"And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek, stun-guneth that sucker."

A church in Missouri bought Tasers for a local police department. It is unclear why the police department could not buy its own Tasers. It is also probably a good idea for police to carry Tasers. If you have never seen a Taser in operation, there is a police video below. Oddly, most of the discussion in the local press has been about separation of church and state. I would have thought that the more pertinent discussion would have been what the hell would Jesus have to say? If you don't understand the question, watch the video and then read the quotes below the video screen.



In the Sermon on the Mount in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus says:

"You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.' But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you." (Matthew 5:38-42, NIV)

A parallel version is offered in the Sermon on the Plain in the Gospel of Luke:

"But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,"

"Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you. And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not to take thy coat also. Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again. And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise." (Luke 6:28-31. King James Version)