In Reply to: So what would you do? posted by Surprised on March 28, 2003 at 16:21:18:
The question you have posed is not an easy one to answer and truthfully, I do not know of a certainty just exactly how I would react given the situation discribed. My views on this matter, I hesitate to answer due to the possibility that some unreasonable men would use such to justify war, sometimes even under the slightest pretext.
But first, I would like to point out that those who are abiding in Christ are under Divine protection and the Lord will not allow His servants to be tempted above their capacity to resist. I am aware of situations where evil people came up against servants of God and found themselves face to face with an angel of God. They fled in terror. (A very wise move, I might add.)
Christians also have authority over evil spirits that control evil men and so they by rebuking the spirits themselves can defuse a potentially dangerous situation. Not all believers however have the faith to believe for such Divine intervention, nor would some have the presense of mind to use their authority over the evil spirits under such a stressful situation. In such cases the Christian (Who is most likely out of proper fellowship with Jesus Christ.)would be reguired to go according to their conscience and use reasonable force to protect their loved ones. My understanding is, that family responsibity before God includes the provision to maintain a safe environment for one's own. (That would include removing a personal threat against them.)
Because, evil men are themselves victims of their own darkened condition, (and evil spirits)and because sometimes even peaceful men can temporarily act contrary to their normal character, (Eg. Under the influence of drugs or alcohol or in desperation.) a Christian cannot act with reckless disregard for their lives.
Prevention, I might add, is to be preferred over laxity that might invite trouble.
Romans 12:17-21 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
--- If it be possible, as much as it lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. ---
Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath; for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink; for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.