I Appeal to Scripture!: The Life and Writings of Michael Sattler: 2 (Cross Bearers)

Disintegration threatened the nearly two-year old Anabaptist movement in 1526 in Switzerland and southern Germany. Quarrelling individuals with bizarre theology and behavior threatened the movements stability; ruthless persecution threatened its existence. Could Anabaptism survive much longer? It was a moment of great crisis--and great opportunity.Engulfed in persecution embroiled in doctrinal disputes and lacking adequate leadership the Anabaptist movement needed a compelling vision and a man to personify that vision. Thankfully God sent a man to fill that role. His name was Michael Sattler. His story is one of faith courage and conviction. For far too long Michael Sattlers contribution to the Anabaptist movement has been mostly the domain of scholars. With this book Sattlers story becomes available to a popular audience. Michael Sattler may have single-handedly saved the Swiss Anabaptist movement from collapsing with his Schleitheim Confession sometimes known as the Mennonite miracle. Every Anabaptist should know and understand this story by adulthood. Each of us owes this former monk a sincere thank-you.Chester WeaverTeacher Historical Researcher In this well written scholarly yet highly readable tome by Andrew V. Ste. Marie the engaging story of Michael Sattler comes to life. It would be difficult to overemphasize Sattlers significance in creating with others the first Anabaptist confession of faith the Schleitheim Confession of 1527--which along with all other known Sattler texts is also included. Sattlers Benedictine monastic background often given short shrift in other published volumes is strikingly fleshed out adding real strength to this volume. A must-read for a new generation of Jesus-followers within the Anabaptist tradition!Leonard GrossExecutive Director emeritus Historical Committee of the Mennonite Church Written for a popular audience this biography of Michael Sattler is solidly grounded in the sources. The biography is enriched by selections from Sattlers writings giving the reader immediate access to his own voice. Its clarity of prose and passion communicates not only Sattlers life but also the spiritual implications his story has for Christians today.Edsel Burdge Jr.Research Associate Young Center for Anabaptist and Pietist Studies