In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland continues the Holy Convergence series by exploring peacemaking, the gift of the Anabaptist tradition. Emerging during the Radical Reformation of the sixteenth century, the Anabaptists believed that following Jesus meant more than affirming correct doctrine, it meant obeying the teachings of Jesus in everyday life. Their commitment to believer’s baptism, discipleship, nonviolence, and allegiance to the kingdom of God set them apart from both Catholics and other Protestant reformers.  

Derek traces the origins of the Anabaptist movement through figures such as Felix Manz, Michael Sattler, and Menno Simons. Despite severe persecution, imprisonment, exile, and martyrdom, these radical reformers remained committed to the teachings of Jesus, particularly his commands to love enemies, forgive offenders, and reject retaliation. 

The episode then explores peacemaking in the way of Jesus. Rooted in the Sermon on the Mount and the example of Christ’s self-giving love, Christian nonviolence is presented not as passivity or mere niceness, but as the courageous pursuit of reconciliation, justice, mercy, and truth without violence. The Anabaptist witness reminds us that the teachings of Jesus are not impossible ideals but practical instructions for faithful Christian discipleship. 

Key Takeaways 

• The Anabaptists emerged from the Radical Reformation in sixteenth-century Europe. 
• Believer’s baptism became a defining conviction of the movement. 
• The Anabaptists rejected the fusion of church and state common throughout Europe. 
• Following Jesus meant obeying his teachings, especially those found in the Sermon on the Mount. 
• Christian nonviolence is rooted in Jesus’ command to love enemies and refuse retaliation. 
• Peacemaking is more than avoiding conflict; it is the active work of reconciliation and justice. 
• The kingdom of God advances through persuasion, service, suffering, and love and not coercion. 
• The Anabaptist witness continues to challenge Christians to take the teachings of Jesus seriously. 

Scriptures Mentioned 

• Genesis 4:7 
• Isaiah 9:6–7 
• Isaiah 11:9 
• Matthew 5:3–10 
• Matthew 5:9 
• Matthew 10:34 
• Luke 10:5 
• Luke 19:42 
• John 14:27 
• John 20:19 
• 2 Corinthians 10:4 

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