InstaStudy

The Believer's Stance in Times of Conflict

This study explores biblical principles guiding believers in their understanding and response to war and conflict, emphasizing God's nature, the call to peace, and the believer's role in a world often marked by strife.

1. God's Nature and the Call to Peace

1.1 God as the Author of Peace

Verses: Romans 15:33; Philippians 4:7
  • God's very character is peace, and He desires peace for His people.
  • The peace of God surpasses all understanding, guarding hearts and minds.

1.2 Jesus, the Prince of Peace

Verses: Isaiah 9:6; John 14:27
  • Jesus is prophesied and revealed as the ultimate bringer of peace.
  • He offers a peace distinct from the world's, a lasting inner tranquility.

1.3 The Kingdom of God and Righteousness

Verses: Romans 14:17; Matthew 5:9
  • The kingdom of God is characterized by righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
  • Those who actively work for peace are blessed and called children of God.

2. The Believer's Conduct in a Fallen World

2.1 Love for Enemies

Verses: Matthew 5:44; Romans 12:20
  • Believers are commanded to love and pray for those who persecute them.
  • We are to overcome evil with good, even towards our adversaries.

2.2 Non-Retaliation and Forgiveness

Verses: Matthew 5:39; Romans 12:19
  • Jesus teaches a principle of non-resistance to evil, turning the other cheek.
  • Vengeance belongs to God; believers are not to take matters into their own hands.

2.3 Living Peaceably with All

Verses: Romans 12:18; Hebrews 12:14
  • As far as it depends on us, we are to live at peace with everyone.
  • Pursuing peace and holiness is essential for seeing the Lord.

3. Authority, Government, and Military Service

3.1 Submission to Governing Authorities

Verses: Romans 13:1-2; 1 Peter 2:13-14
  • Governing authorities are established by God, and believers are to submit to them.
  • We are to obey laws and respect rulers for the Lord's sake.

3.2 The Government's Role in Justice

Verses: Romans 13:4; 1 Peter 2:14
  • Rulers are God's servants to bring punishment on wrongdoers and commend those who do right.
  • They bear the sword as an instrument of justice and order.

3.3 Conscience and Service

Verses: Acts 5:29; 1 Corinthians 7:20-24
  • When human laws conflict with God's commands, we must obey God rather than men.
  • Believers are to serve God faithfully in whatever calling or circumstance they find themselves.

4. The Ultimate Victory and Spiritual Warfare

4.1 Our True Adversary

Verses: Ephesians 6:12; 1 Peter 5:8
  • Our struggle is not against human beings, but against spiritual forces of evil.
  • The devil is our adversary, seeking to devour, and we must be vigilant.

4.2 The Armor of God

Verses: Ephesians 6:13-17
  • Believers are called to put on the full armor of God to stand against the devil's schemes.
  • This armor includes truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God.

4.3 Prayer as a Weapon

Verses: Ephesians 6:18; 2 Corinthians 10:4
  • Prayer in the Spirit is a vital part of our spiritual warfare, for all believers.
  • Our spiritual weapons are mighty through God for pulling down strongholds.

4.4 The Hope of God's Eternal Kingdom

Verses: Revelation 21:4; Isaiah 2:4
  • In God's eternal kingdom, there will be no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain.
  • Ultimately, God will establish a time when nations will not learn war anymore, and instruments of war will be transformed for peaceful purposes.