The Wired Word for 12142025 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 12/14/2025 ![rw-book-cover](https://readwise-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/static/images/article3.5c705a01b476.png) Dear Class Members, The recent American boat-strike campaign against alleged drug smugglers in the Caribbean has raised questions about the use of lethal force in anti-drug efforts. In response, this installment of *The Wired Word* will look at violence in the Christian faith, and at what constitutes legitimate defense of nations and individual citizens. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **Strikes on Alleged Drug Boats Kill More Than 80** ***The Wired Word*** **for the Week of December 14, 2025** **In the News** Since September 2, the Armed Forces of the United States have conducted more than 20 attacks on alleged drug-carrying vessels in the Caribbean. According to *CBS News*, officials argue that the attacks are necessary to stem narcotics trafficking, but critics believe that the violence is legally unjustified. To date, more than 80 people have been killed in the strikes, according to the military. In early December, lawmakers were shown video of two people who survived a September 2 attack. In the footage, they were seen waving overhead before they were killed in a now-controversial second strike. One of the sources familiar with the video said that the action could be interpreted as either calling for help or trying to wave off another strike. Some Democrats have argued that a strike to kill shipwrecked survivors could constitute a war crime. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has confirmed that there was a second strike on September 2, but maintained that it was lawful and warranted to "ensure the boat was destroyed." Members of Congress watched a video of the strikes and heard closed-door testimony from the operation's commander, Adm. Mitch Bradley, and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Dan Caine. Lawmakers who watched the video disagreed over what it showed. Democratic Rep. Jim Himes of Connecticut told reporters the survivors appeared to be "in clear distress without any means of locomotion." Republican Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas said the survivors were "trying to flip a boat loaded with drugs bound for the United States back over so they could stay in the fight." Bradley testified that there was no order from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to kill everybody onboard. When asked by a reporter if he would support the killing of survivors, President Trump said, "No, I support the decision to knock out the boats." According to *Fox News*, Trump has vowed to address the ongoing opioid epidemic and stop foreign drugs from flowing into the United States. The administration has defended the recent strikes as acts designed to protect the United States from cartels looking to "poison Americans." But some experts question the lawfulness of second strikes. "Even if we buy into their framing that the individuals on these vessels are combatants, it would still be unlawful to kill them if they are *hors de combat*, which means they're incapacitated," said Rebecca Ingber, a professor at Cardozo law school, to *The Guardian*. "It is manifestly unlawful to kill someone who's been shipwrecked." According to *Fox News*, legal analysts noted that the Pentagon's Law of War manual prohibits attacking persons rendered "helpless" by wounds, sickness or shipwreck unless they resume hostile action. Said Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, a former astronaut and naval officer, "Going after survivors in the water, that is clearly not lawful." Pentagon officials suggested the survivors may have been able to call for backup, a factor Bradley considered to be a threat. Democratic Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware said it would be "hard to watch the series of videos and not be troubled by it," while Republican Rep. Rick Crawford of Arkansas, an Army veteran, argued that Democrats were ignoring the realities of targeting designated terrorists. Other recent strikes have led to different outcomes. In an operation on October 16 that killed two people, there were two survivors who were captured and sent back to Colombia and Mexico. In a series of strikes on October 27 that killed 14, one survivor was left for rescue by the Mexican Coast Guard. Cotton said that the procedures for handling survivors have been consistent since early September. On December 4, the United States military carried out another strike in the Eastern Pacific on a suspected drug vessel, killing four in the 22nd strike under Hegseth. This strike brought the total killed to 86. More on this story can be found at these links: [Survivors of September 2 Boat Strike Were Waving Before Second Attack, Sources Say.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBxnHMU9QMICZ4NjuSVxEvL2ae-2FY4p9n3yS0BFKAg7jnBx5J7Lu1hqaM6QzN61lKOtr3xFvwzNp6ZxXYvPr72xJ4oJ6CdgehRlavhv5VHBLwc020_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGcex0jXkpg63w4ey8Y1kasfKtIesFgVVJnUoUdhSGohglX8Shjn40ToHrkZmvUyhH7gy6viVvOWDWlh1kviM55HS0ZWRCo7KRJRN1ykq5PSN-2BiNK7WqZaCVlQr0Iyn4d85Ha36QClHIRTajju2d5k-2BgRMZodJBZcnqOOCbXiv7vqgGR-2F2hpNo5DlNCNqEUu07xe0lNJmmQapOcQYUSPETdw-3D) [*CBS News*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBxnHMU9QMICZ4NjuSVxEvL2ae-2FY4p9n3yS0BFKAg7jnBx5J7Lu1hqaM6QzN61lKOtr3xFvwzNp6ZxXYvPr72xJ4oJ6CdgehRlavhv5VHBLw-wUt_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGTGNFBrd0aGP7i2zWEU7P-2Bowf4m9vQ5JVKyBaThVApokAKAYivV3uvI2b16icKywUy3O1Jsp7oNMGya6VnaRXKldlgwfhdAi4blzSH7PGn6t5xWskErcDdaI-2B2zmwWLlKQuxFSD4SGhBCcn-2FRlJ2wn7fcfrlg4WUtk4YQYx7so3yPnkvnX-2FemdTTQVoWR-2Fk40TRP-2FR8VBaiHr2OGgbOSkuQ-3D) [Democrats Escalate War-Crime Accusations as White House Calls 'Innocent Fisherman' the New 'Maryland Man' Hoax.