THE APPLICATION OF NON-RESISTANCE DIFFERENTIATES THE CHURCH FROM THE NATION OF ISRAEL

THE APPLICATION OF NON-RESISTANCE DIFFERENTIATES THE CHURCH FROM THE NATION OF ISRAEL

1. Identification of the Church with the nation of Israel confuses the whole teaching on non-resistance. Israel was a nation of this world. It had boundaries, a specific land, a capital city, a throne, a king, a specific nation­ality. But the Church is not a kingdom of this world. It has a Ruler Who is in heaven. It is made up of a people sharing the life of the Spirit and belonging to every nationality on the face of the earth. The principles that govern the one cannot be the principles that guide and guard the other. It is therefore completely illogical to try to apply the laws of Israel to the Church.

2. It appears that God granted to Israel the right to wage war to protect its boundaries and its people. At least it can be said that in large part this was the pattern of conduct in Israel. But there is strong reason to believe that it was never the plan of God to use human force to protect this nation. From its very beginning it was God's purpose to use Divine power to protect and maintain this people. By divine power this nation was delivered from Egypt (Deut. 4:33-40). By Divine power they were sustained through 40 years of wilderness wanderings. By Divine power they crossed the Jordan .and by Divine power Jericho was leveled to the ground. When they were returning to the land from captivity in Babylon God said, "Not by my might, nor by power, but by my Spirit" (Zech. 4:6).

3. But even though physical force was commanded by the Lord and used by Israel, that method is not granted to the members of the Church. Such show of force on the part of the church has always degraded the church, destroyed its testimony, and decimated its own ranks. The church has been found to be fighting against itself. Believer has killed believer, and killed the very ones they should be winning to Christ. When the church and the world were joined at the so-called conversion of the Emperor Constantine, and conquering by the sword was made the practice of the Church, the Devil had at last found a weapon to derail the church from accomplishing the task divinely committed to it.

(The world today degrades the Church and uses this to show its hypocrisy when they speak on these issues.)

CHRIST LAID DOWN PRINCIPLES FOR LIVING ON THE PART OF THOSE WHO BELONG TO HIS KINGDOM

CHRIST LAID DOWN PRINCIPLES FOR LIVING ON THE PART OF THOSE WHO BELONG TO HIS KINGDOM

 

1. The sermon on the Mount was given to identify and describe the subjects of Christ's kingdom. And Christians are the aristocracy of that kingdom. Someday they are going to rule and reign with Christ in that kingdom. Therefore the moral and spiritual principles for their conduct is just as valid for today and for the day they will be realized in their fullness. These principles were first set forth in the Old Testament. But Israel had wandered so far from them it was necessary to restate them when Christ came. In the New Testament they are clearly restated again for believers.

2. The first sixteen verses of Matt. 5 describes the subjects of the kingdom. They are the blessed of the Lord, the born-again ones. They are the poor in spirit, they mourn, they are meek, they hunger and thirst after righteousness, they are merciful, pure in heart, are peacemakers, persecut­ed for righteousness, they are reviled and slandered. But they are salt, holding back the evil of the world; and they are light dispensing illumination to the world.

3. The principles for their conduct are set forth in the rest of the chapter. In this portion of scripture appears the passage from which is derived the name given the Brethren approach to war, that of Non-Resistance.

"Ye have heard that it hath been said, an eye for an' eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, that ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if any man will sue thee at law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also. And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away" (Matt. 5:38-42).

If the title Non-Resistance appears to be negative and passive, all one, needs do is read the passage that follows. There it is made perfectly plain that this response is to be positive and active. It is to be that of love, the dis­position to do good to its object like God does, and thus to demonstrate that one is a child of God and has come to spiritual maturity like God (Matt. 5:43- 48).

NON-RESISTANCE WAS CLEARLY TAUGHT IN A CONTEXT THAT INVOLVED THE EXERCISE OF FORCE

NON-RESISTANCE WAS CLEARLY TAUGHT BY CHRIST IN A CONTEXT THAT INVOLVED THE EXERCISE OF FORCE

John 18:28-40

1. The Government of Israel has finally achieved its purpose to destroy the Lord Jesus Christ.. Since the right to impose the death penalty is held by the Roman government the Jewish authorities led Christ to the Roman hall of judgment (John 18:28, 35). So the outcome is now in the hands of the Roman government as represented by Pilate (Rom. 19:10).

2. In response to the claim of authority of the part of Jewish authorities and the Roman government, the Lord Jesus uttered a statement that ought forever to settle the matter for Christians with respect to war. (John 18:36).

"Jesus answered, my kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence".

3. Consider what Christ said. He first declared that His kingdom is not of this present order of things. The order and arrangement and operation of His kingdom is totally to be differentiated from the order and arrangement and operation of the kingdoms of this world.

As a last resort, the nations of this world are compelled to use force as a means of maintaining and promoting their interests. The last argument of sinful men is physical force. No matter how wise and reasonable other approaches to the solution of problems may be, since Adam was driven out of the garden of Eden, force has been the final method for the solution of problems of the world..

If the Kingdom of Christ was essentially like that of the kingdoms of this world then the servants of Christ subject to His orders and determined to protect their sovereign from harm from others, would employ physical force. They would fight.

This can mean only one thing, namely, that they would employ the methods used by the kingdoms of this world. They would employ physical force. Physical force is the final argument with sinful men. They understand physical force. This does not mean that the use of physical force is the final solution to the problem. It only means that for the moment it appears to be the final solution.

