I further believe that, despite all the good things to come from that period, Christendom--where the church effectively "bore the sword"--was a mistake. As Christians, we are pilgrims and exiles in this world. Here we have no continuing city, we look for a better and heavenly one. We can and should "work and pray for the peace and prosperity of the cities into which we've been driven" (so to speak) and we should seek to uphold justice in the land, but not to use force to bring about God's kingdom. We persuade, we do not coerce.
Discussion
i am assuming the model here then is Christ himself ?
In a sense, yes. But Christ is more the object/person in whose completed work we trust more than he is our moral example.
the reason I asked is because of Christ's actions of compulsion toward the monied interests in the temple ...
Oh, haha. I missed it.
its not meant to be a pot shot or something ... I take the topic of this discussion seriously given the state of things...
Likewise! 🤙🏼
i guess what I am asking is this :
If Christ is the model, and the cleansing of the temple is an aspect of Him, then is "persuasion over compulsion" biblical in essence, or is it part of the detritus of sentimentalism ?
It is not uniquely Christian to practice self-defense; it is simply human, and part of the moral law (the flip side of "do not murder" is having the right to not be murdered), and part of the code governing the common kingdom (aka the Noachic covenant in Gen 9).
I wouldn't say Christ calls us to use violence or aggression to drive out sinners. No. Not at all. Defensively? Yes. He has already done the cleansing and the disarming and will return to finish the job. Doesn't mean we can't seek justice and honesty in contracts and commerce now, though. Just not violently.
I should add: "for now." There is an "already" aspect of the kingdom (ethical) and there is a "not yet" aspect (geopolitical) as well. What comes next...ain't gonna be pretty. But Christ will initiate upon return.
the word was compulsion which is distinct from violence and aggression as commonly understood - maybe a bit of context will help. hang on.
actually its a bit difficult - was gonna scan a chapter , then two for clarity , but i think its better to just(non-compulsively) suggest the book - maybe you will find it of interest - I think I may have already shared it here: 
That looks interesting. I'll check it out, thank you! 🤙🏼
Just read the blurb on Amazon. Added to wishlist! I am not a pacificst, btw. Just for reference, WLC on the 6th commandment is instructive:
Q. 134. Which is the sixth commandment?
A. The sixth commandment is, Thou shalt not kill.
Q. 135. What are the duties required in the sixth commandment?
A. The duties required in the sixth commandment are, all careful studies, and lawful endeavors, to preserve the life of ourselves and others by resisting all thoughts and purposes, subduing all passions, and avoiding all occasions, temptations, and practices, which tend to the unjust taking away the life of any; by just defense thereof against violence, patient bearing of the hand of God, quietness of mind, cheerfulness of spirit; a sober use of meat, drink, physic, sleep, labor, and recreations; by charitable thoughts, love, compassion, meekness, gentleness, kindness; peaceable, mild and courteous speeches and behavior; forbearance, readiness to be reconciled, patient bearing and forgiving of injuries, and requiting good for evil; comforting and succoring the distressed, and protecting and defending the innocent.
Q. 136. What are the sins forbidden in the sixth commandment?
A. The sins forbidden in the sixth commandment are, all taking away the life of ourselves, or of others, except in case of public justice, lawful war, or necessary defense; the neglecting or withdrawing the lawful and necessary means of preservation of life; sinful anger, hatred, envy, desire of revenge; all excessive passions, distracting cares; immoderate use of meat, drink, labor, and recreations; provoking words, oppression, quarreling, striking, wounding, and whatsoever else tends to the destruction of the life of any.
Added to wishlist!
excellent!
now i wont be the only one on the FBI list!
#strengthinnumbers