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUHwxaG-2FeoRI49KyvhRoAzQqigYeT-2Beey6ukbLMrAOEOgqbO1JJgs1oIm-2B57QUaazcXnfXYT1wFLH6dcm4vrvDdAHs95enHyfoqYrW5ZfS2HFhSj9ftqhJ03Sk928UaczyVH-2FjOzVRdXtlFjVr-2B1lYegAe3D_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGZKizZvrt7NEkUYLskEoSx7c2SgL6xXu2PPHFACj1edHLkrk-2BIIIVfMUAHWdE7sq04NBwsgEJ-2Fgsw21tV8EYOV7VMdHxg2OCg-2B28Oqw3nnDPbb5hmOlh-2F8H3FBU-2FUn3OUMuo1NbW20j1Wn9uoqFJblNL1UMQiyVPg2fO-2FQM6XB3Aj19zhiy9vtZ-2BeNdc1T7w68CWnpANd-2FA-2Bg91iUhydHB0-3D) [*Fox News*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUHwxaG-2FeoRI49KyvhRoAzQqigYeT-2Beey6ukbLMrAOEOgqbO1JJgs1oIm-2B57QUaazcXnfXYT1wFLH6dcm4vrvDdAHs95enHyfoqYrW5ZfS2HFhSj9ftqhJ03Sk928UaczyVH-2FjOzVRdXtlFjVr-2B1lYegOjWc_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGfn3FOg3ZBXKydLLPFgXOaVIRYpYNjZhACy9GKc-2FksMJ4OmbOILQRLE5slGczfvd0aZggDRnXIAV7-2F58jJGHVvPglzXOmAoXC-2FTH3TrhJw6DohskGhIr6LuSUVttEoJB78uV5d-2Fecz9gi6Mku8qkSxejtXPOfC2QB3KgNXnwbTVpeoZPNqdOtt7Rb9Tj9fwSRVwhQs-2BWQIelx0Cf6ewnh3Y-3D) [Pentagon Announces It Has Killed Four Men in Another Boat Strike in Pacific.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPEd8GTVwWweecsmfy3-2FzHzdwpJyjOQ5mMbLGkzuYibINNUmPMizyB74otc7QVsX6p4Jv-2FTN8aNdud-2FLLH7LWDynvi6Yw5-2BVgi3ZOrknsFS3iAOwp_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGYucyUBfTHfiIQmG-2B0VdMPItQWp-2FlgxX-2BwOrdIFfaBFZQcPz2a3a1YpL4GX-2FM5icFbJxd2ku-2B5bIzIpOLTqMRFbkcxEeJ2GGvuyzD1WY1Vg3jetZSwtdsfAFWAIyBLprfD-2BDBNQUK8n5fHuCgJbtlF9kd32B-2Bm2HURPSbaOTs2BPF3dQy6Fw8swXYfYOcLoiJ81y96W1-2BEUT2zq6OH8apsg-3D) [*The Guardian*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPEd8GTVwWweecsmfy3-2FzHzdwpJyjOQ5mMbLGkzuYibINNUmPMizyB74otc7QVsX6p4Jv-2FTN8aNdud-2FLLH7LWDynvi6Yw5-2BVgi3ZOrknsFS3iEYlQ_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGX69tp8xsZMxz08NV-2BGaNCeAXoitczymvGoxFsKM44NbLQU7ZUBRzjUzgu6eeu6S5E2BM0mX6JAN2wHTPNdiX3SqAeK6u1bS-2BEMdPRPjPJu-2BW6gFO3BP8Da0Droaw94aqKqyorMGOsEYE3Cbg3pwxiig7PAonV4TIEbAtt2oS4u523mte-2B-2FhZGqxL0ey13VSY8ZfldIwymYfFJOaElpyMU8-3D) [United States Carries Out 22nd Strike on Alleged Drug Vessel Operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUFAFPkU8tiTR9ZvmFrLO31iahFyL-2Bu-2BJyc-2Bm5qxZ-2BkY6V8OSKV2TZj81W8mL3Ui36Z1uUi6J150aXIVBMXprw8IZUPIRyMIuDK-2FKhxiLxh0h62-2F5S02G0oXEewySYVnP77N55AI7yGU35ONWThMng9-2BYh7I_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGUltW4QCPk1w3rD6NoQWqGO3bCjwOQTr59O6fV1Tq1GdLK54RSHxyovZGzDK-2Frngp8k-2FqC1E5TqZlyRtQHYCU2WBumw-2BvTBU1GU1wdGQGmNfBeWn12pNcNbTr9MoRcYMyWLEyNr-2FdbPJUTQRow-2BkkrVNk0w2QSgzp6j-2FE3hXumJssAZybrmwdBQa3whKNALhvLYfpL8FpdbwGWTIRI6XgEg-3D) [*Fox News*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUFAFPkU8tiTR9ZvmFrLO31iahFyL-2Bu-2BJyc-2Bm5qxZ-2BkY6V8OSKV2TZj81W8mL3Ui36Z1uUi6J150aXIVBMXprw8IZUPIRyMIuDK-2FKhxiLxh0h62-2F5S02G0oXEewySYVnP77N55AI7yGU35ONWThMng9-2BnIHT_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGTOSSrc3U32QHtEzCO1NbAS9RzzTkobMcSKSY467RPvxYva2exHZlQ58oxy0Jhp1xzi9OvWoaTrJXuOUv-2B2m7XEWsq0axZpg3e5n3RGZSV-2FralnaPUrzzVyP5yYYVyB7-2FIAyWsqtEf9EqJEKsF4KG7D9LV14-2BISlwxKkA0tUIbw9yAPey-2BbGxjcM6G3M-2BujhMXU8KLtYcdZwW4OBL9rxCM4-3D) **Applying the News Story** Discuss anti-drug efforts in the United States, and the use of lethal force against alleged drug smugglers. Reflect on what scripture and the Christian faith say about the use of violence to defend individuals, communities and nations. **The Big Questions** 1. What is your reaction to the recent strikes against the boats of alleged drug smugglers? What concerns do you have about the legality of such efforts, if any? From where did you obtain your concerns (or lack of concern) regarding legality? How does such violence align with your Christian faith? 2. How are boat strikes justified as part of the nation's anti-drug campaign? What other approaches might be effective? How is your church involved in battling drugs, if at all? 3. Christian thinking about warfare has long included the goals of justice, peace and the common good, free from motives such as revenge, domination or cruelty. How are recent boat strikes achieving these goals, if at all? 4. When fighting a war, Christians have also tried to ensure that the use of force matches the objective, and that there be no excessive destruction. What does it mean for the force to match the objective? Where do you see this standard being met, and where is it not being met, in recent boat strikes? 5. Where do you draw lines around the use of lethal force in the defense of individuals, communities and nations? What should you or your congregation do when you believe an individual member, your community or your nation crosses the lines? **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **1 Samuel 15:3***Now go and attack Amalek and utterly destroy all that they have; do not spare them, but kill both man and woman, child and infant, ox and sheep, camel and donkey**.