ANABAPTISTS Meaning and
Definition
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Anabaptists refer to a group of Protestant Christians who emerged during the 16th century Reformation. The term "anabaptist" is derived from the Greek words "ana" meaning "again" and "baptizo" meaning "to baptize," which signifies their key distinguishing belief and practice of adult baptism. Anabaptists rejected the medieval practice of baptizing infants, instead advocating for the rebaptism of adult believers who have made a conscious decision to follow Jesus Christ.
Anabaptists placed immense importance on the notion of voluntary religious commitment and personal faith, emphasizing the individual's choice to enter into a relationship with God. They were known for promoting the separation of church and state and advocating for religious freedom, challenging the prevalent practice of religious coercion at the time. This stance often led to persecution and hostility from both Catholic and Protestant authorities, labeling them as radicals or heretics.
Anabaptists believed in the literal interpretation of the Bible and sought a return to the simplicity and purity of early Christian practices. They rejected ostentatious forms of worship and emphasized humility, community, and discipleship. Anabaptist communities often practiced communal living, sharing possessions, and caring for one another.
Over time, different branches of Anabaptism emerged, such as the Mennonites, Hutterites, and Amish, each with their own specific beliefs and practices while sharing a common emphasis on adult baptism and the principles of voluntary discipleship and religious freedom. Today, many Anabaptist groups continue to exist, significantly influencing the broader Christian landscape by promoting pacifism, social justice, and theological distinctives centered around community and discipleship.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ANABAPTISTS
Etymology of ANABAPTISTS
The word "Anabaptists" comes from the combination of two Greek words: "ana" meaning "again" or "re-" and "baptizo" meaning "to baptize". The term was initially used by opponents of the movement as a derogatory label in the 16th century during the Protestant Reformation.
Anabaptists were Christians who disagreed with the practice of infant baptism and believed that only adults who had made a personal confession of faith should be baptized. They argued that infant baptism, which was commonly practiced at that time, lacked biblical foundation and emphasized the importance of conscious, voluntary commitment to the faith. The label "Anabaptists" was meant to highlight their rejection of infant baptism and their insistence on adult baptism, indicating a "re-baptism" or a "second baptism" in the eyes of their opponents.
Similar spelling words for ANABAPTISTS
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