Infidels Quote by John Locke
““Though if infidels were to be converted by force, if those that are either blind or obstinate were to be drawn off from their errors by armed soldiers, we know very well that it was much more easy for Him to do it with armies of heavenly legions than for any son of the Church, how potent soever, with all his dragoons.””
About This Quote
Source Treat: A Letter Concerning T Toleration, 1689
Human conversion by force is less effective than divine intervention; earthly power cannot match spiritual authority.
In simple terms: Forceful conversion is weaker than spiritual power.
Key Takeaway
Rely on moral persuasion, not coercion.
Themes
tolerance
religion
authority
power
faith
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
theological
political
When to use this quote
- missionary work
- interfaith dialogue
- political leadership
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
theology
political philosophy
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- Can true belief arise from fear?
- What role does compassion play in conversion?
A Different Perspective
Coercion may backfire, creating resentment and resistance.
![“If someone has a Muslim background and they're willing to reject those tenets and to accept the way of life that we have and clearly will swear to place our [American] Constitution above their religion, then, of course, they will be considered infidels and heretics, but at least I would then be…” quote by Benjamin Carson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/791/benjamin-carson-955_accepting_if-someone-has-a-muslim-background-and-t_800557.jpg)
![“[M]an is not permitted without censure to follow his own thoughts in the search of truth, when they lead him ever so little out of the common road.” quote by John Locke](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9bd/john-locke-814_censorship_m-an-is-not-permitted-without-censure-to_60175.jpg)
