CHRISTIANS AND THE USE OF ARMS IN SELF –DEFENSE: AN APPRAISAL OF LUKE 22:36

Abstract

The pertinent question in the minds of Christians who find themselves in violently ravaged regions is, “What is the Bible’s stance against violence? Can Christians fight back when illegally mistreated by fellow countrymen in the name of religion, or should believers in Christ continue to be onlookers when their family members are being killed and their properties destroyed? This paper tends to look at the biblical response to self-defence against violent attacks on Christianity and argues whether Christians should take up arms against the invaders and stop them from harming the church or exterminating Christianity, or should they not take arms? The methodology used is a historical-critical and exegetical approach in Luke 22:36. The writer also employs this tool to unravel the mystery behind the text. We find that aside from church leaders and national leaders, those in the academic circle are also divided on the matter of self-defence as Christians respond to violence by Islamic fundamentalists and terrorists. Some scholars oppose the idea with vicious resistance, while others believe we have a God-given right to self-defence against harm and have not only the responsibility of defending others from harm but are accountable to God for their defence and protection. The writer thus submits that Christians should be guided by the Holy Spirit before they act in self-defence when they are faced with a violent attack by the enemy of their faith.