Some Might Interpret This as Advising Absolute Pacifism

But the context is not provided, and he is not present on earth to clarify. It is the case that one cannot wage war on evil directly nor eradicate directly, as one cannot coerce the will. One can only prevent another from committing grave evil or harm. But this charitable reading of the saint's words is probably not what he meant.

"Don't wage war on evil directly, but love Christ and His light, and evil will then retreat." +St. Porphyrios pic.twitter.com/6QNHMsRoh6

— Saint Porphyrios (@saintporphyrios) September 20, 2020