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What does the Bible say about self defense?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible permits the prudent defense of life and the protection of those entrusted to our care, while forbidding personal vengeance and calling believers to peace, mercy, and trust in God. Exodus 22:2-3 recognizes the legitimacy of resisting a violent intruder, and Psalm 144:1 praises God as the one who equips His people for necessary conflict. Yet Romans 12:19 and Matthew 5:38-39 forbid retaliatory revenge and demand a spirit free from hatred. Psalm 82:4 calls God’s people to rescue the weak and needy, while Romans 13:4 teaches that civil authorities bear the sword to restrain evil. Christians should therefore act with restraint, seek peace where possible, and leave final justice to the Lord.

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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Exodus 22:2-3

    [2] If the thief is found breaking in, and is struck so that he dies, there shall be no guilt of bloodshed for him. [3] If the sun has risen on him, there shall be guilt of bloodshed for him; he shall make restitution. If he has nothing, then he shall be sold for his theft.

  • Psalms 144:1

    > Blessed be Yahweh, my rock, Who teaches my hands to war, And my fingers to battle:

  • Romans 12:19

    Don't seek revenge yourselves, beloved, but give place to God's wrath. For it is written, "Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay, says the Lord."

  • Luke 22:36

    Then he said to them, "But now, whoever has a purse, let him take it, and likewise a wallet. Whoever has none, let him sell his cloak, and buy a sword.

  • Luke 11:21

    "When the strong man, fully armed, guards his own dwelling, his goods are safe.

  • Psalms 82:4

    Rescue the weak and needy. Deliver them out of the hand of the wicked."

  • 1 Timothy 5:8

    But if anyone doesn't provide for his own, and especially his own household, he has denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever.

  • Romans 13:4

    for he is a servant of God to you for good. But if you do that which is evil, be afraid, for he doesn't bear the sword in vain; for he is a minister of God, an avenger for wrath to him who does evil.

  • Matthew 5:38-39

    [38] "You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.' [39] But I tell you, don't resist him who is evil; but whoever strikes you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also.

  • Proverbs 25:26

    Like a muddied spring, and a polluted well, So is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked.

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