If the history of nations teaches anything, it teaches that wars beget wars. War only lays the foundation for the next war. This stretches out into an endless series of wars. Men convinced against their will are of the same opinion still, and in the vanquished will just await the opportunity to retaliate in kind at some point in the future. No wonder the scriptures clearly enunciate the fact that there will be wars to the end.

3. In the third place Christ made it clear that as of now His kingdom was not from this order and arrangement. Its principles of operation, its patterns of conduct, its method of promotion is not measured over the arrangement of this world. If a man accounts himself to belong to the kingdom of Christ, then he must of necessity follow the sovereign of His kingdom and as servants subject himself to the principles of this kingdom.

No Christian can entirely exclude himself from war as it is carried on today. But there is one thing he can do. He can separate himself from the personal taking of life, and at the same time serve his own government.

NON-RESISTANCE AS A PATTERN OF LIFE

NON-RESISTANCE AS A PATTERN OF LIFE IS ONE ASPECT OF THE LARGER DOCTRINE OF SEPARATION FROM THE WORLD

1. Brethren people from the beginning have insisted that purity of life is inseparable from the purity of doctrine, If we believe the clear teaching of the Bible, then we ought to demonstrate that by a clear manner of life. This fact so clearly taught by the Epistle James 2:14, 26, has led Brethren people to insist that the Bible teaches separ­ation from the world. After unfolding the whole doctrine of salvation in the first eleven chapters of the Book of Romans, the apostle Paul launches into an impassioned ap­peal for separation from the world. "I beseech you therefore Brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God" (Rom. 12:1-2). He then unfolds a whole series of obligations resting upon the believer, among which is one directly related to the exercise of force.

2. Romans 12:17-21 is clear teaching on issue at hand, name­ly, the exercise of force. If we really believe that there is a sovereign God in whose hands rests the matter of perfect judgment, then we ought to let the matter of vengeance in His hands. In His own way, and in His own time, and in absolute perfection He will mete out judgment that will be good, and holy, and ultimately bring good to the believer.

THE CHRISTIAN AND WAR

THE CHRISTIAN AND WAR
John 18:36

1. The Brethren Church has believed in non-resistance in war from its very beginning. This was a reaction from the policy of the state churches in central Europe during the period of the reformation and immediately thereafter. The founders of the Brethren Church were members of the state churches and in their efforts to harmonize the violent ex­cesses of the state churches with the scripture they came to the conviction that the Bible teaches something alto­gether in contrast for the believer.

2. It was this conviction concerning the Christian and war along with other matters relating to the Christian that led Alexander Mack and seven others to establish the Brethren Church. From the beginning believers who identified them­selves with the Brethren Church for over 300 years have affirmed and reaffirmed non-resistance as the pattern for Christian living in times of war. No other doctrine of the Christian faith has been more often restated in National and District conferences than this article of the Christian faith.

3. Non-resistance is not to be identified with pacificism as it is known today. Nor is it to be concluded that non-resistance denies the right of human government to wage war. It does not insist that the Christian may not support the government in war, when it is clear that the war being waged is an effort to use force for the protection of that which is right. Non-resistance insists that the individual Christian believer on the basis of the scripture has a right to exercise conscientious objection in the taking of life.

WAR POSITION - After the Division with Ashland

WAR POSITION - After the Division with Ashland

1940 - (Winona Conference) Re-statement of the 1936 resolutions. This is recorded on Page 5 of the Minutes (See above).

1941 - Minutes, Page 13 -- Same as 1940 1942 - Minutes, Page 17 -- Same as 1941 1943 - Minutes, Page 13 -- Same as 1942 1944 - Minutes, Page 19 -- Same as 1943 1945 - Minutes, Page 17 -- Same as 1944 1946 - Minutes, Page 21 -- Opening paragraph is same as in former years.

1947 - Minutes, Page 23 -- Same as in 1946

1948 - Minutes, Page 27 -- Same as in 1947

1949 - Minutes, Page 27 -- Same as 19.48 with added paragraph.

1950 - Minutes, Pages 11-12 -- "Resolved that we shall give to our nation in this hour of its trial, our deepest sympathy and our earnest prayers as she contends against the forces that would destroy the freedom that our fathers left us; and especially since the forces against which we battle are set to tear down the altars at which we are privileged to worship without let or hindrance. We affirm that it is our duty as Christian believers to go along with our country in her present warfare against the would be destroyer of God, and home, and human freedom, just as far as we can without violating, the expressed will of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ concern­ing us. At the same time, we would solemnly warn all our brethren that "in all things" Christ must have the preeminence. The Christian must never forget that it is written that Christ "is the head of the body, the church"; and "that in all things he" must "have the preeminence" (Col. 1:14).

That we reaffirm the stand that our church has taken in previous conferences in the matter of a Christian and his relation to war; namely, that the Brethren Church from her origin has been utterly opposed to the use of violence or any physical force as a means to an end, on the part of the children of God. We regard the governments of this world system as being yet unregenerate, and their methods of violence contrary to the methods God has authorized His children in the present age to use. We reaffirm that while war, as a possible method for the attainment of justice or the securing and maintenance of human liberty, may at times be deemed necessary among the unregenerate of this world system, yet, according to the teaching of our common Lord and Master, we, as His disciples, do not belong to this world's system and its methods are not our own. We are in this world and not of it, as our Master taught (John 17:10); and must maintain our, pilgrim character (Heb. 11:8-16), our citizenship already being in heaven (Phil. 3:20-21). We recognize and appreciate the protection of the United States, and to the nation that God has ordained (Rom. 13:1-7) to afford us protection, we gladly offer our service, time, money, and life itself, if necessary, to bind up its wounds, or to heal its sorrows, by any means or methods our Lord Jesus Christ has approved for the use of those who follow Him, and we pledge ourselves to pray for those in authority according to Romans 13:1-7.

