The Bible addresses war from various angles, showing both its harsh realities and the importance of peace. It gives examples of conflicts and the reasons behind them, while also emphasizing the value of seeking peace whenever possible. This exploration of war and peace in the Bible offers insight into the complex nature of human conflict.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Discipline
What Does The Bible Say About War
Psalm 144:1
“Praise be to the LORD my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle.”
This verse acknowledges that there are times when war and battle are necessary. It recognizes that the Lord is the one who equips and prepares us for these conflicts. It is a reminder that in times of war, we can find strength and guidance in God.
However, it is important to note that this verse does not promote or glorify violence. Instead, it emphasizes the need to be spiritually and physically prepared for the challenges that may arise during times of war.
Proverbs 20:18
“Make plans by seeking advice; if you wage war, obtain guidance.”
Before engaging in any form of conflict or war, seeking counsel and guidance is essential. This verse emphasizes the importance of wise decision-making and seeking advice from trusted sources.
In times of war, it is crucial to have a strategic plan and consider all possible consequences and alternatives. Seeking guidance and wisdom can help to ensure that the decisions made are well-thought-out and aligned with God’s will.
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 verse speaks of a future time when God’s ultimate judgment and peace will prevail. It envisions a world where war and conflict are no longer necessary, and weapons are transformed into tools of productivity.
It serves as a reminder of God’s desire for peace among nations and the ultimate reconciliation that will come through His judgment. It encourages us to strive for peace in our own lives and to work towards resolving disputes in peaceful and constructive ways.
Romans 12:18
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
In this verse, we are called to pursue peace to the best of our ability. It encourages us to do everything within our control to live in harmony with others.
Although conflict and wars may arise, this verse reminds us of our responsibility to seek peaceful resolutions and to foster relationships built on love and understanding. It emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, reconciliation, and a commitment to peaceful coexistence.
Ephesians 6:12
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
This verse reminds us that our true battle is not against other human beings, but against the spiritual forces of evil. It highlights the importance of recognizing the spiritual dimension behind conflicts and wars.
Instead of viewing our enemies as enemies to be conquered, this verse encourages us to approach battles with a spiritual perspective. It calls us to fight against darkness, injustice, and oppression, while still showing love and compassion towards those whom we may perceive as adversaries.
2 Chronicles 20:15
“This is what the LORD says to you: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.”
In times of war and conflict, it is easy to become overwhelmed and fearful. However, this verse reminds us that ultimately, our battles belong to God.
It reassures us that we do not have to face battles alone but can place our trust and confidence in God’s strength and guidance. This verse inspires us to have faith in God’s sovereignty, knowing that He is in control and will fight on our behalf.
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
This verse speaks of the blessedness of being a peacemaker. It reminds us that promoting peace and reconciliation is a characteristic of being a child of God.
In times of war, this verse challenges us to actively seek ways to bring about peace. It calls us to be instruments of God’s peace, showing love, compassion, and forgiveness to others. By pursuing peace, we reflect the nature of our Heavenly Father and participate in His divine plan for reconciliation.
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.”
This passage compares the Christian life to that of a soldier. It describes the commitment, discipline, and focus required to serve Christ faithfully.
Just as a soldier must prioritize their duty above personal interests, this verse encourages us to live our lives in a way that pleases God. It reminds us to stay focused on our mission as followers of Christ and to avoid distractions that can hinder our spiritual growth and effectiveness.
1 Peter 2:11
“Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul.”
In this verse, we are reminded of our identity as foreigners and exiles in this world. It warns us against the destructive nature of sinful desires that can wage war against our souls.
Just as wars have devastating consequences, this verse highlights the importance of guarding our hearts and minds against the influences of sin. It encourages us to live with integrity, avoiding actions and attitudes that can harm us spiritually. By doing so, we align ourselves with God’s will and experience the abundant life He intends for us.
Proverbs 21:31
“The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD.”
This verse conveys the importance of preparation and readiness for battle. However, it also reminds us that ultimate victory comes from the Lord.
While we may do our part to equip ourselves and strategize for war, this verse humbles us by acknowledging that success ultimately depends on God’s intervention and guidance. It calls us to trust in His sovereignty and seek His direction in times of conflict, knowing that He holds the ultimate power to bring about victory.
John 14:27
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
In this verse, Jesus assures His disciples of the peace that He gives, which differs from the peace the world offers. His peace brings comfort, security, and freedom from fear.
In times of war, this verse serves as a reminder that even amidst turmoil and uncertainty, we can find peace in our relationship with Christ. It encourages us to trust in His provision and His ability to calm our troubled hearts.
Jude 1:3
“Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people.”
This verse speaks of the importance of standing firm in the faith and defending it when necessary. It encourages believers to be vigilant and proactive in safeguarding the truth.
In times of war, it is crucial for believers to remain steadfast in their beliefs and resist any attempts to compromise their faith. This verse reminds us of our responsibility to uphold and preserve the Gospel, even when faced with opposition or persecution.
