Christians sometimes wonder how we are supposed to rectify self-defense with “turning the other cheek.” In my estimation, there is a significant difference between defending one’s life against aggression and what is explicated in Matthew 5. We should most certainly have a merciful streak within us – even for those who take advantage of us at times – but self-defense itself is not a prohibited action for a Christian. It does little good for the cause of Christ to allow a violent burglar to kill your children (or yourself) while you stand aside and wait for the cops to come so your cheek-turning conscience can be clear.

I am fairly confident that my exegesis of Matthew 5:38-42 can help us make sense of what it means to be a non-violent person, and yet still be willing to defend ourselves and others when it is appropriate. If this matter concerns you, I urge you to read this paper when you have a free 20 minutes. If you wish, comment with questions and I’ll do my best to answer them.

For now, here is the video of freedom-loving British people defending their right to bear arms. Let us hope that our situation in the United States does not fall this far. To that end, there is a big push going on right now encouraging people to purchase The Founders’ Second Amendment by Stephen Halbrook, published by one of my favorite groups, The Independent Institute.

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The Right to Bear Arms in England

All those who know Him, rejoice in the Lord!

Update: Incidentally, historian Stanley Weintraub has written an interesting book on this topic entitled Silent Night: The Story of the World War I Christmas Truce. I’m reading it right now and will have a review out in a few days, hopefully.

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The Christmas Truce

Post from: LibertarianChristians.com

The War Prayer