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

expressing joy regarding our liberty in Christ which has become evident recently, and manifested itself in unrestrained playing of instruments [etc.!!]— also gave occasion for annoyance and stumbling in God’s kingdom. IV. But God, who is mighty, longsuffering, patient and of great goodness and mercy, could not allow that the church which He had called and elected for His own praise should be divided and troubled by Satan’s craftiness. By His healing grace which disciplines us in order that we may walk circumspectly and righteously in this world, and deny ungodly human character, God succeeded in visiting all 228 believers with His mercy, so that they repented for every disobedience with fasting and prayer. What is impossible with man, is possible with God. Christ’s love, which is the bond of perfection, began to show its triumphant grace and to banish 229 the dark enmity of the evil one from the fellowship. The high priestly prayer of our Savior, John 17, had to be brought to fulfillment in us by our heavenly Father. V. Consequently, 1. the relationship of the church to our neighbors and fellow men was to be based on Philipp. 4:5, 8,9; Colossians 4:5-6; Titus 3:1-2; I Peter 2:17 and other Scriptures. 2. In order to foster mutual brotherly love we base ourselves on Romans 12:10; Ephesians 4:32; 5:21. 3. The worship services of the church shall be organized according to I Corinthians 14:24-27, 40. VI. Taking the liberty to inform Your Excellency of these things, we request that you not withdraw the love and cordiality with which you have treated us heretofore, and pray that God will richly bless you for all you will do for us. In addition we earnestly ask whether or not those brethren who are languishing in prison 230 can be assisted by your office 231 to gain their freedom. It appears that with some assistance 232 ... Gerhard Wieler can soon be released; but H. Huebert has been taken from the local jail and imprisoned in a damp hole in the volost in Tokmak, without a trial. How joyfully we would all praise God if our Minister Huebert could soon be with us again. 233 May our Lord Jesus Christ stand by you in all things which Your Excellency does for the glory of the Lord. If Your Excellency should need further clarification of our case, we would be prepared to provide it, as much as is in our power. Similarly, we would be relieved to be kept informed, at least to a certain degree, regarding the progress in our case there in St. Petersburg, which we humbly request. Respectfully, the humble servants of His Excellency, Jakob Jantz, Ladekopp Christian Schmidt, September, 1865. church leaders. Documentary Supplements 449 16. Diary concerning experiences on our travels to the brethren and acquaintances during 1865, December 6 (by Christian Schmidt and Jakob Jantz). a) “In Jesus Christ alone I glory, In him alone do I find grace. Any other gospel Brings destruction and deceit. Whoeve