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What does the Bible say about time for war?

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The Bible teaches that war is a grievous reality in a fallen world, sometimes entrusted to civil rulers for the protection of the innocent and restraint of evil, yet never to be pursued from personal hatred or selfish desire. Ecclesiastes 3:8 recognizes a time for war, while Deuteronomy 20:1-4 calls Israel to depend on the Lord rather than military strength. Romans 13:4 describes governing authority as God’s servant in wielding justice, but Romans 12:18 commands believers to live peaceably whenever possible. Christians should pray for rulers and peace, as 1 Timothy 2:1-2 teaches, remembering that conflicts often arise from sinful passions, according to James 4:1-2.

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Deuteronomy 20:1-4

    [1] When you go forth to battle against your enemies, and see horses, and chariots, [and] a people more than you, you shall not be afraid of them; for Yahweh your God is with you, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. [2] It shall be, when you draw near to the battle, that the priest shall approach and speak to the people, [3] and shall tell them, Hear, Israel, you draw near this day to battle against your enemies: don't let your heart faint; don't be afraid, nor tremble, neither be scared of them; [4] for Yahweh your God is he who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.

  • 1 Timothy 2:1-2

    [1] I exhort therefore, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and givings of thanks, be made for all men: [2] for kings and all who are in high places; that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and reverence.

  • Ecclesiastes 3:8

    A time to love, And a time to hate; A time for war, And a time for peace.

  • 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.

  • Psalms 144:1

    > Blessed be Yahweh, my rock, Who teaches my hands to war, And my fingers to battle:

  • 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.

  • James 4:1-2

    [1] Where do wars and fightings among you come from? Don't they come from your pleasures that war in your members? [2] You lust, and don't have. You kill, covet, and can't obtain. You fight and make war. You don't have, because you don't ask.

  • Psalms 18:34

    He teaches my hands to war; So that my arms bend a bow of bronze.

  • Psalms 82:4

    Rescue the weak and needy. Deliver them out of the hand of the wicked."

  • Romans 12:18

    If it is possible, as much as it is up to you, be at peace with all men.

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