Why aren't all Christians pacifists?

Answer 1

The relevant values and aspirations of most people are based on self-interest, intolerance and power, rather than on whether they hold religious beliefs, or which religion they may adhere to. Moreover, the Christian Bible contains few references to pacifism (Luke: "Love your enemies" stands out), but many passages that glorify war and killing. While Christian leaders may claim to represent a religion that opposes war, history and The Bible can be used to show otherwise.

Answer 2

"What did Jesus mean when He instructed us to turn the other cheek?"

Answer: The entire section of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount in which this verse is found can be understood as one where Jesus actually serves to elevate the importance of following Israel's moral law beyond the letter to the spirit of the law. Much of the material therein complements the nature of His coming characterized by mercy, sacrificial love, and longsuffering toward sinners while at the same time affirming the "last is first" principle upon which the kingdom of God is based. For instance, we are told to go the extra mile for someone who abuses us, and to pray for enemies instead of resisting them. All of this can be generally summarized by saying we need to be pure inside and out and should be as accommodating as possible for the sake of a lost world.

To "turn the other cheek," does not imply pacifism, nor does it mean we place ourselves or others in mortal danger. Like the principle of the eye for an eye and tooth for a tooth in verse 38, turning the other cheek refers to personal retaliation, not criminal offenses or acts of military aggression. Clearly Jesus did not mean to negate all God's laws and injunctions protecting us against violent crime or invading armies. Rather, Jesus is speaking here of the principle of non-retaliation to affronts against our own dignity, as well as lawsuits to gain one's personal assets (v. 40), infringements on one's liberty (v. 41), and violations of property rights (v. 42). He was calling for a full surrender of all personal rights.

Turning the other cheek means not to return insult for insult in retaliation, which is what most people expect and how worldly people act. Responding to hatred with love just might grab someone's attention and afford us a chance to share the gospel. When we respond in a manner that is unnatural, it displays the supernatural power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Jesus was the perfect example because He was silent before His accusers and did not call down revenge from heaven on those who crucified Him.

Answer 3

Some Christians work for peace, just as some non-Christians also work for peace. At other times, Christians have found excuses for war and conquest, whether for propagation of religion or otherwise. By and large, it is not possible to identify any differences in the motivations of those Christians who desire peace and those non-Christians who likewise desire peace.

Answer 4

Jesus taught to be a pacifist, "turn the other cheek" etc.

Answer 5

Pacifists exist whether you believe in them or not.

Answer 6

Christ advocated love, forgiveness, compassion.

He never advocated violence or hate. Not even against other religions.

A christian who follows Christ is a pacifist.

Answer 7

Some could say they believe in the teaching 'an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth..' meaning they should retaliate by doing the same punishment they had on themselves.

Answer 8

The christian religion preaches against violence in solving disputes. This is in agreement to Pacifism