BookMarks

Huebner’s book is a challenge to both his fellow Mennonites and the broader church. He asserts that Mennonites can just as easily become Constantinian—attached to power—as any other Christians. He cites Karl Barth, Alasdair MacIntyre, John Milbank and Rowan Williams to demonstrate that the depth of their logic should lead to a disestablished and pacifist church. Huebner is often eloquent: “To confess that Jesus is the master is to participate in a way of life that renounces mastery.” Huebner even sees great similarities between the church and the military. Both seek peace. However, military peace is a matter “of safety, of security, of balance,” whereas “the peace of the church . . . is a vulnerable exchange of gifts.”