Self defense and defense of others

[DogTired]

Hello all,

I am new to this forum and am reluctant to post this question, but I am confused about many things regarding living a life that honors Jesus, my Savior, and I am hoping y'all can help me sort some of those things out.

For one issue, I have heard many folks over the years make comments regarding whether or not it is sinful for a born again believer to defend themselves and loved ones against violence, (extreme attacks--life and death--no time to think, etc.) and if so, to what extent, and the opinions are all over the place so to speak. So my request is for some clarification of this subject, if that is possible, from those of you who are confident in answering.

Also, please provide reference to scriptures that support your statements, so I can study further.

If this question is not somehow appropriate here please let me know with reply so I won't repeat.

Thanks

DogTired

[Ovedya]

Moved to a more appropriate forum where the OP can get some Christian fellowship...

[Prodigalson123]

Hi Dog,

I don't believe we are called to allow anyone to hurt us or our family. When Christ spoke of turning the other cheek, I believe that He was citing that personal revenge is not something we are supposed to pursue. The commandment is thou shalt not murder, and in that context we are not to take anothers life out of anger and malice, but the OT is replete with examples where God commanded the nation of Israel through justice pertaining to the laws of the nation, and in warfare that the taking of a life is permissable. Don't get me wrong, I'm not advocating violence as the first solution, but I don't believe that God would require us to sacrifice our loved ones or ourselves .

[Marnie]

I've heard that the original translation of the Hebrew was "Thou Shalt Not Murder."

Just hearsay.

That is correct, it is not hearsay.

[Marnie]

Hi Dog tired,

Greetings and welcome.

I know of a man who prior to his salvation knew nothing but anger It manifested itself in a great deal of violence, some instigated and some in defence.

One of the most blessed experiences this man had was to allow someone that punched me in the face no violence in return, then to love that man and pray for his salvation.

He once was want to say, it's not the size of the man in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the man.

He now say's, It's not the size of the man in love, it's the size of the love in the man.

When Paul persecuted the early trusters they took up prayer not arms, for they knew we wrestle not with flesh and blood. They might have beaten Saul/Paul but they could never change him.

Blessings, H.

That was being persecuted for the Faith. Now I think a robber or rapist breaking into my house does not fall under "religious persecution." I was beaten and raped once. It will NEVER happen again. I have taken self defense classes, own several guns for protection (and the killing of small cats ). As I have said, Christians are not doormats and being pummelled when it is within your ability to defend yourself does not glorify G-d in the least.

[Pizzaguy]

As I have said, Christians are not doormats and being pummelled when it is within your ability to defend yourself does not glorify G-d in the least.

[Pizzaguy]

Hi Dog,

I don't believe we are called to allow anyone to hurt us or our family. When Christ spoke of turning the other cheek, I believe that He was citing that personal revenge is not something we are supposed to pursue. The commandment is thou shalt not murder...

If it was "thou shall not kill", then fishing and hunting would be a "free ticket to hell".

[DogTired]

Hello,

Thank you all for replying to my question. You have affirmed what I have beleived all along, that I'm not "A Doormat", and I can be confident when I defend myself and others. Key word "defend".

Thanks again.

God bless you all.

DT