Introduction:
The Anabaptist tradition, emerging during the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, is known for its radical stance on various theological and social issues. A key distinctive of the Anabaptist Church is its emphasis on living according to biblical principles rather than adhering to formal creeds. This approach stems from a desire to closely follow the teachings and example of Jesus Christ.
Defining Principles and Creeds
Principles are fundamental truths or propositions that guide behaviour and belief. They are flexible and can be applied in various contexts. Creeds, on the other hand, are formal statements of faith that outline specific doctrinal beliefs. While creeds aim to provide a clear summary of the Christian faith, they can sometimes become rigid and prescriptive, locking out true seekers who simply are at the beginning of their journey, not the end.
Historical Roots: The Rejection of Creeds
The early Anabaptists did not reject the already established creeds of the time, such as the Nicene Creed, though they did have difficulty with the relationship of creeds in general, as they saw them as products of human tradition rather than divine revelation. They sought a return to the purity and simplicity of New Testament Christianity, emphasizing the direct application of Scripture to life. This rejection was partly in response to the corruption and coercion they perceived in state churches that used creeds to enforce conformity.
Biblical Foundations of Anabaptist Principles
The Anabaptist reliance on principles is deeply rooted in the Bible. For instance, Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) offers a set of principles that guide ethical behaviour and community life. The Anabaptists take Jesus’ teachings seriously, emphasizing peace, justice, and love.
- Matthew 5:9: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”
- Matthew 5:44: “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
These verses highlight the principle of peacemaking and love, central to Anabaptist ethics.
Community and Discipleship: Core Anabaptist Values
Anabaptist communities are characterized by a strong emphasis on mutual aid, accountability, and discipleship. They believe in living out their faith collectively, where each member is responsible for helping others follow Jesus’ teachings.
- Acts 2:42-47: This passage describes the early Christian community, where believers “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.” The sharing of resources and communal living reflect Anabaptist principles of community and discipleship on what they believe and how they should live.
The Anabaptist Emphasis on Personal Faith and Conviction
Anabaptists stress the importance of personal faith and conviction. Each believer is encouraged to study the Bible and apply its teachings personally, rather than relying solely on an institutional interpretation, while at the same time encouraging the individuals to at least seek the wisdom of the Christian community.
- Romans 14:5: “One person esteems one day as better than another, while another esteems all days alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.” This verse supports the idea that personal conviction should guide one’s faith practice.
Principles Over Dogma: Flexibility and Adaptability
Operating on principles and not creeds allows Contemporary Anabaptists to adapt to new situations and challenges without being bound by rigid dogma or traditions. This flexibility is crucial in a changing world, enabling them to respond faithfully to contemporary issues and remain true to God’s word.
- 1 Corinthians 9:19-23: Paul describes becoming “all things to all people” to save some, reflecting the adaptability that principles offer. Anabaptists similarly seek to apply biblical principles in ways that are relevant to their context.
The Primacy of Love in Christian Discipleship
The Bible highlights that it is not the depth of our knowledge but the depth of our love that truly marks us as Christ’s disciples. This principle is central to the Anabaptist tradition, which emphasizes love and unity over doctrinal precision.
- John 13:34-35: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
The history of Christianity is replete with examples of Christian denominations splitting over minor theological or practical issues. These divisions often arise from a focus on creeds and doctrinal exactitude, as well as traditions rather than the underlying and unifying principles that unites us.
Challenges and Criticisms of a Principle-Based Approach
Critics argue that a principle-based approach can lead to a lack of doctrinal clarity and consistency. There is also the risk of individual interpretations diverging significantly. While this may be true to some extent, The Anabaptists can respond by emphasizing communal discernment and the guidance of the Holy Spirit in interpreting and applying Scripture has consistently led us to a Christian community that loves Christ and follows in his footsteps, by remaining true to his word.
- John 16:13: “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth.” Anabaptists trust in the scriptures and the Holy Spirit to lead their communities on a journey of understanding and living out His Christian principles.
Living in Community Despite Differences
Anabaptists demonstrate that it is possible to live in a loving, united community despite differences in interpretation and practice if we follow the principles set out by Christ. Their emphasis on love and mutual support allows for a diversity of thought while maintaining unity in Christ.
- Ephesians 4:2-3: “With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”
External Mission: Demonstrating a Stronger Witness to the World
A unified Christian witness is crucial for effectively demonstrating the love of Christ to the world. By focusing on God’s love and agreeing to disagree on minor issues, Christians can present a stronger, more cohesive testimony of God’s grace and truth in this world.
- John 17:21: “That they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.”
This call to unity emphasizes the importance of making Christ the central focus. When believers prioritize their shared commitment to Christ over secondary differences, they can move forward together in mission and ministry.
Practical Steps for Unity in Diversity
- Emphasize our core goal: To honour Christ, by striving to live a life of authentic Christian discipleship based on His teachings and life.
- Emphasize Core Beliefs: Focus on the essential doctrines of the Christian faith, such as the divinity of Christ, the resurrection, and salvation through Christ alone.
- Practice Humility and Patience: Recognize that no one has a complete understanding of God’s truth and be willing to listen and learn from others.
- Foster Open Dialogue: Encourage open and respectful conversations about differences, seeking understanding rather than agreement.
- Engage in Shared Mission: Work together on common goals, such as serving the poor, promoting justice, and spreading the gospel, to build unity through action.
Modern Anabaptist Practice: Continuity and Change
Contemporary Anabaptist communities continue to uphold their principle-based approach, integrating it with modern issues like social justice, environmental stewardship, outreach and peacemaking, just as an example. We remain committed to following Jesus’ example in every aspect of life.
- James 1:27: “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” This reflects the Anabaptist commitment to practical, lived-out faith.
Conclusion: The Future of Anabaptist Principles
The Contemporary Anabaptist emphasis on principles over creeds offers a dynamic and responsive approach to faith. By focusing on the teachings of Jesus and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Anabaptists strive to live faithfully in a complex and changing world. This principle-based approach ensures that their faith remains relevant and transformative honouring Christ in a changing world.
- Colossians 3:14: “And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.”
In conclusion, the Anabaptist exemplifies how a commitment to God’s love and principles can foster unity and resilience in a diverse Christian community. By agreeing to disagree on minor issues and making Christ the main focus, God’s children can demonstrate a stronger, more unified witness to the world, while we journey together, living out the true test of discipleship as taught by Jesus.
