Journal: Masters Seminary Journal
Volume: TMSJ 11:2 (Fall 2000)
Article: The Christian And War
Author: William D. Barrick

MSJ 11:2 (Fall 2000) p. 213

The Christian And War

William D. Barrick

Professor of Old Testament

Answering the question, “Should a Christian be a member of the military?” is the best way to elaborate on “The Christian and War.” On the positive side, the military emphasizes the importance of moral character for its leaders. On the negative side, the military is a profession in which killing may be a part of one’s responsibility. Four possible positions to take regarding this difficult issue are nonresistance, Christian pacificism, just war, and preventive war. Also at stake is the Christian responsibility to submit to governmental authority as indicated in Romans 13:1–7 and 1 Peter 2:13–17. New Testament analogies comparing responsibilities of Christian living with being a good soldier seem to point to the legitimacy of Christians being part of the military endeavor of their country. That plus other factors support a Christian’s being involved in military service. Yet the conscience of each Christian must prevail in making this difficult decision about the issue, “Should a Christian be a member of the military?”

* * * * *

Introduction

The issue of war and Christian involvement in military service is so extensive that it is necessary to limit the scope of this study of “The Christian and War.” Its literature dates from the earliest years of church history,1 with a history too vast even to be summarized here. Obviously, biblical exegesis and Scripture rightly interpreted must inform any resolution of the issues. Therefore, at least to look at what the Bible has to say about the topic is imperative. A focus on one basic question is the best approach: “Should a Christian be a member of the military?”

MSJ 11:2 (Fall 2000) p. 214

Since the question deals with “a Christian,” the emphasis should be upon what the NT has to say about the matter. However, the question itself did not originate with the Christian church. Indeed, the issue predates the Christian era. Even in OT times believers faced the problem of involvement in war. Certainly Abraham had given some consideration to the issue prior to commencing armed action against Chedorlaomer’s coalition of kings (Genesis 14). He engaged the kings in battle in order to free his nephew Lot and his family.2 Since both testaments are the inspired Word of God and “profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness,”You must have a subscription and be logged in to read the entire article.
Click here to subscribe