Articles : Faith Matters
Oct. 3, 2005 issue
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3rd essential: nonresistance
The third great element in the Anabaptist vision was the ethic of love and nonresistance as applied to all human relationships. — Harold S. Bender
To define Anabaptism, each of the three points of Harold S. Bender’s classic statement (see Aug. 1 and Sept. 5 columns for comments on the first two) pointed in the direction of a faith that is lived and practiced today.
Sept. 19, 2005 issue
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The meaning of communion
Anticipating a weekend event in our congregation focusing on the meaning and practice of communion, I have been thinking about its meaning in my life.
Sept. 5, 2005 issue
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Christians who live like it
As a second major element in the Anabaptist vision, a new concept of the church was created by the central principle of newness of life and applied Christianity. — Harold S. Bender
Aug. 15, 2005 issue
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Believe in life before death
As Bernice and I traveled recently through the British Isles, we came to the city of Chester. As part of a tour group, we were given a short time to explore the city.
Aug. 1, 2005 issue
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Is our vision clear today?
Harold S. Bender started us thinking about vision. In 1944 he wrote an essay that captured Mennonites’ imagination. He called it “The Anabaptist Vision.”
July 18, 2005 issue
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Three movements pulling us
This is not the first time I have asked: Who are we, and where are we going? Nor will it be the last.
July 4, 2005 issue
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We make Jesus in our image
Nineteen-century Danish theologian Soren Kierkegaard was eccentric. His writings stir the imaginations of those similarly disposed. In other words, you have to be at least a little strange to appreciate his writings.
June 20, 2005 issue
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Jesus confounded literalists
I have been telling you all this in metaphors. The hour is coming when I shall no longer speak to you in metaphors but tell you about the Father in plain words. — John 16:25 (Jerusalem Bible)
June 6, 2005 issue
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Capitol climb a test of faith
I don’t do well with heights. But this was a challenge I didn’t want to miss.
May 16, 2005 issue
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Bible’s three pictures of Jesus
The New Testament invites us, almost begs us, to think hard about how to interpret Jesus. If there was only one account of Jesus’ life and ministry, our task would be simple.
May 2, 2005 issue
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Will the real Jesus please stand up?
When we think about the life and ministry of Jesus, most of us have a single narrative in mind. Everything fits together into one story. We mentally merge the four Gospels into one harmonious account.

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