(New) Series 1, Episode 2 – Tyndale, and the Making of the English Bible.

Regular episode • Season 1 • Episode 2 • (New) Series 1, Episode 2 – Tyndale, and the Making of the English Bible.

© 20 26 The Rise of the Protestants., Author, Shaughan Holt.

This episode was previously published under the title, Three English Bibles.

Since I first published this episode, I’ve gone back to the episode and incorporated your feedback.

As the series has grown, I've noticed a few areas that needed improvement or clarification, so I’ve updated parts of the original episode. The story and purpose are still the same, but I hope returning readers enjoy this updated version. If you’re new to the series, this is the starting point of our story.

The accompanying transcript also includes an epilogue with additional historical notes for those who would like to explore the story further.

The Artwork is: The cover page of the Coverdale Bible, which was first printed in 1535.

The Music is: Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott, 'A Mighty Fortress Is Our God'; Composer: Martin Luther.

Episode Notes: In this episode, we continue the story of William Tyndale, and his efforts to make the Bible available in English. We explore his conflict with Thomas More, the author, statesman, and Renaissance humanist who became one of Tyndale's strongest opponents. Next, we turn to Thomas Cranmer, who would become Archbishop of Canterbury, and Myles Coverdale, another key figure in developing the English Bible.

In 1535, Coverdale published the first complete printed Bible in English, relying largely on Tyndale's earlier translations. Two years later, the Matthew Bible was published. It included even more of Tyndale's work, such as translations that had not been published while he was alive. The Matthew Bible set the stage for the Great Bible of 1539, which was the first authorised English Bible meant for use in parish churches throughout England.

This represented a major change. Just a few years earlier, Tyndale had been executed for heresy. Now, much of his work could be read openly in a Crown-approved English Bible. His influence lasted long after his death, shaping later English Bibles like the Bishops' Bible of 1568 and, eventually, the King James Bible of 1611.

© 20 26 The Rise of the Protestants., Author, Shaughan Holt.