What does the Bible say about War with Israel?
The question of war with Israel is a complex and multifaceted one, with numerous biblical passages and prophecies offering guidance and insight. As we delve into the scriptures, it is essential to understand the historical and cultural context in which these passages were written. In this article, we will explore the Bible’s teachings on war with Israel, examining both Old and New Testament perspectives.
The Old Testament
In the Old Testament, God’s relationship with Israel is central to the story. The Bible portrays Israel as God’s chosen people, with whom He establishes a covenant. This covenant includes the promise of a permanent relationship between God and His people, as well as the promise of land.
God’s Instructions on War
In Deuteronomy 20:1-20, Moses provides instructions for the Israelites on how to go to war. Boldly, he declares: "When you march up to attack a city, make its people an offer of peace. Call out to them, ‘Come out and surrender!’" (Deuteronomy 20:10-11). This passage highlights the importance of offering mercy and peace before resorting to war.
Righteous Wars
The Old Testament also speaks of righteous wars, where God sanctions war as a means of judging and punishing nations for their wickedness. In Deuteronomy 23:3-4, it is written: "No Ammonite or Moabite or any of their descendants may enter the assembly of the Lord, even down to the tenth generation, because they did not come to meet you with food and water on your journey after you left Egypt and because they hired Balaam son of Beor from Pethor in Aram Naharaim to insult you." Here, God is sanctioning war against nations that refused to provide aid to Israel.
War as a Means of Defense
In Exodus 17:8-16, Moses leads the Israelites against the Amalekites, who are attacking them. Boldly, God commands Moses: "Write this on a scroll as a reminder and recite it to Joshua, so that I may be recalled to remember the Israelites and bring them out of the land of Egypt" (Exodus 17:14). This passage highlights the importance of defense and the need for the Israelites to protect themselves against threats.
New Testament
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ, as the Messiah, reinterprets the concept of war and violence. He teaches His followers to turn the other cheek and to love their enemies (Matthew 5:38-48).
The Sermon on the Mount
In the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1-7:29), Jesus reinterprets the teachings of the Old Testament, focusing on love, compassion, and non-violence. He teaches: "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, that you may be children of your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:43-44).
The Early Church
The early Christian church, as described in the book of Acts, is marked by a commitment to peace and non-violence. In Acts 10:1-48, Peter preaches to Gentiles, emphasizing God’s love and forgiveness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bible offers a nuanced and complex perspective on war with Israel. The Old Testament presents a history of war and violence, as well as instructions on how to go to war, while the New Testament reinterprets the concept of war, focusing on love, compassion, and non-violence.
Table: Bible’s Teachings on War with Israel
| Passage | Teaching |
|---|---|
| Deuteronomy 20:1-20 | Offer peace before resorting to war |
| Deuteronomy 23:3-4 | Righteous wars as a means of judgment |
| Exodus 17:8-16 | War as a means of defense |
| Matthew 5:38-48 | Turn the other cheek and love enemies |
| Matthew 5:1-7:29 | Sermon on the Mount: love, compassion, and non-violence |
Significant Content Highlights
- Bolded passages highlight key instructions and teachings on war.
- Italicized passages emphasize the reinterpretation of war and violence in the New Testament.
By examining the Bible’s teachings on war with Israel, we gain a deeper understanding of God’s heart and His desire for His people to live in harmony with one another.
