Anabaptist Core Convictions: A Modern Reflection
(A summary from the book The Naked Anabaptist – By Stuart Murray)

Some years ago, the Anabaptist Network in Britain and Ireland crafted seven core convictions to capture the essence of Anabaptism. These convictions are intended to inspire and challenge readers, providing a modern application of the Anabaptist tradition.

Disclaimers:

  1. These convictions are a contemporary application of Anabaptist insights, not an updated version of historic statements. They address issues not previously explored.
  2. The Anabaptist Network is a diverse community with no membership criteria. The core convictions are not mandatory for joining but reflect the network’s central values.
  3. These are convictions, not a creed. Anabaptists favor ongoing dialogue and behavior aligned with beliefs, rather than fixed statements that could silence dissent.
  4. The convictions are aspirations, acknowledging that discipleship is an ongoing journey.
  5. A tradition is shaped by its stories and practices, not just abstract statements. Including commitments alongside the convictions helps address this concern.

The Seven Core Convictions

  1. Jesus as Central
    Jesus is our example, teacher, friend, redeemer, and Lord. He is the source of our life, central to our faith and lifestyle, understanding of the church, and societal engagement. We are committed to following Jesus as well as worshipping him.
  2. Jesus-Centered Bible Reading
    We approach the Bible with Jesus as the focal point and read it within a community of faith to discern and apply its teachings for discipleship.
  3. Post-Christendom Reflection
    Western culture is moving away from Christendom, where church and state dominated society. This era distorted the gospel and marginalized Jesus. We learn from movements like Anabaptism that rejected Christendom’s norms and pursued alternative ways of thinking and acting.
  4. Nonviolence and Service
    The church’s association with status, wealth, and force is inappropriate. We commit to being good news to the poor, powerless, and persecuted, recognizing that this may lead to suffering or martyrdom.
  5. Community and Discipleship
    Churches should be communities of discipleship and mission, with mutual accountability, multivoiced worship, and inclusive practices. We value consultative leadership, roles based on gifts rather than gender, and believer’s baptism.
  6. Interconnected Spirituality and Economics
    In a consumerist culture with economic injustice, we seek to live simply, share generously, care for creation, and work for justice.
  7. Peace and Nonviolence
    Peace is central to the gospel. We pursue nonviolent alternatives and seek to make peace within and among churches, in society, and between nations.

Additional Considerations

These convictions do not cover every theological topic, such as the Trinity or eschatology, and are not a substitute for creeds or faith statements. They focus on distinctively Anabaptist perspectives while acknowledging shared beliefs with other Christian traditions. The combination of these convictions presents a holistic approach to following Jesus, which many find both faithful and relevant in a post-Christendom context.

Conclusion

These core convictions aim to inspire and challenge modern Anabaptists and other Christians alike, offering a distinctive and holistic way of understanding and living out the Christian faith. As we explore these convictions further, we invite ongoing reflection and dialogue to deepen our discipleship journey.


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