In times of conflict, the Bible provides guidance on the role of war and the Christian's response. Deuteronomy 20:1-4 outlines the protocols for engaging in battle, emphasizing the importance of faith and trust in God. The apostle Paul writes in Romans 13:4 that governing authorities bear the sword to maintain order, while 1 Timothy 2:1-2 encourages prayers for those in authority, that believers may live peaceful lives. Additionally, Ecclesiastes 3:8 and Psalms 144:1 acknowledge the reality of war, yet emphasize the need for discernment and trust in God's sovereignty.
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When you go out to war against your enemies and see horses, chariots, and an army larger than yours, do not be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, is with you. When you are about to go into battle, the priest is to come forward and address the army, saying to them, “Hear, O Israel, today you are going into battle with your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not be alarmed or terrified because of them. For the LORD your God goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.”
First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for everyone— for kings and all those in authority—so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity.
For he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not carry the sword in vain. He is God’s servant, an agent of retribution to the wrongdoer.
Blessed be the LORD, my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle.
You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. These things must happen, but the end is still to come.
What causes conflicts and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from the passions at war within you? You crave what you do not have; you kill and covet, but are unable to obtain it. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask.
Jesus replied, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by His own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”