Christianity and Self-Defense: A Biblical Perspective: Difference between revisions
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Christianity and Self-Defense: A Biblical Perspective (view source)
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While this is not an example of physical self-defense, Paul defends himself through legal means. This shows that standing up against injustice is not condemned, and some extend this principle to argue for the legitimacy of self-defense in extreme situations. | While this is not an example of physical self-defense, Paul defends himself through legal means. This shows that standing up against injustice is not condemned, and some extend this principle to argue for the legitimacy of self-defense in extreme situations. | ||
==The Sermon on the Mount and Radical Generosity== | |||
Another significant passage relevant to self-defense is Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon on the Mount. In '''Matthew 5:39-40 (KJV):''' | |||
''"But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. | |||
And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also."'' | |||
This passage emphasizes radical non-resistance and generosity, urging believers to surrender not only their rights but even their possessions rather than retaliate. | |||
A modern analogy can be drawn to the ''Terminator'' movies, where the Terminator, upon arriving, demands clothing. In some instances, refusal leads to harm or even death, reinforcing the idea that generosity—whether voluntary or forced—affects outcomes. If the individuals had freely given their garments, they may have avoided suffering. Though fictional, this comparison highlights the potential consequences of resisting versus yielding. | |||
==Jesus’ Rebuke of Peter’s Use of the Sword== | ==Jesus’ Rebuke of Peter’s Use of the Sword== | ||
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This statement, given after Peter attempted to defend Jesus with a sword, suggests that reliance on weapons may ultimately lead to destruction. It reinforces Jesus’ broader teachings on non-violence and trusting in God’s will rather than human force. | This statement, given after Peter attempted to defend Jesus with a sword, suggests that reliance on weapons may ultimately lead to destruction. It reinforces Jesus’ broader teachings on non-violence and trusting in God’s will rather than human force. | ||
==Jesus’ Example of Non-Violence== | |||
Another important passage to consider is '''1 Peter 2:23 (KJV):''' | |||
''"Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously."'' | |||
Jesus, even when facing persecution and suffering, did not threaten or retaliate. Instead, He entrusted Himself to God's righteous judgment. This passage reinforces the principle of responding to injustice with faith and non-violence. | |||
==Trusting in God Rather Than Weapons== | ==Trusting in God Rather Than Weapons== | ||