Quote:
Originally Posted by mizpeh
It isn't about your persecutors. It's about how you respond to your persecutors.
|
:guns
Don't know how this ties in ... but here goes ...
A good friend posted this in another forum some moons ago ... and it has always stayed in my mind... Please take it w/ a grain of salt:
" One might like to consider the following in the discussion:
Lk 22: 35 And he [Jesus] said unto them [the disciples], When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any thing? And they said, Nothing.
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.
38 And they said, Lord, behold, here are two swords. And he said unto them, It is enough.
From the context of this chapter, it would seems as thought Jesus is bringing to the attention of His disciples that while He was with them (on earth), He personally took care of everything they needed, even their protection, even when He was not physically in their company.
Now, Jesus is making it clear that His provision and protection shall continue with them, but that the physical circumstances will be different than it has been in the past.
Unlike in the boat during a storm, the disciples will have to exercise both physical and spiritual authority and power – more on their own. They will not have the luxury of going back and waking Jesus up, and pleading for Him to “do something”.
There are now the realities of the world to contend with, such has having to pay for things they need, changes of clothing to carry along. As it is also well known, there were road agents (robbers) that one would most likely encounter – guys that are willing to take your life for what ever you might have on your person. For this, one will need a means of self-protection: a sword, if you will. Today, a gun might serve you better.
Doctrine: You might be as gentle as a dove and keep peace with all men (where possible), if you are robbed of your coat, give the robber your cloak also. But, if the highwayman is bent on taking your life [sic ...
even your cyber-life]: Take him out!!!"
A.W. is a good man.