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A Change of Allegiance  /  Chapter 9, The Pilgrim Church  /  Discussion Questions
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Question 7
Peter Kelsisky calls the pope and emperor “whales who had torn the net of true faith,” and he argues that Christians should accept persecution without retaliating and even refuse military service; what does his imagery imply about what happens to the church when it mixes with the state, and where do you see similar “torn net” dynamics in today’s Christian-national assumptions?
Another way to ask: What is Kelsisky saying happens to the church when it joins with government power, using his “torn net” picture? Where do you see similar patterns today when Christianity gets mixed with nationalism?

Direct Answer Kelsisky’s imagery implies that when the church mixes with empire, powerful leaders rip apart (“tear”) the simple fabric of “true faith,” replacing it with coercion and violence rather than Christlike suffering. The transcript doesn’t give modern examples, but it invites readers to look for places where loyalty to state power reshapes Christian identity and ethics.

Support from Transcript:

  • Kelsisky’s critique is explicitly tied to church-state mixing: “Because of the association of the church mixing with the empire,” he spoke out.
  • He calls the Pope and emperor “whales who had torn the net of true faith,” portraying them as massive forces that damage authentic belief.
  • He taught “no physical power could destroy evil,” pushing back against state violence as a supposed tool of righteousness.
  • He taught Christians should “accept persecution without retaliating” and “refuse military service,” which directly opposes state demands.
  • His letter condemns “so-called Christian nations going to war with other Christian nations,” showing how national identity can override Christian ethics.
  • The chapter repeatedly contrasts state loyalty with Jesus’ way (later echoed in Dirk Willems where “loyalty to the state” overcomes compassion).
Discussion Follow-ups Where do you see Christians assuming the state can accomplish what only Christlike faithfulness can—especially through force?

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