The easy answer to the question, "Is violence ever justified?" would be, "No." In many ways our society repeatedly regurgitates such a mantra while simultaneously contradicting that very message constantly through both art and action. But we aren't living in a fantasy world, we are living in a very raw, real, and difficult world. And, like it or not, violence is as almost as old as humanity. Even in nature we find that violence is as common as life itself.
So, what about in these following contexts?
- Self defense
- Defending others
- Acting as a law enforcement officer
- Acting as a soldier
- Participating in a revolution against tyranny
- Corporal punishment
On the one hand we read that Jesus told us to turn the other cheek. On the other hand, the lethal weapon carried by the official rightfully designated to do so is said to be an instrument of justice useful in meeting out divine wrath against evil citizens (see Romans 13). So, we ask it again. Is violence ever justified? Or maybe better, under what circumstances is violence justifiable?
Listen to Dave and Patrick give this difficult topic their best shot.
