Counsel #7 — Defending Myself

Picture: Counsel #7 — Defending MyselfCSI 9.1

When individual and systemic “beat-downs” are in play daily and social justice is a faint aberration, how can a marginalized Christian person rise above it all? Do the biblical maxims, such as “turning the other cheek”^{[14]Matthew 5:38} and “a gentle answer turns away anger”^{[15]Proverbs 15:1} mean we are supposed to just take unfair treatment, and not speak out or do anything against being wronged? Absolutely not!CSI 9.2

Without retaliation or vengeance—being non-violent in words, reactions, and attitudes— Christians can legitimately defend themselves.^{[16]https://whiteestate.org/devotional/fh/02_05/} Paul and Silas exercised their rights according to Roman law, demanding that the political authorities who had wrongfully incarcerated them publicly show support for their freedom from imprisonment.^{[17]Acts 16:35-39} And Stephen defended his righteous actions in a speech just before being stoned to death.^{[18]Acts 7:1-59} The Christian has a duty to advocate for justice and righteousness.CSI 9.3

“If your brother wrongs you, go and show him his fault, between you and him privately. If he listens to you, you have won back your brother." Matthew 18:15 AMPCCSI 9.4

“The standard of the golden rule is the true standard of Christianity; anything short of it is a deception…. In slighting the claims of the poor, the suffering, and the sinful, we are proving ourselves traitors to Christ.” Ellen White in Thoughts From the Mount of Blessings, p. 136.4CSI 9.5

Reflect: With a spirit of Christian love, have you ever confronted someone who has mistreated you?CSI 9.6