What does the Bible say about going to war?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that war is a grievous reality of a fallen world, sometimes entrusted to lawful civil authorities to restrain evil, yet never to be pursued with personal hatred or delight in violence. Ecclesiastes 3:8 acknowledges that there is a time for war, while Romans 13:4 teaches that governing authorities bear the sword as God’s servants for justice. Christians, however, are called to seek peace with all whenever possible, as Romans 12:18 says, and to leave vengeance to God. Matthew 24:6 warns that wars will occur but should not cause believers to panic, for God remains sovereign. Proverbs 21:15 reminds us that true justice brings joy to the righteous and terror to evildoers.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Ecclesiastes 3:8
A time to love, And a time to hate; A time for war, And a time for peace.
- Matthew 24:6
You will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you aren't troubled, for all this must happen, but the end is not yet.
- Romans 13:4
for he is a servant of God to you for good. But if you do that which is evil, be afraid, for he doesn't bear the sword in vain; for he is a minister of God, an avenger for wrath to him who does evil.
- Romans 12:18
If it is possible, as much as it is up to you, be at peace with all men.
- Proverbs 21:15
It is joy to the righteous to do justice; But it is a destruction to the workers of iniquity.
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