There has always been a disagreement among Bible readers and believers as to whether or not it is right in the eyes of God for people to use physical force to defend themselves and others. There is also a disagreement about whether or not God approves of us owning firearms or other weapons. We will dive into scripture and reveal that many people misinterpret the Bible when they claim that God is against the ownership of weapons and taking action against the evil in this world.

Did Jesus Approve of Owning Weapons?

Let us start by understanding that the equivalent of a modern day firearm to biblical times would no doubt be a sword. When we look at Luke 22:36 we see Jesus speaking: "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." There is no denying that Jesus had nothing against the ownership of a weapon. In fact, he thought it necessary and commanded anyone who did not have one to find a way to get one even if it meant selling his own clothing. Jesus knew the evil that was in this world, and wanted his followers to be protected.

Did Jesus Approve of the use Weapons?

When we read in John 18:10-12 right when Jesus is about to be arrested: Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant's name was Malchus.

11 So Jesus said to Peter, "Put your sword into the sheath. Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me?" Many will read this passage and use it to argue that Jesus was against the use of force in defending oneself or another, because Jesus told peter to put his sword away. However, they fail to read the very next sentence and understand that if Peter were to prevent the arresting of Jesus, God's plan for the savior of the world would not be completed and humanity would be doomed forever. Jesus is not telling peter to put his sword up because he against the use of force, he is against the prevention of God's plan.

It must also be noted that Jesus told peter to put his sword away. Notice He did not tell Peter to throw his sword away. He did not tell Peter to go and sell his sword. He did not tell Peter to melt it down. He told him to put his sword away, and he allows Peter to keep the sword for a future time. Jesus knew the evil that was in the world, and Jesus was not against the ownership of weapons or against self defense or the defense of others.

Does the Bible Approve of Self Defense?

In Matthew 5:39 we read: "But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also." This is the most widely used verse to argue against the use of force for self defense and the defense of others. If you were to take this verse to the extreme however, and apply it to all manner of evil and aggression, you will quickly see that this verse is not commanding you to simply allow your life to be taken from you.

Jesus is speaking of a slap on the cheek. Imagine someone were to slap you on your right cheek. Does this threaten your life? Does this bring great injury to your body? Of course not. You would quickly conclude that this person is testing your pride. There is a reason Jesus speaks of a slap on the cheek and not something far more dangerous. If someone slaps you on your cheek are you going to lose your temper and go off on them? Jesus tells you not to, but instead to turn the other cheek. Try to imagine the irritation of the person who slapped you.

If this verse were to be taken to the extreme, however, it would mean that if a man breaks into your house and kills one of your children, you must turn and hand them your other child. If you believe this is what the Bible teaches then you are sadly lost and mislead. Only pure evil would promote such a thing.

Lastly, the Bible says in 1st Timothy 5:8 that anyone who does not provide for their family has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. If we believe in God we are to protect the family and friends he has given to us, as well as our own lives from all manor of evil in this world. Only evil would want good people to be helpless at the hands of evil.