Jesus is quite clear that whatever the provocation, people who follow him are not to retaliate. We are to be peacemakers, to put our swords away, to turn the other cheek, and to entrust the bringing of justice to civil authorities. So I am distressed to read in the Washington Post today of terrible Christian attacks on Muslims in the Central African Republic (j.mp/1yGrc9d). Last week I spoke with Christian journalist Lekan Outfounrin in Nigeria and felt a little of the pain in that country over the massacre abductions of Christian school girls and the massacre by Muslims of Christians. But, I’ve never been there. I can’t imagine what it would be like to walk in their shoes, to see one’s daughter abducted or one’s relatives killed by Muslim extremists. But Jesus is absolutely clear that while what has been done by the Muslim provocateurs is wrong, if the reports in this case are accurate, then terrible wrong has also been done by those who profess to follow Christ. These people who claim to be Christians have brought and are bringing a dreadful stain on their Saviour, their church, their nation and the world. (Disclosure: I wish I could say that in my personal dealings I have always sought peace, have never retaliated, that never lashed out in anger, and indeed have never provoked. As much as they need to hear Jesus words, so do I. So I am praying for them and me). **** Jesus said ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God’ (Matthew 5:9) Jesus said ‘’Put your sword back in its place … for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.’ (Matthew 26:52) Jesus said ‘I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well.’ (Matthew 5:39-40) Jesus’ Apostle Paul said ‘For government is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, because it does not carry the sword for no reason. For government is God’s servant, an avenger that brings wrath on the one who does wrong. ‘ (Romans 13:4)
Posted on: Sat, 24 Jan 2015 20:59:22 +0000
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