Zurich Baptism of 1525

On January 21, 1525, a small gathering met in Zurich, Switzerland, choosing prayer, Scripture, and a clean conscience over safety. In a time when church and state were intertwined, these believers concluded from the New Testament that baptism belongs to those who personally repent and confess faith. Their meeting became a watershed moment: a deliberate break from infant baptism and from a state-directed church, in order to follow Christ with integrity.

Conrad Grebel and George Blaurock

Conrad Grebel, a gifted early reformer, had grown convinced that Christ’s church must be formed by willing disciples, not by civil compulsion. George Blaurock, a former priest known for boldness, asked to be baptized upon confession of faith. Grebel poured water over him, and Blaurock then baptized others. This simple act carried immense cost. It was a declaration that obedience to Scripture outranks human tradition and government mandate. “We must obey God rather than men!” (Acts 5:29).

A Church Apart from State Control

The group pledged themselves to live as disciples in holy obedience, gathering as a local church with Christ as Head. Their vision included mutual accountability, reverent worship, and practical love—faith that could be seen in everyday life. Their convictions echoed the apostolic pattern: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them… and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19–20). Baptism followed discipleship, and discipleship demanded visible obedience.

Hardship, Perseverance, and Witness

This first Anabaptist baptismal service launched a movement that faced exile, imprisonment, and death. Yet their endurance was not mere defiance; it was a reverent resolve to belong wholly to Christ. Their heroism was the quiet courage to be faithful when faithfulness was costly, marked by prayer, repentance, and joy in suffering. Their example still calls believers to steadfast faith, to a church life shaped by Scripture, and to joyful obedience flowing from sincere love for the Lord Jesus.