The Use of Discipline and Coercion in Enforcing Faith

Augustine discusses the use of discipline and coercion within the church to uphold the faith. He emphasizes the importance of disciplining those who deviate from the accepted beliefs and in extreme cases, using coercion to bring them back. Augustine argues that while teaching is ideal, sometimes fear or punishment can also be effective in guiding individuals towards correct beliefs. He presents examples highlighting the need for firmness in enforcing religious doctrine while also appealing to the principles of mercy and charity.