Be it further resolved that we urge all ministerial examining boards to give due con­sideration to this historic position on war in the examination of and recommendation of candidates to both the licensure and ordination, and that, in harmony with the historic belief of the Brethren Church, they refuse such recommendation whenever the candidate is unwilling to accept this belief.

Be it further resolved that we urge each pastor and all leaders of the local church to give proper place in publicity and emphasis and instruction to this historic position so that our members may be properly informed concerning it and the Biblical authority for the same"

A STATEMENT

(Prepared between 1942 and 1945)

Since war at last has come to our own country, and our pastors and churches are already faced with all the difficult problems involved in this catastrophe, we, as members of the special committee appointed by the recent National Fellowship of Brethren Churches, feel that some public statement should be made for the guidance of members who are making inquiries and also for the information of the general public. Speaking as a committee, we understand that we have no authority to bind the con­sciences of our brethren, but we believe the following statement is not only in har­mony with the Biblical and historical position of our church but will also fairly represent the present feeling existing among its leadership as we have sensed it in the crisis which is upon us.

1.   The Brethren Church clearly and gladly recognize the divinely ordained place of civil government in a sinful world; that the government is truly a "minister of God" in the temporal realm for the purpose of protecting human life and "to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil." Therefore, the nation in exercising this divinely appointed function is authorized by the Word of God to bear "the sword" against evil‑doers who may threaten the destruction of human life with its precious values of "justice" and "liberty." This divine authority and responsibility of civil govern­ment is clearly revealed in Scripture (Rom. 13:1-4), and has been recognized in former statements of the Brethren Church.     (See 1940 Resolutions).

2.   In the present situation, therefore, we should be ready to "be subject" to our government in every possible Christian way as set forth in Scripture (Rom. 13:5-7; 1 Pet. 2:13-14; Tit. 3:1). This, we believe, includes the provision of funds for the support and defense of the government in its divinely appointed work of protecting human life and executing wrath upon evil-doers. "For this cause pay ye tribute also; for they (government officials) are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing" (Rom. 13:6). To assist in the raising of such funds therefore, must be regarded as a Christian duty.

3.   While fully recognizing the duty of the State to bear the sword against evil-doers, as sanctioned by the Scriptures we also believe the same Word of God teaches that our personal ministry as Christian believers should be exercised in spiritual matters and in the relief of human suffering, rather than in the taking of human life. As followers of Christ, citizens and. ambassadors of His heavenly kingdom (Phil. 3:20 ARV, 2 Cor. 5:20) we are required by His Word to walk even as He walked (1 John 2:6; 1 Peter 2:21-23). Therefore, we should be ready to serve our country in every possible way consistent with this Word, being willing, if necessary, to face danger and endure hardship in the performance of our duty, as long as we are not required to bear the sword personally in the taking of human life (John 18:36, Romans 12:17-21, Matt. 26:52).

4.  The government of the United States has by law graciously extended to all Christian believers the privilege of choosing in what capacity they may serve their country in the present crisis; and for this liberty we are deeply grateful, knowing that it exists almost nowhere else in the world today. Some of our Brethren young men have already entered combatant military service. While this type of service is not in accord with the historic teaching of the Brethren Church, its acceptance is not made a test of membership nor a cause for discipline, because the church does not wish to coerce the consciences of men in such matters. Others of our young men have sincerely chosen non-combatant military service, which permits them to serve in the armed forces of the nation without bearing arms personally. This is entirely consistent with the historic teaching of the Brethren Church, and offers an opportunity for rendering a genuine service to our country. Still others of our young men have chosen to enter the non-military civilian service, engaging in work of national importance under civilian direction in various camps throughout the country, for which the young man receives no pay from the government and must provide for his own living (about $35 per month). This type of service is also in harmony with the teaching of the Church.

5. In whatever service they may choose to enter, we urge our young men to be faithful first to the Lord Jesus Christ their Savior, and then to serve well their country which has fostered and protected us in our liberties as Christian believers; not "with eye-service, as men pleasers, but in singleness of heart, fearing God" (Col. 3:22). "Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king as supreme; or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evil-doers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God-" (1 Pet. 2:13-15). And we urge upon our pastors and people the duty of constant prayer for all these young men that they may be kept in the Lord's perfect Will, feeding upon His Word, strong in His promises, bearing witness to His saving and keeping power, walking in His commands, and looking for His Second Coming.

6. In times of war, it should be remembered, the deepest of human emotions are stirred, the judgment of men loses its normal balance, and even Christians sometimes run toward unwise extremes. We would caution our members, therefore, to give no support whatever to that unscriptural "pacificism" which denies the right of our government to defend itself by force of arms or which seeks to obstruct its military efforts. On the other hand, we urge the pastors through the teaching of the Word to guard our people from falling into the opposite error of hating those who have now become our enemies, and to resist all attempts to stir up the deadly flame of race prejudice. Let us not forget that God "Hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth" (Acts 17:26), and that "All have sinned and come short of the Glory of God" (Rom. 3:23). If in the present conflict our own beloved nation is on the side of justice (as we believe), this is due only to the providential grace of God toward us, and not to any inherent goodness that we possess above other less favored men. Let us be thoughtful, sober, and careful how we speak.

