Sixthly, Because the Prophet foretold, That [164]there should none hurt nor kill in all the Holy Mountain of the Lord; but outward War is appointed for killing and destroying.
[164] Isa. 11. 9.
Seventhly, Because Christ said, That [165]his Kingdom is not of this World, and therefore that his Servants shall not fight; therefore those that fight are not his Disciples nor Servants.
[165] John 18. 36.
Eighthly, Because he reproved Peter for the Use of the Sword, saying, [166]Put up again thy Sword into his Place: For all they that take the Sword, shall perish with the Sword. Concerning which Tertullian speaks well, Lib. de Idol. “How shall he fight in Peace without a Sword, which the Lord did take away? For although Soldiers came to John, and received a Form of Observation; if also the Centurion believed afterwards, he disarmed every Soldier in disarming of Peter.” Idem. de Coron. Mil. asketh, “Shall it be lawful to use the Sword, the Lord saying, That he that useth the Sword, shall perish by the Sword?”
[166] Mat. 26. 52.
Ninthly, Because the Apostle admonisheth Christians, [167]That they defend not themselves, neither revenge by rendering Evil for Evil; but give Place unto Wrath, because Vengeance is the Lord’s. Be not overcome of Evil, but overcome Evil with Good. If thine Enemy hunger, feed him; If he thirst, give him Drink. But War throughout teacheth and enjoineth the quite contrary.
[167] Rom. 12. 19.
Tenthly, Because [168]Christ calls his Children to bear his Cross, not to crucify or kill others; to Patience, not to Revenge; to Truth and Simplicity, not to fraudulent Stratagems of War, or to play the Sycophant, which John himself forbids; to flee the Glory of this World, not to acquire it by warlike Endeavours; therefore War is altogether contrary unto the Law and Spirit of Christ.