Jan, I took a look at the link. I agree in the use of the sword in self defense.

The info in the link suggests it should only be used in extreme cases - really when there is nothing else. Self defense is quite different from going in and attacking/shooting someone who is unarmed.

The problem is we are miles apart in how we see what Obama did. I see his actions as self defense on our behalf. I mean Osama has had ten years to turn himself in and explain or repent for his actions. Osama was in the middle of planning terrorist attacks on trains in the US.

Terrorist attacks will not stop by the killing BL - they will continue. These people have no fear of death - they welcome it because they believe that by dying for their cause they will go straight to paradise. Killing them is not the answer for that reason as well as what is in the Bible - Christs teachings. How do you stop them? You have to try another way. Perhaps it would not have got so bad if this could have been sorted out sooner - instead though more violence, more killing ... and where has it got us?

The episode of Christ and Peter drawing the sword has no link to the states God given responsability to use the sword to protect it's people.

It gives a clear indication of Christs view on violence. I think the protection of people thing has been explained by other posters.

Christ came to die for us, of course He wouldn't have Peter prevent it nor would He call down the angels

Because Christ is of peace.

I do believe that if Osama had put up his hands in surrender when they came into that room he would still be alive.

who knows? unless any of us was actually there to see. perhaps he did surrender or perhaps he was taken by surprise and it was all a bit of a blur.