*(For context, read [1 Samuel 15:1-9](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxFCMNoDo0nIQk1OOuVDrhcXKL3prQ0TM6cY3BZxU2WKgOKPJDNAU7Xv-2FU0g5Um7QodD___-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGRSzoskpMbDO1GhLsYsHbjjP6lP-2FmQd-2F9Hn1coWK3TEB-2Beo8wSrvT5L5DmFnxJynRSBee47i9uFx9e3LA1egOO6A3Ps-2FATnDf026LvaTuKTS9-2Fj8Uvr-2BHtkL4MXnTcCKQxFNxHQVzaaolCWJuvLHjJIw14vFfgiKPx-2Bfe4G6sDlyxh26K5BVgKLCe6LPAnw8JOFVuIHWUhR30gbH0LZvw7c-3D).) The fourth historical book of the Old Testament is named after Samuel, a judge and a prophet who anointed Saul and David as the first two kings of Israel. When Saul becomes king, he fights "against all his enemies on every side" (14:47). In chapter 15, Samuel tells King Saul that God wants him to "attack Amalek and utterly destroy all that they have." The Amalekites are to be destroyed because they opposed "the Israelites when they came out of Egypt" (v. 2). This destruction should include the killing of "man and woman, child and infant, ox and sheep, camel and donkey." "Are we still supposed to take this scripture literally, to seek out and kill Amalekites?" asks TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez. "Some of the ancient Rabbis counseled in the Talmud that it's no longer possible to tell who's an Amalekite anymore since we've all intermingled over the centuries." In 1 Samuel, only the Kenites are spared, because they "showed kindness to all the Israelites when they came up out of Egypt" (v. 6). > **Questions:** What kind of danger did the Israelites face in the time of King Saul, causing them to respond with lethal force? Why do you think God commanded the killing of all the Amakelites -- men, women, children and animals? What does your Christian faith say about similar actions today? **Isaiah 60:18***Violence shall no more be heard in your land, devastation or destruction within your borders; you shall call your walls Salvation and your gates Praise.* (For context, read [Isaiah 60:17-22](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx9FW0MIKzV-2BEL3fhrL0EdE4kR7nALSwNIGsWZZhmlU1joeqsGDQNctUkV2UL3LPkddi_5_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGTKxemOB7eadGteTOlHIMk3ZlygTv37Sao2P-2Bhm-2FUkolVAPcKYEXdZuHPwW4FBhUe-2Fp3N6-2BUxMTbz3O1a59M-2BLYWWH-2FW2s1uZMbn-2FLz4UeZJcowcUK3gEtgHQmTCGMAIsTvpY7sIJIZZ6Bym6tJWEPuf2oW7KXNe9yRP1Mt5jhl9gM1VtckLLHq8o-2BEtoqBCPo4fGA2-2BNlVnYfowlbijQvQ-3D).) The book of Isaiah is the first of the prophetic books of the Old Testament. In each of these books, God spoke through the prophets to reveal the divine will to the people of Israel, and to call people to return to God's way. The first part of Isaiah, chapter 1 through chapter 39, pronounces judgment and doom, while the end of the book, chapters 40 through 66, contains prophecies of hope and restoration. In this final section, chapter 60 begins with a call to the people of Israel, "Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD has risen upon you" (v. 1). Their exile in Babylon is coming to an end, and they are finally able to return home. Once back in Jerusalem, foreign rulers will no longer be in control, but instead God "will appoint Peace as [their] overseer and Righteousness as [their] taskmaster" (v. 17). Violence, devastation and destruction will come to an end, and their walls will be called "Salvation" and their gates called "Praise." God will be their "everlasting light" (v. 20), and the "people shall all be righteous" (v. 21). > **Questions:** What would it mean to live in a society where peace is an "overseer" and righteousness is a "taskmaster"? How would such a community reflect God's will for human life? How can the church today be a model of a community that rejects violence, devastation and destruction? **Matthew 26:52***Then Jesus said to him, "Put your sword back into its place, for all who take the sword will die by the sword."* (For context, read [Matthew 26:47-56](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxEE9arX6m0yHZZAbtNhYaDbjwENPLtnAxt31JBDVqi0CqWMAgDC3gXwWqIg2GBwrXc16-_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGUOxNJ-2BU6LYT6DPWSFjT27KQ-2BdOWj-2FutYTV6U5uTRhdzO-2F3bAd6cSTZuP3c8i16Wx6xrWhKXKkLwPnZ9QjxgK8latqMj6SWoQZaLEaKHf8A1DVJoxGvlZjblKCTyq5dlPFFut6WNOmVywjPKYdxkzSpz5BuMA1LE9U66qsiID-2FQMgUTxqpXHruQFXD2c30I5-2BiggfW3EUWn22vW5I5TX4DM-3D).) The gospel of Matthew tells us that in the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus is betrayed by a kiss from Judas and placed under arrest. One of the followers of Jesus draws his sword and cuts off the ear of a slave of the high priest. But Jesus tells him to refrain from violence, "for all who take the sword will die by the sword." His words echo the words of God in Genesis 9:6, "Whoever sheds the blood of a human, by a human shall that person's blood be shed, for in his own image God made humans." By contrast, in the gospel of Luke, Jesus tells his disciples to arm themselves before going to the garden, saying, "the one who has no sword must sell his cloak and buy one" (22:36). When the disciples present two swords, Jesus says, "It is enough" (v. 38). When the follower of Jesus cuts off the ear of the slave in Luke, Jesus says, "No more of this!" and heals the ear of the slave (v. 51). > **Questions:** Why do acts of violence often lead to more violence? When, if ever, should the followers of Jesus arm themselves? What particular concern do you have about shedding human blood, based on the Scripture that says that people are made in the image of God? **Romans 12:18***If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.