Introduction:
Community Bible Church of Olathe is part of the United States Mennonite Brethren Denomination. As I explored this position, I was surprised at how much agreement I had with the USMB. I must admit my ignorance about how broad Mennonite-influenced churches are. I found myself in full agreement not only with the Community Bible Church, Olathe, Statement of Faith, but also with the USMB Confession of Faith.
As I explored the Plant Pastor position with CBCO, I discovered that I needed to be licensed by the USMB. After I submitted these answers and then read Family Matters, I was interviewed by three USMB (Southern Conference) leaders in about a two-hour conversation. That went well and I have been recommended for full licensure.
The following questions and my answers were part of the licensing process.
Attachment to “USMB Ministry Licensing Application and Covenants”
Shaun LePage, June 6, 2023
The following questions are to be answered in the form of a paper, using a clear font. Each question should be answered with at least a paragraph, explaining your personal convictions and beliefs clearly. The paper will likely be 3-5 pages in length, single-spaced.
[ See August 6 and 13 posts for Questions 1-4 and 5-8. ]
9. What is your view on the role and ministry of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer and the church?
The role and ministry of the Holy Spirit cannot be overemphasized. Both His role and ministry are multi-faceted. His role in this Church Age is to empower, gift, and guide the Church. His ministry of guidance (in the Church Age) began with guiding the progress of the gospel from Jerusalem to Judea and Samaria and beyond, as well as moving men to write the New Testament. His ministry continues through regenerating, sealing, baptizing, gifting, convicting, baptizing, interceding, filling, guiding and strengthening. I believe He provided miraculous gifting in the early days of the Church in order to serve as a sign to Israel (1 Corinthians 14:20-22) as well as authenticate the men who would be used to write the Scriptures (Acts 2:43; Hebrews 2:3-4; Jude 3, 17; etc.).
10. What is your view on divorce and remarriage?
Marriage is intended by God to be the permanent bond of one man and one woman. Therefore, divorce and remarriage are never God’s ideal. However, Jesus provided for one exception in Matthew 5 and 19. If one spouse commits adultery, the other spouse can rightly choose divorce. I believe Paul (moved by the Holy Spirit) provided a second exception for the abandonment of a believing spouse by an unbelieving spouse (1 Corinthians 7:15). In all cases (e.g., abuse), the local church family must exercise grace and wisdom. Since divorce is a legitimate option when these exceptions are met, remarriage to another believer is also a legitimate option for the offended spouse.
11. What do you appreciate about the history and theology of the Mennonite Brethren?
Historically, I appreciate the transformation of Menno Simons from the Roman Catholic religion to biblical Christianity. Obviously, as a former Catholic, this history resonates with me. I have for many years respected the fact that the Anabaptists insisted upon believer’s baptism in a time when few did so. Also, as I become more and more familiar with the sacrifice Mennonite Brethren have made historically, I truly appreciate the serious and even radical commitment they have modeled.
Theologically, there is much to appreciate. I not only agree with but strongly affirm the “core theology” listed on the USMB “Our Story” webpage. A few of my favorite statements are:
- Rejection of lifeless formalism leads to joyous expression, but this must be directed by thorough biblical instruction.”
- Emotion and personal experience are servants not masters; obedience borne of biblical study is to be our guide.
- Happiness divorced from holiness leads to false freedom. Faith and practice must be kept in proper balance.
- Meaningful church worship is essential. Lukewarm worship opens the door to hyper-emotional expressions. Radical renewal demands appropriate worship forms.
I also greatly appreciate the 12 Principles of Anabaptism. While Anabaptism is most widely known—at least from my perspective—for pacifism, this is very incomplete and therefore unfortunate. The 12 Principles represent a strong and vibrant summary of biblical Christianity with very healthy and unifying emphases.
12. What questions or concerns do you have about serving with the Mennonite Brethren?
My concerns are not great. As a former Roman Catholic, I am hesitant to embrace man-made labels. I prefer to simply be known as a Christian and biblicist. But, I find that I am very one-minded with USMB and Community Bible Church of Olathe and am excited about being welcomed into this branch of God’s family.
13. Discuss your view of the use of power and authority in the church and denomination.
Of course, there is some power and authority (perhaps influence is a better word) in titles and offices, but those who have held such positions either know or will learn that all true power and authority belongs to the Triune God. True human power and authority are found in being His humble servants and faithful ministers of His word.
14. What questions or responses do you have after reading Family Matters?
I don’t have any questions at this time, but reading Family Matters was very helpful—the detail was good in answering my questions about the Confession as well as helping me get a better picture of the global nature of USMB. I’m more convinced than ever that the USMB is a family my family can fully embrace.
15. Having read the Membership/Affiliation Covenant, will you commit to partnering with the Denominational and local leadership in the fulfillment of these objectives?
Yes.
16. Will you, after reviewing the document entitled My Pastoral Covenant, affirm these commitments and affix your signature accordingly?
Yes.
