Good point Doc, I cannot argue with the verse. Some say that the word used for sword indicates more of a 'machete', a tool more than a fighting weapon. But I wouldn't want to be dogmatic on that, the major commentaries don't support that view.

If true, it would explain an apparent contradiction (there are no real contradictions in the Bible) with that verse and the events in the Garden where Peter drew his sword. (but then, what was he doing with one we may ask?).

I'm not opposed to self defense, I'm a pacifist, up to a point I have a gun and would use it to defend my family if there was no other option.