* (For context, read [Romans 12:14-21](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxB1sByFkCq00De7qxK5Zsvlcme1oCTUo6NzlhwaTRSIxbK-2FXFkTaS6HHXZfIeMDCVkyHx_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGVG0qMxRlf9ikNbWgrfdUbxrJNpP4-2BM8g4PZkhK45CDIVtU6-2BoHeFVPWHIoeqPsMOLomDlSboW6Q-2FQ447-2FrkC5O3tbdRewhlme0gYnVr0ZAucmuQ5aBogp9Ow6FxuLdLS3Qb2VmtA5a9vdaLyCq-2Bmbjrm6wEU9cqg-2BR-2BMQkRaNXhUPWZ7ksEjHwxD0SGoyJq9V6Mw6H32OvhThrODDCuvSM-3D).) Paul's letter to the Romans was written to a community he had never visited, and it contains a compelling definition of the gospel: "it is God's saving power for everyone who believes" (1:16). After a number of chapters about Jews and Gentiles and the law and faith, Paul turns his attention to practical ethical advice for the followers of Christ. In chapter 12, Paul encourages Christ's people to live in harmony, especially with those who are hostile to them. **"**Bless those who persecute you," says Paul; "bless and do not curse them" (v. 14). If it is possible, "live peaceably with all." Instead of avenging ourselves, we are to leave room for the wrath of God, and instead of being overcome by evil, we are to "overcome evil with good" (v. 21). Then, one chapter later, Paul says that "the authority does not bear the sword in vain! It is the agent of God to execute wrath on the wrongdoer" (13:4). "Bear the sword" could be a reference to Roman policing. > **Questions:** How can you live in harmony with hostile people, in the church and in the community? What practical steps can you take to live peaceably with all? What does it mean to you to overcome evil with good, in an individual life and in the life of a nation? When may followers of Christ use lethal force, both personally and as government agents? How should followers of Christ personally relate to authorities who can act with lethal force? **For Further Discussion** 1. A chilling account of religious violence can be found in Jon Krakauer's book *Under the Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith* (Doubleday, 2003). TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez tells the story: "In 1984, two brothers, members of a Mormon fundamentalist sect, believed God was calling them to murder a woman and her infant daughter. They met with others who shared their faith, prayed together, discussed it, and concluded that's exactly what the Spirit was saying. So they did it." What, if anything, prevents Christians today from falling into such religious violence? How can the church guide us on a more Christlike path? Be specific. 2. TWW Team Member Mary Sells discovered, in a discussion of the book *Being Christian* by former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, a new way to ponder the violence in the Old Testament. She came to see that the violence in the Old Testament was not necessarily God's will for the people; instead, it was how the people *thought* they were supposed to act. She says, "The 'greatest commandment' -- actually two in one, to love God and to love our neighbor as ourself -- is Jesus' guidepost for us; therefore, any lethal force couldn't possibly be the way our loving and merciful God wants us to live." Respond. 3. TWW Consultant James Gruetzner recalls that the United States' first foreign military action after Independence was "The War with the Barbary Pirates." These pirates were fairly autonomous groups in North Africa under Ottoman (Turkish) suzerainty, and were engaged in piracy, slave-taking and hostage-taking against non-Muslim (mainly) merchants. Gruetzner says that this war was similar to current efforts against Venezuelan-based narco-terrorist groups, and the Barbary pirate ships as well as their territories were considered to be legitimate military targets. The words in the Marine Corps hymn, "To the shores of Tripoli," refer to these engagements. How does this history influence your thoughts about current boat-strikes, if at all? Why are such groups considered to be legitimate military targets? 4. "On the general issue of use of force," says TWW Team Member Mark Rouleau, "a distinction needs to be made between individuals wielding weapons versus civil authorities wielding those weapons." How do you define this distinction? Which civil authorities should wield weapons, if any? What difference does the distinction make to you, as an individual and a member of a community? **Responding to the News** The book of Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament, just one chapter in length. But it makes a surprisingly strong case for morality in times of war. "You should not have stood at the crossings to cut off his fugitives," says the prophet; "you should not have handed over his survivors on the day of distress" (1:14). Remember that God holds his people to high moral standards in times of war and times of peace, and that Christians should always be careful about the use of lethal force. Remember that your enemies are human beings made in the image of God, as you look for ways to overcome evil with good, in your family, church and community. **Prayer** God of the nations, we ask for your guidance in the use of force, as we pursue national goals such as the suppression of the drug trade. Help us to support our leaders in their work, but also to hold them accountable. In our personal and congregational lives, inspire us to resolve conflicts and pursue the common good, as we follow your Son Jesus, the Prince of Peace. Amen. ****Copyright 2025 Communication Resources**** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=X6JppofmLU6QgLjWZK9kdxg_Tv84dsDRNcu3mzCt3VRoMDAwdTAwMNuyvt6qJj6l5mHO6qHNT1NvlLg7qnVK6WjuL6OmGX0ZsXnSHjxaV276lYWU2xfqCDYsMw5yaq2FM0oXcudjaEghGtePBZn0PBJhrAY3v8mMrT3IieVLD9yxOpu7B4NnvFiEti-_f47wZoWBiAOBccU9IYCLux9ibZmK3XzZZMq80FFmv0DGaGGDWlZquv3y5RQ2nKqRCBRPtxGlR2o6mTilcci16m7fSCEi56xcSoFwF3IdqISui6H80nqL60n6ZYFRs9jG73TviHGKHKy64OAGbQ3MmMNV-aJesv39LJ2IwxrfRP0Q1xwEebCVXZU5U5lAK5bQv9BhKD_c5epZ76Nrwe0AZ3s3_iCXXtNcPMGIeJGlHDmrTWVCY6Ro9caTtQcOZUEy41HFRFmvv0MyYyWuR7NiNbxc3igQbFnCt432Zrg73oTGxMJVf8kCQ0--UNFPIfgFK-1BovwxCMjTX0K6L2RqXHdJsUTVvWu5UynnI1acjAj-5pnV2CwgXqoAH91YwW5fjXBDltTek861CqeaDBOL6fqa-PoZq2LebDzVVzZP7HY5ogu68k_zOC9tph4rhjC2CzTRL5thPk0ZI7g=) <div>Dear