Anabaptist Perspectives

For hundreds of years, the Middle East was home to a thriving church network. Who were these people? What can we learn from them? Lucas Hilty explains a largely forgotten piece of the church’s history, and brings out lessons for us today.The Patient Ferment of the Early ChurchThis is the 219th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Roseanne Bauman offers a definition of forgiveness, looks at an example of forgiveness from the Bible, and speaks about her own story of forgiveness. Forgiveness requires a commitment to not dwell on the injury mentally, to not bring it up and accuse the other person with it ever again, and to not gossip about it. This commitment must be chosen over and over again.Roseanne’s previous episodes:What if My Friend is Abused?Responding to Abuse: Past and PresentThis is the 218th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

In the West, we have abundant access to the Bible. But in many parts of the world, believers and sometimes even pastors don’t have access to God’s Word. Tony High shares about the power of the Scriptures in places that don’t have access to it, and how the Bible is so transformative in the lives of those that read it.Tony High is director of Heralds of Hope MinistriesTraining2Send was mentioned, and how they are shipping English Bibles to believers in West Africa. If you have Bibles you would like to donate (as Tony mentioned in this episode), you can mail them to the shipping warehouse at:Attn: Doug CampbellRoto Rooter 66 International LaneStaunton VA 24401This is the 217th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

John Coblentz writes, “The church in its current state is not always glorious to us. We are still imperfect - our music is at times off-key, our theology is at times wide of the mark, and our interactions with each other fall short of the love we profess.” John encourages us to see what God wants to do and to work for the broader church, even in the face of difficulty, failed or abusive relationships, and the inherent tendency to shrink our associations to those like us. John talks about appreciating and welcoming believers from varied cultures.Church is Hard (Biblical Interpretation and Church Offense) - Dean TaylorJohn Coblentz’s devotional commentary on EphesiansThis is the 216th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

We’re seeing growing conflict once again in the Middle East, with America and its allies getting more involved. How should we be thinking about it? How do we avoid the temptation to take sides and think of this in patriotic terms of “our” country beating the “enemy”? Stephen Russell shares how he came to believe in nonresistance, and principles for how the Anabaptist people should be thinking about politics, war, and foreign policy. Instead of trusting in worldly nations, we should be trusting in Jesus and his kingdom, and patiently and faithfully pointing people to Christ instead of a political agenda.Russell’s bookThe Patient Ferment of the Early ChurchThis is the 215th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

God’s Assembly (”Church”), says John Coblentz, is to show God’s glory, not just to people but to the principalities and powers. We should see local churches within the bigger picture of what God is doing in gathering a people. John shares the pain he has felt over division in the church and ways he has purposed to walk in unity.An Anabaptist View of Church - Val YoderJohn Coblentz’s devotional commentary on EphesiansThis is the 214th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

This is a lecture that was recorded at a ministry training event. David Bercot focused on how to explain the Trinity to those who are not Christians.Watch David's episode on how he was once a Jehovah’s WitnessBercot’s further teaching on the Trinity The history and full text of the Nicene CreedBercot’s episode on Infant BaptismThis is the 213th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

How should we view the current nation of Israel, and how does it relate to the church today? Paul Lamicela takes us through Scripture to explain how we should relate to the current Israeli nation, Jesus as the King of Israel, how this connects with prophecy, Zionism, and much more. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

How should we read the Book of Revelation? What is apocalyptic literature, and how does the first century context help us better understand this book? And what is the Mark of the Beast? Paul Lamicela answers these questions and much more in this interview. Paul’s websitePaul’s Episode about GalatiansPaul’s Episode about Biblical StorylineThis is the 211th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Samantha shares the tidbits and quirks that surprised her in joining the Mennonite world. What are some of the unexpected cultural elements within the Mennonite church that are often confusing to those coming from the outside? For example, what is the Mennonite game? Why do Mennonites often play harmonicas and accordions? What’s with the prevalence of Mennonite choirs and singing groups?Is "Mennonite" a Faith Culture or an Ethnic Culture?Samantha’s TestimonyThis is the 210th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

David Bercot explains why he was an Anglican priest, why apostolic succession was initially convincing, and how he ultimately left and joined the Anabaptists. What is it about the High Church traditions that are appealing? How does this fit with the teachings of the Ante-Nicene fathers, and are the Anabaptists correct in their interpretation of the early church writings?Scroll PublishingBercot’s series on infant baptism.Dictionary of Early Christian Beliefs.Bercot's Episode: I Was Once A Jehovah's WitnessSign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

