anabaptist denomination
Noun: A Protestant Christian sect that emerged during the Reformation, characterized by its rejection of infant baptism. Its core belief is that baptism should be administered only to consenting adults who make a personal profession of faith (believer's baptism).
This term is used to refer collectively to the religious groups, such as the Mennonites, Amish, and Hutterites, that share these foundational beliefs. It functions as a category label within religious studies and historical discourse.
Examples: * The Anabaptist denomination began in the 16th century in Europe. * Scholars study the pacifist doctrines common to the Anabaptist denomination. * Several modern churches trace their origins to the Anabaptist denomination.
- The term can be used in a historical context to discuss the Radical Reformation, distinguishing these groups from Lutheran or Calvinist reformers.
- It is often used in sociological studies examining closed communities and their relationship with broader society.
- Anabaptism (n): The doctrine and practices of the Anabaptist denomination.
- Anabaptist (n/adj): A member of this denomination; relating to this denomination (e.g., Anabaptist beliefs).
- Believers' Church
- Radical Reformation Sect
The term specifically denotes a denomination—a recognized, distinct religious group with its own institutions and practices—within Protestantism, defined by its stance on baptism. It is not a generic term for any group practicing adult baptism.
- a Protestant sect denying infant baptism and baptising only believers