I grew up in an Amish-Mennonite church. I have friends and relatives there. I know some beautiful plain-people, and I know some nasty ones. Jesus is the difference maker. Those who have Him are some of the nicest people I have ever met. I was raised by good intentioned, loving people, and fell for the notion that everyone else in “good ole’ Lancaster County” was as well. I have since learned otherwise. There is no fence around Lancaster County (or the plain-community in general) that keeps the devil at bay.
After reading this book, one could possibly think that I am anti-Jewish, anti-government, or anti-plain people. Nothing could be further from the truth. I’m simply saying there is no place or community on Earth where evil cannot exist. God loves everyone, and if anyone from these systems wishes to be saved, the door is wide open to whosoever will. Red and yellow, black and white, young and old, rich and poor.
Those of us who were raised in church can be tempted to feel like we have the inside track on the Kingdom (like the Pharisees) and we can be quick to look down on those who supposedly aren’t doing it right (like the Pharisees), and we could suddenly find ourselves on the outside looking in if we have the wrong motives and attitude (like the Pharisees). Jesus never condemned anyone for living a structured life complete with some traditions and rituals that come from the heart, and neither do I. In fact, he said in Matthew 5:19 - “Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called the least in the kingdom of Heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of Heaven.” This could make religious people feel smug, but look at the very next verse. “For I say unto you, that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of Heaven.” (verse 20). So clearly, it is not enough to just act like a Christian. We must become the real deal through a real encounter with our Creator. And while He is playing no favorites today, the “time of the Gentles” will soon be fulfilled, and He will turn back to His original people and fulfill all things. If God was willing to reject His original people for a time, don’t think He will not reject us if we squander our opportunity (Romans 11:15-27).
The Kingdom of God is amazing and mysterious, and I doubt we will ever fully comprehend it with our finite minds, but we’re not supposed to walk around like a bunch of animals. Ignorance is not bliss. “The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ And let him who hears say, ‘Come!’ And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely.” - Revelation 22:17. Those who diligently seek the Father will find Him, and be rewarded by Him.