In the Bible, Dr. Luke records the scene: Jesus is eating his final meal with his followers. He is sharing some parting words when he makes a perplexing remark about buying swords.
His disciples matter-of-factly reply that they have two swords.
Did you catch that? Jesus’ disciples have swords!
I don’t know about you, but I’ve never envisioned Jesus’ band of followers as wielding weapons. Although I’ve seen many paintings of them, along with many more movies, never once did I notice a disciple with a saber strapped at his waist. The whole idea seems a bit shocking, yet at a time when Jesus tells them to get a sword, they already have two.
If I were picking people to start a movement with, I’d certainly eliminate anyone brandishing a blade.
Yet, Jesus’ criteria is different. He accepts his followers as they are — with issues, baggage, problems — and swords.
