SWORD OF PEACE by LOUISA M BAUMAN

SWORD OF PEACE by LOUISA M BAUMAN is an inspirational historical romance novel which takes place in the 16th century in Holland. It is a very interesting time in history, with Charles V, the Holy Roman Emperor, coming down very hard on those who would not swear allegiance to him and those who had turned away from the Catholic Church, especially the Anabaptists who believed in the believer's baptism and in reading the bible for themselves and following in Christ's footsteps. They were also pacifists which did not please the Emporer either.
As we follow Anna's story we see the horrors inflicted in the name of Christianity and it makes us want to weep! The terrible torture that awaited those who dared to follow the truth of God's word is too awful. Yet those who were part of God's army counted it joy to be persecuted for their faith.
Anna is a devout Catholic who becomes involved with the Brethren, really against her will, when she helps her friends. She is terribly afraid of the consequences and is tempted to go to the authorities in order to save her own life. However, she gradually comes to acknowledge the wickedness of the clergy, who see themselves as a little lower than God Himself, and who are, according to the Roman Catholic Church, God ordained mediators between man and God. They don't want people to read the bible for themselves and see the truth, as this may cause them to lose their opulent lifestyle.
What I find particularly interesting is the fact that some of the Anabaptists, who were ready to die for their faith, were led astray by false prophets. This shows how easily error can get into a church when men take over and fail to follow the truth of the Scriptures.
Although this is a work of fiction, the author has done a great deal of research, and the historical background to Anna's story is authentic.
It is a thought provoking read and one I can really recommend.


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