military – La Vista Church of Christ

Can a Christian serve as a military chaplain?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Thu, 16 Jan 2020 22:49:54 +0000

Question:

I am really curious about your thoughts on one being a military chaplain. Can one morally make that decision? There is a lot of pluralism in the military. I'm wondering if you are aware of the conflicts of people in the past.

Answer:

I don't know of the conflicts in being a chaplain in the military, but from I what I know of the requirements I would conclude that it would be very difficult to be a faithful Christian and a military chaplain today.

As you noted, military chaplains are required to be sensitive to the pluralistic backgrounds of the military personnel. From that, I would conclude that chaplains in the military would not be allowed to actively teach the Bible to anyone not inclined to listen to such teachings. This would go against Paul's instructions: "I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths. But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry" (II Timothy 4:1-5).

As an example, a lot of pressure is being placed to accept homosexuality. Currently, chaplains are told that they can decline to perform weddings they disagree with, but "military chaplains have been told that by refusing to perform gay marriages for military members, their careers are basically over – i.e., they will be 'passed over' for promotions." [Jack McNiel, "Christian Military Service"].

"The Air Force generally recognizes three main religious groups within which all chaplains function: Jewish, Catholic, and Protestant. The "Church of Christ Chaplain" falls into the category of a "Protestant." While a chaplain's primary responsibility is to meet the spiritual needs of those of his "faith," he must also preach for denominations whose ministers are away. In addition to this, he must take his turn preaching for the "Protestant Service," a general service for members of all Protestant denominations. Besides these things, we need to note some of the rules governing the work of a chaplain.

He must fulfill his responsibilities under certain constraints. For example, there are rules against "proselytizing. " In other words, a "Church of Christ Chaplain" must be careful what he says while preaching for Protestant services. He could neither preach the truth on how one becomes a Christian nor expose the sinfulness of the false practices so common among Protestant denominations." [Steve Wallace, "Church of Christ Chaplains," Guardian of Truth, 18 October 1990.]

As a chaplain, a Christian would find himself told that he cannot oppose false doctrine or teach the truth if those hearing him may think differently. For example, teaching that faith alone is insufficient for salvation (James 2:14-26) would not be allowed.

How can a Christian serve God when the military rules are not conducive to serving God?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Mon, 23 Jul 2018 01:59:00 +0000

Question:

My husband is a soldier in the military. Currently, he is on a 14-month deployment (technically, he's overseas for 9 months and training during the other time). He is adamant about not reenlisting being that he has not been able to worship, nor will he be able to unless he finds fellow soldiers who are Christians. Also, he isn't able to raise his child and be a husband other than providing financially. He believes he isn't in fellowship with the Lord because he isn't able to obey the Lord's commandments since he's not in the current state to do so. I am starting to believe that as well.

My question: How can a soldier serve the military and also serve God when the military's rules are not conducive to a soldier serving God?

Answer:

I agree that it is difficult, but it can be done in most circumstances with some effort. A 14-month deployment is unusually long and the fact that it forces him to leave his wife and child behind for that long is not good. I don't blame him for deciding to find another career when his enlistment is up.

A brother in Christ and a friend of mine, Darryl Treat was an officer in the Air Force. He wrote an answer just before his retirement on a similar question: Should a Christian serve in the military? There are several points that he made that I think are important:

You need to be a strong Christian because there will be many temptations to let service to God slide since you are in an area where no one knows you.
You need to actively search for a local church or fellow Christians near the post where you are assigned. Let me know where he needs to find other Christians, and I can try to locate someone in the area.
You need to get actively involved in the work and not be just a pew warmer.
Conduct Bible studies with whoever you can find who is interested.
If there is no local congregation, often you can set up a worship service at the base chapel. There might not be many of you, but it is one way to get the word out that there are Christians in the area.
If you are isolated but have access to the Internet, many congregations, including La Vista, broadcast their services for their members. You can always listen in. It is not a substitute for being with fellow Christians, but it is better than nothing at all.

In regard to family life, take advantage of modern technology. Use Skype or Facetime often. Text frequently to let each other know you are thinking of the other. Even if he can't get them immediately, they will be waiting for him when he does get back online.

I want to join the military, but my parents object

Jeffrey Hamilton — Sat, 07 Apr 2018 01:26:00 +0000

Question:

I'm 17 years old and am about to graduate. Recently I have been given the opportunity to either go into the military or attended a university. I'm wanting to go into the military. My reason is that I want to help protect the U.S. from foreign dangers, but my parents don't see it like that. When I told my parents, they reacted negatively, and right now I feel so degraded that I don't want to do anything. Anyways my question is: Is serving in the military something we shouldn't do, even though we care? How do I get the courage to confront my parents about it and make them understand that it isn't something bad?

