Page:The Net of Faith.pdf/495

143* administrative work or to defend (by virtue of his office) the Church of Christ against enemies; a good Christian knows (all too well) that King Jesus wants a different Church from the one which spills blood in his name A true Christian can do no such thing.

First of all, he cannot do it because he has no reason for such behavior. Secondly, he cannot do it since he has no right to do anything for which he has no power. Thirdly, he cannot do it because his conscience will not allow him to commit anything which might bring about much evil or even do away with much that is good. Finally, he cannot do it for conscience's sake and for fear of offending God.

(:A true Christian cannot work or associate with any state office; to do so would mean to condone the violent

" (Italics mine). After he had thus spoken, the prelates performed the sacred ceremonies in the usual manner Thus was Constantine the first of all sovereigns who was regenerated Thus gifted with the Divine seal of baptism, he rejoiced in spirit At the conclusion of the ceremony     ,    ,        } ,         .' (Italics mine). Philip Schaff and Henry Wace,  2nd Series, vol. I: Eusebius. ("The Life of the Blessed Emperor Constantine by Eusebius Pamphilus"). Chapter LXII, p.556. (New York: Christian Literature Company, 1890).

sanction?