Topical Encyclopedia A "Council of War" in biblical terms refers to a gathering of military leaders or advisors to deliberate on strategies and decisions regarding warfare. Such councils are depicted in various narratives throughout the Bible, illustrating the importance of seeking counsel and divine guidance in matters of conflict and defense.Old Testament Examples 1. Joshua and the Conquest of Canaan: One of the earliest examples of a council of war is found in the Book of Joshua. As Joshua led the Israelites into the Promised Land, he convened with his officers to strategize the conquest of Jericho. Joshua 6:2-5 records the divine instructions given to Joshua, which he then relayed to his people, demonstrating the integration of divine guidance with military planning. 2. David's Military Campaigns: King David frequently sought counsel before engaging in battle. In 2 Samuel 5:19 , David inquired of the LORD, "Shall I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?" The LORD's response guided David's actions, underscoring the principle that divine consultation was paramount in his military decisions. 3. Hezekiah's Defense Against Assyria: In 2 Kings 19, King Hezekiah faced the threat of the Assyrian army. Hezekiah's response included seeking counsel from the prophet Isaiah and praying for divine intervention. This narrative highlights the role of spiritual counsel in conjunction with military strategy. New Testament Context While the New Testament does not focus on military councils in the same manner as the Old Testament, the concept of seeking wise counsel is evident in the broader context of spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:10-18 speaks to the need for believers to "put on the full armor of God," emphasizing preparation and strategy in the spiritual realm. Principles and Themes · Divine Guidance: A recurring theme in biblical councils of war is the reliance on God's guidance. Leaders like Joshua and David exemplified the practice of seeking divine direction before making strategic decisions. · Wise Counsel: Proverbs 24:6 states, "For with wise counsel you wage your war, and victory lies in a multitude of counselors." This principle underscores the value of collective wisdom and the importance of consulting trusted advisors. · Faith and Obedience: Successful outcomes in biblical warfare often hinged on the leaders' faith and obedience to God's commands. The narratives illustrate that victory was attributed not merely to human strategy but to adherence to divine will. · Moral and Ethical Considerations: Biblical accounts of war councils also reflect the moral and ethical dimensions of warfare. Leaders were often reminded of their covenantal responsibilities and the need to act justly, even in conflict. In summary, the concept of a council of war in the Bible serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking divine guidance, wise counsel, and maintaining faith and obedience in the face of conflict. These principles continue to resonate with believers as they navigate both physical and spiritual battles. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 16:20Then said Absalom to Ahithophel, Give counsel among you what we shall do. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 17:1-4,5-15 Library The Death of Cyrus. The Council of Sardica Restores Paul and Athanasius to their Sees ... The Life of Mr. Walter Smith. Council of Milan. The Battle of Salamis. The Pursuit The Life of Henry Hall of Haugh-Head. "Let us Pray" The Story of Panthea. The Doctrines of Grace do not Lead to Sin Resources What happened at the Council of Florence? | GotQuestions.orgWhat occurred at the Council of Nicea? | GotQuestions.org What was the meaning and importance of the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15)? | GotQuestions.org Council: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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