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NASB | 2 Corinthians 10:3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 2 Corinthians 10:3 For though we walk in the flesh [as mortal men], we are not carrying on our [spiritual] warfare according to the flesh and using the weapons of man. |
Subject: Can Christian's support Caesar's wars? |
Bible Note: Christians have to have the courage to die for what is right; cowards will be cut off as will all other unrepentent sinners. Paul had a zeal for God, but not according to accurate knowledge. He pursecuted Christians to the point of death. Yet when he learned the truth, he repented, had a clean conscience, and was used by God as an honorable vessel. I did many things before becoming a Christian I am not proud of. My only excuse is that I was ignorant of God's will as was Paul. The difference is that Paul was more accountable because he had the opportunity to have studied God's word. Jesus came to preach to the Jews. They had the law and were God's covenant people. They were in a serious position as His "holy nation." Jesus incidental encounters with gentiles foretold blessings for them as well, but the same level of accountability did not exist yet - Jesus had not provided the "ransom for all" and they did not know the law. To say that because he did not tell soldiers to "get a new job" indicates that he approved of their occupation would mean that because he did not tell the harlot to do likewise, she could remain in her occupation and have God's approval. Not consistent with Christian doctrine. Christians are not under the Mosaic Law, but the principles that applied to the Jews to whom Jesus ministry focused also apply to Christians. See Numbers chapter 35 concerning the "cities of refuge." In particular, verse 11 highlights that even "unintentional" taking of life was grounds for loss of the accused's life. This principle even can be seen in God's words to Noah as Genesis 9:6. Satan is the ruler of this world and is a manslayer. He does not want to see true Christians united so he attempts to embroil them in political contraversies among the nations that do not uphold God's standards and view of the sanctity of life. Paul could hold his head high despite his past because he did those things in ignorance. He came to have a fine record of courageous service for righteousness sake that God would not forget, but rather reward. Many Christians today have done likewise with the same results. To be 'no part of the world and set apart for sacred service (sanctified),' we must accept God's high standards, as unpopular as this may be in our nationalistic world. Prayerfully consider this subject. Although I was never called up for military duty, I would have done as you did. I used to work at a defense manufacturer until I studied the Bible. |