October 24 – Heinrich Bullinger: The Successor Who Strengthened the Swiss Reformation

When Ulrich Zwingli fell in battle at Kappel in 1531, the future of the Swiss Reformation seemed uncertain. Into this moment stepped Heinrich Bullinger, a young pastor and theologian whose steady leadership preserved and expanded Zwingli’s work. Though less fiery than Zwingli and less renowned than Calvin, Bullinger became one of the most influential Reformers of the sixteenth century, known for his pastoral heart, prolific writing, and commitment to the unity of the church.

Early Life and Conversion

Heinrich Bullinger was born in 1504 in Bremgarten, Switzerland. His father was a parish priest who later married after the Reformation permitted clergy marriage. Young Heinrich studied at the University of Cologne, where he encountered the writings of Luther and Melanchthon. Though raised in the Catholic tradition, Bullinger became convinced that salvation was found not through the mass or indulgences but through faith in Christ alone.

Joining the Reformation

In the 1520s, Bullinger aligned himself with Zwingli’s reform movement. He became a teacher in Zurich and then served as pastor in his hometown of Bremgarten. His preaching against Catholic practices brought him into conflict with local authorities, forcing him to leave after Zwingli’s death at Kappel.

Soon after, Bullinger was called to succeed Zwingli as head pastor of the Grossmünster in Zurich. Though still in his twenties, he shouldered the enormous responsibility of leading the Swiss Reformation in its most vulnerable moment.

Theology and Convictions

Bullinger remained faithful to Zwingli’s emphasis on the authority of Scripture and the centrality of Christ, but he also developed his own theological contributions:

• Sola Scriptura: He upheld the Bible as the supreme standard of truth.

• Justification by Faith: He proclaimed that sinners are made right with God only through faith in Christ’s atoning sacrifice.

• The Covenant of Grace: Bullinger emphasized the unity of God’s covenant across the Old and New Testaments, shaping later Reformed covenant theology.

• Christ-Centered Preaching: His sermons were pastoral and practical, designed to build up the faith of ordinary believers.

Unlike Zwingli, Bullinger was more irenic, often working to build bridges between Reformers and to promote unity in the gospel.

The Second Helvetic Confession

Bullinger’s most enduring contribution was the Second Helvetic Confession, written in 1566. Intended originally as his personal statement of faith, it was soon adopted widely as a confession for Reformed churches in Switzerland, Scotland, Hungary, and beyond.

The confession emphasized Scripture’s authority, salvation by grace through faith, and the simplicity of worship. It became one of the most important Reformed confessions of the sixteenth century, shaping Protestant identity for generations.

Pastoral Leadership

Bullinger’s leadership extended far beyond Zurich. He corresponded with leaders across Europe, offering counsel, encouragement, and theological clarity. His home became a refuge for Protestant exiles, especially those fleeing persecution under Queen Mary I of England.

His ministry was marked by pastoral care as much as theological precision. He wrote extensively—over 12,000 letters and numerous books—always with the aim of strengthening the faith of God’s people.

Trials and Perseverance

Bullinger’s life was not without trials. In the 1560s, Zurich was struck by a devastating plague that claimed thousands of lives, including his wife and several of his daughters. Yet Bullinger remained steadfast, continuing to minister with compassion and trust in God’s providence.

Legacy

By the time of his death in 1575, Bullinger had become one of the most respected Reformers in Europe. His steady hand ensured that the Swiss Reformation did not collapse after Zwingli’s death but instead grew stronger. His writings influenced later covenant theology, and his confession united churches across national boundaries.

Biblical Reflection

Bullinger’s ministry reflects the truth of Psalm 119:160:

“The sum of Your word is truth, and every one of Your righteous judgments is everlasting.”

He believed the entirety of Scripture testified to God’s covenant faithfulness in Christ, and he built his ministry on that unshakable foundation.

Application for Today

From Bullinger’s life we learn:

1. Steadfastness in Crisis – When others faltered, Bullinger stood firm. We too must remain faithful when the church faces hardship.

2. Unity in the Truth – His irenic spirit reminds us that unity matters, but it must always be rooted in Scripture and the gospel.

3. Pastoral Care Matters – His prolific writing and compassion show that theology must serve the people of God, not just the academy.

Conclusion

Heinrich Bullinger was not the loudest or most famous of the Reformers, but his steady leadership preserved the Swiss Reformation and shaped Reformed theology for centuries. His life reminds us that God uses not only pioneers but also faithful successors who guard, teach, and shepherd His people. Bullinger’s lamp still shines, calling the church to remain steadfast in the truth of God’s Word and united in the covenant of His grace.