Missed Question From 10.24.21 Q&R

I sometimes get questions sent in to the texting line that for whatever reason don’t arrive until after the Q&R time is over. Yesterday this question came through too late:

As a survivor of sexual assault, I had to use violence to make it stop. Is that biblical or have I sinned?

First off, whoever it was that asked this question, I hope you have a chance to read this. I’m so sorry for that pain that you have experienced. I can’t imagine the burden that you carry. If you have not sought help processing your experience with a pastor or biblical counselor I would highly recommend that you do so. This question is difficult to answer in the abstract and you will likely receive more helpful words from someone that you trust and can share the specifics of your story with.

Here are a few thoughts:

I believe that Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:44 about a Christian’s responsibility to love their enemies means that you don’t kill them. It’s hard to love someone who is no longer alive. Additionally, I think Romans 12:19-20 speak against doing vengeful acts of violence against your enemies. This is a heart posture that says “you are hurting me so I’m going to hurt you back.”

However, one aspect of loving your enemies is preventing them from doing something that will ruin their lives. In light of this, use of force, not with the intent to harm with an attitude of vengeance, but with the intent to prevent your enemy (whom you are called to love) from doing something (or continuing to do something) that will ultimately be harmful to them, is sometimes justified.

I think this option can and should be a last resort because I think the gospel would guide us away from the use of force in general unless absolutely necessary. However, I would make a distinction between this type of use of force and violence (the intent to do harm).

There are several other considerations specific to your situation that I don’t have the information to speak on, but here is a link to a podcast from Bridgetown Church in Portland. In it pastor John Mark Comer interviews Dr. Gerry Breshears, the head of the theology department at Western Seminary, about a variety of topics surrounding the issue of violence, self-defense, abuse and protecting the innocent. I would encourage you to give it a listen. It has been helpful to me in finding clarity about these sorts of questions. If you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out in person.

Zak Adams