Pastor Greg Laurie tackles a perennially debated issue: How should Christians approach the topic of self-defense. How do we “turn the other cheek,” and how should we think about law-enforcement? Teaching from Matthew 5 and the Sermon on the Mount, Pastor Greg gives us a balanced view of all these topics. 

There is a place for self-defense. You have your rights as an American citizen. God has the military and the police force. With that in mind, what did Jesus mean when He said, “But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. … And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two” (Matthew 5:39, 41 NKJV)?

Jesus was giving specific advice for when Christians are persecuted. These are not mechanical rules; they are principles for meeting the personal wrongs that come to those who follow Him. There are times that, for the sake of God’s kingdom and the soul of a person, we take the hit or turn the other cheek or go the extra mile.

Read more on this subject in Pastor Greg’s full article.

This message was originally preached at Harvest Christian Fellowship on May 30, 2010.

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