Topical Encyclopedia War, a recurring theme throughout the biblical narrative, is often depicted as a complex and multifaceted aspect of human existence. The Bible provides numerous accounts and teachings that underscore the necessity of wisdom in the conduct and understanding of war. This entry explores the biblical perspective on the wisdom required in war, drawing from various scriptural passages and principles.Divine Guidance and Counsel The Bible emphasizes the importance of seeking divine guidance and counsel in matters of war. In the Old Testament, the Israelites frequently sought the Lord's direction before engaging in battle. For instance, in 1 Samuel 23:2, David inquired of the Lord, asking, "Shall I go and attack these Philistines?" The Lord's response guided David's actions, illustrating the necessity of divine wisdom in military decisions. Strategic Planning and Prudence Proverbs, a book rich in wisdom literature, highlights the value of strategic planning and prudence in warfare. Proverbs 20:18 states, "Set plans by consultation, and wage war under sound guidance." This verse underscores the importance of careful planning and seeking wise counsel before embarking on military endeavors. The emphasis is on thoughtful preparation and the avoidance of rash decisions. Moral and Ethical Considerations The Bible also addresses the moral and ethical dimensions of war, requiring wisdom to discern just causes and righteous conduct. Deuteronomy 20 provides instructions for warfare, including the treatment of enemies and the sparing of non-combatants. These guidelines reflect a concern for justice and mercy, requiring leaders to exercise wisdom in balancing military objectives with ethical considerations. The Role of Faith and Trust in God Faith and trust in God are central to the biblical understanding of war. The Israelites' victories often depended not on their military might but on their reliance on God. In 2 Chronicles 20:15 , the Lord tells Jehoshaphat, "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's." This passage highlights the necessity of faith and the recognition that ultimate victory comes from the Lord. The Consequences of Foolishness in War The Bible also warns of the consequences of foolishness and pride in warfare. In 1 Kings 20:11 , the king of Israel responds to a boastful enemy with wisdom, saying, "Let not him who puts on his armor boast like him who takes it off." This proverb serves as a caution against arrogance and overconfidence, which can lead to disastrous outcomes. Peace as the Ultimate Goal While the Bible acknowledges the reality of war, it also points to peace as the ultimate goal. Jesus, in the Sermon on the Mount, blesses the peacemakers, saying, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9). This teaching encourages the pursuit of peace and reconciliation, requiring wisdom to discern when and how to transition from conflict to harmony. In summary, the Bible presents war as a domain where wisdom is indispensable. From seeking divine guidance and strategic planning to considering moral implications and trusting in God, the Scriptures provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the complexities of war through the lens of wisdom. Nave's Topical Index Proverbs 21:22A wise man scales the city of the mighty, and casts down the strength of the confidence thereof. Nave's Topical Index Proverbs 24:6 Ecclesiastes 9:14-18 Luke 14:31,32 Library Of Justice, Wisdom, and Folly. On the Sunday Called "Episozomenes," to those who had Come to ... How Christ is to be Made Use Of, in Reference to the Killing and ... Li. Dining with a Pharisee, Jesus Denounces that Sect. Knox in the War of the Congregation: the Regent Attacked: Her ... The Jews Make all Ready for the War; and Simon, the Son of Gioras ... From the Conference of 1773 to the Commencement of the War in 1776 To Win Souls Requires Wisdom. How Joshua, the Commander of the Hebrews, Made War with The Hiram, the Inspired Artificer Resources What happened in the Six-Day War? | GotQuestions.orgWhy are Christians pro-life when it comes to abortion while at the same time in favor of the death penalty and supportive of war? | GotQuestions.org How should Christians respond to the "War on Christmas"? | GotQuestions.org War: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics War with Endurance of Hardness War with Steadfastness in the Faith War without Earthly Entanglements War: Be Clothed in White Clothing War: Be Confessed by Christ in the Presence of God the Father War: Be Pillars in the Temple of God War: Called "The Armor of God" War: Called "The Armor of Light" War: Called "The Armor of Righteousness" War: Called the Good Fight of Faith War: Eat from the Tree of Life War: Enemy Harangued by the General of the Opposing Side War: Frequently Long Continued War: Frequently Sore and Bloody War: God: Gives the Victory In War: God: Scatters Those Who Delight In War: God: Strengthens his People For War: God: Taught his People the Art of War: Have a White Stone, and in It a New Name Written War: Have Power Over the Nations War: Have the Name of God Written Upon Them by Christ War: Large Armies Frequently Engaged In War: Mere Professors do not Maintain War: Not be Hurt by the Second Death War: Not Have Their Names Blotted out of the Book of Life War: Often Arises from the Opposition of Friends or Relatives War: Often Attended by Cruelty War: Often Attended by Devastation War: Often Attended by Pestilence War: Often Sent As a Punishment for Sin War: Originates in the Lusts of Men War: Over all That Exalts Itself War: Preceded by Great Preparation War: Saints are all Engaged In War: Sit With Christ on his Throne War: Strengthened by Christ In War: Symbolized by a Red Horse War: The Breastplate of Righteousness War: The Contest Between Antichrist and the Church War: The Contest of Saints With the Enemies of Their Salvation War: The Jews: Frequently Engaged in (See Joshua Chapters 6 Through 11) War: The Malignity of the Wicked War: The Preparation of the Gospel War: Those Who Overcome In, Will Eat of the Hidden Manna War: To be on the Right Hand and Left, an Idiom Meaning: "To Attack and to Defend." War: Under Christ, As Our Captain Related Terms |
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