Self-defense is a topic that raises ethical and moral questions, and the Bible offers insights into how to navigate this complex issue. Today, we will explore verses that discuss the concept of self-defense, shedding light on the principles of protecting oneself and loved ones while upholding values of peace and justice.
Together, let us explore the scriptures that provide guidance on this challenging aspect of our lives.
Bible Verses About Self Defense
Exodus 22:2-3
“If a thief is caught breaking in at night and is struck a fatal blow, the defender is not guilty of bloodshed; but if it happens after sunrise, the defender is guilty of bloodshed.”
This passage from Exodus acknowledges the right to self-defense in cases of protecting one’s life and property. It distinguishes between lawful self-defense at night and excessive force during daylight hours when the threat may be less severe. It emphasizes the importance of discernment and wise judgment in defending oneself.
Proverbs 25:26
“Like a muddied spring or a polluted well are the righteous who give way to the wicked.”
This proverb warns against compromising one’s integrity or yielding to the wicked. It suggests that the righteous should stand firm and defend what is right, even in the face of opposition or adversity. In the context of self-defense, it encourages believers to hold on to their moral principles and not allow themselves to be overcome or influenced by evil.
Psalm 82:4
“Rescue the weak and needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”
This verse highlights the responsibility of protecting the vulnerable and weak from harm. It implies a call to action to help those who cannot defend themselves and deliver them from the clutches of the wicked. It aligns with the idea of self-defense as a means of protecting oneself and others from unjust violence or oppression.
Luke 22:36
“And He said to them, ‘But now, let him who has a money bag take it, and likewise a knapsack; and let him who has no sword sell his garment and buy one.'”
In this passage, Jesus instructs his disciples to prepare for challenging times ahead by obtaining a sword. While some interpret this metaphorically, it can also be seen as a practical endorsement of self-defense. Jesus acknowledges the need to protect oneself and indicates that having a sword can be a reasonable means of doing so in certain circumstances.
Nehemiah 4:14
“And I looked and arose and said to the nobles and to the officials and to the rest of the people, ‘Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes.'”
In the face of opposition and threats, Nehemiah encouraged the people to stand strong and defend their loved ones and their homes. He reminded them to trust in God’s greatness and strength as they fought for the well-being and safety of their families. This verse speaks to the idea of self-defense as a means of protecting those we care about and preserving what is important to us.
Psalm 18:39
“You armed me with strength for battle; you humbled my adversaries before me.”
David praises God as the source of his strength and the one who equipped him for battle. This verse can be interpreted as a reminder that God not only supports our self-defense efforts but also empowers us to prevail over our enemies. It emphasizes the importance of relying on God’s strength and guidance in times of conflict and danger.
2 Samuel 22:40
“You armed me with strength for battle; you humbled my adversaries beneath me.”
Similar to the previous verse, this passage further emphasizes God as the provider of strength for warfare. It depicts the idea that God not only strengthens but also subdues our adversaries. It reaffirms the notion of self-defense as a justified response when facing opposition and the confidence that comes from relying on God’s assistance.
Psalm 144:1
“Praise be to the Lord my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle.”
This psalm acknowledges God’s role as a trainer for war and battle. It recognizes that God equips believers with the necessary skills and abilities to defend themselves and engage in combat if needed. While the context may extend beyond physical combat, it affirms the concept that self-defense is a valid form of protection.
Esther 8:11
“The king’s edict granted the Jews in every city the right to assemble and protect themselves; to destroy, kill, and annihilate the armed men of any nationality or province who might attack them.”
In the book of Esther, the Jewish people were allowed to defend themselves against those who sought to harm them. This verse emphasizes the right to assemble and protect oneself through necessary means, including the use of force, in the face of potential attacks. It highlights the significance of self-defense as a means to preserve life and overcome threats.
Ezekiel 33:6
“But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet to warn the people and the sword comes and takes someone’s life, that person’s life will be taken because of their sin, but I will hold the watchman accountable for their blood.”
