Self-defence

The people of God in the OT defended themselves, but their ultimate defence was to be God himself. Paul, using the channels open to him, answered false charges against him in the church and before civil authorities. Christians are not to take personal revenge but, following Jesus Christ's example, are to entrust themselves to God.

Defence of one's property

Exodus 22:2–3

If a thief is caught breaking in and is beaten to death, no one shall be guilty of bloodshed. But if it happens after sunrise, there is guilt for his bloodshed. A thief must make full restitution; if he has nothing, he himself shall be sold for his theft.

Defence of one's person

The use of a stronghold

See also Judges 6:2; 1 Samuel 23:14; 2 Samuel 5:17

The strength of numbers

Ecclesiastes 4:12

And though one may be overpowered, two can resist. Moreover, a cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

Trust in the Lord

Daniel 3:16–18

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If the God whom we serve exists, then He is able to deliver us from the blazing fiery furnace and from your hand, O king. But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden statue you have set up.”

The example of Jesus Christ in self-defence

1 Peter 2:20–23 See also Isaiah 53:7; Matthew 5:39 parallel Luke 6:29; Matthew 26:52; John 18:11; Romans 12:19; 2 Timothy 4:14

How is it to your credit if you are beaten for doing wrong and you endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His footsteps: “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth.” When they heaped abuse on Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats, but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.

Defence against spiritual enemies

Acts 20:28; Ephesians 6:10–12 See also Ephesians 6:13–18

Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make 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 world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Self-defence in the face of false accusations

Paul to the Corinthian church

1 Corinthians 9:1–3; 2 Corinthians 12:17–19

Paul before the civil authorities

Acts 21:39–22:1, Acts 22:3–21, Acts 22:30–23:5, Acts 24:10, Acts 25:6–8, Acts 25:13–16, Acts 26:1–2; 2 Timothy 4:16

The promise of the help of the Holy Spirit

Luke 12:11–12 parallels Matthew 10:19–20, Mark 13:11 See also Luke 21:14–15

When you are brought before synagogues, rulers, and authorities, do not worry about how to defend yourselves or what to say. For at that time the Holy Spirit will teach you what you should say.”