What's your view on Self-Defense?

[The_Patriot21]

I will add one stipulation. There is one exception to my wont use force to protect property...and that is if the perp wants a lethal weapon such as a firearm. I will do everything in my power to prevent them from taking a gun, including lethal force. 

And its not because im THAT attached to my guns, its because i dont want them using my guns on me or someone I love.

[missmuffet]

Question: "What does the Bible say about self-defense?"

Answer: The Bible gives no all-encompassing statement on self-defense. Some passages seem to speak of God’s people being pacifistic (Proverbs 25:21–22; Matthew 5:39; Romans 12:17). Yet there are other passages that approve of self-defense. Under what circumstances is personal self-defense appropriate?
The proper use of self-defense has to do with wisdom, understanding, and tact. In Luke 22:36, Jesus tells His remaining disciples, “If you don’t have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one.” Jesus knew that now was the time when His followers would be threatened, and He upheld their right to self-defense. Just a short time later, Jesus is arrested, and Peter takes a sword and cuts off someone’s ear. Jesus rebukes Peter for that act (verses 49–51). Why? In his zeal to defend the Lord, Peter was standing in the way of God’s will. Jesus had told His disciples multiple times that He must be arrested, put on trial, and die (e.g., Matthew 17:22–23). In other words, Peter acted unwisely in that situation. We must have wisdom regarding when to fight and when not to.

Exodus 22 gives some clues about God’s attitude toward self-defense: “If a thief is caught breaking in at night and is struck a fatal blow, the defender is not guilty of bloodshed; but if it happens after sunrise, the defender is guilty of bloodshed” (Exodus 22:2–3). Two basic principles taught in this text are the right to own private property and the right to defend that property. The full exercise of the right to self-defense, however, depended on the situation. No one should be too quick to use deadly force against another, even someone who means to do him harm. If someone was set upon by a thief in the middle of the night and, in the confusion of the moment the would-be thief was killed, the Law did not charge the homeowner with murder. But, if the thief was caught in the house during the day, when the homeowner was unlikely to be awoken from sleep, then the Law forbade the killing of the thief. Essentially, the Law said that homeowners shouldn’t be quick to kill or attack thieves in their home. Both situations could be considered self-defense, but deadly force was expected to be a last resort, used only in the event of a panicked “surprise attack” scenario where the homeowner is likely to be confused and disoriented. In the case of a nighttime attack, the Law granted the homeowner the benefit of the doubt that, apart from the darkness and confusion of the attack, he would not intentionally use lethal force against a thief. Even in the case of self-defense against a thief, a godly person was expected to try to restrain the assailant rather than immediately resort to killing him.

Paul engaged in self-defense on occasion, although non-violently. When he was about to be flogged by the Romans in Jerusalem, Paul quietly informed the centurion with the scourge that he, Paul, was a Roman citizen. The authorities were immediately alarmed and began to treat Paul differently, knowing they had violated Roman law by even putting him in chains. Paul had used a similar defense in Philippi—after he was flogged—in order to secure an official apology from those who had violated his rights (Acts 16:37–39).

The persistent widow in Jesus’ parable kept pounding on the judge’s door with the repeated plea, “Grant me justice against my adversary” (Luke 18:3). This widow was not about to give up and let her enemy take advantage of her; through the proper channels, she pursued self-defense.

Jesus’ command to “turn the other cheek” (Matthew 5:39) has to do with our response to personal slights and offenses. Some situations may call for self-defense, but not retaliation in kind. The context of Jesus’ command is His teaching against the idea of “eye for eye, and tooth for tooth” (verse 38). Our self-defense is not a vengeful reaction to an offense. In fact, many offenses can simply be absorbed in forbearance and love.

The Bible never forbids self-defense, and believers are allowed to defend themselves and their families. But the fact that we are permitted to defend ourselves does not necessarily mean we must do so in every situation. Knowing God’s heart through reading His Word and relying on “the wisdom that comes from heaven” (James 3:17) will help us know how to best respond in situations that might call for self-defense.

https://www.gotquestions.org/self-defense.html

Edited April 24, 2021 by missmuffet

[Whyme]

1 hour ago, missmuffet said:

Question: "What does the Bible say about self-defense?"

