War is a tragic reality, and it raises tough questions, including the morality of killing in such circumstances. What does the Bible say about killing in war? The scriptures address the complexities of warfare, offering principles for justice, mercy, and the sanctity of life. Let’s explore the biblical perspective on this difficult issue and what it means for us today.
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What Does The Bible Say About killing in war
Exodus 20:13
“You shall not murder.”
This verse clearly establishes the commandment against taking another person’s life, emphasizing the sanctity of human life and the forbidden nature of murder.
Deuteronomy 20:1
“When you go to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, because the LORD your God, who brought you up out of Egypt, will be with you.”
While this verse acknowledges the reality of war, it reminds believers not to fear in the face of overwhelming odds, for God is with them and will provide support and guidance.
Deuteronomy 20:16-17
“However, in the cities of the nations the LORD your God is giving you as an inheritance, do not leave alive anything that breathes. Completely destroy them—the Hittites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites—as the LORD your God has commanded you.”
These verses refer to God’s command during war to destroy specific nations as part of His plan for the Israelites to possess the Promised Land. It emphasizes the unique circumstances of that time and does not provide general justification for killing in war today.
Joshua 6:20-21
“When the trumpets sounded, the army shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the men gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed; so everyone charged straight in, and they took the city. They devoted the city to the LORD and destroyed with the sword every living thing in it—men and women, young and old, cattle, sheep, and donkeys.”
These verses detail the destruction of the city of Jericho as commanded by God. It again underscores the unique circumstances of God’s specific command at that time and does not serve as a general endorsement of killing in war.
Matthew 26:52
“Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him, “for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.”
Jesus spoke these words to Peter in the Garden of Gethsemane, urging him not to resort to violence even in the face of opposition. It teaches Christians to seek nonviolent solutions and promotes peace rather than violence.
Romans 13:4
“For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.”
This verse acknowledges the role of government authorities in maintaining order and enacting punishment. It indicates that governments may use force, including lethal force, in order to establish justice and protect the well-being of society.
Ecclesiastes 3:3
“A time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build.”
This verse recognizes that there are different seasons and circumstances in life, including times to bring harm and times to bring healing. It does not provide a blanket endorsement for killing but acknowledges the reality of diverse experiences.
Psalm 144:1
“Praise be to the LORD my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle.”
This verse expresses gratitude to God for equipping the psalmist with the skills needed for warfare. It acknowledges that there may be times when individuals are called to defend themselves or their communities.
Ecclesiastes 9:18
“Wisdom is better than weapons of war, but one sinner destroys much good.”
This verse underscores the value of wisdom over the use of weapons in resolving conflicts. It implies that a peaceful and wise approach is preferable to the destructive consequences of war.
Psalms 18:34
“He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze.”
David, in this psalm, praises God for giving him strength and skill for warfare. It acknowledges the dual reality that human beings possess the capacity for combat while recognizing that God is the ultimate source of their ability.
Ecclesiastes 9:12
“Moreover, no one knows when their hour will come: As fish are caught in a cruel net, or birds are taken in a snare, so people are trapped by evil times that fall unexpectedly upon them.”
This verse highlights the unpredictability of life and the potential for unexpected violence to befall individuals. It serves as a reminder to be prepared for adversity and to seek God’s guidance and protection.
Romans 12:19-21
“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord. On the contrary: ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
These verses urge believers to avoid seeking personal vengeance and instead trust in God’s justice. It promotes the concept of responding to evil with love and kindness, rather than perpetuating a cycle of violence.
Isaiah 2:4
“He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore.”
This powerful verse foretells a future time when God will bring true peace to the world, and people will no longer engage in war but live in harmony and unity.
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Jesus teaches the value and blessedness of being peacemakers. This verse encourages believers to actively work towards peace, resolving conflicts peacefully whenever possible.
Psalm 46:9
“He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire.”
This verse reminds us of God’s power to bring an end to wars and conflicts. It serves as a declaration of hope, promising that God can ultimately bring peace even in the midst of turmoil.
Proverbs 24:17-18
“Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice, or the LORD will see and disapprove and turn his wrath away from them.”
These verses caution against rejoicing or taking pleasure in the downfall of one’s enemies. It reminds believers to display compassion and restraint, leaving judgment and justice to God.
James 4:1-2
“What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God.”
These verses highlight the root causes of conflicts and wars, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and acknowledging one’s own desires. It emphasizes the need to seek God’s provision and guidance rather than resorting to violence.
Isaiah 60:18
“Violence will no longer be heard in your land, nor ruin or destruction within your borders, but you will call your walls Salvation and your gates Praise.”
This verse prophesies a time when violence and destruction will cease, and peace will reign. It speaks of the restoration and blessings that God will bring to His people.
2 Timothy 2:3-4
“Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer.”
These verses metaphorically portray believers as soldiers of Christ, encouraging them to endure hardships and avoid being distracted by worldly affairs. It emphasizes the need for believers to remain focused on serving God and fulfilling their calling.
Romans 14:19
“Let us, therefore, make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.”
This verse places a strong emphasis on actively pursuing peace and building up one another. It reminds believers to prioritize reconciliation and harmonious relationships rather than engaging in violence or conflict.
Acts 5:29
“Peter and the other apostles replied: ‘We must obey God rather than human beings!'”
This verse highlights the importance of aligning one’s actions with God’s will rather than blindly following human authority. It signifies that obedience to God’s commands sometimes supersedes the commands of worldly leaders, including commands to engage in warfare.
1 Peter 3:9
“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”
These words encourage believers not to retaliate or seek revenge but rather respond to evil with kindness and blessings. It promotes a counter-cultural approach of breaking the cycle of violence through acts of love.
John 16:33
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Jesus acknowledges the presence of difficulties and trials in the world while assuring believers that His ultimate victory brings them peace. This verse encourages Christians to trust in Him even amidst the chaos and challenges of life.
These verses provide a diverse range of perspectives on killing in war from different parts of the Bible. It is important to read and interpret them in context, taking into account the historical background and the overarching message of love, peace, and justice that permeates the Bible. While some verses acknowledge the reality of war and the use of force in certain situations, others promote nonviolence, reconciliation, and the pursuit of peace. As believers, it is crucial to seek God’s guidance and wisdom, and to strive to live in accordance with His teachings, promoting love, peace, and the well-being of all.