Therefore we take no active part in politics or in the use of violence. We make no concessions, we refuse to get involved; but we are not indifferent. Every politician interests us, whoever he may be. And we wish everyone in politics could hear about us and realize that there is a life of justice and peace, where people have joy in one another. We wish that all policy-makers might be guided by these goals and not stray too far from the way of peace and justice.
- Eberhard Arnold, March 1935
September 25,2025
- Eberhard ArnoldEven if Christ suffered death a thousand times, if you do not die with him on his cross, he would have died in vain. In vain, that is, in regard to your person. Unless you die with Jesus on the cross in such a way that you are no longer a part of the other atmosphere, like a dead man on whom that atmosphere no longer has any claim, Christ will have died in vain. And unless Christ and the atmosphere of life penetrate your life through the Holy Spirit, you will not win this battle. In the power of the Risen One alone can this battle be won.
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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
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