The people of God in the OT defended themselves, but their ultimate defence was to be God himself. Paul, using the channels open to him, answered false charges against him in the church and before civil authorities. Christians are not to take personal revenge but, following Jesus Christ's example, are to entrust themselves to God.

Exodus 22:2-3

Defence of one's property

See also

Defence of one's person

Judges 6:2

The use of a stronghold

1 Samuel 23:14
2 Samuel 5:17
Ecclesiastes 4:12

The strength of numbers

Daniel 3:16-18

Trust in the Lord

1 Peter 2:20-23

The example of Jesus Christ in self-defence

See also

Isaiah 53:7
Matthew 5:39
Matthew 26:52
John 18:11

pp Lk 6:29

Romans 12:19
2 Timothy 4:14
Acts 20:28

Defence against spiritual enemies

Ephesians 6:10-12

See also

Ephesians 6:13-18
1 Corinthians 9:1-3

Self-defence in the face of false accusations

2 Corinthians 12:17-19

Paul to the Corinthian church

Acts 21:39-22:1,3-21,30-23:5; 24:10; 25:6-8,13-16; 26:1-2
2 Timothy 4:16

Paul before the civil authorities

Luke 12:11-12

The promise of the help of the Holy Spirit

See also

pp Mt 10:19-20

Luke 21:14-15

pp Mk 13:11

See also

3281 Holy Spirit, inspiration of
5210 arrows
5215 authority
5293 defence, human
5316 fortress
5480 protection
5495 revenge & retaliation
5605 warfare
8490 watchfulness
8822 self-justification