The Apostolic Voice

©2016 Stan Hallett

This topic has come up in my household of late, probably mostly due to what’s going on in the world with ISIS and the terrorists attacks here in the USA.

My wife thinks that she would be more comfortable if one or more of our deacons carried a gun.  Last night my youngest adult daughter asked me what I would do if I were attacked, or her or her mother were attacked.  Would I use force to protect them?

I began by sharing with them that at now, age 64, I have never had to use physical force, or a weapon to protect myself, or a single family member. I believe that if we are truly His, and that we truly walk with Him, that He keeps us in the palm of His hand and under His protection.  If one day it happens, that it is His will for me to die for the faith as so many others have before me, so be it.

Jesus said if a man shall strike you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also (Matthew 5:39).

He said to love your enemies (Matthew 5:44, Luke 6:27, Luke 6:35).

Jesus said fear not them that which kill the body, but fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell  (Matthew 10:28).

Is God not our Shield, our Fortress, and our High Tower?  Did He not say avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written; “Vengeance is mine: I will repay” (Romans 12:19)?

So my daughter asked me that is she were being attacked in my presence, would I take action to protect her.  Well yes, I would.  But that is where the grace of God comes in.  You see, all the time that I have been walking with the Lord, it has never happened.  Because He is my protector.  He has put a hedge about me and mine, and my faith is in Him.

I personally do not believe that God would allow my family to be attacked in such a manner, at least not while I live. Did not the Lord say that he would not allow us to be tempted beyond that which we could bear?

However I can foresee one day that it may be possible that I would be attacked or even killed for my faith.  If the Lord allows that to happen, I am okay with it.

Were not every single one of the Apostles murdered for their faith except one? John was the only one that lived to an old age. All the rest were either stoned, beheaded, speared, or crucified to death.

So no, I do not believe that we need to be running out to purchase a handgun and stand guard at he door. I have a much greater defense.

Do you have questions?  Feel free to write to me via my contact form.