Defending the Flock: Exploring the Biblical Foundation of Self-Defense as laid out in Luke 22:35-38

First let’s look at Luke 22:35-38 it says:

35 And He said to them, “When I sent you without money bag, knapsack, and sandals, did you lack anything?”

So they said, “Nothing.”

36 Then He said to them, “But now, he who has a money bag, let him take it, and likewise a knapsack; and he who has no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one. 37 For I say to you that this which is written must still be accomplished in Me: ‘And He was numbered with the transgressors.’ For the things concerning Me have an end.”

38 So they said, “Lord, look, here are two swords.”

And He said to them, “It is enough.”

Our Bibles are timeless sources of guidance for all of us. Our Bibles offer us moral principles and teachings from Christ Himself. What God teaches us through His actions and the actions of His Son are beliefs and behaviors we base our lives around and strive to follow. When it comes to the concept of self-defense, some people have questioned its alignment with our Christian values. These individuals have even gone so far as to ask me “how can I be a Christian and not feel morally convicted teaching and using self-defense techniques”. I have been told I lack faith in God because I don’t depend on Him to protect me. I simply say, “if we don’t need to protect ourselves because God will protect us, then we don’t need to evangelize because God will save everyone”. Let’s take a closer look at Luke 22:35-38 and get some insight into the importance of self-defense in certain circumstances.

Examining the Passage:

1.      Practical Preparedness: In this passage, Jesus emphasizes the importance of practical preparedness. By instructing His disciples to carry a moneybag, knapsack, and even a sword, He acknowledges the need for self-reliance in certain situations. This does not imply a rejection of faith but rather a recognition of the realities of the world.

2.      Fulfillment of Scripture: Jesus mentions that the disciples carrying swords fulfills the scripture that speaks of Him being “numbered with the transgressors.” This indicates that there are times when followers of Christ may find themselves in challenging situations where self-defense becomes a necessity.

3.      Balancing Faith and Practicality: The passage suggests a balance between faith and practicality. While trust in God is paramount, it doesn’t negate the responsibility to take reasonable steps to ensure one’s safety. Owning a sword, in the context, symbolizes the need for believers to be prepared for the challenges that may come their way.

4.      Self-Defense as Stewardship: As Christians we are called to be good stewards of our lives and the resources entrusted to us. Taking measures to protect oneself, their families, or people in their care, can be viewed as an aspect of responsible stewardship. By using the tools available for self-defense (hands, feet, weapons), believers acknowledge the value of their own lives and the responsibilities attached to them.

Luke 22:35-38 provides a thought-provoking perspective on the concept of self-defense in our Christian faith. While the passage does not explicitly endorse violence, it does acknowledge the practical need for us as believers to take measures to protect ourselves when faced with danger. As with many Biblical teachings, interpretation is key, and we as believers must approach the issue of self-defense with discernment, prayer, and a deep understanding of the broader Biblical principles of love, justice, and stewardship. In doing so, I believe we can strive to strike a balance between faith and practicality in navigating the challenges of the world. You are justified in protecting yourself, your family, those in your care, and those weaker than you who cannot protect themselves.

Remember when seconds count and help is minutes away you are your own first responder.

Stay safe my friends.

Bart Goldbar

Goldbar Defense LLC