There has always been a disagreement among Bible readers and believers as to whether or not it is right in the eyes of God for people to use bodily force to protect themselves and others. There is also a disagreement about whether or not God approves of us owning firearms or other weapons. We will jump into scripture and explain that many people misinterpret the Bible when they claim that God is opposed to the ownership of weapons and taking action against the evil in this world.
Let us commence by understanding that the counterpart of a modern day firearm to biblical times would no doubt be a sword. When we look at Luke 22:36 we see Jesus speaking: "But now, he who has a money bag, let him take it, and likewise a knapsack; and he who has no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one." There is no denying that Jesus had nothing against the ownership of a weapon. In fact, he thought it imperative and commanded anyone who did not have one to find a way to get one even if it meant selling his own clothing. Jesus knew the evil that was in this world, and wanted his followers to be shielded.
When we read in John 18:10-12 right when Jesus is about to be arrested: Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant's name was Malchus.
11 So Jesus said to Peter, "Put your sword into the sheath. Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me?" Many will read this passage and use it to say that Jesus was in opposition to the use of force in defending oneself or another, since Jesus told peter to put his sword away. Still, they fail to read the very next sentence and figure out that if Peter were to prevent the arresting of Jesus, God's plan for the savior of the world would not be finished and humanity would be doomed for all time. Jesus is not telling peter to put his sword up because he opposed to the use of force, he is opposed to the prevention of God's plan.
It must also be noted that Jesus told peter to put his sword elsewhere. Notice He did not tell Peter to throw his sword away. He did not tell Peter to go and exchange his sword. He did not tell Peter to melt it down. He told him to put his sword away, and he allows Peter to keep the sword for a future time. Jesus knew the evil that was in the world, and Jesus was not opposed to the buying of weapons or against self defense or the defense of others.
In Matthew 5:39 we read: "But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also." This is the most broadly used verse to argue against the use of force for self defense and the defense of others. If you were to take this verse to the extreme however, and apply it to all manner of evil and aggression, you will quickly see that this verse is not commanding you to simply allow your life to be taken from you.
Jesus is speaking of a slap on the cheek. Imagine someone were to slap you on your right cheek. Does this threaten your life? Does this bring considerable injury to your body? Of course not. You would quickly conclude that this person is trying out your pride. There is a reason Jesus speaks of a swat on the cheek and not something far more hazardous. If someone slaps you on your cheek are you going to lose your temper and go off on them? Jesus tells you not to, but instead to turn the other cheek. Try to imagine the irritation of the person who slapped you.
If this verse were to be taken to the extreme, after all, it would mean that if a man breaks into your house and kills one of your little ones, you must turn and hand them your other child. If you maintain this is what the Bible teaches then you are sorrowfully lost and mislead. Only pure evil would promote such a thing.
Lastly, the Bible says in 1st Timothy 5:8 that anybody who does not provide for their family has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. If we believe in God we are to protect the family and friends he has given to us, as well as our own lives from all manor of badness in this world. Only evil would want good people to be incompetent at the hands of evil.
Author Resource:-
Author Collin Trenery. Use a thermostatic mixing valve to mix hot and cool water safely for use in showers and sinks around your home. Arrange your closet ground by placing all of your shoes on shoe racks for closets.
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