Zurich Council Proceedings (Mid-1520s)

In Zurich, the city council opened formal proceedings against Conrad Grebel, Felix Manz, and George Blaurock for preaching and practicing baptism upon confession of faith. Their ministry challenged mandates that bound the church to the city’s decree, insisting instead that Christ governs His people through Scripture, not civic pressure. The charge was not mere dissent, but a refusal to be silenced when they believed God had spoken plainly about repentance, discipleship, and a gathered church marked by obedience.

Their stance echoed the apostolic rule: “We must obey God rather than men!” (Acts 5:29). They did not present themselves as revolutionaries, but as Christians constrained by conscience, persuaded that true faith must be confessed, taught, and then expressed in baptism and a holy life.

The Men: Grebel, Manz, Blaurock

Grebel, an educated leader and careful thinker, pressed for reform that reached beyond forms into the heart—regeneration, obedience, and a church disciplined by the Word. Manz, known for linguistic skill and biblical study, helped anchor their preaching in the text itself, urging believers to follow Christ openly even when it cost dearly. Blaurock, a former cleric with a shepherd’s zeal, became a bold voice in public witness, calling hearers to turn from sin and walk in newness of life.

Together they modeled a rare blend of courage and gentleness: firm conviction without bitterness, clarity without cruelty.

Wellenberg Tower: Sentence and Escape

The court sentenced them to life imprisonment in the Wellenberg tower, in dark confinement—an attempt to bury the message by burying the messengers. Yet their calm insistence on Scripture and a clear conscience displayed a quiet heroism: suffering endured without surrendering truth. Two weeks later they slipped away, not as rebels against Christ, but as men compelled to keep proclaiming what they believed God required.

Their endurance reflects the pattern of faithful witness: “Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” (2 Timothy 3:12).

Spiritual Legacy

Their story reminds believers to endure suffering without resentment, to pursue holiness without compromise, and to obey God above men—trusting that Christ honors those who honor Him.