What does the Bible say about violence and war, considering both the Old and New Testaments? Does it present a consistent viewpoint, or are there differing perspectives depending on the specific text or covenant? Specifically, how are we to interpret the seemingly contradictory messages regarding warfare commanded by God in the Old Testament, versus the teachings of peace and love in the New Testament, particularly those of Jesus? Furthermore, how have different denominations and theological traditions interpreted these passages throughout history, and what guidance can the Bible offer for Christians navigating the complexities of violence and war in the modern world?
Answer
The Bible presents a complex and nuanced perspective on violence and war, with passages that seem to both condemn and condone them depending on the context and interpretation.
Old Testament:
- Violence as a consequence of sin: Genesis describes violence entering the world after the Fall (Genesis 4, Cain and Abel). Violence is frequently linked to human rebellion against God.
- God’s judgment and punishment: The Old Testament depicts God using violence, including war, as a means of judgment against wickedness. Examples include the Flood (Genesis 6-9), the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19), and the plagues on Egypt (Exodus 7-12). These acts are typically portrayed as divine responses to extreme moral corruption.
- Just War: The Old Testament contains accounts of wars commanded or sanctioned by God. These are often portrayed as wars of self-defense, territorial acquisition, or the enforcement of God’s covenant with Israel. Deuteronomy 20 outlines rules for warfare, including offering terms of peace before attacking, showing mercy to women and children, and avoiding unnecessary destruction of property. These rules suggest an attempt to limit the brutality of war.
- Holy War: Certain wars in the Old Testament are described as "holy wars," where God is believed to be directly involved. These wars are often characterized by a complete dedication to God’s purpose, including the extermination of enemies (e.g., the conquest of Canaan). These accounts are particularly challenging to interpret and have been used to justify violence in different contexts. Passages like Deuteronomy 7:2 and 20:16-18, which command the complete destruction of certain Canaanite peoples, are often cited in discussions about the problematic nature of "holy war" in the Old Testament.
- Violence in leadership: Many Old Testament figures, like David, were warriors and engaged in violence. While they are often praised for their faith and courage, the Bible also acknowledges the moral complexities of their actions (e.g., David’s sin with Bathsheba and the murder of Uriah).
- Prophetic critiques of violence and calls for peace: Alongside the accounts of war, the Old Testament also contains prophetic voices that condemn violence and call for justice and peace. Isaiah 2:4 envisions a future where nations "shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore." Micah 4:3 echoes this vision. The prophets often denounce the violence and oppression inflicted by Israel’s leaders and call for a return to righteousness.
New Testament:
- Jesus’ teachings on non-violence and love: Jesus’ teachings emphasize love, compassion, and forgiveness. He instructs his followers to "turn the other cheek" (Matthew 5:39) and to love their enemies (Matthew 5:44). He rebukes Peter for using violence to defend him (Matthew 26:52), stating, "all who draw the sword will die by the sword." These teachings have been interpreted as advocating for pacifism.
- Jesus’ actions and cleansing of the Temple: Some argue that Jesus’ act of cleansing the Temple (Matthew 21:12-13; Mark 11:15-17; Luke 19:45-46; John 2:13-16) involved a form of violence, as he drove out the merchants and overturned their tables. However, others interpret this action as a symbolic act of prophetic protest against the corruption of the Temple.
- Paul’s teachings on submission to authority: Romans 13:1-7 states that governing authorities are established by God and that Christians should submit to them. This passage has been interpreted to support the legitimacy of state power, including the use of force to maintain order. However, others argue that this submission is not absolute and that Christians have a responsibility to resist unjust laws.
- The Book of Revelation and apocalyptic violence: The Book of Revelation depicts a final battle between good and evil, characterized by intense violence and destruction. This imagery is often interpreted symbolically, representing the ultimate triumph of God’s kingdom over the forces of evil. However, some have interpreted it literally, leading to different views on the role of violence in the end times.
- Emphasis on spiritual warfare: The New Testament speaks of spiritual warfare against the forces of evil (Ephesians 6:12). This warfare is not fought with physical weapons but with spiritual ones, such as prayer, faith, and truth.
Interpretations and Theological Positions:
- Pacifism: This view holds that violence is always wrong and that Christians should abstain from all forms of war and violence. Pacifists often cite Jesus’ teachings on love and non-resistance as the basis for their position.
- Just War Theory: This theory provides a framework for determining when war is morally justifiable. It typically outlines criteria such as just cause, legitimate authority, right intention, last resort, proportionality, and reasonable hope of success. Proponents of just war theory believe that war is sometimes necessary to protect innocent lives or to defend against aggression, but that it must be conducted according to moral principles.
- Crusade or Holy War: This view, often considered a distortion of Christian teaching, holds that war can be a means of advancing God’s kingdom and punishing evil. It often involves a religious justification for violence and the belief that God is directly involved in the conflict. This view is generally rejected by mainstream Christian theology.
- Christian Realism: This perspective acknowledges the reality of sin and the limitations of human nature. It recognizes that violence is sometimes unavoidable in a fallen world, but emphasizes the need for Christians to act with humility and restraint. Christian realists often support the use of force to maintain order and protect innocent lives, but they also advocate for diplomacy and peacemaking efforts.
- Transforming Initiatives: Instead of fully endorsing or rejecting war, some Christians focus on transforming initiatives to reduce violence. They emphasize conflict resolution, restorative justice, and promoting economic and social development to alleviate the root causes of violence.
The Bible’s teachings on violence and war are complex and have been interpreted in different ways throughout history. There is no single, universally accepted Christian position on these issues. Different denominations and individuals hold varying views based on their understanding of Scripture and their application of biblical principles to contemporary situations.
Pray This Prayer
Okay, here’s a prayer that incorporates the Biblical perspective on violence and war:
A Prayer for Peace, Guided by Scripture
O God of compassion and justice, whose heart aches for the suffering of your children, we come before you today burdened by the violence and war that plague our world. We see the headlines, hear the stories, and feel the pain of broken lives and shattered communities.
We confess, Lord, that we often struggle to reconcile the realities of conflict with the teachings of your Holy Word. We know the Bible speaks of war and battles, sometimes even seemingly commanded by you, a God of righteousness. But we also hear the resounding call to love our enemies, to turn the other cheek, and to pursue peace with all people.
Remind us, Lord, of your ultimate vision, as spoken through the prophet Isaiah, where nations shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore (Isaiah 2:4).
Grant us wisdom to discern when resistance is necessary to protect the vulnerable, to defend the innocent, and to stand against evil. Yet, help us to always do so with a heavy heart, recognizing the inherent tragedy of violence.
We pray for those who are caught in the crossfire of conflict: for the displaced, the wounded, the grieving, and the fearful. Comfort them with your presence and provide for their needs. Guide those who offer aid and assistance, protecting them from harm.
We pray for leaders of nations, that they would seek peaceful solutions to disputes, embracing diplomacy and dialogue instead of aggression and force. Soften their hearts, Lord, and open their eyes to the humanity they share with those they consider their enemies.
Help us, as followers of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, to be instruments of your reconciliation in our own lives and communities. Empower us to speak out against injustice, to challenge violence in all its forms, and to build bridges of understanding across divides.
May we be mindful of Jesus’ words: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God (Matthew 5:9). Help us to live up to this calling, striving for a world where peace reigns and your love triumphs over hate.
We ask all of this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord, who taught us to love even our enemies and to seek the kingdom of God above all else.
Amen.