Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 10
Elam quotes Augustine redefining “turn the other cheek” as merely an “inward disposition,” then cites Reformers (Luther’s “stab, smite, slay,” Calvin’s execution of Servetus) and contrasts them with Anabaptists who said Jesus’ precepts are “given in order to be fulfilled”; where have you personally “principled away obedience,” and what concrete practices would help your group build “conviction in time of peace” so you don’t collapse into fear, propaganda, or comfort when real conflict comes?
Another way to ask: Where have you explained away Jesus’ commands so you don’t have to obey them? What habits could help your church build strong convictions in peaceful times so you don’t fall into fear, propaganda, or comfort when conflict hits?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
The transcript can’t name where you personally have “principled away obedience,” but it does give a clear pattern: redefining Jesus’ commands so they don’t require actual practice. To build conviction “in time of peace,” Elam and the discussion emphasize anchoring life in Jesus’ explicit teachings, church history that warns against compromise, and active peacemaking that proves our faith is more than talk.
- Augustine’s move is quoted and critiqued: turning the cheek is “not… bodily action, but an inward disposition,” which Elam calls “totally explaining away Jesus’ teachings.”
- Luther is quoted urging violence: “Stab, smite, slay,” showing what happens when the sword is baptized.
- Calvin’s involvement in Servetus’ execution is described (arrest, no attorney, burned with green wood).
- Elam highlights Anabaptist contrast: Grebel says Jesus’ “doctrine and precepts… are given in order to be fulfilled and put into practice,” and “True Christians use neither a worldly sword nor engage in war.”
- Ephraim says conviction must be formed before crisis: “develop good, sound conviction in time of peace… In time of war… lies and confusion.”
- Elam points to Jesus’ foundation: “whoever hears these sayings of mine and does them… built his house on a rock.”