From the start, Quakers stressed inward spiritual experiences rather than specific creeds. They believed that they should get together in worship and wait until they were moved by the Spirit. Then, whoever was moved by the Spirit could speak. Therefore, they believed that they didn't need a professional ministry and that everyone is able to recieve the Spirit because God gives the "Inner Light" to everyone. Quakers rejected Baptism and Communion and stressed simplicity in dress, manners, speech, and food becuase they tried to imitate Christ.
In the light of Quaker teaching and the belief that all social classes are equal, the Quakers used what is known as plain speech, which emphasised "thee" instead of the more formal "you." Quaker merchants rejected bargaining because they believed that bergaining indicates that truth can be adjusted. Becuase they rejected an organized ministry, they refused to pay tithes, the sacraments, an arranged service of worship, and any mention of an authority other than a very basic church system. Quakers interpreted the Scriptures literally such as, "Do not swear," and "Do not resist one who is evil." Therefore, they opposed any participation in war and they refused to take oaths.