Jesus was a Pacifist

[Martinez]

Setting aside self-defense, for the moment, when should a Christian ever have to raise his fist?

Oh I know, at a rock concert!

 

[Chrysalis Kat]

Oh I know, at a rock concert!

 

[Psychobug]

Now regarding the cleansing of the Temple, the Bible is clear that Jesus made a whip of cords. He did not make a weapon that was capable of injuring anyone.

Have you ever been whipped? It doesn't take heavy materials to hurt someone.

 

[arunma]

Have you ever been whipped? It doesn't take heavy materials to hurt someone.

Here is the dictionary definition of the cord that Jesus used:

σχοινίον
schoinion

Diminutive of σχοινος schoinos (a rush or flag plant; of uncertain derivation); a rushlet, that is, grass withe or tie (genitive case): - small cord, rope.
​

I suppose the real question is: do you use this as a justification for inflicting physical harm on others? For example, if a person were worshiping false gods within the church, would you inflict harm on him? One may be able to get away with using the text to support this, but it would not be proper Biblical exegesis to support a physically agreesive lifestyle. Such verses as Romans 12:17, 1 Peter 3:9, St. Matthew 5:39, and others contradict such an interpretation.

 

[TScott]

Better not be messin' with Jesus...