“Turn the other cheek”, “Aren’t you ‘Christian’s supposed to be meek & full of love?” “Christian’s are simply gullible” “Christians are weak & blind followers”
Ever heard any of these similar statements? Any of them make you little angry?

I was saved around the age of 15, but didn’t truly come into a deeper understanding & level of surrender until my 20s. Oh, I have had my ups & downs in my faith. Seen & experienced a lot in my personal, professional & spiritual life. With this history and experience in mind, I have tended to arrive at the below.

Here is some of my thoughts, perspectives as well as beliefs around some of those statements above. Jesus Christ, was a man. He was certainly not a weak man. He was a carpenter. I would likely assume he had some muscle, & grit to him as well. How many men (especially hard labor workers) do you know that could withstand such journeys He took, as well as the suffering He took and the death on the cross which is one of the worst ways any human may suffer and die? In other words, Christ was no “wimp”, & certainly not weak.

I also believe the verse that includes, “turn the other cheek” is often taken out of context. One pastor & leader I know has stated it more refers to condescending words. The old, ‘sticks & stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” In other words, take an insult on the cheek, even let another come by, & respond in love & wisdom as they are only words. However, as for me & my house, if someone does strike me for no reason, they will get stricken back. And if an enemy is within three feet of me, I will certainly advise them to step back, or I will defend myself, & those I love with all or anything at my disposal. The “turn the other cheek”, I believe is not for men to be push overs, and not defend themselves, their loved ones, & their property. We can find as many verses supporting we are to be defenders, protectors, as well as warriors. Sometimes even “Violent Men Of God” The old testament is full of “righteous battles” Remember, the bible also states their is a time for war, and that God formed our hands for battle. Also, meekness, doesn’t mean weakness. Look it up. You can be meek, strong, and a warrior at the same time.

Keep in mind Jesus did turn over the money collectors tables at the temple and even said to have hit them with whips. Jesus, God’s Son, God manifested in the flesh, also wept. It’s the shortest verse in the bible. “Jesus wept.” Although He knew He would resurrect Lazarus, He wept over the sadness and grief of the loved ones, family and friends of Lazarus. He became overwhelmed with humanities sadness.

In regards to being “gullible” Well, I believe if you do not stand for something, you may fall for anything. Some of the wisest, and most intelligent people I know are strong people of faith in the one true God, and His son, Jesus Christ. History is full of them, especially our own American history.

I do believe we may have blind faith, however we are not to be blind followers. Remember, there will be many false teachers and prophets. If we truly follow God & His words, it will make us wise. Proverbs is a great book to start.

Yes, I believe we are to be the “salt and the light” However, salt has both flavor and strength that cuts through the cold and ice. Light is not dull, nor weak. It is bright, strong & lights up the room and others.

If you know me, you know that I am rather outgoing, however I seek to listen more, than I talk. I am also very empathetic, not judgmental. Remember, there is not one righteous, not one. All have come short of the kingdom of God. I also do not follow a person(s), a church, a movement. I believe I am to follow Jesus. If it doesn’t line up with the Word, then it doesn’t line up with me. In addition, I can be rather analytical. I prefer proven science over guess work. Yet, I know there is a God. I believe in the bible. I have seen faith and miracles in action. I strive to be more like Jesus and yes, I fail. But the drive is to strive, learn & grow.

What are your thoughts, perspectives and opinions? I would enjoy hearing yours.