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Jesus taught a principle that set the stage for Christian character when He taught His disciples to "turn the other cheek" when someone strikes them (Matt. 5:39). But does this teaching prohibit Christians from defending themselves, their family, and their country? The following explains the text:
"When it comes to the meaning of turning the other cheek, Jesus' audience would have understood perfectly what He meant, but we lose a little of the meaning in translation. As Paul T. Penley explains in Turning the Other Cheek: Jesus' Peaceful Plan to Challenge Injustice: 'Roman soldiers tended to be right-handed. When they struck an equal with a fist, it came from the right and made contact with the left side of the face. When they struck an inferior person, they swung with the back of their right hand making contact with the right cheek. In a Mediterranean culture that made clear distinctions between classes, Roman soldiers backhanded their subjects to make a point. Jews were second-class.' Therefore, the slap Jesus refers to is specifically a kind of attack on dignity, and doesn't even necessarily refer to a physical attack." (Matthew Herr, ISOW Bible College)
Jesus said, "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you" (Matt. 5:43). The pacifist often uses this passage to support their assertion that a Christian can do no harm in any circumstance. But when we look at the context it becomes apparent that the teaching is not applicable to strangers who seek to steal your goods or harm you or your family, nor is it applicable to enemy combatants who seek to take your country from you. It is about people with whom you are acquainted, whom you may be able to influence for their good.
Certainly, Christianity is not a kingdom that uses force (fights) to enlarge its borders (Isaiah 2:1-4). But does the Bible teach that it is sinful for a Christian to be in the military? First, understand that not all killing is murder. The Old Testament command "Thou shalt not kill" is obviously referring to unjustified killing - murder. This must be true because the same law authorized the killing of enemies and persons who broke certain laws, and the Bible is replete with examples. This is basic, yet there are some brethren who believe and continue to teach that Christians cannot be in the military or law enforcement because they are not allowed to be involved in taking a life. If such is true, how do we explain the fact that Cornelius was a soldier who became a Christian, yet he was not told to change his profession?
Another New Testament passage makes it clear that Christians are not limited more than any citizen in their ability to defend themselves, their family, and country:
Jesus said, "He who has no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one" (Luke 22:36). With this command, not only did Jesus make it clear that self-defense is acceptable, but He also commanded it by requiring those disciples to prepare by purchasing the necessary equipment.
One must understand that there is a big difference in seeking violence and defending oneself, family, and country. Imagine a country composed entirely of Christians who are strongly against self-defense: no military, no police, and no legal system to properly deal with murderers. It would soon cease to exist. Through providence, God protects His own, but we cannot expect Him to do it if we fail to do our part, as He commands.
For further study on this topic:
https://www.gotquestions.org/military-Christian.html
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