” 

(Psalms 119:160-161; 1599 Geneva Bible)