This verse illustrates the importance of warning others about impending danger. It emphasizes the responsibility of individuals to protect and sound the alarm to preserve the lives of those around them. This can be seen as an endorsement for self-defense as a means of safeguarding oneself and others from harm.
Psalm 82:4
“Rescue the weak and needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”
This verse highlights the responsibility of protecting the vulnerable and weak from harm. It implies a call to action to help those who cannot defend themselves and deliver them from the clutches of the wicked. It aligns with the idea of self-defense as a means of protecting oneself and others from unjust violence or oppression.
John 15:13
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
This verse speaks of the ultimate sacrifice of laying down one’s life for their friends. While not directly addressing self-defense, it underscores the value of protecting and defending the lives of others. It can be understood as an inspiration to act in self-defense when it is necessary to preserve the lives of loved ones or innocent individuals.
Psalm 139:19
“If only you, God, would slay the wicked! Away from me, you who are bloodthirsty!”
This verse expresses a desire for God to deal with the wicked and violent. It suggests the importance of confronting and resisting evil, even if it means using force. As believers, we can seek justice and protect ourselves from those who pose a threat, understanding that God’s desire is for righteousness and the elimination of wickedness.
1 Samuel 17:46
“This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands, and I’ll strike you down and cut off your head. This very day, I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds and the wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel.”
David’s words before facing Goliath illustrate a declaration of trust in God’s deliverance and confidence in his ability to overcome an enemy. While this passage is specific to David’s situation, it can be seen as an encouragement to rely on God’s strength when facing threats and to take action in self-defense when necessary.
Matthew 5:39
“But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.”
This verse, often debated in the context of self-defense, advocates for non-retaliation and turning the other cheek when faced with personal offenses. While it emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and non-violence in interpersonal relationships, it does not forbid the act of self-defense in situations involving physical harm or immediate danger.
Romans 12:17-21
“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord. On the contrary: ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
These verses from Romans emphasize the importance of living peaceably with others, seeking reconciliation instead of revenge. While they encourage forgiveness and non-retaliation in personal interactions, they do not negate the principle of self-defense when faced with threats to life and safety. In the face of evil, believers are called to respond with love and goodness, but this does not preclude the use of necessary force to protect oneself or others.
Matthew 10:16
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”
Jesus’s words to his disciples acknowledge the reality of dangers and adversaries they would encounter. While the verse does not explicitly refer to self-defense, it implies the need for caution and wisdom when navigating difficult and potentially threatening situations. It encourages believers to be discerning and resourceful while maintaining their innocence and integrity.
1 Timothy 5:8
“Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”
This verse stresses the responsibility of believers to provide for and protect their families. While primarily addressing the duty of financial provision, it carries implications for physical protection as well. Self-defense can be seen as a means to fulfill the obligation of safeguarding the well-being and security of one’s loved ones.
Proverbs 3:27-28
“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due when it is in your power to act. Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you’—when you already have it with you.”
These verses underline the importance of helping others when it is within our capacity to do so. While they do not specifically address self-defense, they imply a responsibility to protect and assist those in need, including oneself. It encourages believers to act promptly and not postpone providing aid, which can include the use of self-defense measures.
Psalm 7:10
“My shield is God Most High, who saves the upright in heart.”
This verse emphasizes God’s role as a shield and protector of the upright in heart. It highlights the belief that God is a source of safety and security, and He can be trusted in times of danger. While it does not directly discuss self-defense, it echoes the importance of relying on God’s providence and guidance in all aspects of life, including situations where self-defense may be necessary.
Psalm 23:4
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
This well-known psalm speaks of finding solace and comfort in God’s presence amidst challenging circumstances. It reassures believers that God’s guidance and protection are ever-present, even when faced with the most threatening situations. It encourages a sense of trust and dependence on God in times of danger, including the moments when self-defense becomes necessary.
