What Every Christian Should Know about Self-Defense

[Michie]

With recent shootings in public and in churches, the question of self-defense has been coming up lately. But first, let's be clear: What we are seeing today is not a gun problem; it’s a moral problem called sin.

Vengeance Is Not Self-Defense​

One Scripture often used to support pacifism and banning weapons is found in Proverbs 20:22: “Do not say, ‘I will recompense evil’; wait for the Lord, and He will save you.” But this scripture deals with vigilantism, not self-defense. According to Romans 13:4, one purpose of the authorities is to “execute wrath on him who practices evil.” They are God’s avengers, but we can be defenders.

Seek Peace When Possible​

As Christians, I believe that we are to seek peace at every turn and not drape the cross with the flag. But what about self-defense as a last resort and biblical mandates to protect? The Old Testament offers many examples, but what about the New Testament? It does as well. In Matthew 26:52 Jesus says to Peter, “Put your sword back into its place. For all who take the sword will perish by the sword.” Jesus didn’t denounce the sword but clarified its place. When we take premature emotionally charged action, it may cost us our life.

Buy a Sword​

Later, Jesus adds, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me?” If He had been a thief and a robber, the clubs and swords would have been justified. In my opinion, these Scriptures imply that weapons do have a place in society, although we must be careful. Additionally, in Luke 22:36, Jesus said,

“But now let the one who has a moneybag take it, and likewise a knapsack. And let the one who has no sword sell his cloak and buy one.”

What is the context of this Scripture? First, again I would err on the side of peace, but this isn’t always an option. One thing is certain: A sword was for defense. Earlier, Jesus had sent them on a peaceful mission trip where they did not need these items, but now Jesus may be implying that self-defense might become necessary. He wants them to use wisdom and be prepared.



Love Your Enemies Doesn’t Mean Hate Your Family


Continued below.

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[AV1611VET]

Keep in mind too that God taught David the martial arts.

Psalm 144:1 Blessed be the LORD my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight:

Psalm 18:34 He teacheth my hands to war, so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms.

 

[Tuur]

I wouldn't put personal self-defense on the same level as warfare. Even then, while there are just wars, not every war is just.

My understanding of self-defense is the same as in the OP.

 

[eleos1954]

With recent shootings in public and in churches, the question of self-defense has been coming up lately. But first, let's be clear: What we are seeing today is not a gun problem; it’s a moral problem called sin.

Vengeance Is Not Self-Defense​

One Scripture often used to support pacifism and banning weapons is found in Proverbs 20:22: “Do not say, ‘I will recompense evil’; wait for the Lord, and He will save you.” But this scripture deals with vigilantism, not self-defense. According to Romans 13:4, one purpose of the authorities is to “execute wrath on him who practices evil.” They are God’s avengers, but we can be defenders.

Seek Peace When Possible​

As Christians, I believe that we are to seek peace at every turn and not drape the cross with the flag. But what about self-defense as a last resort and biblical mandates to protect? The Old Testament offers many examples, but what about the New Testament? It does as well. In Matthew 26:52 Jesus says to Peter, “Put your sword back into its place. For all who take the sword will perish by the sword.” Jesus didn’t denounce the sword but clarified its place. When we take premature emotionally charged action, it may cost us our life.

Buy a Sword​

Later, Jesus adds, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me?” If He had been a thief and a robber, the clubs and swords would have been justified. In my opinion, these Scriptures imply that weapons do have a place in society, although we must be careful. Additionally, in Luke 22:36, Jesus said,




What is the context of this Scripture? First, again I would err on the side of peace, but this isn’t always an option. One thing is certain: A sword was for defense. Earlier, Jesus had sent them on a peaceful mission trip where they did not need these items, but now Jesus may be implying that self-defense might become necessary. He wants them to use wisdom and be prepared.



Love Your Enemies Doesn’t Mean Hate Your Family


Continued below.

Christian News Headlines - Breaking and Trending Religion News

Your source for the latest Christian news and religion news headlines from the United States and the world. Trending topics and news stories that are important to your Christian faith.

www.crosswalk.com

We are to indeed seek peace ... but not at the expense of compromising the word of God. Most times we can flee from evil ... however ... if placed in the situation of life threat it is perfectly natural to defend oneself by whatever means we have available to us.

 

[FireDragon76]

Jesus is pretty clear, don't repay evil with evil.

Most of what passes for self-defense culture in the US is really just an excuse for people to entertain sin.

 

[FireDragon76]

Keep in mind too that God taught David the martial arts.

Psalm 144:1 Blessed be the LORD my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight:

Psalm 18:34 He teacheth my hands to war, so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms.

Perhaps why traditional Protestant exegesis of Scriptures is so lacking. The true fight for the Christian isn't against flesh and blood, but powers and principalities laying claim to our soul.