Answer: The Bible gives no all-encompassing statement on self-defense. Some passages seem to speak of God’s people being pacifistic (Proverbs 25:21–22; Matthew 5:39; Romans 12:17). Yet there are other passages that approve of self-defense. Under what circumstances is personal self-defense appropriate?
The proper use of self-defense has to do with wisdom, understanding, and tact. In Luke 22:36, Jesus tells His remaining disciples, “If you don’t have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one.” Jesus knew that now was the time when His followers would be threatened, and He upheld their right to self-defense. Just a short time later, Jesus is arrested, and Peter takes a sword and cuts off someone’s ear. Jesus rebukes Peter for that act (verses 49–51). Why? In his zeal to defend the Lord, Peter was standing in the way of God’s will. Jesus had told His disciples multiple times that He must be arrested, put on trial, and die (e.g., Matthew 17:22–23). In other words, Peter acted unwisely in that situation. We must have wisdom regarding when to fight and when not to.

Exodus 22 gives some clues about God’s attitude toward self-defense: “If a thief is caught breaking in at night and is struck a fatal blow, the defender is not guilty of bloodshed; but if it happens after sunrise, the defender is guilty of bloodshed” (Exodus 22:2–3). Two basic principles taught in this text are the right to own private property and the right to defend that property. The full exercise of the right to self-defense, however, depended on the situation. No one should be too quick to use deadly force against another, even someone who means to do him harm. If someone was set upon by a thief in the middle of the night and, in the confusion of the moment the would-be thief was killed, the Law did not charge the homeowner with murder. But, if the thief was caught in the house during the day, when the homeowner was unlikely to be awoken from sleep, then the Law forbade the killing of the thief. Essentially, the Law said that homeowners shouldn’t be quick to kill or attack thieves in their home. Both situations could be considered self-defense, but deadly force was expected to be a last resort, used only in the event of a panicked “surprise attack” scenario where the homeowner is likely to be confused and disoriented. In the case of a nighttime attack, the Law granted the homeowner the benefit of the doubt that, apart from the darkness and confusion of the attack, he would not intentionally use lethal force against a thief. Even in the case of self-defense against a thief, a godly person was expected to try to restrain the assailant rather than immediately resort to killing him.

Paul engaged in self-defense on occasion, although non-violently. When he was about to be flogged by the Romans in Jerusalem, Paul quietly informed the centurion with the scourge that he, Paul, was a Roman citizen. The authorities were immediately alarmed and began to treat Paul differently, knowing they had violated Roman law by even putting him in chains. Paul had used a similar defense in Philippi—after he was flogged—in order to secure an official apology from those who had violated his rights (Acts 16:37–39).

The persistent widow in Jesus’ parable kept pounding on the judge’s door with the repeated plea, “Grant me justice against my adversary” (Luke 18:3). This widow was not about to give up and let her enemy take advantage of her; through the proper channels, she pursued self-defense.

Jesus’ command to “turn the other cheek” (Matthew 5:39) has to do with our response to personal slights and offenses. Some situations may call for self-defense, but not retaliation in kind. The context of Jesus’ command is His teaching against the idea of “eye for eye, and tooth for tooth” (verse 38). Our self-defense is not a vengeful reaction to an offense. In fact, many offenses can simply be absorbed in forbearance and love.

The Bible never forbids self-defense, and believers are allowed to defend themselves and their families. But the fact that we are permitted to defend ourselves does not necessarily mean we must do so in every situation. Knowing God’s heart through reading His Word and relying on “the wisdom that comes from heaven” (James 3:17) will help us know how to best respond in situations that might call for self-defense.

https://www.gotquestions.org/self-defense.html

The reason Jesus rebuked Peter is because he never meant for him to use a sword. The scripture doesnt sound like it refers to self defense but prophecy. In my opinion. This doesnt mean self defense is right or wrong however. 

