View the full video teaching online at https://truerichesradio.com/does-jesus-command-disciples-to-carry-a-sword/

The concept of preserving one’s own life, and especially the lives of our families, by preemptively killing a violent oppressor is commonly held today. In fact, any other reaction aside from preemptive killing of one’s mortal enemies is considered unthinkable by many Christians today.

The most common scriptural defense of the right of Christian “self-defense” of one’s life, property or country is rooted in an interesting comment made by Jesus on the final night of his life.

In an unusual phrase, Jesus urges his disciples:

“He said to them, “But now let the one who has a moneybag take it, and likewise a knapsack. And let the one who has no sword sell his cloak and buy one.” (Luke 22:36)

At first glance, this verse does indeed appear to suggest that Jesus wanted his disciples to take up arms by saying to sell your cloak and buy a sword.

In this teaching, we examine this seemingly difficult passage.

Was Jesus calling his disciples to a life of violence and bloodshed after spending his entire ministry calling them to non-violence?

Did Jesus instruct His disciples to buy a sword for use in self-defense? From who? From robbers? The Jews? The Roman Empire?

Did Jesus want His disciples to lead a violent revolt with these swords? If so, how could only two swords be enough to protect 12 men?

And if Jesus does want His followers to kill or maim with these swords? And does He still want us to love our enemies and to turn the other cheek?

If Jesus wanted His disciples to carry and sword and use it in self-defense, why didn’t His disciples ever use those swords beyond the Garden of Gethsemane?

What is the truth about this verse?