Genesis 14:14-16
“When Abram heard that his relative had been taken captive, he called out the 318 trained men born in his household and went in pursuit as far as Dan. During the night, Abram divided his men to attack them and he routed them, pursuing them as far as Hobah, north of Damascus. He recovered all the goods and brought back his relative Lot and his possessions, together with the women and the other people.”
This account of Abram (later known as Abraham) showcases his proactive response to rescue his captured relative, Lot. While not directly mentioning self-defense, it exemplifies taking action to protect others and recover what has been taken unjustly. It suggests a righteous and justified use of force to defend against and overcome evil.
Ephesians 6:11-13
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”
In this passage, Paul speaks metaphorically about putting on the full armor of God to withstand the schemes of the devil. While focusing on spiritual warfare, it underscores the need for believers to be prepared and stand firm in the face of evil. It implies a readiness to defend oneself and others against the influences and attacks of darkness, both physically and spiritually.
Psalm 82:4
“Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”
This verse highlights the responsibility of protecting the vulnerable and weak from harm. It implies a call to action to help those who cannot defend themselves and deliver them from the clutches of the wicked. It aligns with the idea of self-defense as a means of protecting oneself and others from unjust violence or oppression.
Proverbs 6:27-29
“Can a man scoop fire into his lap without his clothes being burned? Can a man walk on hot coals without his feet being scorched? So is he who sleeps with another man’s wife; no one who touches her will go unpunished.”
While this verse primarily warns against adultery, it illustrates the concept of natural consequences resulting from one’s actions. By extension, it suggests that self-defense is a reasonable response to protect oneself from the harmful consequences of someone else’s actions. It recognizes the importance of taking measures to guard against potential harm and safeguard one’s well-being.
Jeremiah 51:20-23
“‘You are my war club, my weapon for battle—with you, I shatter nations, with you, I destroy kingdoms, with you, I shatter horse and rider, with you, I shatter chariot and driver, with you, I shatter man and woman, with you, I shatter old man and youth, with you, I shatter young man and young woman, with you, I shatter shepherd and flock, with you, I shatter farmer and oxen, with you, I shatter governors and officials.'”
While this passage is contextualized within the prophecy against Babylon, it demonstrates the imagery of God using nations and individuals as instruments of His judgment. It illustrates the idea that God can empower and equip individuals to overcome their enemies and shatter their adversaries. It can be seen in the light of self-defense as a means to resist evil and protect oneself against those who pose a threat.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Bad Company
What Does the Bible Say About Self Defense?
When examining the question of what the Bible says about self-defense, we find that the scriptures do offer some guidance, although the guidance may not be as explicit or comprehensive as one might hope. It’s important to remember that interpretations can vary among different Christian denominations, and this is a topic where opinions can differ.
Old Testament Perspective
In the Old Testament, there are instances where self-defense or the defense of one’s family and property is implied or even encouraged. For example, in Exodus 22:2-3, it is written, “If a thief is found breaking in and is struck so that he dies, there shall be no bloodguilt for him; but if the sun has risen on him, there shall be bloodguilt for him.” This suggests that defending one’s home from an intruder is acceptable under certain circumstances.
Additionally, in Nehemiah 4:14, it is said, “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes.” This verse implies the need for self-defense when facing external threats.
New Testament Perspective
In the New Testament, the teachings of Jesus emphasize non-violence and turning the other cheek. In Matthew 5:38-39, Jesus says, “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.” This teaching promotes a non-retaliatory attitude.
In Matthew 26:52, when Peter drew a sword to defend Jesus during His arrest, Jesus said, “Put your sword back into its place. For all who take the sword will perish by the sword.” This statement suggests that resorting to violence may not be the appropriate response, even in self-defense.
Balancing Interpretations
So, how do we reconcile these different perspectives within the Bible? It’s essential to consider the broader context and principles of love, forgiveness, and non-violence taught by Jesus. While there are instances of self-defense in the Old Testament, the New Testament emphasizes a different approach.
Self-defense should be a last resort, used only when there is no alternative to protect innocent lives. The emphasis is on turning away from violence and trusting in God’s protection.