In the Schleitheim Confession ‘s discussion of the state’s use of the sword there is a creative tension. The sword is “outside Christ” and yet “ordained of God”. Likely because of the grave danger to Anabaptist lives that could result if this were further defined (and then misused), this creative tension was allowed to remain. In our day this undefined space has become a license for some to become what might almost be described as “apologists” for humans acting as the state in the “Red Zone” to the exclusion of calling them to the Kingdom. In an effort to challenge Kingdom Christians to rather be apologists for the Kingdom and all men joining the Kingdom (Green Zone”) I’ve created this PowerPoint slide.
I welcome critique.
Mennonite Minute 
Good thoughts and images, Matt. It seems to me that we (Anabaptists and beyond) need a fresh analysis and proclamation of what Christ wants for the Christian’s relationship to the state. Thanks for your input here and elsewhere in helping me think more accurately about these things.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great idea, Matt. Another point is the command to obey rulers.
LikeLiked by 1 person
yes! “we ought to obey God rather than men” and then we should “be subject to the higher powers”.
LikeLike