[aMorePerfectUnion]

“Second, He actually says the purpose of the swords is to fulfill prophecy (Luke 22:36):”

No.

He is saying the disciples would now need the 3 items (not just swords) I like in the past, because being numbered among the transgressors was going to happen and it would radically change their previous experience.

[Mrs. Don-o]

Tagline

[Mrs. Don-o]

I see what you're saying. But the prophecy doesn't say they will need money and other baggage, it just says they're going to be numbered with the transgressors.

It doesn't create suspicion that you're a transgressor if you carry money, sandals, backpacks, whatever. It does create suspicion if your men have arms.

I do think we've well and truly split this hair at this point.

You'll notice that nowhere in the NT do the Apostles ever use a sword, or any other weapon, for defense, although the Christian Community is frequently at risk for arrest and imprisonment and/or stoning.

I prescind from any argument for pacifism. (I do not believe in pacifism.) I'm just pointing to the record.