
John Christian Wenger
- Sermons
- Bio
The Swiss Cradle of Anabaptism
0MAT 10:37John Christian Wenger preaches about the origins of Anabaptism, tracing it back to Zurich, Switzerland, with Conrad Grebel as the chief founder. Grebel's journey from a prominent family to his conversion to evangelical faith by Zwingli, his marriage against parental objection, and his eventual commitment to a genuine Christian life are highlighted. The sermon delves into Grebel's dissatisfaction with Zwingli's reformation program, leading to the establishment of believer's baptism and the formation of the first free church. The narrative continues with the spread of Anabaptism through key figures like Felix Manz, George Blaurock, Michael Sattler, and Pilgram Marpeck, showcasing their evangelistic efforts, theological writings, and martyrdom for their beliefs.
Anabaptists in the Netherlands
0MAT 28:19John Christian Wenger preaches about the life and teachings of Meichior Hofmann, a reformer of the sixteenth century who was a furrier turned preacher. Hofmann's rare knowledge of the Bible and ability to move the masses to repentance and faith led to considerable excitement and commotion wherever he preached. Despite his disagreements with the Swiss Brethren on apocalypticism and the nature of Christ, Hofmann's influence on Dutch Anabaptism was significant, particularly in baptizing Jan Matthijs of Haarlem who later broke with him. The sermon also highlights the significant roles of Jan Matthijs, Obbe and Dirk Philips, Menno Simons, Leenaert Bouwens, and Gillis in the Dutch Anabaptist movement, emphasizing their contributions, struggles, and martyrdoms.
Anabaptists and the Bible
0MAT 5:10JHN 13:1ROM 15:41CO 5:11EPH 6:17COL 3:162TI 3:16HEB 4:121PE 3:152PE 1:20John Christian Wenger delves into the foundational Christian doctrines upheld by the original Anabaptists of Switzerland, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to the Apostles' Creed and core beliefs such as the deity of Jesus Christ, the new birth, and the return of Christ. The doctrinal differences between the Swiss Brethren and Zwingli revolved around issues like infant baptism, liberty of conscience, and the role of Christians in society, leading to persecution and martyrdom for the Anabaptists. The Anabaptists' devotion to the Scriptures is highlighted through their meticulous study, memorization, and unwavering commitment to the Word of God, even in the face of persecution and death.
The Church and the Sacraments
0JHN 20:21John Christian Wenger preaches about the Anabaptist belief in the church as the final goal of God's redemptive acts, viewing it as the Kingdom of the Messiah prophesied in the Old Testament. Anabaptists emphasized the church's freedom from state control, advocating for a free church where membership is based on personal conversion and faith in Christ. They upheld the importance of freedom of conscience in matters of faith and full religious toleration, resisting state interference in religious beliefs. Anabaptists focused on the spiritual significance of baptism and the inner 'baptism' of the Holy Spirit, prioritizing faith and discipleship over sacramentalism. They believed in the restoration of the apostolic church, aiming to return to the purity and simplicity of the early church's teachings and practices.
The Christian Life
0ISA 2:4MAT 4:17LUK 9:23ROM 12:2EPH 2:8HEB 11:6John Christian Wenger preaches on the Anabaptists' emphasis on repentance, faith, and continuous spiritual renewal as essential for building Christ's Kingdom. He highlights the contrast between personal conversion to Christ and the territorial church system prevalent in the 16th century, emphasizing the need for true repentance and discipleship. The Anabaptists strongly believed in salvation by faith alone, rejecting legalism and emphasizing the necessity of faith in Christ for salvation. Their doctrine of repentance focused on ongoing penitence and contrition, leading to a transformed life in Christ.
Even Unto Death
0MAT 5:10ROM 8:352CO 4:17PHP 1:21HEB 11:351PE 4:12REV 2:10REV 6:9John Christian Wenger preaches about the persecution and martyrdom of the Anabaptists in the 16th century, highlighting their unwavering faith, courage, and commitment to God even in the face of severe trials and death. The Anabaptists spread rapidly, teaching love, faith, and the cross, and faced persecution with humility and patience. Many martyrs, including Balthasar Hübmaier and Eitelhans Langenmantel, endured torture and death for their beliefs. Despite the intense persecution, the Anabaptist movement survived in some areas, leading to the establishment of the Baptist Church in modern times.