JOSEPH W. TKACH
PASTOR GENERAL

January 1988

Dear Friend:

Thank you for your question concerning Jesus telling His disciples to buy swords.

Jesus clearly referred to literal weapons (Luke 22:36). But, was He implying that His disciples should use violence in defending themselves? This would have contradicted His earlier instruction against hurting others (Matt. 5:38-39).

Christ answers this question for us in Luke 22:37. Notice this verse in the Fenton translation: "For I tell you, that which was written must be completed in Me: THAT HE WAS ALSO RANKED AMONG THE OUTLAWS; for indeed, what has been written about Me will have fulfillment."

The ONLY reason Christ instructed His disciples to obtain swords was to make sure that the prophecy He quoted from Isaiah would be fulfilled. He was to be reckoned as an outlaw (Isa. 53:12). Christ was not sanctioning the use of such weapons for self-defense or harming others in any way. In fact, when Peter did use a sword, Christ immediately rebuked him for it and healed the man who had been struck (Luke 22:51). Jesus Himself said, "For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them" (Luke 9:56).

We hope you will let us know whenever we can assist you further with your study of the Bible. It is our pleasure to serve you.

PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE DEPARTMENT