Christianity and Self-Defense: A Biblical Perspective: Difference between revisions
Christianity and Self-Defense: A Biblical Perspective (view source)
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==Jesus and the Instruction to Buy a Sword== | ==Jesus and the Instruction to Buy a Sword== | ||
One of the most discussed passages regarding self-defense is | One of the most discussed passages regarding self-defense 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."'' | ''"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."'' | ||
Here, Jesus appears to instruct His disciples to acquire swords, which some interpret as permission for self-defense. However, this passage is often debated, as in | Here, Jesus appears to instruct His disciples to acquire swords, which some interpret as permission for self-defense. However, this passage is often debated, as in '''Luke 22:38''', when the disciples present two swords, Jesus responds, ''"It is enough,"'' suggesting He was not promoting an armed rebellion. | ||
==The Role of Government and the Use of Force== | ==The Role of Government and the Use of Force== | ||
In | In '''Romans 13:3-4 (KJV):''' | ||
''"For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: | ''"For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: | ||
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==Defending One’s Family and Household== | ==Defending One’s Family and Household== | ||
Another verse used in discussions about self-defense is | Another verse used in discussions about self-defense is '''1 Timothy 5:8 (KJV):''' | ||
''"But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel."'' | ''"But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel."'' | ||
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==The Example of Paul Defending His Rights== | ==The Example of Paul Defending His Rights== | ||
In | In '''Acts 22:25 (KJV):''' | ||
''"And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that stood by, Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and uncondemned?"'' | ''"And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that stood by, Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and uncondemned?"'' | ||
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==Jesus’ Rebuke of Peter’s Use of the Sword== | ==Jesus’ Rebuke of Peter’s Use of the Sword== | ||
Despite the arguments in favor of self-defense, Jesus also clearly warned against violence. In | Despite the arguments in favor of self-defense, Jesus also clearly warned against violence. 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."'' | ''"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."'' | ||
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Many other verses emphasize faith in God rather than personal strength or weapons: | Many other verses emphasize faith in God rather than personal strength or weapons: | ||
- | - '''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 man. | ||
It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes."'' | 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. | ''"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."'' | In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."'' | ||
These passages reinforce that | These passages reinforce that '''faith, rather than reliance on weapons, should be the foundation of a Christian’s security.''' | ||
==Conclusion== | ==Conclusion== | ||
The Bible presents a nuanced view on self-defense. While Jesus teaches non-resistance, there are also passages that suggest preparation and protection may be permissible. | The Bible presents a nuanced view on self-defense. While Jesus teaches non-resistance, there are also passages that suggest preparation and protection may be permissible. '''Luke 22:36''', '''Romans 13:4''', and '''1 Timothy 5:8''' offer perspectives that some interpret as allowing self-defense, while '''Matthew 26:52''' and other teachings emphasize trusting God above physical means of protection. | ||
Ultimately, a Christian's response to danger should be guided by faith, prayer, and discernment, recognizing that while protection may be necessary, it must never replace trust in God’s sovereignty. | Ultimately, a Christian's response to danger should be guided by faith, prayer, and discernment, recognizing that while protection may be necessary, it must never replace trust in God’s sovereignty. | ||
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