Waging War, Wanting Peace

In a world plagued by conflict, how should followers of Christ approach the complex issues of war and peace? This question is as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago when the ancient Israelites grappled with similar challenges.

The book of Deuteronomy provides a fascinating glimpse into God's instructions for His people regarding warfare. While these directives were specific to Israel's context, they offer profound insights that can shape our understanding of conflict, justice, and peace in light of the gospel.

At first glance, some of the Old Testament passages on warfare may seem jarring to modern readers. However, we must approach these texts with care and wisdom, recognizing the historical and covenantal context in which they were given. The instructions for Israel were not a blanket endorsement of violence, but rather guidelines for conducting warfare justly when it became unavoidable.

Several key principles emerge:

• Prioritize peace: Before engaging in battle, Israel was commanded to offer terms of peace to their opponents. This reflects God's heart for reconciliation and His desire for conflict to be avoided when possible.
• Trust in God, not military might: The Israelites were instructed not to fear superior armies or weapons, but to place their confidence in the Lord who had delivered them from Egypt.
• Preserve life and resources: Even in warfare, there were limits. Non-combatants were to be spared, and fruit trees were not to be destroyed. This demonstrates God's concern for human life and His creation, even in times of conflict.
• Follow godly leadership: The priests and officers played crucial roles in preparing the people for battle, reminding them of God's presence and power.
• Execute judgment justly: In specific cases, God used Israel as an instrument of judgment against wicked nations. This was not indiscriminate violence, but a sobering picture of divine justice.

While these principles were given to ancient Israel, they prompt us to reflect on how we approach conflict and peace today as followers of Christ. The New Testament presents a radically different paradigm – one where the church is called to be peacemakers and to overcome evil with good.

Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, has ushered in a new covenant. He rebuked Peter for using violence and taught His followers to love their enemies. The Apostle Paul exhorted believers to live at peace with all people as far as it depends on them. The only "sword" Christians are called to wield is the sword of the Spirit – God's Word.

This raises challenging questions for believers who serve in the military or law enforcement. While Christians can serve honorably in these roles, they must do so with a commitment to justice and a recognition that God's Word is the highest authority. There may be times when following Christ means refusing orders that violate His commands.

The story of Desmond Doss, a World War II medic and conscientious objector, provides a powerful example. Despite facing ridicule and persecution, Doss remained true to his convictions against bearing arms. Yet he courageously saved many lives on the battlefield, demonstrating that one can serve both God and country faithfully.

As we navigate the complexities of living in a fallen world where conflict persists, several key truths can anchor us:

• Pursue peace: We are called to be peacemakers and to pray for those in authority so that we may lead peaceful lives.
• Trust in King Jesus: Christ has already won the ultimate victory over sin, death, and Satan. We fight from a position of victory, not for victory.
• Wield spiritual weapons: Our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of evil. Prayer, faith, and God's Word are our mighty weapons.
• Hope in the coming Kingdom: We look forward to the day when Christ will return, establishing perfect peace and justice. This hope should motivate us to be agents of reconciliation in the present.
• Proclaim the gospel: The message of Christ's death and resurrection is the ultimate peacemaking initiative. Through faith in Him, we can have peace with God and extend that peace to others.

The tensions between the realities of a fallen world and the ethics of God's kingdom will persist until Christ's return. We may face situations where there are no easy answers. Yet we can trust that the same God who instructed Israel how to wage war justly is the God who sent His Son to make peace through the cross.

As we reflect on these weighty matters, let us be people who earnestly pursue peace while clinging to the hope of the gospel. May we be known for our love, even for our enemies, and for our unwavering trust in the King who has conquered on our behalf.

In a world torn by conflict, the church has a unique opportunity to demonstrate a different way – the way of sacrificial love, forgiveness, and reconciliation. While we may not always agree on how to apply biblical principles to complex geopolitical situations, we can unite around the central truth that Jesus Christ is our peace.

Let us therefore be ambassadors of His kingdom, proclaiming the good news that brings peace to all who trust in Him. For one day, every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, and His peace will reign forever.