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I just found a great article on Self-Defense at Full Contact Christianity: http://fullcontactchristianity.org/2008/05/21/a-biblical-view-of-self-defense/I don't know if the link will show up in this post, but there it is.Art
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Thanks for the link, I look forward to reading it.
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Hello,Yes, a very interesting read and very viable for understanding the right to defend ones self. I have always found that ones motivation is the over riding factor in whether something is acceptable or not. Even Jesus got mad at the Money Changers in the Temple and threw them out......certainly not a Self Defense situation but it can show that sometimes force is needed at times. FWIW, I believe that many who opt for the pacifist approach do not truly understand the "Turn the other Cheek" teachings. While the Bible does teach that it is better to repay evil with good, it also teaches that there is a time for everything, including War. If one believes the Bible is true then one must accept that God is not only Loving but Just. A part of Justice is discipline. Also, when attacked one does have a right to defend oneself. Of course, it would be better to be able to convert the attacker and convince them of the error of their ways, but that is not always possible nor prudent. I believe that there is nothing wrong with defending oneself or ones loved ones if attacked. Of course I also believe that such defense should be proportionate to the attack. Just because one has the means to kill does not mean that such a reaction is always justified. Sorry if I ramble on a bit. Peace,Dave
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A good discussion topic, one that invokes thought and personal soul searching.I firmly believe that the Bible is the inspired word of God, and true.
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OK, I'll bite.
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I could list quite a few examples of what I mean by that statement, but in general I will describe it as “evil” and those that are influenced by it……and act/live accordingly.
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This is an interesting post. The question is basically asking is it ok to fight if it were in the situation of self defense. Not only do I believe it is ok to defend yourself and others but it is ok to act offensively in the service of your country or if your job requires it. I am a Christian proudly and am a proud cop. Before I was a cop, I was involved in the private sector on a military level. I have seen my share of conflict. I also was a bodyguard for a popular Evangelist and saw plenty of conflict there as well. I believe that I have an annointing by God to serve and protect others. My pastor asked me to find someone in the bible that inspired me and proved my thoughts. If you study the life of King David, you will find that he was one of the most ferocious warriors this world has ever known. He was feared by many nations and was known as the red-headed devil. He also hired himself out and it was known that if you had a war that needed winning just hire David and his men! Do you think David was a practitioner of the Arts? My money says yes!Quote: "The Only Thing Necessary For The Triumph Of Evil Is For Good Men To Do Nothing"
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Strange that anyone would read the Bible and then associate Christianity with pacifism. Supposed Christian pacifists like Tolstoy or Thoreau did not believe in Christianity as commonly understood. They were definitely anti-church, and more akin to transcendentalists and universalists who liked some concepts in the Bible.I can’t really conceive of a Christianity that has any authenticity not being violent and unruly. Christians, after all, believe that they are innately evil and vile beasts: and when you believe something long enough, you make it true.
I took this quote from the original article comments. What he saying is absolutely correct. but as I should say a really debatable topic.
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We have a new member who has some interesting perspectives on their website.
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That is a great post. I think it is important for people to know that as Christians we don't necessarily train our bodies to go out and wage war. I do however train my body because when the war is brought to me, I will fight back with ferocity and skill. The bible teaches us to be forgiving and understanding but by no means are we to be somebodies door mat to wipe their feet on.I believe we should train ourselves as well so we don't have to fight. When a person projects strength and focus, they are less likely to be confronted by conflict. “Peace Through Superior Fire Power”!
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For whatever it may be worth, my convictions are coming from a independent fundamental Baptist perspective…one I happen to share..."And he said unto them, When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any thing? And they said, Nothing. 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. For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished in me, And he was reckoned among the transgressors: for the things concerning me have an end. And they said, Lord, behold, here are two swords. And he said unto them, It is enough. "(Luke 22:35-38)I find this passage interesting on at least three points...1. Jesus is speaking (therefore it has a heavy weight of authority)2. A sword is specifically named as a weapon (highlighting lethal force)3. Amongst twelve men Jesus said, of 2 swords,
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