McKnight on Anabaptism

Scot McKnight has a review of an interesting-sounding book called The Naked Anabaptist. He gives this superb list of seven elements that "make up what Anabaptism is":

1. Jesus is example, teacher, friend, redeemer and Lord. Anabaptism is Jesus-centric; he is to be followed and worshiped.

2. Jesus is the focal point of God's revelation. Jesus-centered Bible reading and a community of followers is how the Bible is to be read.

3. Christendom, characterized by collusion and compromise, distorted the gospel and marginalized Jesus and left churches ill-equipped for mission.

4. Wealth and money have distorted the church; connection to the poor, helping the powerless and persecuted is part of the anabaptist approach. Such may lead to opposition and martyrdom.

5. Churches are to be committed communities of discipleship and mission and worship ... gifts are for all and baptism is for believers.

6. Spirituality and economics are related.

7. Peace is at the heart of the gospel.

Nice list :)