Seven Stories: How To Study And Teach The Nonviolent Bible

The Bible is a complex and multifaceted text that can be interpreted in a variety of ways. One of the most important and yet often overlooked aspects of the Bible is its message of nonviolence. This message is found throughout the Bible, from the Old Testament to the New Testament. It is a message that has the power to transform our lives and the world around us.

In this article, we will explore the biblical basis for nonviolence and discuss how we can apply its principles to our own lives. We will also provide some tips for teaching the nonviolent Bible to others.

The Biblical Basis for Nonviolence

Seven Stories: How to Study and Teach the Nonviolent Bible

by Anthony W Bartlett

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	62801 KB
Print length	:	106 pages

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The Bible is clear in its condemnation of violence. In the Old Testament, the Ten Commandments forbid killing (Exodus 20:13). The prophets denounce violence in no uncertain terms. Isaiah writes, "Come, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool" (Isaiah 1:18). Jeremiah writes, "Cursed is the one who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the Lord. He is like a tree planted by the water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit" (Jeremiah 17:5-8).

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ teaches that we should love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44-45). He also says that we should not resist evil, but overcome evil with good (Matthew 5:39). The apostle Paul writes, "Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing" (1 Peter 3:9).

The Bible is clear: violence is not the answer. We are called to love our enemies and to pray for those who persecute us. We are called to overcome evil with good.

Applying the Principles of Nonviolence to Our Lives

The principles of nonviolence are not always easy to apply in our daily lives. We live in a world that is often violent and unjust. It can be difficult to know how to respond to violence without resorting to violence ourselves.

However, the Bible gives us some clear guidance on how to apply the principles of nonviolence to our lives. First, we are called to love our enemies. This does not mean that we approve of their actions, but it does mean that we wish them well and pray for their well-being. Second, we are called to pray for those who persecute us. This is not easy to do, but it is essential if we want to overcome evil with good. Third, we are called to resist evil with good. This means that we must stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult or dangerous.

The principles of nonviolence are not a quick fix for the world's problems. However, they are a powerful force for change. When we live by these principles, we can make a real difference in the world.

Teaching the Nonviolent Bible to Others

The nonviolent Bible is a message that needs to be heard by everyone. As Christians, we have a responsibility to teach this message to others.

There are many ways to teach the nonviolent Bible. One way is to simply share the Bible's teachings on nonviolence with others. Another way is to model nonviolent behavior in our own lives. We can also teach the nonviolent Bible by participating in nonviolent activism.

No matter how we choose to do it, teaching the nonviolent Bible is an important part of our Christian witness. By sharing this message with others, we can help to create a more just and peaceful world.

The nonviolent Bible is a powerful message of hope and transformation. It is a message that can change our lives and the world around us. Let us embrace this message and live by its principles. Let us teach this message to others and help to create a more just and peaceful world.

Seven Stories: How to Study and Teach the Nonviolent Bible

by Anthony W Bartlett

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	62801 KB
Print length	:	106 pages

FREE