7. Above all, there should be on our part a sense of deep humiliation and personal confession of sin because we as a Church and individual Christians have done so little to carry the Gospel of salvation to a lost world during the days of national peace and security. Only an omniscient God could possibly know what might have been accomplished in such countries as Japan, Iran, Saudi Arabia, etc. if the Christian churches of America had done their full duty in missionary effort. Now those days are irrevocably past and their opportunities gone. But the present hour brings new opportunities and even greater responsibilities before God. Let us therefore, as never before, give ourselves to earnest prayer, to the preaching and teaching of the Word of God, to the winning of the lost to salvation in Christ, and to the sacrificial giving of our lives and sub­stance to these ends, knowing that the time is short. In these things of the Spirit we may render our greatest contribution to our country and its security. We are facing a most solemn hour, and no man should even think of claiming or accepting exemption from military service, either as a Christian minister or layman, unless he is giving himself without reservation to the spiritual work of God.

8. Finally, let us not forget there is a God in heaven wholly sovereign in His will and ways, who is able to set bounds to human iniquity, and without whose permission nothing can take place in the world of nations. "Since His the sway of circumstance", the last word in human affairs belongs to Him, not to the puny dictators who now strut their little day upon earth. "He that sits in the heavens shall laugh; the Lord shall have them in derision" (Psa. 2:4). In agreement with many devout students of the Word of God, we believe the ominous events of the present hour point unmistakably to one grand event - the Second Coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He will speak peace to the nations, and in His days the unrealized dreams of humanity will at last come true. For those who know this "blessed hope", there can be no fear of coming things, no unseemly panic, no dark despair, no uncertainty as to the final outcome, but beyond the darkness there is a future bright with the promises of God Who never fails.

"Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of Him in peace, without spot, and blameless . . . to Him be glory both now and forever. AMEN." (2 Pet. 3:14-18).

THE COMMITTEE

THE HISTORICAL POSITION OF THE BRETHREN CHURCH WITH RESPECT TO WAR

"THE HISTORICAL POSITION OF THE BRETHREN CHURCH WITH RESPECT TO WAR" 

"History of the Brethren” - By Brumbaugh.

"These people (Taufers, Dunkards, and Brethren) were the most ardent product of the Reformation. They carried the spirit of Protestantism to the acceptance of the maxim: No exercise of force in Religion" - Page 3.

"Let us see what this principle of non-coersion gave the Church. (And under this item 3 reads) - "War is violent interference with the rights of others. It imposes unwilling burdens upon people. It is, therefore, wrong, and the Church at the outset is logically opposed to war". Pages 3-4

^"Peace as a doctrine of the Church, is fundamental. The Brethren do not go to war, and have steadfastly, and amid great persecution, refused to take up arms" - Page 558.

"Minutes of Annual Councils." Printed in 1876.

1781 -With respect to paying substitute money, this minute appears -- "We, the assembled brethren, exhort in union all brethren in all places to hold themselves guiltless, and take no part in war or blood-shedding"

1785 - "First, we do not understand at all, from the words of Peter alluded to, that we can give ourselves up to do violence, or that we should submit to the higher powers in such a manner as to make ourselves their instruments to shed men's blood, however it might be done --- But that the higher powers bear the sword of justice, punishing the evil, and protecting the good, in this we acknowledge them from the heart as the ministers of God. But the sword belongs to the kingdom of this World, and Christ says to his disciples, "I have chosen you from the world," etc. Thus we understand the beloved Peter that we are to submit ourselves in all things that are not contrary to the will or command of God, and no further".  

1790 - "We believe and confess that Christ has forbidden to his followers the swearing of oaths and partaking of War".

1845 - Article 5, "In regard to our being altogether defenseless, not to withstand the evil, but overcome evil with good, the brethren considered that the nearer we follow the bright example of the Lamb of God, who willingly suffered the cross, and prayed for his enemies; who though heir of all things, has on earth nowhere to lay His head -- the more we shall fulfill our high calling and obtain grace to deny ourselves for Christ's and the gospel's sake, even to the loss of property, our liberty, and our lives."

1864 - "We exhort the brethren to steadfastness in the faith, -- and especially to our non-resistant principle, a principle dear to every subject of the Prince of Peace, and a prominent doctrine of our fraternity, and to endure whatever sufferings and to make whatever sacrifice the maintaining of the principle may require, and not to encourage in any way the practice of war. --- And lest the position we have taken upon political matters in general, and war matters in particular, should seem to make us, as a body, appear to be indifferent to our government, or in opposition thereto, in its efforts to suppress the rebellion, we hereby declare that it has our sympathies and prayers, and that it shall have our aid in any way which does not conflict with the principles of the Gospel of Christ. But since, in our Christian profession we regard these gospel principles as superior or paramount to all others, consistency requires that we so regard them in our Practices."

1865 - Article 7, "We consider that we have no right to take up arms".

From "History of the Tunkers and the Brethren Church" - Holsinger.

1882 - Page 536, "That it is the sense of this convention that, as we are the true conservators of the doctrines of the Brethren Church, and have never strayed from the Church founded by our fathers, nothing done in this meeting shall be construed as secession or departure from the original Church organized in Germany in 1708, or from the principles of the gospel as interpreted by our fathers, until the intervention of human traditions and the usurpation of authority by men in control of annual meeting. In every principle of non-conformity to the world and the practices of the gospel ordinances, we stand where we always have stood, and by the grace of God always shall stand".