Class Members, The recent American boat-strike campaign against alleged drug smugglers in the Caribbean has raised questions about the use of lethal force in anti-drug efforts. In response, this installment of The Wired Word will look at violence in the Christian faith, and at what constitutes legitimate defense of nations and individual citizens. <center><img src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/></center> Strikes on Alleged Drug Boats Kill More Than 80 The Wired Word for the Week of December 14, 2025 In the News Since September 2, the Armed Forces of the United States have conducted more than 20 attacks on alleged drug-carrying vessels in the Caribbean. According to CBS News, officials argue that the attacks are necessary to stem narcotics trafficking, but critics believe that the violence is legally unjustified. To date, more than 80 people have been killed in the strikes, according to the military. In early December, lawmakers were shown video of two people who survived a September 2 attack. In the footage, they were seen waving overhead before they were killed in a now-controversial second strike. One of the sources familiar with the video said that the action could be interpreted as either calling for help or trying to wave off another strike. Some Democrats have argued that a strike to kill shipwrecked survivors could constitute a war crime. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has confirmed that there was a second strike on September 2, but maintained that it was lawful and warranted to "ensure the boat was destroyed." Members of Congress watched a video of the strikes and heard closed-door testimony from the operation's commander, Adm. Mitch Bradley, and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Dan Caine. Lawmakers who watched the video disagreed over what it showed. Democratic Rep. Jim Himes of Connecticut told reporters the survivors appeared to be "in clear distress without any means of locomotion." Republican Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas said the survivors were "trying to flip a boat loaded with drugs bound for the United States back over so they could stay in the fight." Bradley testified that there was no order from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to kill everybody onboard. When asked by a reporter if he would support the killing of survivors, President Trump said, "No, I support the decision to knock out the boats." According to Fox News, Trump has vowed to address the ongoing opioid epidemic and stop foreign drugs from flowing into the United States. The administration has defended the recent strikes as acts designed to protect the United States from cartels looking to "poison Americans." But some experts question the lawfulness of second strikes. "Even if we buy into their framing that the individuals on these vessels are combatants, it would still be unlawful to kill them if they are hors de combat, which means they're incapacitated," said Rebecca Ingber, a professor at Cardozo law school, to The Guardian. "It is manifestly unlawful to kill someone who's been shipwrecked." According to Fox News, legal analysts noted that the Pentagon's Law of War manual prohibits attacking persons rendered "helpless" by wounds, sickness or shipwreck unless they resume hostile action. Said Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, a former astronaut and naval officer, "Going after survivors in the water, that is clearly not lawful." Pentagon officials suggested the survivors may have been able to call for backup, a factor Bradley considered to be a threat. Democratic Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware said it would be "hard to watch the series of videos and not be troubled by it," while Republican Rep. Rick Crawford of Arkansas, an Army veteran, argued that Democrats were ignoring the realities of targeting designated terrorists. Other recent strikes have led to different outcomes. In an operation on October 16 that killed two people, there were two survivors who were captured and sent back to Colombia and Mexico. In a series of strikes on October 27 that killed 14, one survivor was left for rescue by the Mexican Coast Guard. Cotton said that the procedures for handling survivors have been consistent since early September. On December 4, the United States military carried out another strike in the Eastern Pacific on a suspected drug vessel, killing four in the 22nd strike under Hegseth. This strike brought the total killed to 86. More on this story can be found at these links: <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBxnHMU9QMICZ4NjuSVxEvL2ae-2FY4p9n3yS0BFKAg7jnBx5J7Lu1hqaM6QzN61lKOtr3xFvwzNp6ZxXYvPr72xJ4oJ6CdgehRlavhv5VHBLwc020\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGcex0jXkpg63w4ey8Y1kasfKtIesFgVVJnUoUdhSGohglX8Shjn40ToHrkZmvUyhH7gy6viVvOWDWlh1kviM55HS0ZWRCo7KRJRN1ykq5PSN-2BiNK7WqZaCVlQr0Iyn4d85Ha36QClHIRTajju2d5k-2BgRMZodJBZcnqOOCbXiv7vqgGR-2F2hpNo5DlNCNqEUu07xe0lNJmmQapOcQYUSPETdw-3D">Survivors of September 2 Boat Strike Were Waving Before Second Attack, Sources Say. