WHY BRETHREN ENDORSE THIS DOCTRINE

THERE ARE SEVERAL VERY SUFFICIENT REASONS WHY THIS DOCTRINE WAS ENDORSED BY THE BRETHREN CHURCH AT THE TIME OF ITS ORIGIN

 

 

lb. The doctrine is scriptural and is clearly stated in the Word of God. Since the entire Bible constitutes the minimum of truth for the Church, this doctrine could not be set aside. (2 Tim. 3:16, 47).

Matt. 5:38-42 RV. Luke 6:27-29 RV. Rom. 12:19-21; 1 Pet. 2:20-24.

2b. The doctrine of non-resistance is definitely a part of the believer's responsibility in separation from the world.
Rom. 12:2

3b. This doctrine went along with the general movement in the counter-reformation generally called the Pietistic movement.
James 2:14, 17, 26

Purity of doctrine, it was believed should issue in purity of life.

4b. This doctrine was a revolt from the practices exercised by many of the state churches.
When Christianity became the state religion under Constantine, force was exercised to advance it (See book "The Light in Dark Ages" - Edman).

Lutheranism in Germany, Reformed under Calvin and Zwingli, Anglican movement in England, and Catholicism all followed the use of force. The evils were so evident that a wholesome reaction set in.
And so we have the denial of the true church because of heretical practices concerning war.