Put up Again Thy Sword

Put up Again Thy Sword

It's unfortunate that so many believers are under the impression that we have a God-given right to retaliate when attacked or provoked. But Jesus, in no uncertain terms, has effectively disarmed his followers when he was arrested. What did Jesus say when Peter was quick to defend him with force? "Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.[1]

Truth #1

Jesus said this because prophecy had to be fulfilled; without the death, burial, and resurrection, our faith is in vain.[2] 

Truth #2

Jesus' followers are to suffer and "resist not."[3] In Luke 22:38, it's written his followers came to him, And they said, Lord, behold, here are two swords. And he said unto them, It is enough. Evangelicals cite this verse to prove they have a "God-given right" to own any firearm and use it against a threat. But, the Lord they supposedly worship and follow didn't use that "right" himself, and he rebuked those who would, saying, "…all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword"! Either God is confused, or the evangelicals are. 

Rather, we're called to lay down our lives, not take others', just like Jesus did.[4]

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[1] Matthew 26:52, KJV

[2] 1 Corinthians 15:14,17

[3] Matthew 5:39; John 15:20

[4]  1 John 3:16