THE MENNONITE BROTHERHOOD IN RUSSIA (1789 - 1910), P. M. Friesen, 1911

s that I acquired my understanding of baptism and the Lord’s Supper, and not through the influence of seductive sects as some have accused me. Yet if any man has in any way been helpful to me, I want to thank God eternally for this. l) “Meanwhile, after having lived one year at Witmarsum, it happened that several persons appeared who raised the issue of baptism. To this very hour I do not know from where these first enquirers came, where they made their home, or who they in fact really were, nor have I ever seen them. m) “Shortly thereafter the Muensterite sect 6 appeared [1533-35] which deceived many of our pious people. I was deeply troubled for I perceived that though they were zealous they erred in doctrine. As far as I was able I exerted my feeble efforts in opposing them by preaching and exhortation. Twice I conferred with one of their leaders, once in private and once in public. But my admonitions availed nothing because of my improper conduct, for I was doing things I knew to be wrong. This report spread far and wide and it was said that I could readily silence these persons. Wherever and whoever they were, people looked to me for answers. n) “Thus it became apparent to me that I had become the defender of all the impenitent who appealed to me as an authority. This caused me no little anxiety, and I sighed to God in prayer: Lord, help me lest I make myself responsible for other men’s sins! My soul was troubled and I began to reflect upon the end results of my actions, namely, even though I should gain the whole world (Matt. 16:26), live a thousand years and yet finally have to endure the wrath of God, what would I have gained? o) "It was only after many gruesome edicts, 7 strangulations and murders that this poor straying flock, which wandered as sheep without a true shepherd, gathered itself together and moved to a place called Oude Kloster (Old Cloister). Unfortunately, in accordance with the ungodly Muensterite teaching and contrary to the spirit, Word and example of Christ, they resorted to the use of the sword, which the Lord had commanded Peter to return to its sheath, for their protection. p) “When this had happened, the blood of these— though mis- 6 ORIGINS guided— people weighed so heavily upon my heart that I could neither bear it nor find any peace of mind. 8 I reflected upon my sinful ways, my hypocritical teachings and idolatry, in which I still persisted for the sake of appearances, though without joy and against my better judgment. With my own eyes I had seen these zealous children willingly sacrifice property and life for their convictions and beliefs, although they were in error. And I had been one of those who had helped to reveal the papal abominations to some of them! 9 Nevertheless I had retained my unrestrained life style and recognized abominations, and that for no other reason than that I wished to satisfy my carnal comforts and remain immune from the cross