Given some jurisdiction's propensity to prosecute terroristic threats, Pastor Spell had definite standing to have his neighbor prosecuted if his allegations are true. However, in these cases, law enforcement is notoriously inconsistent in pursuing such threats. Did he have a reasonable suspicion that his life, family or congregation was in danger? Did he have reasonable assurance of protection from these threats? Did he attempt to invoke these protections? I haven't seen any solid answers to these questions.
The qualifications for a pastor/elder in 1Timothy state that one is not to be a striker; one who settles things with his fists. HOWEVER, there is a principal that a man is to protect his family/congrats... Did he operate within his proper authority? Could he have handled things better? I'm thinking it's likely he could have but I'm in no position to judge.
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