Self-Defense, 5/9/19

Lately the issue of self defense is being talked about a lot and I have been asked about it. I thought I would share what I believe. I definitely believe there is a time for self defense.

Jesus avoided capture several times before his appointed time to be crucified. He did not allow himself to be captured before his appointed time. God provided for the Jews to defend themselves in the Book of Esther. Our Constitution includes the Second Amendment which clearly implies self defense. Husbands need to defend their families. Jesus is not only Lamb, he is Lion too.

Hopefully we all know that every verse in the bible has seven levels of revelation hidden in it.

Jesus taught:

Matthew 5:39

But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.

Since the vast majority of people are right-handed, it requires a back-handed slap to slap the right cheek. In the Hebrew culture an open-handed slap had dignity but a back-handed slap was an insult. Thus turning the left cheek meant something to the effect of: "If you are going to slap me then do it with respect." This is a self-respecting, fighting attitude, a Lion and not Lamb attitude. I believe this is consistent with the idea that there is a time when we are right with God to defend ourselves.

As with anything, the key is to be led by the Spirit in all that we do. So that whether he calls upon us to act as Lamb or Lion, we will be step with his leading:

Romans 8:14 New King James Version (NKJV)

14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.

So, yes I believe that God gives us the right to defend ourselves at times. But self defense is only fighting back when attacked. Not attacking just because think you are going to be attacked.

Steve Pursell, 5/9/19