Criticisms and Misunderstandings of Non-Resistance

Tolstoy addresses the criticisms and misunderstandings surrounding the doctrine of non-resistance. Both believers and non-believers often dismiss non-resistance as impractical or naive. Tolstoy counters these arguments by pointing out the moral and logical inconsistencies in justifying violence. He cites historical figures like William Lloyd Garrison and Adin Ballou, who advocated for non-resistance and faced significant opposition. Tolstoy emphasizes that the True essence of Christianity is often lost when its teachings are compromised for the sake of practicality or state interests. 'The sole escape from it for them lies in their hope that they may be able, by using the authority of the Church, of antiquity, and of their sacred office, to overawe the reader,' he critiques.