[TruthTalk] Christians and Violence

[Judy Taylor]

Terry writes: Still, the real question has not been addressed.  We know what happens when the Lord returns, but what do we do until then?  Do we take our place and kill the enemy if that is what our government decides is right, or do we love our enemy and turn the other cheek?  Does it make any difference if we are the agressor or if we act in self defense?  Can we live to please God and men?  Terry   jt: We judge sin in ourselves and repent of it daily which is the process of sanctification and this will eventually purify our whole being, spirit, soul, and body.  There were many, many Christians in the Navy while we were there, in fact, without the example of their godly behavior I might never have chosen to return.  If our country had gone to war during those years we would have been involved.  So long as we are not the aggressor I don't believe it wrong for our leaders to defend us.  As for Iraq, I know there are those who do not agree but I see it as part of the "war on Terror" a war that still rages. There are Christian police officers who may some day have to shoot and prison guards who are also Christian. I've done temporary work and have been able to discern believers by their conduct in every place I've been sent to.  They are not the majority but they are there as works in progress and this, IMO, is the way God would have it because these are His ambassadors.  Just ordinary every day people.  I don't think a true believer chooses violence but a man should defend his family and a decent leader defends his people.   Grace and Peace, Judy