I, for one, would self-sacrifice at the hands of a rapist, a pedophile, or during a brutal attack if it meant saving someone else. I would have no hesitation in putting a bullet in someone’s head to save another soul. For me, God calls us to be self-sacrificing — and if that means defending someone, even at the cost of taking a life to protect the innocent, I would not hesitate.
I personally believe that’s part of laying down one’s life for another. And in such a situation, God will be the judge of me. But for the record — I do not believe God asks me to sit by with idle hands and do nothing. He calls us to step in and do what is necessary. Never think for a second that God Himself is unwilling to bring judgment or death upon evil to save His people.
Romans 13:4 (TLV)
“For he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do evil, be afraid—for he does not carry the sword for no reason; for he is God’s servant, an avenger who inflicts punishment on the evildoer.”
Paul, after Yeshua's ascension, makes it clear that authorities (governments, soldiers, etc.) have the right to bear the sword — a symbol of force — for justice. He doesn’t say the use of force is inherently sinful, but that it has its place when dealing with evil. Luke 22:36-38 (before the cross, but relevant)
“...the one who has no sword, let him sell his cloak and buy one.”
This wasn’t canceled after the resurrection. In fact, the apostles still lived in a dangerous world, and there is no instruction post-resurrection saying they must now be passive victims. Acts 23:12-17
This is after the resurrection. A group of Jews plotted to kill Paul, and he didn’t just pray and accept his fate — he used wisdom and had his nephew report the plot to the Roman commander. Paul essentially used lawful protection and defense through government channels. 1 Timothy 5:8 (TLV)
“But if anyone does not provide for his own, especially those in his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”
While this speaks mainly to provision, it implies protecting and caring for your household. That includes from physical threats. Failing to protect your family when you could have is certainly not praised anywhere in Scripture.
So to wrap it up:
▶ Yeshua’s call to "turn the other cheek" was about personal insult, not about letting murderers go unchecked.
▶ The Torah still stands, including the law in Exodus 22:2.
▶ Post-ascension Scriptures show legitimate use of force, wisdom, and self-preservation are not condemned.
