Serving a God of Love & War or Triumph in War & Love

SERVING A GOD OF LOVE WAR OR

TRIUMPH IN WAR LOVE

Introduction

The issue on war in our society today is sure to stir a hot debate . Much more among Christian circles . After 9 /11 and the continuing war in Iraq Americans and the world in general , had become divided along sharp lines . Most conservatives are more likely to support war while the liberals are more likely to oppose . It is quite interesting that wide support comes from the Evangelical Christians . A 2002 survey showed that Evangelicals were found to be

the most supportive sector of the population who are in favor for the war in Iraq

Not a few were perplexed : isn 't this a contradiction to Biblical teachings ? Is it not , that Christians were taught by Jesus to be peacemaker (Matthew 5 :9 ? Isn 't the God that they worship described as the Prince of Peace ' in the book of Isaiah (Isaiah9 :6 ? Does the Church go for war , with the belief that through this means it will triumph in love ? Aren 't they instead , taught to love in to prevent war ? In both sides of this issue , we will find men and women who are truly sincere and honest upon their convictions . In fact , Scriptural tests can be found to support both pro-war ' and anti-war positions

Inherent upon these questions are also directed on whether God is either for or against war . The Old Testament is filled with battles and even indicates God directing or going out to battle with His people (as long as it is sanctioned by Him . On the other hand , the New Testament teachings seemed to contradict or oppose the ways written in the Old Testament . It is filled with teachings and different expressions of love --- for God , towards one 's neighbors and even to the point of loving one 's enemies . Does God 's Word run contradictory by itself does God contradict Himself ? Consequently , do Christians , as followers of Christ express love at all times and never resort to the use of sword ? Would this principle apply at all times , as exemplified by Jesus and the Christian martyrs who gave their lives to the point of death ? Or should they follow Old Testament examples of going to war in for peace and love to reign

This study attempts to answer how Christians can rejoice in serving a God of love , who is also a God of war . Also , this will try to demonstrate how the same power that lifted up and brought unspeakable joy to the saints of God , is the same power that worked through God 's mighty men , as they fought through battles and received victory , for as long as they lived in obedience to His instructions

The Nature / Character of God

It is important , that before we attempt to answer the questions mentioned above , one must lay first the proper foundation from which we will build our understanding of this particular issue . Before attempting to...