 

Luke 22:35-38

English Standard Version

Scripture Must Be Fulfilled in Jesus

35 And he said to them, “When I sent you out with no moneybag or knapsack or sandals, did you lack anything?” They said, “Nothing.” 36 He said to them, “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. 37 For I tell you that this Scripture must be fulfilled in me: ‘And he was numbered with the transgressors.’ For what is written about me has its fulfillment.” 38 And they said, “Look, Lord, here are two swords.” And he said to them, “It is enough.”

[Marathoner]

23 hours ago, ArmsOpenWide said:

I'm looking for your scripturally backed opinions on whether the Bible condones self-defense (especially use of deadly force in self-defense or defense of one's family)

There are some who say the Bible would support defending oneself against, say, an invader or somebody trying to kill you. Others would say that no, we should never use violence to defend ourselves because God is our defense.

What's your take? I'm also looking for scriptures that support different points of view.

I don't seek to defend myself. I've been tested this way many times over the years, especially here where the Lord sent me. This is a dangerous part of town but I'm not afraid of the evildoer. I'm confident of this very thing, that whatever befalls me is the will of God who is my provider. The Spirit of God came to me when I was almost dead so what do I have to fear? Nothing. 

 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you." (Matthew 5:38-42 ESV)

Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. For

“Whoever desires to love life
    and see good days,
let him keep his tongue from evil
    and his lips from speaking deceit;
let him turn away from evil and do good;
    let him seek peace and pursue it.
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
    and his ears are open to their prayer.
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
(1 Peter 3:8-12 ESV)

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:14-21 ESV)

I cannot tell others what they ought to do nor will I do such a thing. Let everyone judge for themselves. 

Edited April 24, 2021 by Marathoner
typos

[OneLight]

I don't worry about self defense, but the defense of those who cannot defend themselves.  What shall we do if we see someone weak being preyed upon? 

Edited April 24, 2021 by OneLight
spelling

[OneLight]

10 minutes ago, Josheb said:

"...being preyed upon..."

 

You can pray upon others and me all you like .

Nice catch.  Thanks ... changed.

[Marathoner]

4 hours ago, Josheb said:

One rule does not fit all occasions. 

Agreed. I can only judge for myself, with the understanding that my brothers and sisters might not find themselves in the same position I'm in: I have no family and I'm not married. I've been given opportunities to come to the aid of another and I have done just that, though I handled it differently than others might elect to do. 

Not too long ago a resident of the homeless shelter where I work did his very best to assault me; however, he wasn't able to lay a finger on me. When he demanded that I let him do this, calling me a coward and whatnot, I calmly informed the fellow that I had his best interests in mind. He was already in a considerable amount of trouble --- he didn't need to add an interaction with law enforcement to his woes --- and I didn't want to see that happen to the man. He relented and stormed off. 

The staff meeting was rather lively the next morning. The majority consensus: my would-be attacker was going to be expelled from the program immediately, but I argued for a second chance. Management was not expecting this and this had the effect of inspiring staff in the room to agree with my advocacy.

The man changed as a result. Whenever we crossed paths for the next week or so he would beg for my forgiveness until I finally said, "What do you need forgiveness for?" He got the message.  

Edited April 24, 2021 by Marathoner
typo

[missmuffet]

2 hours ago, OneLight said:

I don't worry about self defense, but the defense of those who cannot defend themselves.  What shall we do if we see someone weak being preyed upon? 

Call 911. That is the safest way to handle it. 

[other one]

21 minutes ago, missmuffet said:

Call 911. That is the safest way to handle it. 

and what do you do for the 10 minutes to an hour it takes for someone to get there to help. (Depending on where you are).   

[walla299]

53 minutes ago, missmuffet said:

Call 911. That is the safest way to handle it. 

 

29 minutes ago, other one said:

and what do you do for the 10 minutes to an hour it takes for someone to get there to help. (Depending on where you are).   

Yep. When seconds count the police may be minutes (to an hour) away.