Vengeance is the Lord's, which is why I also don't think He's a pacifist. Christ did teach us not to seek revenge, but I doubt he intended us to allow a murder or rape if it was in our power to stop it. Jesus came as a sacrificial lamb, which is why he stopped Peter from defending him with a sword. Jesus later said that if his kingdom were of this world, that his servants would fight (John 18:36), which implies that it is right for kingdoms of this world to fight when the cause is just and circumstances require it. Those verses in Isaiah are describing the millennium (Isaiah 2:2-4). Your right, Paul did say; "If it be possible, live at peace with everyone" (Romans 12:18), but I don't think its always possible. Thanks for your opinion, and I agree, its always preferable to be a peacemaker when possible. I understand your dilemma, but I highly doubt that murderers, rapists, and pedophiles will be basking in heavenly glory while righteous people roast in hell. While there is mercy for the truly repentant, its important to remember that Jesus also said that those who loved him would also keep his commandments. So our good deeds and actions aren't meaningless, but a demonstration of our faith. I think God will rightly judge the hypocrites who profess Christ with their lips, but who's hearts are far from him. "All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing". When a murderer is eradicated, he doesn't murder anymore. Self-defense does not make you another murderous ape, it protects the innocent. You can pursue greater things and fly beyond the savage jungle, thanks to those who've fought to preserve the peace. JMO "For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath upon the one who practices evil." (Romans 13:3-4)