Love Is Like Fire

This book presents an impassioned confession of faith by Peter Riedemann, a young Anabaptist leader, during his imprisonment in the sixteenth century. Love Is Like Fire highlights themes of love, resilience, and religious liberty.

In Love Is Like Fire, Peter Riedemann emerges as a powerful voice of the Radical Reformation, crafting an impassioned confession of faith at just twenty-three years old. Written during his imprisonment in a dark Austrian dungeon, Riedemann's words resonate with a fervent call for love and perseverance among persecuted Christians. He emphasizes that true love ignites a passion for God, which only intensifies in the face of trials and tribulations. This message serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, urging believers to stand firm against injustice and wickedness.

Riedemann's confessional writing is not just a personal testament; it embodies the spirit of early Anabaptism and the broader struggle for religious liberty. His reflections on faith and community offer insight into the challenges faced by those who dared to defy the prevailing religious norms of their time. The book's themes of love, sacrifice, and unwavering faith are timeless, making it relevant for contemporary readers who seek to understand the roots of their beliefs.

As the first English translation of this significant work, Love Is Like Fire contributes to the growing body of literature on early Anabaptism. It reminds us of the courage and conviction of early “heretics” and their enduring legacy in the quest for spiritual freedom. Riedemann’s passionate prose invites readers to reflect on their own faith journey and the transformative power of love in the face of adversity.