Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionThe topic of killing in war is a complex and often debated issue within Christian theology and ethics. The Bible provides various narratives, laws, and teachings that address the subject, offering insight into the circumstances under which killing in war may be considered permissible or condemned. This entry explores the biblical perspective on killing in war, drawing from historical accounts, legal prescriptions, and moral teachings found in the Scriptures. Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, war is a recurring theme, particularly in the historical books. The Israelites, under divine command, engaged in numerous battles as they settled in the Promised Land. The concept of "holy war" is introduced, where God commands the Israelites to wage war against certain nations. For instance, in Deuteronomy 20:16-17 , God instructs the Israelites: "However, in the cities of the nations the LORD your God is giving you as an inheritance, you must not leave alive anything that breathes. You must completely destroy them—the Hittites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites—as the LORD your God has commanded you." The wars of conquest, such as those led by Joshua, are depicted as acts of divine judgment against the sinful nations inhabiting Canaan. The Israelites were instruments of God's justice, and their actions were seen as fulfilling divine mandates. However, these commands were specific to particular historical and theological contexts and are not presented as universal prescriptions for all time. Moral and Ethical Considerations The Old Testament also contains laws that regulate conduct during warfare, emphasizing the importance of justice and mercy. Deuteronomy 20 outlines rules for warfare, including offering terms of peace before attacking a city (Deuteronomy 20:10-12). Additionally, the treatment of captives and the protection of non-combatants are addressed, reflecting a concern for ethical conduct even in the context of war. The prophetic literature often critiques the misuse of military power and the shedding of innocent blood. For example, the prophet Isaiah condemns nations that rely on military might rather than trusting in God (Isaiah 31:1). This underscores a broader biblical theme that ultimate trust and reliance should be placed in God rather than human strength or warfare. New Testament Perspective The New Testament shifts the focus from nationalistic warfare to spiritual warfare. Jesus' teachings emphasize love, forgiveness, and peacemaking. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9). He also instructs His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44). The apostle Paul echoes this sentiment, urging believers to live at peace with everyone as much as possible (Romans 12:18). The New Testament does not provide explicit instructions regarding participation in military service, but it emphasizes the transformation of the believer's life through the Holy Spirit, leading to a pursuit of peace and reconciliation. Theological Reflections Throughout church history, theologians have grappled with the issue of killing in war, leading to the development of doctrines such as "Just War Theory." This theory seeks to establish criteria under which war can be morally justified, including just cause, legitimate authority, right intention, and proportionality. While not explicitly outlined in Scripture, these principles attempt to align with biblical values of justice and righteousness. The Bible presents a nuanced view of killing in war, recognizing the reality of conflict in a fallen world while calling believers to pursue peace and justice. The tension between the Old Testament accounts of divinely sanctioned wars and the New Testament call to peacemaking reflects the broader biblical narrative of redemption and the ultimate hope for a world where swords are beaten into plowshares (Isaiah 2:4). Topical Bible Verses Romans 13:1-14Let every soul be subject to the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Topicalbible.org Psalm 144:1 Matthew 10:34 Matthew 26:52 Exodus 20:13 Romans 13:9 Matthew 5:1-48 Library The First Canonical Epistle of Our Holy Father Basil, Archbishop ... How Christ is to be Made Use Of, in Reference to the Killing and ... How the Amalekites and the Neighbouring Nations, Made War with the ... How Zerah, King of the Ethiopians, was Beaten by Asa; and How Asa ... Attitude of Men of the Present Day to War. The Jews Make all Ready for the War; and Simon, the Son of Gioras ... Knox in the War of the Congregation: the Regent Attacked: Her ... How Joshua, the Commander of the Hebrews, Made War with The The Holy War, Human Government. Resources What is a mercy killing? | GotQuestions.orgWhy is "You shall not murder" in the Ten Commandments? | GotQuestions.org Is it wrong to kill spiders or step on bugs? | GotQuestions.org Killing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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