War Opposed to the Precepts and Spirit of Christianity
N. M. Harry. Matthew 26:53 Think you that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels? Show that war is opposed to the spirit of Christianity. I. OFFER SUCH REASONS AS PROVE THIS. 1. The toleration of war under the New Testament dispensation is contrary to what Christianity was expected to be by the prophet who foretold the coming of the Messiah, and by the Church of the Jews, to whom they were sent (Isaiah 2.; 9:6; Zechariah 9:9, 10). 2. The advent of the Saviour was attended with revelations, which indicated peace. The angels sang of peace on earth. 3. The doctrine which Christ taught condemns war (Matthew 5:3-9, etc.) 4. The example of Christ teaches the same truth. His life was unresisting. 5. War originates in a passion which Christianity condemns. 6. It can only be carried on by the use of those means which Christianity must condemn. II. ANSWERS OBJECTIONS. 1. It is said that war was allowable under the Old Testament dispensation, that therefore it cannot be wrong in the abstract. 2. It is said that the predictions of the New Testament foretell wars in the course of Christianity through the world. 3. It is said that the civil magistrate shall not bear the sword in vain. 4. It is said that to argue in favour of these principles is a proof of cowardice and imbecility. 5. What will be the consequences if men act in this way? III. MAKE A FEW REFLECTIONS. 1. It calls for a close examination of the subject. 2. It is the duty of parents to be careful in training up their children. 3. I would urge that no professor of Christianity should think of bearing arms. (N. M. Harry.) Parallel Verses KJV: Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels? WEB: Or do you think that I couldn't ask my Father, and he would even now send me more than twelve legions of angels?