The role of the church and Israel: A critical appraisal of eschatology in sixteenth century Anabaptism

The lack of research into the area of eschatology among the Anabaptists has led to the neglect of a foundational element of Anabaptist study. The goal of this study is to shed new light upon this neglected area. This study is not designed to be a compendium on all the details of Anabaptist eschatology, but will consider the theme of the role of the church and Israel as a point of critique and analysis.;The dissertation will demonstrate that an understanding of the role of the church and Israel is critical in shaping one's eschatology. Three internal themes develop as a result of the analysis of eschatology on the basis of the role of the church and Israel. First, the chiliastic stream of Anabaptism emphasized that there was a direct continuity between the church and the nation of Israel. This was evidenced in their attempt to establish the kingdom of God on earth. Next, the realized eschatology of the Hutterites demonstrated that they viewed the church as a new, different Israel. This "spiritual" continuity was evidenced in their rejection of the world and their withdrawal into self-sufficient communities. Finally, quiet eschatology saw no direct continuity between the church and Israel. The kingdom of God was interpreted spiritually not physically.;It is hoped that an evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of each stream of eschatology in sixteenth-century Anabaptism will provide a basis upon which contemporary eschatology can be evaluated.;The dissertation will focus on various Anabaptist leaders and their understanding of the role of the church and Israel. One result of this research will be the delineation of distinct groups which are often classified together under the title of Anabaptism. There are three streams of eschatology which will be discussed: (1) the "chiliastic" eschatology of the radical fringe groups represented by Thomas Munster, Hans Hut, Melchior Hofmann, and the Munsterites, (2) the "realized" eschatology demonstrated by the Hutterites, and (3) the "quiet" eschatology exemplified by those Anabaptist leaders who were revolted by the concept of using force to establish an earthly kingdom for Christ.