War has been part of human history for as long as anyone can remember, but it always brings the same questions: why do we fight, and is it ever truly justified? The cost of war goes beyond just battles and strategies; it’s about the lives lost, the families torn apart, and the pain that lasts for generations. What is it about war that makes nations choose violence?
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About arguing with a fool
What Does The Bible Say About war and killing
Exodus 20:13
“You shall not murder.”
This commandment from God clearly prohibits the act of taking someone’s life unlawfully. It emphasizes the sanctity of human life and calls for respect for the inherent value and dignity of every individual.
As Christians, we are called to promote peace and reconciliation, seeking non-violent solutions to conflicts whenever possible.
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.”
This statement from Jesus reminds us that resorting to violence only perpetuates a cycle of violence and destruction. He teaches us the importance of seeking alternative means to resolve conflicts and disputes, such as forgiveness, reconciliation, and love.
It is a gentle reminder that as followers of Christ, we should strive to be peacemakers and channel our efforts towards promoting harmony and understanding.
Romans 12:19
“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.”
This verse discourages individuals from seeking personal vengeance and taking matters into their own hands. Instead, it teaches us to trust in God’s justice and surrender the desire for revenge to Him.
By relinquishing our need for retaliation, we create space for forgiveness and allow God to work in the hearts of those who have wronged us.
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Jesus’ words in this verse highlight the importance of actively working towards peace and resolving conflicts in a peaceful manner. Those who dedicate themselves to promoting peace are blessed and recognized as children of God.
As Christians, we are called to emulate Christ’s teachings by cultivating peace in our relationships, communities, and the world at large.
Proverbs 3:31
“Do not envy the violent or choose any of their ways.”
This verse warns against envy or admiration of those who resort to violence or pursue wickedness. It serves as a reminder to choose righteousness and refrain from being influenced by the ways of the violent.
In a world where aggression and violence are often glorified, we are called to uphold justice, love, and non-violence as the path we follow.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”
These verses outline the qualities that should characterize the lives of believers. Peace is named as one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing its importance in the lives of Christians.
As we allow the Holy Spirit to work within us, we should strive to exhibit peace in our relationships, interactions, and responses to conflicts.
Psalm 34:14
“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.”
This verse encourages individuals to actively seek peace and pursue it in all circumstances. It reinforces the idea that peace is not merely passive or the absence of conflict, but something actively pursued and cultivated.
As Christians, we are called to be intentional in our pursuit of peace and to be agents of reconciliation in a broken world.
James 3:18
“Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.”
This verse highlights the value of peacemaking and the positive outcomes that come from fostering peace. When we prioritize peace and work towards resolving conflicts in a peaceful manner, we also cultivate righteousness and sow seeds of goodness.
Our efforts to bring about peace have the potential to yield abundant spiritual fruit and contribute to the building of a just and harmonious society.
Matthew 5:38-39
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.”
In this passage, Jesus challenges the popular notion of seeking revenge or retaliation. He instructs His followers to respond to evil with non-violence and to overcome injustice with love and grace.
This verse teaches us the radical nature of Christ’s teachings and calls us to respond differently to harm, embracing the transformative power of forgiveness and peace.
Romans 14:19
“Let us, therefore, make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.”
This verse encourages believers to make a deliberate effort to pursue actions and attitudes that contribute to peace and the building up of one another. It calls Christians to prioritize unity and harmony.
By actively seeking peace and striving for mutual edification, we can create a community that reflects the love and compassion of Christ.
1 Peter 3:11
“They must turn from evil and do good; they must seek peace and pursue it.”
This verse echoes the sentiment expressed in Psalm 34:14, emphasizing the importance of actively pursuing peace in our lives. It is a call to align our actions and attitudes with God’s desire for peace.
As followers of Christ, we are called to be intentional in seeking peace, both in our personal lives and in the world, as ambassadors of reconciliation.
Isaiah 2:4
“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 prophetic verse envision a future where weapons of war are transformed into tools for cultivation and where conflicts and wars cease to exist. It speaks of God’s intended plan for a world marked by lasting peace.
