No, Self Defense Is YOUR Job!
BY Herschel Smith
6 years, 11 months ago
“There’s a sort of implied pacifism by clergy and rabbis, but the Scriptures don’t support that,” he said. “The concept of the shepherd is that he’s someone who leads his flock, feeds his flock and protects his flock.”
Oyler cites Luke 22:36, when, at the end of his life, Jesus warned his disciples they would be in danger and appears to instruct them to purchase a sword for protection. It’s a contrast to Luke 9, Oyler said, when Jesus sent them out unarmed.
“We are targets,” Oyler said. “As the shepherd of the congregation, I believe I have a responsibility to have a tactical (plan) to protect my congregation … what we do ministry-wise is a little unique. We don’t ingratiate ourselves to everyone.”
Let’s not carry this too far. While I concur that protecting your neighbors and loved ones is required, it is required of us all, not just pastors.
If you want properly to care for your “flock,” teach good doctrine. That includes the notion that every man takes a vow when he starts a family to protect his family and give his life if necessary. It isn’t the pastor’s job any more than your manager at work. That’s why I’ve never been impressed at LEOs being “sworn,” as if this is something big, unique or special. All men are sworn.
To be sure, your congregation should have a security and tactical plan, and you should create it and practice it with the other congregants. But when it comes to a man standing over your family in the pew getting ready to take the life of your wife or children, don’t you dare look to someone else to do the protecting.
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