Christianity and War / 423

should they engage in it afterwards? A certain writer observes: "That the very spirit of war is that of hatred, and malice, and every evil passion,-it is the very antagonism of the peaceful and loving spirit of the Gospel of the blessed God." Another observes: "Men of conscientious scruples in religious matters have no business in the army. All conscience, all sense of right, must be laid aside by the soldier when engaged in the art of war. Murder, rapine. theft, falsehood, cruelty, and hate are military virtues, and the commander rewards with laurels what God forbids on pain of eternal death."-" War," says the same writer, "is not only a repeal of all the virtues, but also of all the sanctions, of our holy religion."

Now then, since Peace is one of the characteristics set forth in the prophecy of the latter day glory, when "Christ the Prince of Peace, shall extend his kingdom over all the earth," let us as Christians follow after Peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. Let the worldlyminded laugh, and scorn, and mock, as much as they please, truth will nevertheless prevail, and stand forever; and although, there may be produced, some seemingly plausible arguments in favor of the righteousness and the justice of war, yet I feel fully persuaded in my own mind, that they may be all fairly met, and refuted by the all prevailing doctrines of the Prince of Peace.

I will however say, that if any man can prove from the doctrines and example of Jesus Christ and his apostles, to a full and perfect demonstration, the justice and lawfulness of Christians going to war, and killing their enemies, then, and not till then, will I confess that I am in error, and "not knowing the scriptures."

This non-resistant doctrine may seem new and strange to many, although it has been maintained and advocated for more than Eighteen hundred years, by many faithful Christians, and I firmly believe, that it is the pure doctrine of Christ, which none may violate with impunity: and now, whether a Christian may take up arms, and go forth to war, and destroy the lives of his enemies, and at the same time obey the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and be justifiable in the sight of God; the Christian reader, it is hoped, will be able to decide for himself.-May he "prove all things and hold fast to that which is good."

But, says one, if the doctrine of a non-resisting Christianity be a true doctrine, then, there can be but few Christians in the world. Well, this is just what the Saviour tells us: "Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life; and few there be that find it." "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of Heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in Heaven." Matt. 7:21. "Strive to enter in at the straight gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able, when once the master of the house is risen and hath shut to the door." Lu. 13:24, 25.

In conclusion, I would say to the Christian reader: should it ever be your lot to suffer persecution for conscience towards God, or for the name of Christ, or for refusing to take up arms to slay your enemies, if conscience forbids you; then think it not strange, concerning such fiery trials, which are but to try you, as gold is tried with fire; but look to Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith. He is able to protect you, and if he will not preserve your body,