Non-Violence.

Some passages in the Bible may suggest that God acts violently towards evil and disobedience.

But I believe that God is non-violent.

Where there is a conflict the words of Jesus always take precedence.

And Jesus said: "'You have heard that it was said, "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth."  But I say to you, do not resist an evildoer.  But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also;"  Matthew 5:38,39 (NRSV)

Also The Parable of the Weeds Among the Wheat (Matthew 13:24-30), where Jesus tells his disciples not to weed out evildoers because in doing so they would uproot the good also, suggests that violent methods are not recommenced. 

Also the principle of Ahimsa - harmlessness or non-violence - is an integral part of Eastern religions.

Why would God tell us to be non-violent if He was violent Himself?

God transcends all human concepts of violence and force.

He has ways of dealing with evil that we do not understand.

So cry out to God!

And pray for those who attack you.

God may find the fear that motivates them.

And change them forever.


[Scripture quotations (marked NRSV) are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission.  All rights reserved.]

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