Chapter De weerloosheid verzaakt – Rothmanns ommekeer en diens invloed in de Nederlanden

Abstract

As a theological ideologue and pamphlet propagandist of the Radical Reformation, Rothmann described his theological justification for the use of force against a godless government in three main pamphlets. Initially, Rothmann put obedience to the secular government first and foremost. Even in the face of a tyrannical government, he wanted to practice obedience and endure it without resistance. In his writing Restitution, the question arises as to whether a violent overthrow of an unholy government is permissible. He now regards it necessary to go to war offensively against the godless. His most revolutionary writing, Van der Wrake, repeatedly speaks of the Babylonian tyranny that prevents believers from freely practicing their faith. However, it is now no longer up to God alone to punish this tyranny; t those who serve Him are also commanded to avenge the Babylonian abomination in accordance with God’s will. In a new writing, Van Verborgenheit der Schrifft, Rothmann maintains his conviction that the important thing now is to take up the sword. With his call not to shy away from violent coups, he was able to inspire and enthuse his fellow believers, not only in Westphalia but also in the Netherlands, to take revolutionary action.