"Muscular Christianity"- O I like that, I like that very much. I believe they were not referring to our um, physiques. I believe they were referring to our "peace love and happiness doctrine" sans faith in Christ, repentance and accountability. I am often criticized as a Christian who believes in gun ownership and fighting wars.
I reply to them, Christ Himself said "But now if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you don't have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one" Luke 22:36 In the end, He would heal an ear struck by Peter, but He did that to demonstrate God's power, so the man would believe.
Formerly, he had them take none of these things, pointing out they had been provided for.
Fighting for no reason and without provocation is wrong. Self defense and defense of the gospel is righteous. For example, when Christ entered the temple there was literally hell to pay. He turned the other cheek when it was required to fulfill scripture and to demonstrate God's power.
Prayers for your wife.
I thought the same thing. We need a little more "Old Testament" style thinking in out Christianity. I am tired of wimpy, milktoast cheesiness from churches today.
I am often criticized as a Christian who believes in gun ownership and fighting wars.
I have been critized for these things as well as being pro-death penalty for murderers. People say 'well a rich country like ours can afford to keep criminals locked up for life' and I tell them yes, but it costs lots of money to keep alive a reprobate, and taxpayers could see their money go back in their pocket to do good with.
Keep the faith. Thanks for your prayers, also. Very much appreciated!