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What Mennonites Believe About Peace

This idea of non-resistance, sometimes called the way of peace, was an important part of their religious beliefs. It may seem odd, but Mennonites would not even fight to protect their own beliefs.

 

Mennonites believed that they should not use violence in any situation. For them, it was better to suffer as a result of evil than it was to resist. For this reason, Mennonites throughout the ages have traditionally refused to serve in the army or defend themselves with force. Jesus said, “love your enemies” and “turn the other cheek,” so Mennonites believed they should not participate in violence.

 

Here is what Menno Simons wrote about war:

 

“The regenerated do not go to war nor fight. They are children of peace who have beaten their swords into ploughshares and their spears into pruning hooks and know of no war. They give to Caesar the things that are Caesar'' and to God the things that are God's Their sword is the sword of the spirit which they wield with good conscience through the Holy Ghost.” [Yoder, For Conscience Sake , 32]

 

Living a life of peace is not easy. Mennonites have always struggled with that problem, and some have tried other options. For most Mennonites, however, the Bible gives clear guidance on the matter of peace.

Continue learning about Mennonites and COs.

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