Today’s Scripture Reading
(September 1, 2018): Exodus 22
One contentious
issue in our society is over the legal rights of those who break the law.
Whether it is illegal immigrants crossing the borders into our nations, or even
the issue of what to do with someone who breaks into our houses, the question
of what can be done stands at the forefront. The question that is asked is how
could a criminal possess any rights? Cautionary tales abound of people who have
used lethal force on intruders believing that they had the right to protect
their property by whatever means necessary, and then found themselves in court
having to defend themselves because of their actions. Facebook memes often
advertise the needs for laws that will allow homeowners to possess and carry
weapons in order to protect themselves, especially within their own homes. And
often it is Christians who push for gun laws that will allow homeowners to have
a freer hand when it comes to defending themselves and their property.
And sometimes, it
might be a surprise that the Bible actually speaks to the issue. Specifically,
it outlines both the rights of the homeowner, and that of the criminal (and
yes, according to Bible, even the criminal has rights). The Bible states that
at night, the homeowner has the right to use deadly force in an attempt to
protect the people, and the property, within the house. But during the day, the
homeowner does not possess that right. The implication is that at night,
especially in a time when electric lights were absent and absolute darkness
ruled, the use of deadly force was necessary and could not be avoided. But
during the day it was expected that the homeowner would have more options
available to combat the intrusion. And if there are options, then deadly force
could not be authorized.
Jesus took it a
step further.
“You
have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But
I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right
cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and
take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone
forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give
to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow
from you (Matthew 5:38-42).
Life is always
sacred, even when the possessor of it does not realize the gift that they have
been given. And the taking of a life in any civilized nation, and especially
one who holds up any kind of Judeo-Christian moral standing, must always be the
last resort. Whenever we take a life, it can only be because we have run out of
all other options. And we need to remember that biblically, even criminals
possess some rights.
Tomorrow’s Scripture
Reading: Exodus 23
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