CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTORS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 19932, 28 April 1928, Page 14

CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTORS.

Sir,—Letters in your columns lor the last week or two re the Presbyterian conscientious objectors make interesting reading from all the angles of thought that have been expressed. One outstanding fact remains, that there is one law for the Friends and other sects, and another for the Presbyterian conscientious objectors. Where tKe difference of conscience comes in it would take a mental microscope to find. The Scripture grounds that have been quoted in favour of compulsory training are misfits for the present case, *as we are not now faced with tribulation, either in the State or in the Presbyterian Church. Through all the trying; times of Israel, we never read, as far as memory serves, that the prophet, priest or the faint-hearted, etc., were called upon to desecrate their office, or themselves with learning the art of war during war or peace, much more that compulsory training existed with the civilian population during the seasons of peace—but every man sat under his vine and fig tree during Solomon's reign. Israel was often reproved for putting their trust in large armies, horses, chariots and alliances with other nations,iand no war, either of defence or offence, was waged without Divinß. sanction. Israel's armies had always to leave room for Divine aid, and the nation's recognition of the same, and I think if we do the s;ime we will get on just ,is well as our noble forefathers did in the past. J. Matheson.