Menno Simons · 50 of 109

THE REASON WHY MENNO SIMON DOES NOT CEASE TEACHING AND WRITING. · Part 4

Verily, verily, I say, If all lords and princes and their subjects who boast of the name of Christ, would acknowledge the be­forementioned doctrine of Jesus Christ as right and true, and were minded as the doc­trine, life and Spirit of Christ require, then it would not be necessary to fortify cities and towns; to keep cavalry and infantry, nor to manufacture deadly weapons such as guns, swords and spears. I do not here speak of the sword of justice which is given as a punishment to the wicked and protec­tion of the good. But it would be as the prophet says, "They shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into prun­ing‑hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more." "But they shall sit every man under his vine and under his fig tree," Isa. 2:4; Micah 4:3, 4. For it is impossible that those who have committed themselves to the doctrine, life, body and church of Jesus Christ and remain therein, should seek or desire any thing but divine love, peace and unity; to suppress all evil, and protect all good, as becomes us in Christ Jesus. But we do not abet the false proph­ets of the corrupted sects which in many actions transgress the doctrine, rule and measure of Christ.

Herewith we commend you to the Lord, faithful readers. And now judge for yourselves according to the word of the Lord, whether or not I have, by his grace pointed out to you the truth of our beloved Lord Jesus Christ. Grace, peace, mercy, true knowledge and life eternal be to all who, in truth, love Christ Jesus, Amen. Do not hide the praise of God. But let it be read, and heard by all who diligently seek and desire it.

Beloved brethren, do not deviate from the doctrine and life of Christ.

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