As believers, we should long for and work towards the fulfillment of this vision by promoting peace, justice, and reconciliation in our own lives and in the world around us.
Matthew 5:43-44
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
In this passage, Jesus challenges His followers to go beyond conventional expectations by extending love even to their enemies and praying for those who mistreat them. He encourages a radical form of love that transcends boundaries and confronts animosity.
This verse reminds us that love and prayer have the power to transform hearts and bring about forgiveness and reconciliation, even in the most hostile of circumstances.
Hebrews 12:14
“Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of actively pursuing peace with all people and living a life characterized by holiness. It underscores the essential connection between peace, holiness, and our relationship with God.
As Christians, we are called to promote peace and strive for unity among believers and non-believers alike, reflecting the transformative work of Christ in our lives.
Romans 12:18
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
In this verse, Paul encourages believers to do their best to live in peace with everyone, recognizing that, at times, it may not be within their control. It acknowledges the reality that peace requires effort and cooperation from all parties.
While we cannot control the actions of others, we can choose to pursue peace wholeheartedly, seeking reconciliation and harmony in our relationships.
Ephesians 4:3
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Paul urges believers to actively work towards maintaining unity in the body of Christ through the bond of peace. It emphasizes the importance of nurturing an environment of peace and understanding among believers.
By upholding peace and promoting unity, we demonstrate the love and transforming power of Christ, fostering an atmosphere of acceptance and reconciliation within the Church.
Colossians 3:15
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”
This verse encourages believers to allow the peace of Christ to govern their hearts and be the guiding principle in their interactions with others. It reminds us that as members of the body of Christ, we are called to pursue peace and maintain unity.
Gratitude is also emphasized as an essential component of a peaceful and harmonious community, creating an atmosphere of joy and thankfulness.
Psalm 120:7
“I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war.”
The psalmist expresses a desire for peace and reconciliation, contrasting it with those who promote conflict and hostility. It serves as a reminder that not everyone shares the same commitment to peace.
As followers of Christ, we are called to prioritize peace, even when faced with opposition or those who choose a path of aggression.
Proverbs 16:7
“When the LORD takes pleasure in anyone’s way, he causes their enemies to make peace with them.”
This verse highlights that when our ways align with God’s will and righteousness, He has the power to bring about peace, even with our enemies. It reminds us that embracing God’s ways can lead to reconciliation and resolution of conflicts.
By living according to God’s principles, we not only experience His peace but also become instruments of peace in the world around us.
2 Corinthians 13:11
“Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.”
In this verse, Paul encourages believers to strive for full restoration, unity, and peace. It emphasizes the role of encouragement and like-mindedness in promoting an atmosphere of peace among believers.
When we prioritize peace and unity, we open ourselves up to experiencing the abiding presence of God’s love and peace in our lives and within the body of Christ.
Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
This verse beautifully captures the transformative power of God’s love and the peace that comes from trusting in Him. It reminds us that as we place our faith in God, He fills us with an abundance of joy, peace, and hope.
Through the work of the Holy Spirit, we can radiate this hope and peace to those around us, becoming agents of God’s love and reconciliation in the world.
Jeremiah 29:7
“Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.”
This verse, spoken to the people of Israel during their exile, encourages them to seek the peace and well-being of the city where they find themselves. It emphasizes the importance of being a positive influence in the places we reside.
As Christians, we are called to actively contribute to the welfare and peace of our communities and cities, praying for their flourishing and seeking opportunities to promote harmony and justice.
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 these words, Jesus offers His peace to His disciples and assures them that it surpasses the peace that the world offers. He promises His followers a peace that brings comfort, freedom from fear, and the assurance of His presence.
This verse reminds us of the peace that can be found in a relationship with Christ, trusting in His sovereignty and abiding in His love.
Psalm 122:6-7
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: ‘May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels.'”‘
This psalm encourages believers to pray for the peace of Jerusalem, symbolizing the well-being and security of God’s people. It reflects the biblical call to intercede and seek the welfare and peace of the places we hold dear.
Through our prayers and actions, we can actively contribute to the peace and security of our communities, both locally and globally.