Jumpstarter 6 of 10

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Question 6

The advice to write “I am a conscientious objector to war in any form” across the Selective Service form, copy it, and even file it with the local church assumes the church should help preserve and validate a believer’s convictions; what role do you think the early church played in publicly recognizing costly commitments, and how does that compare to how churches function now?

Another way to ask: Taylor says to write your CO claim on the Selective Service form, make copies, and even file it with your church. What part do you think the early church played in recognizing costly commitments, and how is that like or unlike churches today?

Direct Answer The transcript implies the church can serve as a public, communal record-keeper that supports and verifies a believer’s stated convictions when those convictions become costly. It doesn’t directly describe the early church, but it pushes us to see the church as more than private spirituality—something with visible, accountable testimony.

Support from Transcript:

He quotes guidance: write “I am a conscientious objector to war in any form” on the registration form.
He says to “make a copy… and keep it,” because Selective Service “throws it away.”
He adds: keep “a copy of this card on file with your local church, together with any other statements.”
He provides a “Declaration… postcard” to mail to yourself as “dated proof” of conviction.
He repeatedly stresses documented sincerity “before the moment of crisis,” implying community support strengthens credibility.

Discussion Follow-ups What would it look like for your church to actively preserve and confirm members’ costly convictions? Do churches today function more like accountability communities or more like event centers?

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