The Greek word Eusebia “denotes that piety which, characterized by a Godward attitude, does that which is well-pleasing to Him” (Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words). Eusebia is most often translated godliness in the AV/KJV translation and by piété in French translations and pietà in Italian.

Piety is characterized by a living relationship with God, submission to His will, and obedience to the Holy Spirit. Self-denial and cross-bearing, a willingness to be obedient to the will of God whatever it may cost, are essential to piety. “And he said to [them] all, If any [man] will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me” (Luke 9:23). “And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:27).

Piety is not judgmental nor defensive, but peaceful. It is not boastful, yet the light of God<s presence will be seen by others. Piety is kind and compassionate to all, no matter what their ethnic origin, social status or economic means.

Piety recognizes the spiritual longings of others, even those that one might otherwise have despised. Piety is able to see Christ in people of diverse origins and recognize those who are brothers and sisters in the faith. “Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond [nor] free: but Christ [is] all, and in all” (Colossians 3:11) .

Menno Simons mentions an unadulterated doctrine, Scriptural use of the sacramental signs, unfeigned brotherly love, obedience to the Word, a bold confession of God and Christ, and oppression and tribulation for the sake of the Lord’s Word as signs by which the Church of Christ may be known. This is piety, the real thing, and I am convinced that there are many people not far from us who are longing to find a place where they can experience such fellowship.

The Martyrs Mirror is a record of the oppressions and tribulations experienced by people of genuine piety in past centuries. They were people much like us, no doubt just as inclined to be timid and fearful as we are. Yet the book is not depressing. It is a record of the triumph of faith, how God stood by His children in their tests. It is a record of the victory of faith and piety over all that this evil world can throw at it.