In contemporary discourse, the term "terrorist" refers to individuals or groups who use violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, to achieve political or ideological goals. While the Bible does not explicitly mention "terrorists" as understood in modern times, it does address themes of violence, fear, and the moral implications of using force against others.

Biblical Context of Violence and Fear

The Bible contains numerous accounts of violence and warfare, often within the context of divine judgment or the defense of God's people. In the Old Testament, God sometimes commands the Israelites to engage in warfare against nations that oppose His purposes (e.g., Joshua 6:21). However, the Bible also condemns acts of violence that stem from wickedness or rebellion against God's commandments.

Proverbs 3:31 advises, "Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways," highlighting the moral stance against adopting violent methods. Similarly, Psalm 11:5 states, "The LORD examines the righteous, but the wicked, those who love violence, he hates."

Fear as a Tool of Oppression

Terrorists often use fear as a tool to manipulate and control populations. The Bible acknowledges the power of fear but encourages believers to place their trust in God rather than succumb to terror. Isaiah 41:10 reassures, "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."

In the New Testament, Jesus addresses fear and persecution, urging His followers to remain steadfast in their faith. In Matthew 10:28, He instructs, "Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell."

Moral and Ethical Considerations

The Bible emphasizes the sanctity of life and the importance of justice and righteousness. Acts of terrorism, which often involve the indiscriminate killing of innocents, stand in stark contrast to biblical teachings on the value of human life. Genesis 9:6 declares, "Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed; for in His own image God has made mankind."

Romans 12:19-21 further instructs believers on responding to evil: "Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.' On the contrary, 'If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink. For in so doing, you will heap burning coals on his head.' Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."

The Role of Government and Justice

The Bible recognizes the role of government in maintaining order and executing justice. Romans 13:1-4 outlines the responsibility of governing authorities to act as agents of God's justice, punishing wrongdoers and protecting the innocent. "For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Do you want to be unafraid of the one in authority? Do what is right, and you will have his approval."

Conclusion

While the Bible does not directly address modern terrorism, its teachings on violence, fear, justice, and the sanctity of life provide a framework for understanding and responding to such acts. Believers are called to trust in God's sovereignty, pursue peace, and uphold justice in a world often marked by violence and terror.

See Where we were when the Republic Arose: Happy was it that the ...
... February, the People, masters of all, of the fortunes and lives of the citizens,
of Heaven and earth, had been a People of Materialists, of Terrorists, and of ...
/.../lamartine/atheism among the people/xvi see where we were.htm

On the Negative Spirit
... microbes. Modern realists are indeed Terrorists, like the dynamiters; and
they fail just as much in their effort to create a thrill. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/chesterton/heretics/ii on the negative spirit.htm

Terrorists (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Terrorists (1 Occurrence). Acts 21:38 Aren't
you then the Egyptian, who before these days stirred up to ...
/t/terrorists.htm - 6k

Terrorize (1 Occurrence)

/t/terrorize.htm - 6k

Terror (137 Occurrences)

/t/terror.htm - 37k

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