Christianity and Self-Defense: A Biblical Perspective

The Christian Perspective on Self-Defense and Trusting in God

Throughout history, many Christians have debated whether self-defense aligns with the teachings of Jesus Christ. This discussion stems from key passages in the Bible that emphasize non-resistance, love for enemies, and absolute trust in God rather than worldly means of protection.

Jesus’ Teaching on Non-Resistance

One of the clearest teachings on this matter is found 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."

Here, Jesus instructs His followers to adopt a posture of radical non-resistance and selflessness. Rather than fighting back or asserting personal rights, believers are encouraged to go beyond what is demanded of them, displaying grace and surrender rather than retaliation.

Further reinforcing this idea 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 unjustly persecuted, did not seek vengeance or threaten His oppressors but placed His trust in God’s justice. This challenges the mindset of self-defense, which often stems from a desire for self-preservation rather than absolute reliance on divine providence.

Love Your Enemies

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus goes even further by commanding love toward enemies. Matthew 5:44 (KJV): states:

"But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you."

This teaching is in direct opposition to the concept of using violence for self-defense. Instead of retaliation, Jesus calls for prayer, love, and good works toward those who seek harm.

The Issue of Self-Defense

Despite these teachings, some Christians argue that self-defense is distinct from revenge or retaliation. One commonly cited passage is Luke 22:36 (KJV):

"Then said he unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one."

This verse is sometimes interpreted as an endorsement of armed self-defense. However, shortly afterward, when Peter uses a sword to defend Jesus, Christ rebukes him in Matthew 26:52 (KJV):

"Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword."

This response suggests that Jesus was not promoting violence but was instead highlighting the futility of relying on weapons. If one’s trust is in the sword, they will ultimately perish by it.

Trusting in God Rather Than Worldly Means

The Bible repeatedly emphasizes trusting in God rather than worldly solutions for security:

- Psalm 118:8-9 (KJV):

 "It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.
 It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes."

- Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV):

 "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 
 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

These passages encourage believers to rely fully on God rather than personal strength or weapons. Even in matters of personal safety, faith should be placed in divine protection rather than knives, guns, or other defensive tools.

Pray, Do Not Trust in the Flesh

The alternative to trusting in weapons or self-defense is to rely on prayer and God’s guidance. Philippians 4:6-7 (KJV): instructs:

"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

Instead of living in fear and depending on physical defense, Christians are called to pray and entrust their lives to God. This aligns with the teachings of Jesus, who consistently pointed His followers toward faith rather than fear-driven actions.

Conclusion

While self-defense may seem reasonable from a worldly perspective, it stands in contrast to the radical faith and non-resistance Jesus taught. The call for Christians is not to trust in knives, guns, or personal strength, but rather in the sovereignty of God. By turning the other cheek, loving enemies, and responding with prayer rather than violence, believers demonstrate true reliance on the Lord, in whom ultimate safety and justice reside.