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NASB | Deuteronomy 7:2 and when the LORD your God delivers them before you and you defeat them, then you shall utterly destroy them. You shall make no covenant with them and show no favor to them. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Deuteronomy 7:2 and when the LORD your God gives them over to you and you defeat them, then you shall utterly destroy them. You shall not make a covenant (treaty) with them nor show mercy and compassion to them. |
Bible Question:
Yes I know. There are a lot of different arguments out there "for" war. I think it is a "reasoning" that is taking place. It is what we humans do to justify our actions when they do not line up with the word of God. What surprises me...is the number of Christians who are doing this, when clearly as you say...we are under a new covenant...and also when Jesus was so against any kind of revenge or fighting back theology. The whole Jesus story says..."you can count on our Father in heaven, you do not have to avenge yourself". For some reason, people seem to be having a hard time applying this to our current situation. I stand that...God is a MIGHTY God, and perfectly able to defend those who stand with Him, against terrorism. It is only those who are not standing on the word of God, that need to fear and there for, want hopelessly to try and defend themselves. Our war is a spiritual war as Christians and that is where we will find victory. How do we open the eyes of fellow Christians to this truth? Where do we begin? coop1 |
Bible Answer: Dear coop1, Greetings in Jesus' name! I am not 'for' war, and I really don't know of many that ARE! But I am 'for' justice and self-defence, and obeying the earthly authorities set over me by God. War IS ugly! So is terrorism, murderous fanatacism, drug-and/or-greed inspired violent crime, etc. You are assuming that these people have an ear to hear the Gospel. When a child is throwing a tantrum, he cannot hear love and reason. You must 'contain' this rage/selfish behavior, THEN talk. You can call this the equivalent of wrapping him in your arms! If you let a wild beast follow their 'instincts,' they continue the rampage until they are spent! Do you suggest that we allow these madmen to continue until they are spent? Perhaps you did not lose a friend or loved one to murder, therefore you are willing to allow it to happen again. We deal sometimes with truly crazy people! You cannot just say that they have 'diminished responsibility' because of their social environment. Friend, I disagree that we should 'turn the other cheek' toward insane violence and terrorism. Jesus was speaking of disputes among brethren, not about those bent on annihilation. I agree that we should share the Good News to all, and in order to do that with some, it requires 'containment,' especially if they vow to kill until their own death or the death of all of other faith (i.e. Christian). Your view is admirable, but not very practical. I cannot help thinking that you take your stand while being far away from the conflict. :-) Blessings and peace in Christ Jesus, charis |