Today we will talk about whether the Amish believe in Jesus. Many Christians do not fully understand the beliefs and practices of the Amish community. The Amish are known for their simple lifestyle, dedication to family, and commitment to their faith. However, their understanding of Jesus and their relationship with Him can sometimes be misunderstood. As we unfold this topic, let us be open to the teachings of Scripture and seek understanding through God’s Word.
Do the Amish Believe in Jesus
Understanding the Amish Faith
The Amish are a group of traditionalist Christian communities that stem from the Anabaptist movement in Europe during the 16th century. They are often recognized for their distinctive lifestyle, including simple clothing, horse-and-buggy transportation, and a rejection of modern technology. The term “Amish” itself comes from Jacob Amman, a Swiss minister who led a division within the Anabaptist movement in the late 17th century.
The Amish faith focuses heavily on their understanding of Christianity, which is deeply rooted in biblical teachings. Their beliefs emphasize a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, the importance of community, and living out their faith in practical ways. The Greek word for “believe,” which is “pisteuo,” means to have faith in or to trust in. This word expresses the core of the Amish belief in Jesus. They trust in Jesus not just as a historical figure but as their Savior who provides them with grace and leads them toward eternal life.
While the Amish may not engage with modern cultural expressions of faith, such as contemporary church services and modern worship music, their belief in Jesus remains strong. They read the Bible, uphold its teachings, and pass on their understanding of faith through generations. The Old Testament Hebrew word for “faith,” אֱמוּנָה (’emunah’), suggests a sense of trust and dependability. This is echoed in the Amish communities as they live a life of obedience and trust in God’s providence.
One of the central beliefs among the Amish is their emphasis on following Jesus’ example. They adhere to the teachings found in the New Testament, particularly the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus speaks about love, humility, and forgiveness (Matthew 5-7). The Amish take these teachings seriously and strive to implement them in their daily lives.
The Importance of Community and Faith
For the Amish, community is essential to their faith. They believe that being part of a church community is a way to express their faith in Jesus. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to meet together and encourage one another, and the Amish exemplify this by participating in regular worship services and community events. Their gatherings not only serve to worship God but also to strengthen ties among members, reinforcing their mutual beliefs in Jesus.
Additionally, the Amish practice a form of “shunning” in their religious discipline. If someone decides to leave their community and turn away from their faith in Jesus, they may be shunned to encourage them to return to the path of righteousness (1 Corinthians 5:11). This practice reflects their commitment to maintaining a pure fellowship rooted in biblical teachings. Matthew 18:15-17 also discusses conflict resolution within the Christian community, and the Amish uphold these principles as they seek to remain unified in their faith.
Though the Amish lifestyle may seem strict to outsiders, it is ultimately rooted in a sincere desire to emulate the life of Jesus. This dedication is expressed through their hard work, generosity, and service to others. Galatians 5:13 reminds us that we are called to serve one another in love, and this is a crucial aspect of how the Amish live out their faith.
Scriptural Foundations for Amish Beliefs
The Amish community finds its beliefs grounded in key biblical scriptures. They look to passages like John 3:16, which proclaims God’s deep love for humanity, leading to salvation through faith in Jesus. This verse resonates deeply with the Amish as they believe they are saved through faith and not by their works (Ephesians 2:8-9). This grace is essential to their understanding of Jesus and the role He plays in their lives.
Moreover, the Amish also turn to the importance of humility in their faith journey (James 4:6). Jesus demonstrated humility throughout His life, from his lowly birth in a manger to His sacrificial death on the cross (Philippians 2:7-8). To the Amish, following Jesus means living humbly and serving others with love and dedication. As they live in simplicity, they embody this characteristic, viewing materialism as something that distances them from the true essence of Jesus’ teachings.
As we think about how the Amish community views Jesus, we see that they are truly committed to living out His teachings. John 14:6 reminds us that Jesus is “the way, the truth, and the life,” and this resonates with them. Their everyday lives reflect these truths as they seek to walk in His footsteps, continually pointing toward Jesus through all they do.
Amish Practices That Reflect Belief in Jesus
The Amish have unique practices that reflect their belief in Jesus and their commitment to their faith. One significant aspect is their humble lifestyle, which is intentionally designed to focus on faith rather than material possessions. Matthew 6:19-21 talks about storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth, and the Amish take this to heart. By rejecting modern conveniences and opting for simplicity, they aim to cultivate rich spiritual lives centered on God and their relationship with Jesus.
They also practice adult baptism, a key component of their faith that signifies a personal decision to follow Christ. This practice aligns with the teachings found in Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus commands believers to make disciples and baptize them. The Amish view baptism as a covenant with God and a public declaration of their faith in Jesus, assisting them in affirming their dedication to living as His followers.
Forgiveness is another core principle that the Amish embrace, reflecting Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 6:14-15. They strive to forgive others as Jesus forgives them, which is a critical part of maintaining harmony within their communities. This commitment to forgiveness not only illustrates their love for one another but also highlights their relationship with Jesus, who teaches us to love and extend grace, even when it’s difficult.
Furthermore, the Amish engage in simple acts of service and hospitality. They often come together to help one another, which mirrors the servanthood exemplified by Jesus (Mark 10:45). Their willingness to lend a hand or support a neighbor in need reflects their understanding that following Jesus means actively living out His love in their lives. The Jewish word for “love,” אַהֲבָה (ahavah), translates to more than just an emotion; it represents action, which the Amish embody through their faith.
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the beliefs of the Amish regarding Jesus, it becomes clear that their faith is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible. They have a sincere commitment to following Jesus, which is evident in their daily lives. Their emphasis on community, humility, and service to others captures the essence of what it means to be a disciple of Christ.
The Amish may live differently from many of us, but their love for Jesus is genuine. They strive to embody the principles laid out in Scripture, emphasizing the importance of faith, obedience, and grace. In understanding the Amish perspective, we gain insight into what it truly means to believe in Jesus and to live out that belief through our actions.
Let’s continue to seek a deeper understanding of how we can embody our faith in our own lives while respecting and appreciating the unique ways others express their relationship with Jesus. It’s all about growing in love for one another as we journey together in our faith.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4