Two Powers

There are two systems of government, or two powers by which men can be governed in the world: one is the power of force, the other is the power of love. One operates from without, the other governs from within. The one is seen operating through the civil power of the world, and the other should be manifest through the Church and Kingdom of God. These two powers can be exercised in the world without conflicting with each other. Whenever men are controlled from above, whenever their hearts beat loyally to Jesus Christ, and they feel to obey the commandments of God, whenever they give ear to His Holy Spirit, that Spirit changes their carnal nature into its divine character, and they exhibit kindness meekness, gentleness, longsuffering, charity and toleration that have been spoken of. They are lifted above mundane law. When all men are converted to the truth, and come in possession of the Holy Spirit, and are actuated by it, and their souls are filled with that divine love which is an attribute of Deity, then force will be removed from the world, and by the power of love, and by it alone, can the kingdoms of the world be broken to pieces. – John G. McQuarrie, “Conference Report,” October 1906, Second Overflow Meeting., p.106

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