What does the Bible say about treaty?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible permits solemn agreements among nations when they serve peace and justice, but it warns God’s people never to make alliances that compromise covenant faithfulness or invite idolatry. Joshua 9:3-21 shows that Israel honored its oath to the Gibeonites even though it had been obtained by deception, teaching reverence for vows. Solomon made peaceful arrangements with Hiram in 1 Kings 5:1-12 and 9:10-14, while Asa sought help from Ben-hadad in 1 Kings 15:19. Yet Exodus 34:12, 15 warns against covenants with idolatrous peoples, lest God’s people be drawn away from him. Every treaty must therefore be judged by loyalty to the Lord and truthfulness before him.
Study outline
Curated topical outlines from classic public-domain study works.
Nave's Topical Bible
- Between nations
- Israelites and Gibeonites Joshua 9:3-15
- Judah and Syria 1 Kings 15:19
- Ceding of the territory by 1 Kings 9:10-14; 1 Kings 20:34
- Sacredness of Joshua 9:16-21
- Reciprocity 1 Kings 5:1-12
- With idolatrous nations forbidden Exodus 34:12; Exodus 34:15
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