1892 - "The Conference reaffirmed the former position of the Church" -- Page 546. From "Brethren Annuals" - Minutes of General Conferences

1905   "They (the Brethren) are opposed to war" -- Isa. 2:4; 2 Cor. 10:4; James 4:1-2, Page 2

1907 - Exact copy of 1905 statement -- On fourth from the last page.

1908 - Exact copy of 1905 statement -- On last page.

1914 -"We as a religious body (Brethren) assembled in annual Conference, desire to convey to the President of the United States, our heartiest commendations in his wise attitude in the Mexican disturbance, and so maintain peace between this and our nation, also his stand for neutrality in the European war, as such positions heartily accord with the historical position of the Brethren Church upon peace". Page 28

1915 - "That we reaffirm the scriptural and historic principle of the Brethren Church concerning war, and the official deeds and acts of our beloved President Wilson, in so far as they concern peace with other nations he highly commanded." Page 61

1916 - "Whereas, a large portion of the world is now deluged with blood, and the earth shakes with the clash of the European nations at war, and threatening war clouds have long hung along the horizon of our own land, and there is a popular demand for increasing dependence upon force of arms as a defense of our national existence and well-being; and, Whereas this popular idea of dependence upon force makes its appeal with increasing effect in these troublous times; be it therefore Resolved,

1.  That the time-honored peace policy of our beloved Church be hereby reaffirmed.

2.  That it is the sense of this conference that war is an unchristian method of settling international disputes.

3.  That there is an unusual need in these times of unrest for teaching and preaching non-resistance, as taught and practiced by our Lord Jesus Christ.

4.  That our dependence for safety and national well-being is to be found in getting right with God and conforming to the New Testament standard of peace.

Be it further resolved: That we commend the efforts of our President to keep our nation out of war; we deplore the havoc and devastation of peoples and property across the sea. The Brethren Church, born with the cry of peace upon her lips, has suffered in almost every generation for the constructive and God-given principle, promulgated by His Son, our Savior. Emulating Jesus Christ and the founders of our Church we pledge to our country the best Christian example and conduct possible." Pages 74-75.

1917 - "Resolved, that we as a church express our deep gratitude to the government of our country for the recognition granted to the convictions of those religious bodies -­ including our own -- that are opposed to the bearing of arms in warfare.

That we deprecate, and disavow all sympathy with, any efforts organized or otherwise, which have as their aim interference with the execution of the nation's, laws; and we pledge ourselves to honor and obey our government to any extent not inconsistent with the established belief of the Church.

That during this time of world conflict, in view of our historic peace principles, we realize that our obligation as a church is even greater than that of others to relieve in every possible way the distress and suffering existing in the world today". Page 87

1918 - "Resolved, that we affirm our loyalty once more to our country under whose flag we have found protection and pledge ourselves to do everything within our power to uphold her in this time of crisis, especially through prayer. That we perform every duty consistent with our principles cheerfully and whole-heartedly; and endure our share of the awful sacrifice of war". Page 15.

1919 - "Whereas, the time-honored peace policy of our beloved church has been recently put to the test of war-time demands, and

Whereas, Our government has most justly granted exemption from participation in combatant service to such as cannot shed the blood of man without doing violence to their conscience and to their loyalty to their understanding of the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ, be it therefore,

Resolved,

1.   That praise and thanksgiving be rendered to Almighty God for the exemption from combatant service granted by our government to so many of our number, allowing them to loyally serve the nation without violating their religious convictions.

2.   That this conference commend, as worthy of emulation, the noble example of those who bravely gave themselves to the most hazardous and painful positions of non­combatant service, and who proved their loyalty to the nation as well as their faith­fulness to the peace teachings of Jesus Christ by their willingness both to suffer and die in their country's service.

3.   That it is the sense of this Conference that the years of war have furnished additional proof that our dependence for safety and national well-being are to be found in getting right with God and conforming to the New Testament standard of peace".

4.   That this Conference go on record as opposed to the enactment of law compelling universal military training, especially as touching compulsory training for combatant service of those who cannot take such training without doing violence to their religious convictions".Page 40.

1922 - "That, although we believe that absolute, universal and permanent peace will not come until Christ, the Prince of Peace returns, we urge that continual emphasis be given to our historic position on anti-war and that we strife to maintain as large a measure of peace as possible". Page 7.

1924 - "That this Conference holds that strict obedience to the laws of the land is a sacred Christian duty. ----That we reaffirm our loyalty to the time-honored peace position of the Brethren Church and hold war to be an unchristian method of settling international disputes". Page 6.

1925 - "That the Brethren Fraternity declare itself unequivocally against war and its consequences; that we hold it to be highly unchristian and futile method of settling national and international disputes, and that we preach it with renewed vigor the time honored peace program of our beloved people". Page 7.

1926 - "That we again reiterate our position of former years with regard to war and its attendant evils". Page 7.

1927 "That we assert our time honored position as being opposed to members of the Brethren Church going to war as combatants". Page 11.

1928 "Resolved that this conference send a telegram to the State Department at Washington, congratulating this government on its instrumentality in bringing about the Multilateral pact to outlaw war as an instrument of national policy, which pact is scheduled to be signed On Monday night, that we condemn war as an unchristian way of settling international disputes, and commend the way of justice between nations; that we go on record as a non-resistant body". Page 10.

1934 - "That we commend the address of Dr. Chas. A. Bame on "What Can We Do about War?", and that we reaffirm the historic Brethren position against Christians going to war". Page 15.

1935 - "That we reaffirm and declare our unalterable opposition to war; that we urge our people in the event of war, to refrain from participating in armed conflict; that we consider that our Churches should not lend themselves in any way to the propa­gandizing of war, but that we counsel our people to pray for the government and to be willing to do what they can to bind up the Nation's wounds and to promote peace". Page 9.

