We do not withhold our respect from God-ordained government. (Rom. 13:1) Our calling, however, is a completely different one; it brings with it an order of society utterly different from anything that is possible in the State and the present social order. That is why we refuse to swear oaths before any court of law; we refuse to serve in any state as soldiers or policemen; we refuse to serve in any important government post – for all these are connected with law courts, the police, or the military.
- Eberhard Arnold, July 1933
October 13,2025
- Eberhard ArnoldWe ask only one thing: that the Holy Spirit come to us and establish among us the government and reign of God; that nothing else count for us but only this one thing, the Spirit of the coming kingdom of Jesus Christ. Him we entreat to step into the life of this community, so that from here he may stream out and radiate into the whole world, into the hearts of all men; a hidden and mysterious working of this very Spirit who speaks his word from heart to heart and from soul to soul, who carries his message onward, reveals his life, proclaims his prophecy, and manifests his reality.
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Hands off anything that causes hatred or unpeace! We must live like Jesus. He helped everyone, soul and body. We cannot go along with anything that harms people. As friends of peace we have to stay clear of any business practice or political activity that is not as Jesus would have it. The whole of our life must be dedicated to love. Our calling is not to use governmental force but to live the life of Jesus, who only loved and never had anyone put to death.
- Eberhard Arnold, April 1934
Be not afraid, for naught will hurt you, the Lord himself is in the ship! Where Jesus is, no storm can harm you, no wind can throw you on the cliff.
- Eberhard Arnold