The Radicals (Sisters and brothers, 1989)
Based on Myron Augsburger's acclaimed book, here is the story of Michael
and Margaretha Sattler and the beginnings of the Anabaptist movement in 16th
century Europe.
Michael was monk and Margaretha a (Beguine) nun. They both left their
religious orders in search of a New Testament faith. Their brief marriage was
terminated when Michael was burned at the stake [after horrible torture] and
Margaretha drowned in May 1527 for their crucial role in the formation of the
radical Anabaptist moment.
Neither Catholic nor Protestant, these radical reformers sought to go back
tot he Bible.
Religion and state were always intertwined. Event he early Protestant
movements were tied to their states and princes. But this people refused such
ties and offered the world a new vision.
"Like my brother, I am afraid. I fear for
those in prison. I weep for those who have died and will die as
Anabaptists. But I fear even more the consequences of compromise for if we
allow the power of this world to be threaded into the fabric of Christ's
church.
"We have all seen the results: compassion
turns to pride, charity to greed, truth becomes fabrication, salvation
citizenship, peace oppression. And faith in God becomes faith in popes and
princes and kings.
We must imitate Christ, not the world, in all
things. Even if we are called to the gallows or the grave. ... If we deceive
ourselves now, the price will be eternal."
The following articles in which we have been
united as brothers and sisters in our Lord Jesus Christ:
Baptize those who have repented of their sins
and have made an adult and voluntary commitment to follow Christ.
Swear no oath of any kind
To reject the sword as outside the perfection
of Christ
To separate ourselves so that good and evil,
believing and unbelieving, darkness and light, the kingdom of God and the
kingdoms of this earth -- none -- will have part with the other. It is not
enough that we leave this place in simple agreement. We must go forth fully
committed to the cause that we have set here, under the guidance of the Holy
Spirit. We must go out as sheep amidst wolves, as lambs to the slaughter. How
say ye?
Amen! Amen! Amen!
Precious
Father, remind me always to drink from the life-giving fountain of Your holy life.
Separate me from all that would displease or dishonor You. Enable me to keep your Name
holy before the host of earthly and heavenly observers. Let me be all yours -- every
moment. Thank you, my Lord and my King.
References:
Leviticus 11:44, 19:2, 20:26;
1 Chronicles 16:29; Job 42:3, 5-6; Habakkuk 1:13, 2:20; John 6:69; 2 Cor. 6:14-18;
Ephesians 1:4, 4:23-24; 1 Thessalonians 3:13; Hebrews 12:1-2; 1 Peter 1:15-16, 2:9;
Revelation 4:8, 11, 15:4.
