Froelich’s sermons were on “the chief teachings of the Gospel”. He taught that man is dead in sin: that he is made righteous through Jesus Christ alone and belief in His atonement, and that through faith we are born again and receive the Holy Spirit in place of “the deadening and damning law”.

Such a message was in radical contrast with the state church—it found an eager audience among those who hungered and thirsted for more than what they had been receiving. Therefore, it was not surprising that the jealous vicars of the surrounding congregations soon found many reasons to criticize this new preacher. Also during this time, as Froelich’s knowledge of the Scriptures increased, so did his opposition to the prevailing custom of infant baptism.

Conflict with the church council grew and ultimately led to his dismissal from the clergy, and excommunication from the state church. The sanction of the Aargau government included traveling, and both Catholic and Protestant church officers were ordered to have him arrested and returned, should he enter their jurisdiction.

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