Subject
Government, Resistance to -- Religious aspects -- Christianity Books
Best books
Leo Tolstoy
"The Kingdom of God Is Within You" Christianity Not as a Mystic Religion but as a New Theory of Life
"The Kingdom of God Is Within You" by graf Leo Tolstoy is a philosophical treatise first published in 1894. Banned in Russia, this Christian anarchist work presents Tolstoy's radical interpretation of Christianity centered on universal love and absolute nonviolence. Drawing on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount and American anarchist thinkers, Tolstoy argues for dismantling all violent institutions, including governments and the state church. The book profoundly influenced Mohandas Gandhi and inspired pacifists worldwide, becoming a foundational text for nonviolent resistance movements.
Leo Tolstoy
The Kingdom of God is Within You; What is Art?
"The Kingdom of God is Within You; What is Art?" by graf Leo Tolstoy is a philosophical work written in the late 19th century. The book explores two main themes: the profound implications of Christian teachings on non-resistance to evil and a critical analysis of the nature and purpose of art. Tolstoy emphasizes that true Christianity is about embodying love and non-violence, challenging prevailing interpretations of Christ’s teachings, while also contesting the commodification of art in society. At the start of the work, Tolstoy outlines his journey of rediscovering the essence of Christianity, focusing on the commandment of non-resistance to evil. He critiques the discrepancy between the Church's doctrines and Christ's teachings, asserting that society's reliance on violence contradicts the core of Christianity. Additionally, he introduces his arguments regarding art, suggesting that art must serve moral and societal purposes rather than mere aesthetic enjoyment. The opening portion sets an introspective tone, providing a foundation for the deeper discussions that follow about humanitarianism, moral integrity, and the role of art in fostering human connection.
Leo Tolstoy
"The Kingdom of God Is Within You" Christianity Not as a Mystic Religion but as a New Theory of Life
"The Kingdom of God Is Within You" by graf Leo Tolstoy is a philosophical treatise first published in 1894. Banned in Russia, this Christian anarchist work presents Tolstoy's radical interpretation of Christianity centered on universal love and absolute nonviolence. Drawing on the Sermon on the Mount, Tolstoy argues for dismantling all violent institutions, including governments and churches that support war. His vision profoundly influenced figures like Mohandas Gandhi, who credited the book with shaping his philosophy of passive resistance that would eventually help overthrow British colonial rule in India.
Isaac Terry
The religious and loyal subject's duty considered: with regard to the present Government and the Revolution A sermon preached in the Cathedral Church of Canterbury, on Wednesday, January 30, 1722-3
"The Religious and Loyal Subject's Duty Considered: With Regard to the Present Government and the Revolution" by Isaac Terry is a sermon delivered in the Cathedral Church of Canterbury on January 30, 1723, during the early 18th century. The book serves as a theological and political treatise that emphasizes the responsibilities of subjects towards their sovereign, particularly in the context of maintaining loyalty and order in society following past political upheaval. The sermon reflects the concerns of the time regarding rebellion and civil disorder, advocating for reverence towards God and the monarchy. In the sermon, Terry articulates three key duties that he believes should guide the behavior of loyal subjects: to fear the Lord, to fear the King, and to avoid involvement with those who seek to instigate change through rebellion. He stresses that true loyalty requires not just passive obedience, but active support of the monarch's authority and an understanding of the importance of lawful government. Drawing on the tragic history of King Charles I’s execution, he warns against the dangers of rebellion and disloyalty, arguing that even discontent must be channeled through lawful means. Ultimately, Terry's message is a call for unity, piety, and steadfast loyalty to both divine authority and the governance of the state.
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