Many think Jesus just let other people trash him because after all, he was the embodiment of love.  But that is not the case.

Throughout the ministry of Jesus, when people brought their hostilities and insults against him, he replied with questions and conversations that turned the tables on them.  He defended himself not through being defensive, but through provoking their line of reasoning with the Scripture.

Occasionally when things got physically hostile and his life was endangered, sometimes he just slipped through the crowds (Luke 4:30).  It wasn’t yet his time.

Jesus did not compromise his self-respect.  It was only when his time had come, when he was to face the cross, that he allowed the people to do what they pleased–arrest him, mock him, spit upon him, insult him, flog him and crucify him.   He was silent, entrusting himself to him who judges justly (1 Pet 2:23).  Because at that time it served a purpose.

Many a person has taken a lot of abuse thinking that this is what a Godly person does.  But the Scriptures say we love others but prior to that we must love ourselves (Mt 22:36-40).

It’s Ok to protect ourselves.  In fact, every animal in the world is given a way for self-protection–claws, teeth, horns, etc… God put these things in the animal kingdom for a reason.  These aren’t to hurt others, but to protect from others.  Attacking others is not Biblical, but self-defense is written into the very nature of creation.

Self-defense doesn’t mean verbally or physically lashing out at someone.  It is setting boundaries and when those boundaries are crossed, that there be consequences.

Is there a time to say nothing and do nothing when being hurt?  Yes.  Like Jesus on the cross.  But it was when it was serving His purposes, led by Him, and not on a regular basis.  It is a suffering that comes from doing good and bearing testimony to Christ.  I’m sure many a persecuted believer understands this.

Self-respect is important.  If we do not set boundaries with others, we will be beaten down.  For some this comes naturally.  For others, it is a learning journey.