2 Corinthians 10:4-5
“The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
This passage emphasizes the spiritual nature of our battles and the power that comes from God. It highlights the authority and effectiveness of the weapons we possess as followers of Christ.
In times of war, we are called to engage in spiritual warfare, demolishing false beliefs and ideologies that oppose the knowledge of God. This verse reminds us that our weapons are rooted in divine power and have the ability to bring down strongholds. It challenges us to align our thoughts and actions with Christ, actively engaging in the fight against darkness and deception.
Matthew 24:6
“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.”
In this verse, Jesus acknowledges the existence of wars and conflicts in the world. He assures His disciples that these things are to be expected but encourages them not to be consumed by fear or alarm.
Amidst the chaos and uncertainty of war, this verse reminds us to maintain a perspective of faith and trust in God’s ultimate plan. It serves as a reminder that even in the midst of turmoil, we can find hope in the promise of Christ’s return and the ultimate establishment of His kingdom of peace.
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.”
This passage delves into the root causes of conflicts and wars, highlighting the role of unfulfilled desires and selfishness. It exposes the destructive patterns that arise when we allow our desires to take precedence over seeking God’s guidance and provision.
In times of war, this verse challenges us to examine our motives and desires. It calls us to surrender our selfish ambitions and to seek God’s wisdom and provision instead of resorting to violence or quarrels. By submitting our desires to God, we can find true contentment and avoid the destructive consequences of war.
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 governing authorities in maintaining order and justice. It recognizes that rulers have been entrusted with the responsibility to wield power, including the authority to bear the sword.
In times of war, this verse emphasizes the need for just governance and the role of authorities in protecting their citizens. It also highlights the consequences that await those who act wrongly. It reminds us that while war is often considered a last resort, it may be necessary in certain instances as a means to deliver justice and punish wrongdoers.
Jeremiah 51:20-21
“You are my war club, my weapon for battle— with you I shatter nations, with you I destroy kingdoms, with you I shatter horse and rider, with you I shatter chariot and driver, with you I shatter man and woman, with you I shatter old man and youth, with you I shatter young man and young woman.”
This verse depicts God’s power and authority in conflicts and wars. It describes how He uses nations and instruments of war to execute judgment and bring about His purposes.
While this verse may seem violent, it ultimately reminds us of God’s sovereignty and the limited understanding we have of His divine plan. It serves as a reminder to trust in His wisdom and to recognize that even in times of war, He is ultimately in control and working towards His greater purposes.
Luke 22:36
“He said to them, ‘But now if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you don’t have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one.”
In this verse, Jesus instructs His disciples to be prepared for times of hardship and conflict. He encourages them to acquire the necessary resources, including a sword, to protect themselves.
While this verse may appear to promote violence, it should be understood in the context of self-defense rather than aggression. It underscores the importance of taking practical measures to ensure personal safety and the protection of others.
Psalm 68:30
“Rebuke the beast among the reeds, the herd of bulls among the calves of the nations. Humbled, may the beast bring bars of silver. Scatter the nations who delight in war.”
This verse calls upon God to bring discipline and judgment upon those who delight in war and exhibit violent aggression.
While the language used may be symbolic, it signifies a plea for justice and the restoration of peace. It is a reminder that God opposes those who promote violence and that He has the power to intervene and scatter the nations that engage in war. It calls us to pray for peace and actively work towards reconciliation.
Psalm 120:7
“I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war.”
This verse expresses the longing for peace amidst conflict and opposition. It depicts the frustration and disappointment that arise when faced with individuals who choose to engage in war rather than pursue peaceful resolutions.
It serves as a reminder of our responsibility as believers to actively promote peace and seek nonviolent solutions. Even when faced with opposition, we are called to maintain a stance of peace and continue to advocate for reconciliation and understanding.
Matthew 10:34
“Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.”
In this verse, Jesus acknowledges that His message and ministry will create division and conflict, even within families. It highlights the polarizing effect of truth and the response it can evoke from those who oppose it.
The reference to a “sword” in this verse is symbolic of the division and opposition that may arise when confronted with the truth of the Gospel. While Jesus came with a message of love and redemption, this verse recognizes that the truth can sometimes lead to conflicts and wars, not necessarily through physical violence, but through ideological clashes.
Psalm 18:34
“He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze.”
This verse acknowledges God’s role in equipping and preparing us for battles. It depicts a state of readiness and strength in the face of conflict.
While this verse speaks metaphorically, it symbolizes the empowerment and capability that come from God’s guidance and enable us to face the challenges that arise during times of war. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles and that God equips us with the necessary strength and skills to face them.
Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
These words were spoken by God to Joshua as he prepared to lead the Israelites into battle. They serve as a reminder of God’s promise to be with us in times of war and conflict.
When facing the challenges and fears that arise during times of war, this verse encourages us to be strong and courageous. It assures us of God’s presence and reassures us that we need not fear or be discouraged, for He is with us wherever we go.