Peace & War
This morning, as is my daily routine, I began by opening my Bible and listening to Father Mike Schmitz on Spotify. One particular episode deeply resonated with me, considering the troubling trends and global events unfolding around us. In Numbers 21, Moses recounts the battle against Sihon, the king of the Amorites, highlighting the necessity for the people of Israel to fight for the promised land as they entered it.
I strive each day to comprehend God's purpose amidst a violent world. It is clear that God does not seek violence and death for their own sake. The Book of Wisdom affirms this: "Because God did not make death, nor does he rejoice in the destruction of the living." This signifies that God's essence does not delight in violence and death. However, we inhabit a fractured and violent world where humans inflict harm on each other.
As we progress through 2024 and witness the ongoing narrative of humanity, it is evident that violence looms ahead.
“I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” -Matthew 10:16
The attribute often associated with doves, as commanded by the Lord, is commonly misinterpreted as "harmlessness" due to a mistranslation in earlier versions of the Bible, notably the King James Version. However, the accurate translation of the Greek term is "innocent." Essentially, Jesus is guiding us to be faultless in every situation, thereby preventing unnecessary provocation.
In the broader context, Matthew 10:16 reinforces the notion that violence may be justified when required. Prior to the instruction to be as innocent as doves, we are initially advised to be as wise as serpents. Throughout my years in the outdoors (around the globe) I have had numerous encounters with various venomous snakes. I observed that none actively sought to harm me, yet they all displayed a prudent readiness to defend themselves if I provoked them. While Jesus advocated for a nonviolent approach in certain circumstances, there were instances where he emphasized the importance of being armed and ready. Addressing a broader audience beyond just his disciples, Jesus unequivocally stated, "...he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one." -Luke 22:36
The Greek term for the weapon Jesus advised having is pronounced as "ma-kai-ran." It was a compact sword often carried by travelers in the ancient era for self-defense against robbers or wild animals. In contemporary times, a handgun (or even an AR-15) would be a modern equivalent. Various situations arise where individuals resort to violence to counter threats. In fact, the populace of any nation defended by a military force is indirectly involved in any violent actions carried out by their armed representatives. Stephen H. Webb, in his blog on firstthings.com, highlights how we all play a role in systems that rely on the threat of force. Similarly, George Orwell once remarked that “those who reject violence can do so because others engage in it on their behalf.”
Certain biblical passages suggest the significance of possessing a personal weapon and being ready to use it outside of military contexts. For instance, there is a divine call for a man to safeguard those under his care. One verse strongly advocates that the leader of a household has a duty to ensure the security of their family through any necessary means.
”But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.“ -1 Timothy 5:8
While the primary interpretation of this verse may center on financial provisions, it seems unreasonable to assume that the provider's obligation is limited to monetary support without considering other essential needs. Shouldn't he also be ready to defend against a threat of violence or harm posed by malicious individuals targeting his wife or daughter? Any man who neglects to safeguard his family from a violent intruder morally fails them. Inaction in the face of evil would, in essence, be participating in evil itself. Returning to the initial query regarding the acceptability of using violence to protect the innocent, Proverbs 24:11 sheds light on this issue. This verse underscores the responsibility to safeguard not only family members but also strangers who may be in need of protection.
”Deliver those who are drawn toward death, And hold back those stumbling to the slaughter.“ -Proverbs 24:11
Failing to intervene in defense of innocent and vulnerable individuals, especially when one has the ability to do so, signifies a moral lapse. This sentiment is echoed in the subsequent chapter of Proverbs:
”A righteous man who falters before the wicked Is like a murky spring and a polluted well.“ -Proverbs 25:26
Furthermore, in Psalm 94:16, the question is posed:
”Who will rise up for me against the evildoers? Who will stand up for me against the workers of iniquity?“ -Psalms 94:16
While there are additional verses that endorse justified violence, reflecting on the ones discussed here should lead to the realization that the concept of universal pacifism lacks biblical support. On the contrary, scripture emphasizes that there are circumstances where resorting to violent means for self-preservation is permissible and defending others aggressively is a moral duty.
In the mean time, we situate our lives like the Israelites situated their tents, their families and their tribes around the tabernacle. We center God in the midst of our lives. When we do this, and praise goes up first, nothing can stop us. Because He is at the center and He is on our side.