To have issues with pacifism is one thing.
To call it doctrine of demons and a sin is another.
I haven't had the entire time to read all the posts in this thread except the OP, but I am sure it degenerated into self defense and a guns issue long back.
Pacifism at the heart of it is opposition to war and violence. Not stand and do nothing because angels will save you. ( I am sure God can even make that happen if He wants)
And why?
I strongly am for all non violent means and dialogue. The reason being, I believe that every human being deserves a chance at life and we are nobody to take away anyone's life.
Crime should be dealt with in court and justice delivered in a proper manner.
Yes, in extreme situations, to protect one's family I can understand the use of any tool or implement to save somebody. It's not wrong.
However the taking of someone's life is a final resort and the most abhorrent thing ever.
In today's bloodthirsty world, where people mercilessly kill each other and don't think twice about turning a gun on one another, do I think pacifism or encouraging non violence solely for the sake of compassion a sin?
It's too ridiculous to even delve into. You're just baiting one man here about his views.
I believe that one man's death was enough for the whole world. That was Jesus Christ. I'd rather give people a shot at life than a shot that causes death.
Hi Rachel, thanks for the thoughtful response, and I'll try to respond thoughtfully. The OP I posted was in response to some things Jason had said, and he takes his view a bit further than you. But I'm not sure you are I are in all that much disagreement. I certainly believe there are non-violent solutions that should be used whenever they are effective. I certainly believe that our battle is a spiritual one and will not be won with material weapons.
But you yourself said, we live in a "bloodthirsty world" where people don't think twice about killing, and that's the realization behind even Christ's command to arm ourselves. Self-defense and defending others with violence when necessary is a loving act. It's good and biblical. Look at what Abraham did to rescue his nephew Lot! Wouldn't you want an uncle like that?
Conversely, if there is a time you can help your neighbor using violence toward an enemy (assuming you are able, both physical and emotionally, which not everyone is), and you choose not to, you have hated your brother. Now I'm not saying it's a mortal sin. Christ died for us, and even a sin like this is covered by the Cross. But let's be honest and call it what it is. There are instances when pacifism is downright evil.
Yes, the battle is spiritual, and many saints are engaged in this spiritual battle. Thus if you save the life of one of these individuals (through violence if necessary), they'll be able to continue battling spiritually. How is letting them die advancing the spiritual battle?
Hope that clarifies my view even further.