The Anabaptist movement began and continues to have high ideals. Often the people who are attracted also have high ideals. Samantha speaks from her experience as one who did not grow up among Mennonites and the challenges of joining the Mennonite church.Samantha’s TestimonyThe Inner Ring by C. S. LewisThis is the 208th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought.  Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Who is Jesus? Dale Eby reviews basic historical claims most scholars would agree on whether or not they are believers. He presses into the question of what it means to know the risen Christ.This is the 207th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Amata Thomas, a bishop for Christian Believers Fellowship, discusses how business and finance training can integrate with discipleship and evangelism. He explains how Open Hands, the ministry that he works for, coordinates savings groups where participants support each other in completing a training program that moves trainees away from financial vulnerability, exposes them more deeply to Christ and his word, and encourages restoration of four fundamental relationships: God, others, self, and creation. This and similar programs have helped to stabilize and grow the vulnerable, orienting them toward standing together in Christian community.This is the 206th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

In this roundtable conversation, Reagan, Marlin, and Kyle discuss artificial intelligence, what that means for life in the church, and to live well in a world of AI generated content and conversations. Is AI actually intelligent? How is it helpful? What are the implications for future human interactions, and how is this technology a risk to humanity?Our previous series on the internet, algorithms, and proper use of technology:Software and the Heart: Internet Filtering and AccountabilityWhy Some Mennonites Use Half the InternetDon't Let the Algorithms Trap YouThis is the 205th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

There are signs of impending death. How can we live the vision? Chester Weaver shares threats to the Christian vitality of Anabaptism and calls us to steady faithfulness.Harold Bender booksMennonite Experience in America SeriesSmith’s Story of the Mennonites 5th edition - C Henry SmithIntroduction of Mennonite History - Cornelius DyckThis is the 204th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Jesus appealed to prophecies and to his “works” do call people to faith in him. Peter and Paul used apologetic methods suited for their audiences. Daniel Yoder thoughtfully introduces a few topics and methods of Christian apologetics (from the Greek apologia, “defense, answer”) and defends the importance of this mode of thinking for strengthening believers and for engaging with unbelievers. While Anabaptists may have invested less in formal apologetics than some other traditions, the early Anabaptists very much cared about proclaiming Jesus as Lord and explaining their beliefs to others. This is an example we should follow.This is the 203rd episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

What should a business owner do when your customers try to take advantage and cheat you? Gary Schrock started a business building roof and floor systems in 2006 and tells of his experiences working with difficult customers, how to respond when people cheat and steal from us, and how to be honest even when that is costly.Kevin Brechbill - Business That Serves the KingdomThis is the 202nd episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Sister Judy was converted at 26. She shares her Christian life story. Why does she wear a habit? What has she learned from varied church settings? Sister Judy encourages us to find deeper life in Christ and fellowship with the fellow-disciples he brings to us.Access the Martyr’s Mirror onlineAccess the Ante-Nicene Fathers onlineSee all our episodes with David BercotView Brother Bercot’s “An Anabaptist View of Salvation” on YouTubeThis is the 201st episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

{Note: Tuesday Nov. 28 is the Annual Giving Tuesday event. Your Giving Tuesday donations help support our remaining income budget need for 2023. For our part of Giving Tuesday, all Partner bonus content is freely available on our website from now till Giving Tuesday. This material is normally exclusive to our monthly donors. https://anabaptistperspectives.org/partners/. }Anabaptism has grown far beyond its European and North American past. Amata Thomas recounts the growth of the Mennonite churches in Kenya and his own journey into and current role in the movement. He also talks about strengths of African Christianity and some of the difficulties some believers in Kenya face in their relationship with education.This is the 200th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Integration into a new church community does not happen automatically and often comes with difficulty. What does it take to successfully put deep roots into a new community? Melvin Lehman brings pastoral experience to questions from audience members and asks us to remember that participating in strong communities come at a price. Though building communities that is both strong and welcoming comes with challenges, Melvin encourages us to embrace the task.This is the 199th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

