What does the bible say about war and killing?

What does the Bible say about war and killing?

The topic of war and killing is a complex and debated subject among Bible scholars and theologians. The Bible presents a range of perspectives on warfare and killing, which can be confusing and conflicting at times. In this article, we will delve into the biblical teachings on war and killing, examining both Old and New Testament scriptures, and highlighting key themes, principles, and conclusions.

Old Testament

The Law and Its Commandments

The Old Testament provides the earliest recorded scriptural teachings on war and killing. In Deuteronomy 20:10-20, Joshua 1:9-11, and Exodus 23:20-33, the Israelites are given specific instructions for warfare and the treatment of prisoners, including the destruction of "the seven nations greater and stronger than yourself" (Deuteronomy 7:1).

The concept of just war

In Numbers 25:17, God commands Moses to war against the Midianites, instructing him to "smite utterly the men, women and children, and the oxen, and the asses, and the sheep". This command highlights the concept of a "just war" or "holy war", which was seen as a justified and necessary act to advance God’s will.

The principle of separation from the world

Numbers 31:13-18 provides further instruction on the treatment of "the little ones who have not known evil from good" (Exodus 34:10). This verse is significant, as it suggests a distinction between innocent bystanders and those involved in "the counsel of Peor", an "abomination to the Lord".

New Testament

Jesus’ teachings

Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 5:38-42 and Luke 3:11-14 advocate for non-violent resistance, encouraging believers to turn the other cheek, offer an extra cloak to one’s attacker, and even bless those who curse them.

The example of pacifism

In Acts 9:4-5, Saul’s conversion to Paul demonstrates God’s power to change one’s perspective and "to take the very chief of sinners, even to the heavenly places, in Christ Jesus". This account exemplifies the redemptive and transformative power of Jesus’ teachings.

St. Paul’s Epistles

Paul’s epistles in Romans 12:1-21 and I Corinthians 7:7-9 continue this pacifist trend, promoting "meekness" and "gentleness", even in the face of conflict.

Jesus’ call to non-violent resolution

Jesus’ message in Matthew 5:9, Luke 6:36, and 1 John 2:15 emphasizes the importance of pursuing "justice and mercy and faith". Jesus’ teachings "Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s" (Mark 12:17) emphasize non-violent, "rendering", or surrendering to God.

The example of prayer and non-violence

The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:43-48) shows that Jesus taught that love your enemies, and "bless them that curse you", "pray for them that despitefully use you and persecute you", and *"to you who are reviled for the sake of Christ".

What the Bible says about war and killing

Conclusion

The Bible presents a range of perspectives on war and killing, reflecting the diverse and complex nature of human experiences. While the Old Testament contains accounts of just war and holy wars, the New Testament emphasizes the teaching of Jesus and his disciples, who advocate for non-violent resistance and "rendering to God what is God’s".

Ultimately, the Bible says that war and killing should not be taken lightly and must be justified under strict principles of justice and morality. Believers are called to pray for their enemies and work towards peaceful resolutions, following in the footsteps of Jesus’ teachings on love, mercy, and forgiveness.

Appendix: Key Scriptural Passages

• Deuteronomy 20:10-20
• Numbers 25:17
• Numbers 31:13-18
• Exodus 23:20-33
• Joshua 1:9-11
• Matthew 5:38-42
• Luke 3:11-14
• Matthew 5:9
• Luke 6:36
• 1 John 2:15
• Romans 12:1-21
• I Corinthians 7:7-9

Note: The highlighted content in this article has been emphasized for importance or significance.