1936 "That we renew our historic position with relation to war; namely, that the Brethren Church from her origin has been utterly opposed to the use of violence or any physical force as a means to an end, on the part of the children of God. We regard the governments of this world system as being yet unregenerate, and their methods of violence contrary to the methods God has authorized His children in this present age to use. We reaffirm that war as a possible method for the attainment of justice, or the securing and maintenance of human liberty may at times be deemed necessary among the unregenerate of this world system, yet according to the teaching of our common Lord and Master we as His disciples do not belong to this world's system and its methods are not our own. We are in the world and not of it, as our Master taught (John 17:14), and must maintain our pilgrim character (Heb. 11:8-16). We recognize and appreciate the protection of our flag of the United States. To the nation that God has ordained (Rom. 13:1-7)to afford us protection we gladly offer our services, time, money, and life itself, if necessary, to bind up its wounds, or to heal its sorrows, by any means or methods our Lord Jesus Christ has approved for the use of those who follow him".

1937 - "That in the light of world unrest and possible war, we reaffirm the historic position of the Brethren Church in regard to war and. war propaganda". Page 13.

1939 - "That we at this time reaffirm our previous stand on war and peace as set forth in former statements set forth in our General Conference minutes.

That in the light of present world unrest and threat of war which may engulf the world, including ourselves, we reaffirm our historic position as set forth in the following communication filed with the President of the United States, Secretary of War, and. with the Department of Justice at Washington, D.C.: "Resolved that this National Con­ference of the Brethren Church, assembled at Winona Lake, Indiana, August. 31, 1935, declare the following statement to be the true position of our denomination on the subject of war; ... The Brethren Church from her origin has been utterly opposed to the use of violence or any physical force as a means to an end on the part of the children of God. We regard the governments of this world system as being yet unregen­erate, and their methods of violence contrary to the methods God has authorized His children in this present age to use. We reaffirm that while war as a possible method for the attainment of justice, or the securing and maintenance of human liberty may at times be deemed necessary among the unregenerate of this world system, yet, accord­ing to the teachings of our common Lord and Master, we, as His disciples do not belong to this world system and its methods are not our own. We are in the world and not of it, as our Master taught (John 17:14), and must maintain our pilgrim character (Hebrews 11:8-16). We recognize and appreciate the protection of the flag of the United States. To the nation that God has ordained (Romans 13:1-7) to afford us pro­tection we gladly offer our service, time, money, and life itself if necessary, to bind up its wounds, or to heal its sorrows, by any means or methods our Lord Jesus Christ has approved for the use of those who follow Him:" Page 19.

SEPARATION FROM THE WORLD IN LITIGATION

SEPARATION FROM THE WORLD IN LITIGATION 

 

"And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also." Matt. 5:40

ld. Lawsuits should not be pursued against any man. The Christian attitude is to allow the one using force to take what he desires.
Matt. 5:40

2d. Lawsuits among believers are unquestionably wrong, for the following reasons:
1 Cor. 6:1-11
Disputes in the church were being submitted to heathen tribunals. What these matters were we are not told. The teaching of the apostle is clear, and has application for all time. Disputes among saints should be settled between saints, and wholly within the confines of the church. The argument as to the fitness of the saints for the work is that as they will finally have to judge angels, surely they ought to be able to judge things pertaining to this life. The apostle declared that it is better to bear wrong than to appeal for right to a tribunal of unrighteous men. His argument as to the unfitness of unbelievers is that "the unrighteous shall not inherit the Kingdom of God." Under certain circumstances lawful things may not be right for the Christian. First, lawful things may not be expedient, and, second, lawful things must not gain control. In the compass of the first limitation, namely, speed, the whole outlook of the Christian is undoubtedly included, not merely personal right, but the culture of the life; and, moreover, relative responsibility concerning others. Things which are lawful in themselves if they do not directly tend to profit both the individual and those who may be influenced by the individual are not appropriate. The second limitation is that things which are perfectly lawful must not be permitted to obtain control over life. With a passing reference to the question of meats, the apostle deals with the sin of fornication. How high and stately is the ground of his argument, that the body is now a member of Christ and is for the Lord. The person joined to the Lord "is one spirit," and therefore, all the functions and powers of the life must be dominated by that spirit.

le. Lawsuits demonstrate insolence on the part of believers.
1 Cor. 6:1

2e. Lawsuits demonstrate the ignorance of the place and position of believers in the plan of God.
1 Cor. 6:2-4

3e. Lawsuits demonstrate the inability of believers to settle their own disputes.
1 Cor. 6:5-6

4e. Lawsuits demonstrate the immorality in which believers are indulging themselves.
1 Cor. 6:7-8

5e. Lawsuits demonstrate the illusion which believers have concerning the personnel of the Kingdom.
1 Cor. 6:9-10

6e. Lawsuits demonstrate the utter indifference of believers to the fundamental facts in their Christian experience.
1 Cor. 6:11

SEPARATION FROM THE INDULGENCE IN CARNAL WARFARE

SEPARATION FROM THE INDULGENCE IN CARNAL WARFARE

"But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also."
Matt. 5:39

1d. The Kingdom of Christ is not of this world, and therefore the subjects of that Kingdom should not employ force to maintain it. John 18:36

2d. The Spirit of Christ is not of this world, and therefore those who possess that spirit cannot use carnal warfare.
Luke 9:52-55 cf. Gal. 5:22
Matt. 5:9