To preach is to explain the Scripture and apply it to the life of the hearer. Paul Emerson calls those preaching to study, to pray, and to present the results simply so Scripture can speak to the listener. Paul gives guidance on Bible study and Greek and Hebrew that are useful to anyone, preacher or not.Getting Ready to Share from Scripture Episode — Verlon MillerThe Inside-Out Sandwich Episode — Marlin Sommers The Inside-Out Sandwich Essay — Marlin SommersStudying the Word of God Essay — Frank Reed This is the 198th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

God can bring redemption after abortion. Dale Eby speaks from his many conversations with women (and occasionally the men involved) who are considering abortion, feel pressured toward abortion, or who have had an abortion.This is the 197th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Suffering, from a worldly perspective, is meaningless. Dale Eby walks us through perspectives on suffering and redemption while acknowledging the hard realities that we don’t know how to respond to. What is the cause of suffering? How does God use it in our lives? What is the Christian’s ultimate hope with regard to suffering?This is the 196th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

We educate for reading the scripture and for service. Paul Emerson urges us to educate for eternity. Children getting good jobs or going to college is not the central aim (though it is not excluded). Since all wisdom and knowledge come from Christ, education is ultimately Christology. Learning how to read scripture is not just a matter of learning to read words in the early grades. For example, the study of literature and genre in high school or college also provides valuable training. The conversation ranges across the role of postsecondary bible schools as well as K-12 education. This is the 195th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

From the beginning, the phrase “The Earth Is the Lord’s” seized the imagination of Anabaptists. John Roth unpacks the powerful resonances of this phrase in the 16th century and calls us to see its contemporary significance for the global Anabaptist movement.This is the 194th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

A viewer asks: “Does Jesus really call us as His children to build anything?......an identity, a structure, or a culture or rather to simply align ourselves with what He has already promised us He would build in and through His ekklesia?” This was in response to Melvin Lehman’s previous episode “The New Conservatives”. In this episode Melvin argues that the New Testament calls churches to proactively create culture.The episode that sparked this comment.That episode followed up on this essay from Melvin: The New Conservatives.Hannah Coulter — Wendell BerryThe Story of Dirk Willems — AudioThe Story of Dirk Willems — TextThe Earth is the Lord’s — John RuthThis is the 193rd episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Freedom comes from mature integrity. Chester Weaver explains we can only relate well to others when we are honest with ourselves, others, and God and guided by God’s Spirit.This is the 192nd episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

What kind of community should Christians cultivate? Melvin Lehman argues that particular Christian communities should be shaped by shared values, shared geography, shared goals, and shared commitments. This includes submitting to brotherhood decisions. But it must be framed within the greater commitment to the Lordship of Jesus. Look for two more episodes with Melvin to further develop these ideas.Wendell Berry’s book Hannah Coulter {affiliate link}The story of Dirk Willems as told in the Martyrs Mirror This is the 191st episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Doubt is not a sin and questions are not always doubt. Questions and doubts should spur us to dig deeper in the appropriate areas, be our struggle factual, philosophical, emotional or volitional. Daniel gives practical encouragement for each dimension of doubt. We should be active in our search for understanding and growth. Even as we wrestle with Christian doctrine we must not give up on prayer and spiritual formation. Beyond our own faith, we should be concerned with helping others come to an understanding of the basis of Christian belief. The body of Christ has a role in preventing doubt as well as walking with others in the midst of honest doubt. The scripture calls us to have mercy on those who doubt.This is the 190th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

How does a struggling believer find reassurance? Daniel Yoder discusses four categories of doubt: factual, philosophical, emotional and volitional. In dealing with any of these we need to investigate the truth.  The power is not in the strength of our faith but in the power of God in whom we have faith. Based on Romans 10, Daniel calls us to reconfirm our confession of Christ as Lord and submission to his Lordship. Whether or not we are bothered by doubt we should be regularly examining ourselves to see if we are in the faith (2 Corinthians 13). How do we examine ourselves? Daniel gives three suggestions for self-examination. Do I believe in Jesus? Am I obeying Jesus? Am I learning to know Jesus better? Books mentioned:  In Two Minds by Os GuinessDealing with Doubt by Gary HabermasThis is the 189th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

How do God’s people compose the church? How do they relate to society? What is salvation? Chester Weaver explains how he sees Anabaptists navigating these questions. The quotation from Frank ReedThis is the 188th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

