Can War Be Holy? Lesson 5 certainly struck a strong chord for me. I have always been perplexed by the dichotomy of the commandment to not kill and the wars and destruction described in the Old Testament. The author of this study asks some very thought provoking questions about when we would decide a war was just. I do believe there is evil in the world, and that we must not allow it to take control or to do harm. However, how often do we enter into war for other reasons that are political or based on economics? As humans we then use our religious beliefs to justify the actions we take and to ally ourselves with others to strengthen our force.
The lesson of Joshua had me focusing in a different direction. It made me think more about being grateful for what God has provided and what He expects from us in return. Because of this study I read the book of Joshua as a message for my life versus a history lesson. On page 53 there is a column entitled “Encountering the Text”. The text I focused on was Joshua 6:16b—“Shout; for the LORD has given you the city.” Following the instruction God delivers through Joshua, the land of promise is given to the people. Thinking about this beyond physical property, following the instructions of God as brought to us through Jesus Christ, we too are given the land of promise. Our part is to follow those teachings by our faith and actions.
Should Christians ever consider war to be holy? I think a cause may be holy, but in my opinion the unintended consequences of war are not holy, nor the will of God. As Christians I believe we must make the extra effort to find resolutions other than war, and if war occurs to take care of those who are victims of its violence. The prayer on page 59 ends with a few sentences that I will hold in my heart—“Forgive us. Help us understand the worth of all life, and work to prevent all wars. Help us promote life, justice, and reconciliation among the nations. Give us peace in our hearts and in our world. Amen”
Lesson 5 Can War Be Holy?
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