What was a key characteristic of the Radical Reformation?

A key characteristic of the Radical Reformation is that believers' baptism was a foundational belief. This movement emerged in the 16th century as a response to both the Protestant Reformation and the Catholic Church, emphasizing the need for a personal, conscious decision to follow Christ and be baptized as an adult, rather than being baptized as an infant. This reflects a commitment to what they viewed as a more authentic and biblically grounded practice of faith, advocating for a community of believers who chose to define their faith and community life away from state influence and traditional religious practices.

The concept of believers' baptism stands in contrast to the practices of other Reformation groups, which often included infant baptism as a norm. This belief emphasized individual faith and the autonomy of the church in its governance, leading to the formation of various groups such as the Anabaptists, who were pivotal in advocating for this theological stance. This foundational belief influenced the emergence and identity of various sects within the Radical Reformation movement, shaping their approach to community and faith practices.