Subject: You shall not Murder, then told too?? |
Bible Note: I'm thinking we may be at an impasse here. However, I've really enjoyed the discourse, and friendly "debate" on the Word can only serve to make us stronger. It could very well be that my thoughts on this passage are "off" and I am looking for justification for self-defense in an area of scripture that was not meant for this purpose. However, I feel that taking this passage along with several others (and particularly when you do not discount the Old Testament), there is ample evidence for justified self-defense. I will remain adamant, however, that our Lord would not, and even could not, advocate the sin of breaking both the 6th and the 8th commandments in the taking of "necessities" by force with a sword. (2 Corinthians 5:21) If there is a commentary that is advocating this position, then I say we hold that commentary to the light of scripture to see whether to trust the commentary or not. This type of behaviour would be contradictory to the character and sinless nature of our Lord as is spelled out explicitly in scripture. One thought to always keep in mind....scripture is infallible and profitable for reproof and doctrine (2 Timothy 3:16). However, commentaries on the scripture are simply men's opinions, albeit based on other scriptures. We need to sharpen our own Word skills so as to "rightly divide the Word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15) without relying entirely on the interpretations and opinions of other mere mortals. BTW - On the issue of the disciples hiding after the death of Jesus before the resurrection, it shows they had a fear of the government, in that the government may come after them next. I'd be the first to agree that 12 guys and two swords would be no match for the entire Roman army, headed by Ceaser himself. :-) But I think the case can be made that the common thief or criminal would have a hard time attacking a group of twelve men with two swords, especially when several of these guys were fishermen (manual, muscle building labor). Anyway, I've enjoyed this, and if you'd like to keep at a for a while, I'm game. Otherwise, we can walk away and "agree to disagree." |