How can Christians think about and practice community well? Kyle Stoltzfus describes two perspectives that orthodox Christians have represented, the Evangelical view and the "resident aliens” view. Kyle looks at the strengths and weaknesses of both perspectives and encourages us to embrace ways of thinking that are distinctly Christian and that differ from the prevailing culture. The Benedict OptionResident Aliens A Community of CharacterGrowing in the Life of Faith The Nature of Confession  This is the 187th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Anabaptists easily outline high ideals. Living them is a continuing challenge which we need to embrace. Chester Weaver articulates a version of the Anabaptist Vision and the challenges to living it out. Chester adapts themes from Harold Bender’s “The Anabaptist Vision” and Stephen Dintaman’s reflections on “The Spiritual Poverty of the Anabaptist Vision.” Harold Bender’s “The Anabaptist Vision”Stephen F. Dintaman, “The Spiritual Poverty of the Anabaptist Vision,” The Conrad Grebel Review 10 no. 2 (Spring 1992): 205–8. (Unfortunately, this essay does not seem to be available online, but it is widely referenced in other writings.) This is the 186th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

We are tempted to divide life and exempt parts from Christ’s rule. Chester Weaver decry’s these various dualisms as deadly threats to Christian life. Unless profession and behavior come together, unless work and worship unite, unless our Christianity affects our money, wholeness and integrity are threatened.  This is the 185th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

How can Christians see risks and even failure as beneficial? Kyle Stoltzfus encourages us to embrace paths where we don't know the outcome and leave growth and increase up to God. We should remember that, “There is a God. I'm not him. Thank God for that." This is the 184th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Salvation is not a ticket to heaven, but the life of God planted in human hearts. The Holy Spirit brings us into God’s life and enables us to do His work in the world. Chester Weaver explains this through various paired ideas. “Truth walks on two legs.”This is the 183rd episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Anabaptists, like most of American society, are much more conscious of abuse than we were a few decades ago. There have been improvements in how we respond. There have also been changes in our response that are not necessarily for the better. Roseanne Bauman describes the way individuals and churches tended to respond in the past and comments on how responses in our communities have shifted.  Becoming a Church That Cares Well for the Abused: https://www.churchcares.com/  Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment: https://www.netgrace.org/  Anabaptist Awareness Symposium on Sexual Abuse: https://www.anabaptistawareness.org/  From Forgiven to Forgiving: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1949737179/  The Cost of Discipleship: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0684815001/   This is the 182nd episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Someone discloses abuse. How do I respond? Roseanne Bauman urges us to honor their courage in speaking, to listen well and talk little, and to connect them to someone who has appropriate experience to walk with them. This is the first in a series of two episodes where Jaran Miller interviews Roseanne about responding to sexual abuse. Becoming a Church That Cares Well for the AbusedGodly Response to Abuse in the Christian EnvironmentAnabaptist Awareness Symposium on Sexual AbuseThis is the 181st episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Is it unhealthy to celebrate something that lifts up individuals or that marks a division among believers? How do we view Anabaptist history in relation to other Christian traditions? Long-time Mennonite historian John Roth calls us to “right remembering” of history, the good, the bad, and the mixed. There is much to celebrate in Anabaptism past and present, but we do well to recognize the shadow sides of our strengths as well as what we have received from other traditions. Learn more about Anabaptism at 500 and the Anabaptist Community Bible Project.This is the 180th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

The gospel is about all that God created us to be. Not just managing sin, but living life with God and ruling creation with Him. Without downplaying the barrier of our sin that is overcome in Jesus’ death and resurrection, Kyle Stoltzfus urges us to see the large, rich picture that God has in mind for our living “in Christ.”  In light of that, our practical struggle against sinful actions, becomes a fight for our true selves which are found in Christ. The phrase "gospel of sin management" and the analogy of the barcode come from Dallas Willard’s book, The Divine Conspiracy.This is the 179th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

“We don’t get to choose what story we are living in, but we can choose what character we will be.” New Testament scholar Paul Lamicela helps us see ourselves in the story of Lot’s family in Sodom and the story of David and Goliath. (Hint, we are not primarily David or Goliath in that story!) Also discussed is how Jesus saw Himself in the story of Israel in the wilderness.  If you enjoyed this episode, check out Paul’s stimulating overview of Galatians.Redeemed from the Present Evil Age —YouTube —PodcastSee Paul’s website for more information on his course “Understanding the Biblical Storyline,” as well as his course on Galatians.  This is the 178th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Twain’s biting satire exposes the temptation to think God is on “our side” of a war. Sadly, Mark Twain himself was not a believer, but his insight into Christian hypocrisy and the perversions that come with tying religion to nationalist or imperial causes is well worth listening to. Let’s follow the Lord of peace and flee all attempts to enlist God in human war-mongering. The War Prayer is in the public domain and the text can be found online. https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/The_War_Prayer  This is the 177th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

