Belt of Truth
excerpt from Chapter 4: Terrorism
The Bible is not a metaphor. Secularists who attempt to distort, change, or use Scripture out of context are complicit in fostering evil in the world. The Word gives no justification for terrorism and much justification for defending ourselves against those who would do us harm. As long as the government of any nation does not engage an enemy without provocation or attack innocent civilians, it is biblically justified to defend itself and its people against terrorists and acts of terrorism.
Non-Christians and many Christians are quick to point out that numerous acts of terrorism have been committed in the name of Christianity, the most referred to being the Crusades of the Middle Ages. True, but that doesn’t change what the Bible says about terrorism and the spilling of innocent blood. Others use the 6th Commandment to fault a government response to terrorism based on a misinterpretation of “Thou shall not kill.” In fact, the Hebrew word used in the Torah is Lo Tirtzach! and literally means “Do not murder!”[1]
Self-defense and government defense of a nation does not always call for a police action or military response. Neither should ever be a hostile response to a violent transgression. The Word is full of commands and encouragement to love our enemies, love our neighbors, and forgive all of their trespasses against us. But the Bible also never forbids self-defense and has examples of its use.
Abram rescued Lot from captivity using military force[2] and Jesus encouraged His disciples to arm themselves for His impending confrontation with the temple guards and His arrest.[3] Noteworthy in this passage in Luke is when Peter wielded one of the two swords carried by the disciples and cut off the ear of the high priest’s servant, Jesus scolded him and immediately healed the man’s ear.[4]
The biblical response to terrorism depends on the situation and timing. When Jesus advised the disciples to arm themselves He was concerned with their safety, defense, and protection. When Peter used the sword to defend Jesus, He stopped him because He knew what He had to do, and violence by His followers was not going to change anything.
[1] Exodus 20:13
[2] Genesis 14:13-16
[3] Luke 22:36
[4] Luke 22:49-51