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBxnHMU9QMICZ4NjuSVxEvL2ae-2FY4p9n3yS0BFKAg7jnBx5J7Lu1hqaM6QzN61lKOtr3xFvwzNp6ZxXYvPr72xJ4oJ6CdgehRlavhv5VHBLw-wUt\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGTGNFBrd0aGP7i2zWEU7P-2Bowf4m9vQ5JVKyBaThVApokAKAYivV3uvI2b16icKywUy3O1Jsp7oNMGya6VnaRXKldlgwfhdAi4blzSH7PGn6t5xWskErcDdaI-2B2zmwWLlKQuxFSD4SGhBCcn-2FRlJ2wn7fcfrlg4WUtk4YQYx7so3yPnkvnX-2FemdTTQVoWR-2Fk40TRP-2FR8VBaiHr2OGgbOSkuQ-3D">CBS News</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUHwxaG-2FeoRI49KyvhRoAzQqigYeT-2Beey6ukbLMrAOEOgqbO1JJgs1oIm-2B57QUaazcXnfXYT1wFLH6dcm4vrvDdAHs95enHyfoqYrW5ZfS2HFhSj9ftqhJ03Sk928UaczyVH-2FjOzVRdXtlFjVr-2B1lYegAe3D\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGZKizZvrt7NEkUYLskEoSx7c2SgL6xXu2PPHFACj1edHLkrk-2BIIIVfMUAHWdE7sq04NBwsgEJ-2Fgsw21tV8EYOV7VMdHxg2OCg-2B28Oqw3nnDPbb5hmOlh-2F8H3FBU-2FUn3OUMuo1NbW20j1Wn9uoqFJblNL1UMQiyVPg2fO-2FQM6XB3Aj19zhiy9vtZ-2BeNdc1T7w68CWnpANd-2FA-2Bg91iUhydHB0-3D">Democrats Escalate War-Crime Accusations as White House Calls 'Innocent Fisherman' the New 'Maryland Man' Hoax. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUHwxaG-2FeoRI49KyvhRoAzQqigYeT-2Beey6ukbLMrAOEOgqbO1JJgs1oIm-2B57QUaazcXnfXYT1wFLH6dcm4vrvDdAHs95enHyfoqYrW5ZfS2HFhSj9ftqhJ03Sk928UaczyVH-2FjOzVRdXtlFjVr-2B1lYegOjWc\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGfn3FOg3ZBXKydLLPFgXOaVIRYpYNjZhACy9GKc-2FksMJ4OmbOILQRLE5slGczfvd0aZggDRnXIAV7-2F58jJGHVvPglzXOmAoXC-2FTH3TrhJw6DohskGhIr6LuSUVttEoJB78uV5d-2Fecz9gi6Mku8qkSxejtXPOfC2QB3KgNXnwbTVpeoZPNqdOtt7Rb9Tj9fwSRVwhQs-2BWQIelx0Cf6ewnh3Y-3D">Fox News</a> <div style="mso-element: para-border-div; border: none; border-bottom: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in 0in 8.0pt 0in; background: white;"> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPEd8GTVwWweecsmfy3-2FzHzdwpJyjOQ5mMbLGkzuYibINNUmPMizyB74otc7QVsX6p4Jv-2FTN8aNdud-2FLLH7LWDynvi6Yw5-2BVgi3ZOrknsFS3iAOwp\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGYucyUBfTHfiIQmG-2B0VdMPItQWp-2FlgxX-2BwOrdIFfaBFZQcPz2a3a1YpL4GX-2FM5icFbJxd2ku-2B5bIzIpOLTqMRFbkcxEeJ2GGvuyzD1WY1Vg3jetZSwtdsfAFWAIyBLprfD-2BDBNQUK8n5fHuCgJbtlF9kd32B-2Bm2HURPSbaOTs2BPF3dQy6Fw8swXYfYOcLoiJ81y96W1-2BEUT2zq6OH8apsg-3D">Pentagon Announces It Has Killed Four Men in Another Boat Strike in Pacific. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPEd8GTVwWweecsmfy3-2FzHzdwpJyjOQ5mMbLGkzuYibINNUmPMizyB74otc7QVsX6p4Jv-2FTN8aNdud-2FLLH7LWDynvi6Yw5-2BVgi3ZOrknsFS3iEYlQ\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGX69tp8xsZMxz08NV-2BGaNCeAXoitczymvGoxFsKM44NbLQU7ZUBRzjUzgu6eeu6S5E2BM0mX6JAN2wHTPNdiX3SqAeK6u1bS-2BEMdPRPjPJu-2BW6gFO3BP8Da0Droaw94aqKqyorMGOsEYE3Cbg3pwxiig7PAonV4TIEbAtt2oS4u523mte-2B-2FhZGqxL0ey13VSY8ZfldIwymYfFJOaElpyMU8-3D">The Guardian</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUFAFPkU8tiTR9ZvmFrLO31iahFyL-2Bu-2BJyc-2Bm5qxZ-2BkY6V8OSKV2TZj81W8mL3Ui36Z1uUi6J150aXIVBMXprw8IZUPIRyMIuDK-2FKhxiLxh0h62-2F5S02G0oXEewySYVnP77N55AI7yGU35ONWThMng9-2BYh7I\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGUltW4QCPk1w3rD6NoQWqGO3bCjwOQTr59O6fV1Tq1GdLK54RSHxyovZGzDK-2Frngp8k-2FqC1E5TqZlyRtQHYCU2WBumw-2BvTBU1GU1wdGQGmNfBeWn12pNcNbTr9MoRcYMyWLEyNr-2FdbPJUTQRow-2BkkrVNk0w2QSgzp6j-2FE3hXumJssAZybrmwdBQa3whKNALhvLYfpL8FpdbwGWTIRI6XgEg-3D">United States Carries Out 22nd Strike on Alleged Drug Vessel Operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization.</a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUFAFPkU8tiTR9ZvmFrLO31iahFyL-2Bu-2BJyc-2Bm5qxZ-2BkY6V8OSKV2TZj81W8mL3Ui36Z1uUi6J150aXIVBMXprw8IZUPIRyMIuDK-2FKhxiLxh0h62-2F5S02G0oXEewySYVnP77N55AI7yGU35ONWThMng9-2BnIHT\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGTOSSrc3U32QHtEzCO1NbAS9RzzTkobMcSKSY467RPvxYva2exHZlQ58oxy0Jhp1xzi9OvWoaTrJXuOUv-2B2m7XEWsq0axZpg3e5n3RGZSV-2FralnaPUrzzVyP5yYYVyB7-2FIAyWsqtEf9EqJEKsF4KG7D9LV14-2BISlwxKkA0tUIbw9yAPey-2BbGxjcM6G3M-2BujhMXU8KLtYcdZwW4OBL9rxCM4-3D"> Fox News</a> </div> Applying the News Story Discuss anti-drug efforts in the United States, and the use of lethal force against alleged drug smugglers. Reflect on what scripture and the Christian faith say about the use of violence to defend individuals, communities and nations. The Big Questions 1. What is your reaction to the recent strikes against the boats of alleged drug smugglers? What concerns do you have about the legality of such efforts, if any? From where did you obtain your concerns (or lack of concern) regarding legality? How does such violence align with your Christian faith? 2. How are boat strikes justified as part of the nation's anti-drug campaign? What other approaches might be effective? How is your church involved in battling drugs, if at all? 3. Christian thinking about warfare has long included the goals of justice, peace and the common good, free from motives such as revenge, domination or cruelty. How are recent boat strikes achieving these goals, if at all? 4. When fighting a war, Christians have also tried to ensure that the use of force matches the objective, and that there be no excessive destruction. What does it mean for the force to match the objective? Where do you see this standard being met, and where is it not being met, in recent boat strikes? 5. Where do you draw lines around the use of lethal force in the defense of individuals, communities and nations? What should you or your congregation do when you believe an individual member, your community or your nation crosses the lines? Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: 1 Samuel 15:3 Now go and attack Amalek and utterly destroy all that they have; do not spare them, but kill both man and woman, child and infant, ox and sheep, camel and donkey. