-
@ Virtus
2025-05-03 19:13:08
A good question. Much of the modern Church has abandoned a proper and robust theological understanding of this larger subject.
A lot I could say here but I will simply state that the Scriptures present a firm foundation for such things as self defense, dutiful defense of the oppressed, resistance to tyranny, just war, righteous anger and righteous hatred.
Turning the other cheek is not mean to be understood as passive alloeance of others to steamroll over you or those in your care, like children.
Men in particular are to be properly pious, a duty that includes defense of family, household, and community.
Also, important to point out that loving my enemies is knowing that I am a wretch worthy of eternal damnation for my sin but for the grace of God. That if he can forgive me, I can (and am commanded to) forgive anyone when they repent. If they do not repent, I place my trust in Christ's perfect judgement knowing that God means it when he says "'vengeance is mine, I will repay', says the Lord".