 “There is nothing, nothing harder to do in my life than church.” Dean Taylor responds to audience comments on deep disappointment with Anabaptism and on difficulties in understanding the bible due to textual complications and lack of historical context. We will often be surprised at the results if we are willing to be humbly and honestly up front with our church leaders. Dean also argues for the trustworthiness of what is known as the “Majority Text” or “Byzantine Text” of the New Testament. These comments came in response to the inaugural episode of Anabaptist Perspectives. https://anabaptistperspectives.org/episodes/the-essence-of-anabaptism  In a previous episode Dean responded to questions about Baptism, Communion, and taking the Bible straightforwardly. https://anabaptistperspectives.org/episodes/without-a-complicated-interpretation  This is the 176th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

How can we engage in mission as “little Christs” and not as Americans? Kai Steinman and Rebekah Mui encourage us “learn Christ” in His humility, service, and laying down of Himself. Christ, when He is lifted up, will draw people to Himself.  While our guests acknowledge the dangers of empire and arrogance, they encourage all who reach out in humility for the sake of Christ. “Empire is a culture just as much as the kingdom of God is a cultural”   “Good solders will be there with bread and firewood and the gospel”   This is the 175th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Western missions were tied to imperialism and colonialism. Kai Steinman and Rebekah Mui discuss the interweaving of empire, Christendom, and mission with all its dark sides. At the same time, they call our attention to the beauty of Christ’s kingdom shining among the ashes. The China Mirage by James Bradley The Way of the Cross by Guy Hershberger Rebekah discusses and quotes extensively from Hershberger’s book in this essay.Stuart Murray, “After Christendom: Does the Label Matter?” Find more of Rebekah’s work at https://kingdomoutpost.org/ This is the 174th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Are Christians naïve to advocate accepting immigration? Staff members, Jaran Miller, Reagan Schrock, and Marlin Sommers respond to listener comments and discuss pertinent biblical teaching and practical realities. Also, a listener asked how to access our videos without using YouTube. See below for links to our Telegram/CloudVeil channels. Jesus, a Refugee by Josh NislyAnabaptists and Muslims by Dean Taylor: Cultivating Spiritual Creativity by Reagan Schrock: Anabaptist Perspectives Telegram Channel for EpisodesAnabaptist Perspectives Telegram Channel for ArticlesThis is the 173rd episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

How can we see Bible study as a tangible way to know God? Kristi Mast shares how she moved from intimidation at Bible study to delight in seeing God through scripture. She also reflects on cultural factors that can make serious biblical engagement more difficult for women in conservative circles.  She calls all of us to study the Bible together in our pursuit of knowing God. This is the 172nd episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

Galatians is about God’s New Creation, as Paul Lamicela helps us see. This episode probes major themes in Galatians in light of Jesus bringing the newness that redeems us from the present evil age. For much more detail listen to Paul’s four espisode series on the Think Truth podcast https://think-truth.org/2022/01/18/galatians-series-the-big-picture/ https://think-truth.org/2022/01/31/galatians-series-the-spirit-church-rules-and-culture/ https://think-truth.org/2022/02/09/galatians-series-abraham-and-the-promise/ https://think-truth.org/2022/02/28/galatians-series-allegories-and-metaphors/ See Paul’s website for more information on his upcoming course on Galatians as well as his course “Understanding the Biblical Storyline.” www.biblicalstoryline.orgThis is the 171st episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

The internet is an “attention economy.”  Websites sell your attention to advertisers and use sophisticated algorithms to personalize your feed.  Myron Eby and Verlon Miller discuss the downsides of an internet built around selling ads, and encourage us toward some ways to combat those dangers by intentionally seeking good sources of information. 12 Ways Your Phone is Changing You   Irresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping Us Hooked Triston Harris – Center for Humane TechnologyThe Social DilemmaThis is the 170th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.