Luke 22:38 (KJV)
And they said, Lord, behold, here are two swords. And he said unto them, It is enough.
It is interesting—and telling—that among the disciples there were two swords. Only two, but there were two.
It is also interesting that, over the centuries of biblical preaching and teaching, there have been so many ideas about what this text means.
I have heard preachers say that Jesus was practically mocking them: “It is enough!” In other words, “If you think you can make a difference with carnal weapons, give it a go. There is no more reason for Me to speak to you on this matter.”
I have also heard preachers say that this passage is an instruction from our Saviour that we have the right and responsibility to provide some means of self-defense.
History reveals that this question has sometimes divided Christians. The Anabaptist tradition, particularly among groups such as the Mennonites, developed a strong commitment to pacifism. Baptists, on the other hand, have generally not held pacifism as a defining doctrine.
During the English Civil War in the days of Oliver Cromwell, Baptists could even be found serving in the Parliamentary armies. The historical relationship between Baptists and Anabaptists is complicated, so I would not argue that this issue alone separated the two, but their differing attitudes toward the Christian’s participation in armed conflict are certainly noteworthy.
One thing is for sure: whatever carnal weapons the believer might procure, they are no match for the full machinery of this world.
President Biden illustrated that reality rather starkly in 2021 when, speaking about those who believed firearms might be needed to resist an oppressive government, he said that to take on the government one would need “F-15s and maybe some nuclear weapons.”
I personally am an advocate of the Second Amendment. I believe there is a lawful place for self-defense. But I am also very aware that depending upon weapons is of little use.
Being prepared is not the same as being dependent.
Our confidence must never rest in carnal strength.
Let us rather remember the name of the LORD our God.
#Luke22v38 #ChristianSelfDefense #SecondAmendment #TrustInTheLord #BibleTruth
Weapons, Wisdom, and Trust: Prepared, But Not Dependent
What do you believe Jesus meant in Luke 22:38 when He said, “It is enough”? Does this passage support self-defense, warn against dependence on weapons, or both?
Leave a comment and share your thoughts. I would like to hear how you understand this passage.
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