Complete Theological Works

TO THE READER.

...also many chapters, which previously were indicated without verses, are now set with verses.

We wish from our hearts that it may serve the simple reader and provide instruction to the attentive observer. We hope that our small labor, which we have devoted to this end, might ensure that this dear, God-fearing man—through his bequeathed writings and the strong testimony he derived from God’s life-giving Word—might have his "bones still prophesy" after his death (Sirach 48:14 A reference to the biblical account of the prophet Elisha, whose bones had the power to restore life; the editors suggest Menno's writings have a similar restorative power.). We hope it may awaken many here who are "living-dead" through sin from the sleep of sin and death (2 Kings 13:21), and that the Royal Priesthood, the holy nation, the people of His possession (1 Peter 2:9)—namely, the Congregation original: Gemeynte; the local and universal body of believers. of the living God (1 Timothy 3:15), among whom MENNO SYMONS served as a weak servant and faithful Minister—might see their rod still flourish and bear almonds (Numbers 17:8 A reference to Aaron’s rod, which miraculously budded to show God's choice of leadership; here, it symbolizes the continued fruitfulness of the church.). That is to say, we hope that many people might still be found who acknowledge and embrace this true Evangelical foundation of truth and live it out within the Congregation, so as to build the House of the Lord and be eternally saved through grace.

Do not think, my reader, that MENNO SYMONS is the founder original: grontlegger; literally "ground-layer.", or that the Congregation first began with him or through him—as is ignorantly maintained or asserted by many, who therefore name various groups of people after his name. Oh no, my reader, no!

MENNO SYMONS undoubtedly found the Lord’s Congregation already established upon this foundation, just as...