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxFCMNoDo0nIQk1OOuVDrhcXKL3prQ0TM6cY3BZxU2WKgOKPJDNAU7Xv-2FU0g5Um7QodD\_\_\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGRSzoskpMbDO1GhLsYsHbjjP6lP-2FmQd-2F9Hn1coWK3TEB-2Beo8wSrvT5L5DmFnxJynRSBee47i9uFx9e3LA1egOO6A3Ps-2FATnDf026LvaTuKTS9-2Fj8Uvr-2BHtkL4MXnTcCKQxFNxHQVzaaolCWJuvLHjJIw14vFfgiKPx-2Bfe4G6sDlyxh26K5BVgKLCe6LPAnw8JOFVuIHWUhR30gbH0LZvw7c-3D">1 Samuel 15:1-9</a>.) The fourth historical book of the Old Testament is named after Samuel, a judge and a prophet who anointed Saul and David as the first two kings of Israel. When Saul becomes king, he fights "against all his enemies on every side" (14:47). In chapter 15, Samuel tells King Saul that God wants him to "attack Amalek and utterly destroy all that they have." The Amalekites are to be destroyed because they opposed "the Israelites when they came out of Egypt" (v. 2). This destruction should include the killing of "man and woman, child and infant, ox and sheep, camel and donkey." "Are we still supposed to take this scripture literally, to seek out and kill Amalekites?" asks TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez. "Some of the ancient Rabbis counseled in the Talmud that it's no longer possible to tell who's an Amalekite anymore since we've all intermingled over the centuries." In 1 Samuel, only the Kenites are spared, because they "showed kindness to all the Israelites when they came up out of Egypt" (v. 6). <blockquote> Questions: What kind of danger did the Israelites face in the time of King Saul, causing them to respond with lethal force? Why do you think God commanded the killing of all the Amakelites -- men, women, children and animals? What does your Christian faith say about similar actions today? </blockquote> Isaiah 60:18 Violence shall no more be heard in your land, devastation or destruction within your borders; you shall call your walls Salvation and your gates Praise. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx9FW0MIKzV-2BEL3fhrL0EdE4kR7nALSwNIGsWZZhmlU1joeqsGDQNctUkV2UL3LPkddi\_5\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGTKxemOB7eadGteTOlHIMk3ZlygTv37Sao2P-2Bhm-2FUkolVAPcKYEXdZuHPwW4FBhUe-2Fp3N6-2BUxMTbz3O1a59M-2BLYWWH-2FW2s1uZMbn-2FLz4UeZJcowcUK3gEtgHQmTCGMAIsTvpY7sIJIZZ6Bym6tJWEPuf2oW7KXNe9yRP1Mt5jhl9gM1VtckLLHq8o-2BEtoqBCPo4fGA2-2BNlVnYfowlbijQvQ-3D">Isaiah 60:17-22</a>.) The book of Isaiah is the first of the prophetic books of the Old Testament. In each of these books, God spoke through the prophets to reveal the divine will to the people of Israel, and to call people to return to God's way. The first part of Isaiah, chapter 1 through chapter 39, pronounces judgment and doom, while the end of the book, chapters 40 through 66, contains prophecies of hope and restoration. In this final section, chapter 60 begins with a call to the people of Israel, "Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD has risen upon you" (v. 1). Their exile in Babylon is coming to an end, and they are finally able to return home. Once back in Jerusalem, foreign rulers will no longer be in control, but instead God "will appoint Peace as [their] overseer and Righteousness as [their] taskmaster" (v. 17). Violence, devastation and destruction will come to an end, and their walls will be called "Salvation" and their gates called "Praise." God will be their "everlasting light" (v. 20), and the "people shall all be righteous" (v. 21). <blockquote> Questions: What would it mean to live in a society where peace is an "overseer" and righteousness is a "taskmaster"? How would such a community reflect God's will for human life? How can the church today be a model of a community that rejects violence, devastation and destruction? </blockquote> Matthew 26:52 Then Jesus said to him, "Put your sword back into its place, for all who take the sword will die by the sword." (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxEE9arX6m0yHZZAbtNhYaDbjwENPLtnAxt31JBDVqi0CqWMAgDC3gXwWqIg2GBwrXc16-\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGUOxNJ-2BU6LYT6DPWSFjT27KQ-2BdOWj-2FutYTV6U5uTRhdzO-2F3bAd6cSTZuP3c8i16Wx6xrWhKXKkLwPnZ9QjxgK8latqMj6SWoQZaLEaKHf8A1DVJoxGvlZjblKCTyq5dlPFFut6WNOmVywjPKYdxkzSpz5BuMA1LE9U66qsiID-2FQMgUTxqpXHruQFXD2c30I5-2BiggfW3EUWn22vW5I5TX4DM-3D">Matthew 26:47-56</a>.) The gospel of Matthew tells us that in the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus is betrayed by a kiss from Judas and placed under arrest. One of the followers of Jesus draws his sword and cuts off the ear of a slave of the high priest. But Jesus tells him to refrain from violence, "for all who take the sword will die by the sword." His words echo the words of God in Genesis 9:6, "Whoever sheds the blood of a human, by a human shall that person's blood be shed, for in his own image God made humans." By contrast, in the gospel of Luke, Jesus tells his disciples to arm themselves before going to the garden, saying, "the one who has no sword must sell his cloak and buy one" (22:36). When the disciples present two swords, Jesus says, "It is enough" (v. 38). When the follower of Jesus cuts off the ear of the slave in Luke, Jesus says, "No more of this!" and heals the ear of the slave (v. 51). <blockquote> Questions: Why do acts of violence often lead to more violence? When, if ever, should the followers of Jesus arm themselves? What particular concern do you have about shedding human blood, based on the Scripture that says that people are made in the image of God? </blockquote> Romans 12:18 