3d. The purpose of Christ is not of this world, for he came not to destroy but to save men's lives.
Luke 9:56

4d. The method of Christ is not of this world, for He does not use carnal weapons in His warfare.
2 Cor. 10:2-4

5d. The principle of Christ is that those who take and use the sword will perish with the sword.
Matt. 26:51-52

6d. The protection of Christ is not of this world but is from above.
It will operate where it is in accordance with God's will.
Matt. 26:53, 55
Acts 12:1-5

SEPARATION IN CONDUCT: NON-RESISTANCE IN WAR AND PEACE

SEPARATION IN CONDUCT: NON-RESISTANCE IN WAR AND PEACE

1c. Safeguards to the proper understanding of this teaching.

ld. The Bible does not teach that war is wrong for governments of the world.
cf. John 18:36 The Brethren are therefore not pacifist.

2d. The Bible does not teach that it is right for Christians to indulge in carnal warfare. 2 Cor. 10:2-4

The Brethren are therefore not committed to war for Christians.

3d. The Bible does teach the place of the Christian in relation to war.

Since it is of the world, he must be separated from the world. Rom. 12:2.
The overshadowing principle of separation must be considered.

4d. The Bible does not teach that there should be obedience to rulers in things that are wrong for Christians.
Rom. 13:1-7; Acts 4:18-20; Acts 5:28-29

SEPARATION IN COMPANY: NON-SECRECY IN ORGANIZATION

SEPARATION IN COMPANY: NON-SECRECY IN ORGANIZATION

"Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty."  2 Cor. 6:14-18

lc. Safeguards against improper attitudes in this matter.

ld. Certain political and business relations were permitted by the Lord.
Matt. 22:21
Rom. 13:1-7
1 Pet. 2:17-18

2d. Christ encouraged by His example certain social relations to lead sinners to salvation.
Luke 5:30-32

3d. Christ urged believers to do good to all men, especially to them of the household of faith.
Matt. 5:43-45
Gal. 6:10

2c. Secret orders and swearing must be excluded from the company of true Christians.

ld. Secret orders are organizations of the world.

le. They are made up largely of unsaved men and women, and therefore the Christian should shun them.
2 Cor. 6:14

2e. They do not honor the Lord Jesus Christ. In fact they exclude Him entirely.
John 5:23

3e. They purport to maintain amoral standard, but their ethical standard is far below that of the Bible and is not Christian.
John 14:6

4e. They demand loyalties which lead the believer away from Christ.
Matt. 6:24

5e. They demand secrecy which is contrary for anything that is good.
Matt. 5:15-16

2d. Swearing is a practice which belongs to the world.

le. Swearing is absolutely forbidden because it does not guarantee anything to anyone else or to the believer.
Matt. 5:33-36

It arises out of the evil one, namely, the Devil.
Matt. 5:37

2e. Swearing even by the name of God is forbidden to the Christian.
Matt. 5:34-36
Matt. 23:16-22
James 5:12

3e. Affirmation is sufficient for the Christian, for His integrity is above that of the world, and the Holy Spirit resides within him.

THE PARTICULAR SPHERES OF SEPARATION FROM THE WORLD

THE PARTICULAR SPHERES OF SEPARATION FROM THE WORLD

 

Introduction: There are Three 
1. Separation in custom.
2. Separation in company.
3. Separation in conduct.

SEPARATION IN CUSTOM: NON-CONFORMITY WITH THE WORLD

Romans 12:2 - "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."

lc. In customs relating to speech.
Matt. 12:36
1 Tim. 4:12

2c. In customs relating to occupation.
1 Cor. 10:31
2 Cor. 6:1

3c. In customs relating to clothing.
Deut. 22:5
1 Pet. 3:34
1 Tim. 2:9-10

THE GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF SEPARATION ARE AT LEAST FOUR IN NUMBER

THE GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF SEPARATION ARE AT LEAST FOUR IN NUMBER

lc. The attitude that should control the Christian in separation is not love for the world but love for God.
1 John 2:15-16

2c. The principle that should mark the Christian in separation is not the use of the world for self but for the glory of God.
1 Cor. 7:31 cf. 10:31

3c. The method that should characterize conduct in separation is not con­formity to the world but transformation to be like Christ.
Rom. 12:2

4c. The extremity which should be reached by the Christian in separation is not partial but complete abstinence from all forms of evil.
1 Thess. 5:22

THE MISTAKEN NOTIONS OF SEPARATION COVER AT LEAST THREE PHASES OF LIFE

THE MISTAKEN NOTIONS OF SEPARATION COVER AT LEAST THREE PHASES OF LIFE

lc. Separation is not to be confused with monasticism or segregation.
John 17:15
1 Cor.5:9-10

2c. Separation is not to be confused with asceticism in any of its forms.
Col. 2:20-23

3c. Separation is not to be confused with ceremonialism or ritualism.
Matt. 23:25-26
Col. 2:16-19

THE BASIS FOR SEPARATION LIES IN THE NATURE AND POSITION OF THE SAINT WITH THE SAVIOR

THE BASIS FOR SEPARATION LIES IN THE NATURE AND POSITION OF THE SAINT WITH THE SAVIOR

lc. The ultimate basis for separation is the nature and purpose of God himself.
1 Peter 1:15-16  "But as He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy."

