A Pilgrimage Of Faith, J.B. Toews, 1993

in true biblical discipleship.21 Typical were the repeated uigings of Peter E. Penner to take seriously the admonition of Hebrews 13:13-wLet us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach."22 Christ was the model for all areas of lifestyle.23 Accommodation to the temptations of the prevailing vil- lage culture, so strongly censured in the secession document of I860, received much attention in early Mennonite Brethren writings. Moderate behavior was an over-arching concern. Several articles stressed the importance of moderation in all human pursuits and activities. Farmers, for example, were warned about making unreasonable demands on workers in the quest for prosperity. Greed was clearly a sin. Modera- tion and discipline were also to extend to matters of eating, drinking, recreation and pleasure.24 Pleasure and recreation, though necessary for a healthy body and mind, should not be overdone. Pleasure simply for the sake of pleasure represent- ed selfishness and was contrary to a life of self-denial.25 Plea- sure for the sake of positive motivation was one thing; carnal self-gratification was quite another. Appropriate pleasures were those that contributed to the building of character and virtue, and were morally exemplary to the world.26 There were frequent practical applications of Romans 12:2-"Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind." The tendency to identify with contemporary culture and fashions was Man expression of worldliness."27 Such tendencies were dangerous for the people of God in the world.28 SPECIFIC GUIDELINES Warning Against Materialism Like Anabaptists generally, Mennonite Brethren saw virtue 75 A PILGRIMAGE OF FAITH in hard work and thrift. Integrity and honesty were to govern all relationships and transactions. Employers were to treat employees with respect and pay fairly. They warned against the aggressive pursuit of wealth lest possessions become a priority and dilute values.29 A conference resolution of 1893 stated: "Resolved, that a minister choose as simple a vocation as possible in order not to have his own spiritual life as well as that of others suffer on that account." Economic pursuits were not to interfere with the spiritual ministry-50 Possessions themselves were not con- demned, but strong warnings against materialism were nu- merous.31 The following two stories demonstrate the danger of materialism, A wealthy owner of a large estate was covetous and un- willing to share his possessions with the poor. The church leaders called him to account, They organiz