If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxB1sByFkCq00De7qxK5Zsvlcme1oCTUo6NzlhwaTRSIxbK-2FXFkTaS6HHXZfIeMDCVkyHx\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmS4K6vGDZDOGzn-2FBdU4NNwBlyyuE96wHgIbuQ9QsLYzufnAHXWh-2BIIx37KRfcFfZGVG0qMxRlf9ikNbWgrfdUbxrJNpP4-2BM8g4PZkhK45CDIVtU6-2BoHeFVPWHIoeqPsMOLomDlSboW6Q-2FQ447-2FrkC5O3tbdRewhlme0gYnVr0ZAucmuQ5aBogp9Ow6FxuLdLS3Qb2VmtA5a9vdaLyCq-2Bmbjrm6wEU9cqg-2BR-2BMQkRaNXhUPWZ7ksEjHwxD0SGoyJq9V6Mw6H32OvhThrODDCuvSM-3D">Romans 12:14-21</a>.) Paul's letter to the Romans was written to a community he had never visited, and it contains a compelling definition of the gospel: "it is God's saving power for everyone who believes" (1:16). After a number of chapters about Jews and Gentiles and the law and faith, Paul turns his attention to practical ethical advice for the followers of Christ. In chapter 12, Paul encourages Christ's people to live in harmony, especially with those who are hostile to them. "Bless those who persecute you," says Paul; "bless and do not curse them" (v. 14). If it is possible, "live peaceably with all." Instead of avenging ourselves, we are to leave room for the wrath of God, and instead of being overcome by evil, we are to "overcome evil with good" (v. 21). Then, one chapter later, Paul says that "the authority does not bear the sword in vain! It is the agent of God to execute wrath on the wrongdoer" (13:4). "Bear the sword" could be a reference to Roman policing. <blockquote> Questions: How can you live in harmony with hostile people, in the church and in the community? What practical steps can you take to live peaceably with all? What does it mean to you to overcome evil with good, in an individual life and in the life of a nation? When may followers of Christ use lethal force, both personally and as government agents? How should followers of Christ personally relate to authorities who can act with lethal force? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. A chilling account of religious violence can be found in Jon Krakauer's book Under the Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith (Doubleday, 2003). TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez tells the story: "In 1984, two brothers, members of a Mormon fundamentalist sect, believed God was calling them to murder a woman and her infant daughter. They met with others who shared their faith, prayed together, discussed it, and concluded that's exactly what the Spirit was saying. So they did it." What, if anything, prevents Christians today from falling into such religious violence? How can the church guide us on a more Christlike path? Be specific. 2. TWW Team Member Mary Sells discovered, in a discussion of the book Being Christian by former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, a new way to ponder the violence in the Old Testament. She came to see that the violence in the Old Testament was not necessarily God's will for the people; instead, it was how the people thought they were supposed to act. She says, "The 'greatest commandment' -- actually two in one, to love God and to love our neighbor as ourself -- is Jesus' guidepost for us; therefore, any lethal force couldn't possibly be the way our loving and merciful God wants us to live." Respond. 3. TWW Consultant James Gruetzner recalls that the United States' first foreign military action after Independence was "The War with the Barbary Pirates." These pirates were fairly autonomous groups in North Africa under Ottoman (Turkish) suzerainty, and were engaged in piracy, slave-taking and hostage-taking against non-Muslim (mainly) merchants. Gruetzner says that this war was similar to current efforts against Venezuelan-based narco-terrorist groups, and the Barbary pirate ships as well as their territories were considered to be legitimate military targets. The words in the Marine Corps hymn, "To the shores of Tripoli," refer to these engagements. How does this history influence your thoughts about current boat-strikes, if at all? Why are such groups considered to be legitimate military targets? 4. "On the general issue of use of force," says TWW Team Member Mark Rouleau, "a distinction needs to be made between individuals wielding weapons versus civil authorities wielding those weapons." How do you define this distinction? Which civil authorities should wield weapons, if any? What difference does the distinction make to you, as an individual and a member of a community? Responding to the News The book of Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament, just one chapter in length. But it makes a surprisingly strong case for morality in times of war. "You should not have stood at the crossings to cut off his fugitives," says the prophet; "you should not have handed over his survivors on the day of distress" (1:14). Remember that God holds his people to high moral standards in times of war and times of peace, and that Christians should always be careful about the use of lethal force. Remember that your enemies are human beings made in the image of God, as you look for ways to overcome evil with good, in your family, church and community. Prayer God of the nations, we ask for your guidance in the use of force, as we pursue national goals such as the suppression of the drug trade. Help us to support our leaders in their work, but also to hold them accountable. In our personal and congregational lives, inspire us to resolve conflicts and pursue the common good, as we follow your Son Jesus, the Prince of Peace. Amen. 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