2c. The intermediate basis for separation is work of God in behalf of the saint.

ld. God has elected him out of this world. John 15:19

2d. God has redeemed him out of this world. Gal. 1:4

3d. God has regenerated him to experience his kingdom. John 3:5


Separation

3c. The immediate basis for separation is the nature and position of the saint.

ld. The saint is now a new creature in Christ and able to experience the kingdom of God.
2 Cor. 5:17 with John 3:3

2d. The saint now has citizenship in heaven and ought to live like such a citizen.
Phil. 3:20 with Col. 3:1 ff.

3d. The saint now is in the kingdom of Christ and ought to obey his new Sovereign.
Col. 1:13 with 3:24  Cf. John 13:13

THE PRINCIPLE OF SEPARATION FROM THE WORLD

THE PRINCIPLE OF SEPARATION FROM THE WORLD

 

lb. The pattern for separation was set by the nation of Israel.

lc. Separation in customs was provided for by the command to Israel to re­frain from even enquiring into heathen rites, lest they imitate them.
Deut. 12:29-31
Lev. 18:29-30

2c. Separation in company was provided for by the command to Israel to re­frain from leagues or intermarriage, lest they be corrupted.
Judges 2:2     cf.  Gen. 15:16
Deut. 7:1-6

3c. Separation in conduct was provided for by the command to Israel to be a separate people who will bless the heathen nations.
Gen. 22:18     cf. Deut. 32:8 ARV
Num. 19
Lev. 18:3, 24-28

THE DOCTRINE OF SEPARATION FROM THE WORLD

THE DOCTRINE OF SEPARATION FROM THE WORLD

Introduction

It is very obvious that any approach to particular spheres of separation from the world that ignores the principle of separation is futile. For anyone can ask why, and being without a foundation the superstructure falls. So the general doc­trine of separation must be treated in order to provide a firm foundation and a well-rounded development of the truth.

1.    The principle of separation must first be treated in its various phases.

2.    The particular spheres of separation can then be treated.
(1)    Separation in custom: non-conformity to the world.
(2)    Separation in company: non-secrecy in organization.
(3)    Separation in conduct: non-resistance in war and peace.

THE PROPER ADMINISTRATION OF THE RITE OF LAYING ON OF HANDS

THE PROPER ADMINISTRATION OF THE RITE OF LAYING ON OF HANDS

 

lb. On what occasions should this rite be administered.

lc. At the time of conversion will be the most prevalent.
Acts 8:17-18; 19:6
This may be done at the time of baptism, or at some special time in a regular church service.

2c. At the time of confession of sin and re-consecration of life.
Acts 9:17 cf. Acts 22:16
This second passage has to do especially with a turning away from sin which was an ordinary thing for a Jew, and is parallel with our coming back to the Lord. At such a time there is a new filling of the Spirit.

3c. At the time of presentation of self as a living sacrifice.
Matt. 19:13, 15; Mark 10:16; Rom. 12:1
This may be at the time of the presentation of one's children or one's own self.

4c. At the time of ordination to service no matter what kind.
Acts 13:3; Acts 6:6; 1 Tim. 4:14; 5:22; 2 Tim. 1:6

ld. This may be ordination to some special task such as that of pastor, missionary, or evangelist, etc.
Acts 13:3; 1 Tim. 4:14; 5:22; 2 Tim. 1:6

2d. This may include installation into any service whatsoever in the church. And all servants in the church should be regarded as deacons, which they are.
Acts 6:6

5c. At the time of the anointing of the sick with oil and prayer.
Acts 28:8 with James 5:13-18
This is significant of the part the Spirit has in healing the body which He indwells.

6c. At any other time or occasion which the church deems wise.
Instances will arise which cannot be foreseen and are therefore not dealt with in the Scriptures. But just as the seven deacons were chosen as the need arose, so must this rite be administered.

2b. By whom should this rite be properly administered?
Three classes of individuals may be cited in answer to this.

lc. It is best for those in authority, such as the ruling elder or pastor to administer this rite along with any whom he may choose to assist; for he represents the congregation.
Acts 6:6 with 2 Tim. 1:6 and 1 Tim; 4:14

2c. It is perfectly in order for elders or deacons to administer this rite.
1 Tim. 4:14 - These elders served in much the same capacity as the deacons in our congregation.

3c. It is not out of order for a layman to perform this task when specially appointed, for the blessings of God are not confined to any clerical class. Acts 9:17 - Ananias was a layman in the church at Damascus.

3b. In what manner should this rite be administered.
1c. Careful instruction should be given so that no one observing or partici­pating in the rite is in doubt as to its significance.

2c. Special preparation should be made so that everyone participating knows exactly what he is to do. Decency and order will greatly contribute to the teaching value of the form.

3c. Proper songs, appropriate scriptures, etc., should be provided for the occasion, and in the proper order. This is for the preliminary part of the service.

4c. The service should be conducted in a place easily accessible to the on looking audience. What they see helps to make the impression.

5c. The pastor should always have someone to assist him. If it is im­possible to have other elders, then he should use deacons or specially consecrated laymen. One and perhaps more should assist.

6c. When in a public service, those to receive the laying on of hands should kneel. It is often helpful for the one to be ordained to kneel at a chair, although this may not be necessary.

7c. The hands of each assisting in the service should be laid on the head successively, first one hand of each on top of each other, then the other hand of each, until both hands of each are placed.

8c. Then the prayer or prayers may be offered. The prayers should always be adapted to the special kind of service that is being conducted. Care should be given to what will be prayed.

9c. After the prayer or prayers, the one kneeling should rise and a proper charge, a cordial Christian welcome, or whatever is suitable for this service should be extended.

10c. The service then may be closed in a way in keeping with the occasion.