They have to do battle with these conditions, and if possible overcome them.

Such men have in all ages represented the moral force of the world.

Inspired by benevolence and sustained by courage, they have been the mainstays of all social renovation and progress.

But for their continuous antagonism to evil conditions, the world were for the most part given over to the dominion of selfishness and vice.
All the great reformers and martyrs were antagonistic men--enemies to falsehood and evildoing.

The Apostles themselves were an organised band of social antagonists, who contended with pride, selfishness, superstition, and irreligion.