|
SUBJECT: Swords
QUESTION: Why did Jesus instruct the disciples to buy
swords?
ANSWER:
Jesus clearly referred to literal weapons (Luke 22:36). But,
was He implying that His disciples should use violence in
defending themselves? This would have contradicted His
earlier instruction against hurting others (Matthew
5:38-39).
Christ answers this question for us in Luke 22:37. Notice
this verse in the Fenton translation: "For I tell you, that
which was written must be completed in Me: THAT HE WAS ALSO
RANKED AMONG THE OUTLAWS; for indeed, what has been written
about Me will have fulfillment."
The ONLY reason Christ instructed His disciples to obtain
swords was to make sure that the prophecy He quoted from
Isaiah would be fulfilled. He was to be reckoned as an
outlaw (Isaiah 53:12). Christ was not sanctioning the use of
such weapons for self-defense or harming others in any way.
In fact, when Peter did use a sword, Christ immediately
rebuked him for it and healed the man who had been struck
(Luke 22:51). Jesus Himself said, "For the Son of man is not
come to destroy men's lives, but to save them" (Luke 9:56).
Verses referenced:
Luke 22:36-37
36 Then said he unto them, But now, he that hath a purse,
let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no
sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one.
37 For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be
accomplished in me, And he was reckoned among the
transgressors: for the things concerning me have an end.
Matthew 5:38-39
38 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye,
and a tooth for a tooth:
39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but
whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him
the other also.
Isaiah 53:12
Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he
shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath
poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the
transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made
intercession for the transgressors.
Luke 22:51
And Jesus answered and said, Suffer ye thus far. And he
touched his ear, and healed him.
Luke 9:56
For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but
to save them. And they went to another village.
back to the top |