5 Sacred Amish Beliefs Every Christian Must Know for Spiritual Insight

Amish Beliefs

The Amish are a group of people who follow the teachings of Jacob Ammann, a 17th-century citizen of Switzerland. They are a Protestant denomination closely related to the Mennonites. The Amish live simple lives, adhering to customs that reject modern technology and conveniences. They prefer horse and buggy transportation over cars, do not have electricity or telephones in their homes, and dress in modest clothing.

Beliefs and Practices

The Amish have a strong belief in following biblical teachings and strive to live in accordance with their interpretation of the Bible. They believe that James 1:27, which states "to keep oneself unspotted from the world," means staying away from worldly things such as driving cars, having televisions, going to movies, wearing makeup, and using electricity and phones. They see these things as distractions from focusing on their faith, family, and community.

The Amish also place great importance on community and maintaining a simple lifestyle. Each bishop, who serves as the leader of an Amish community or district, establishes the rules of conduct for that particular district. These rules often vary among different communities, with some bishops being more lenient than others.

Amish church services are held in members' homes rather than in formal church buildings. Each family takes turns hosting the service on Sundays. The Amish typically attend formal school only until the age of 15 before focusing on their vocational training and work within the community.

Spiritual Beliefs

The Amish believe in Jesus Christ as the Son of God who died for their sins and is the path to salvation. However, there are variations in how they understand salvation. Some Amish individuals practice a works-based relationship with God, viewing their good deeds as earning favor with Him. They believe that if their good works outweigh their bad works, God will allow them into heaven.

Others within the Amish community have embraced the biblical concept of salvation by grace through faith. They understand that Jesus paid the full price for their sins, and their salvation is not dependent on their own actions or works. These individuals have received God's grace and forgiveness freely.

Challenges and Shunning

Like any community, the Amish face challenges within their own ranks. However, they often seek to keep these problems concealed from the outside world. During their late teens, Amish youth are given the opportunity to experience "the world" to decide whether they want to join the church. Some young Amish people may engage in vices such as drugs, alcohol, and premarital sex during this time when they are allowed to own a motor vehicle. However, many ultimately choose to give up these worldly pursuits and commit to the Amish way of life.

The Amish practice a form of discipline called shunning, which is a type of excommunication. If an individual within the community engages in behavior deemed "worldly," they may be shunned by other members of the church. Shunning involves cutting off social and spiritual contact with the individual until they repent and return to the Amish way of life.

Reflections on Amish Beliefs

The Amish lifestyle reflects a desire to prioritize family, community, and a simple way of living over material possessions and advanced technology. Their commitment to living unspotted from the world serves as an example of dedication to their faith.

However, it is important to remember that the Bible does not call Christians to completely separate themselves from the world. Instead, believers are encouraged to go into all the world and share the gospel message. The Amish focus on withdrawal and separation from those who need to hear the message of salvation can limit their ability to fulfill this biblical mandate.

Why This Matters

Understanding the beliefs and practices of different Christian denominations broadens our perspective on faith and provides opportunities for meaningful dialogue. The Amish commitment to simplicity and devotion to their faith challenges us to consider the ways in which we prioritize our own lives and faith.

Think About It

1. How would your life change if you were to give up modern technology and conveniences like the Amish?
2. What aspects of the Amish lifestyle do you find admirable or challenging?
3. How can we strike a balance between living in the world and sharing the gospel message?