Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 5
The speaker contrasts Luther’s “be realistic… that’s why we need grace” approach with Grebel’s “Let’s do it. Let’s read the Sermon on the Mount”; where do you see your own Christianity leaning toward “grace as the solution” in a way that functions as permission to stay unchanged, and what would “let’s do it” obedience actually cost in your context?
Another way to ask: Luther says, “Be realistic—we need grace,” but Grebel says, “Let’s obey what Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount.” Where do you use “grace” as an excuse to not change, and what would real obedience cost you?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
The transcript presses toward examining whether we use “grace” as a way to accept ongoing compromise instead of practicing Jesus’ commands. Grebel is portrayed as pushing for concrete obedience—especially Sermon-on-the-Mount living—that may cost social acceptance, safety, and even life.
- Luther is paraphrased: “Be realistic… don’t expect that the rest of the Christendom will follow you,” and “That’s why we need grace. We’re all sinners.”
- The speaker contrasts Grebel: “Conrad’s solution was, ‘Let’s do it. Let’s read the Sermon on the Mount.’”
- Grebel sees Zwingli’s reform as still compromised by willingness to kill; Grebel crosses a line others “didn’t cross.”
- The cost is concrete: Felix Manz was drowned; Grebel is jailed and escapes; the movement becomes a “minority” that “gave up everything and gave up their lives.”
- The transcript ties obedience to nonviolence: “Christians don’t use the sword… with them killing ist gar abgetan.”
- The speaker warns modern descendants can get “fuzzy” and “ambivalent” about what “birthed us to start with.”