Answer:

You are on the edge of becoming an adult. One aspect of adulthood is that you make your own decisions and deal with the consequences of your choices. Your parents raised you and, hopefully, taught you how to make good choices. They are there to continue to advise you and help where they can, but the decisions are now yours to make. You're going to make some dumb choices and that won't be your parents' fault. You're going to make some good choices too.

Your desire to serve in the military is not wrong. See: Should a Christian serve in the military? Realize that there are both good and bad consequences to the choice. For example, serving God while serving in the military can be difficult if you are not fully determined to be a Christian. See: Do you have advice for a young Christian going into military service?

Basically, if you are going to allow your parents to make you feel bad about doing something that isn't wrong, then you aren't quite ready for adulthood yet. If you are sure of your decision, then all you need to do is join and invite your parents to come to your swearing-in ceremony. Let them know that this was your well-considered decision and that you would like their support because you know it will be rough.

Is it wrong to want to join the military to kill terrorists?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Thu, 31 Aug 2017 02:17:00 +0000

Question:

If you join the military with the intent to kill terrorists, is it a sin? I know killing in a war is not. But what about having the intent to bring safety to the world, or revenge against what the terrorists have done, or someone who just wants to feel what killing feels like?

Answer:

Quite a range of reasons, but there are people who tend to have a variety of reasons for joining the military.

Governments have the God-given right to bring justice. "For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil" (Romans 13:3-4). We hope that because multiple people are involved in government that the actions taken are from an impartial view regarding what is right or wrong and not from an individual's desire for revenge.

A desire to make the world safer for others would be probably the more noble reason. Here is a respect for life as a whole. "For the commandments, "You shall not commit adultery," "You shall not murder," "You shall not steal," "You shall not bear false witness," "You shall not covet," and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself" " (Romans 13:9). While justice is called for, individual judgment is called upon to minimize the harm to others while justice is carried out.

Joining the military with the hopes of experiencing what it is like to take the life of another human being is probably the worse reason. Here life is treated as little more than a video game where the kill is just an emotional thrill. There is no respect for life. Nor would there be a drive to careful to do the least harm possible when trying to enforce justice.

Is being a sailor compatible with being a Christian? What about people who never heard of God?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 18:33:00 +0000

Question:

Hello,

I am currently training to become a merchant marine. I am a married man with children. The company I am working for forces me to be on-board for around three weeks straight, giving a 48-hour break about once a month -- twice if things go smoothly and the ship operations allow it so.

I spoke about this issue with some Jehovah's Witnesses I met. They directed me to a passage about a man who worked all his youth but decided to tear down his farm to make a bigger one in order to rest when he is old. But God said he was foolish for doing so because he was going to take him away that night, and all the material stuff would be left behind.

When I came back home, an acquaintance who is also a Jehovah's Witness and with whom I studied sporadically for a year, answered me with a passage on how the Law dictated that a father should tell his children about the correct path day, night and whenever possible. He told me that if I continued in my job situation, I would not be able to do so.

I guess at this point you can conclude that I am not a Christian, but I wish to become so. Just tonight I had a panic attack. Out of nowhere, I started thinking about life after death, and I couldn't bear the thought that once we die that's it -- we cease to exist, to my knowledge. God has promised it to be otherwise if we are faithful, but I have very little knowledge on the subject (other than some reading I have done on the Q&A site here). I was doing a job and had to stop because the thought was so overwhelming I could not focus at all and got really scared.

I'd like to provide well for my family, my job would allow me to do so, and I am afraid I do not have any education in another field that would allow me to just drop this career completely. On the bright side, there are other companies that allow you to work a shift of 16 hours (with breaks in-between of course) and let you be home for 12 hours, in a continuous cycle. The debate I currently have is regarding these two types of companies. Obviously, the one that has me more time onboard pays more, so I was considering working on the first type for some years, saving some money, and then dropping off to the second type.

I would appreciate your input on the situation and if further information is needed I would be happy to provide it.

Also, regarding worship days, which up to date I do not do, what is the stance in situations for a Christian who is a sailor? If that is possible, are there any professions not compatible with a Christian lifestyle?

I have another unrelated question: What happens (or happened) to all the ancestors of my cultural heritage who did not meet God or were not schooled in the Bible? Basically, what happens when a person dies without meeting God? Do they go to hell? Does God judges them accordingly to their deeds and would consider there was no way for them to meet Him? Also, are all humans destined to either heaven or hell or can some humans actually be "destroyed" completely and cease to exist at all? I do not even have a fundamental idea of what heaven and hell are, to be honest.

Answer:

"Better is a dish of vegetables where love is than a fattened ox served with hatred" (Proverbs 15:17).

A father's duty is described by Paul: "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4). Yes, you are responsible for their support, but money is just a minor part of the task at hand. You are to see to their teaching and knowledge of God -- something that would be difficult to do if you are gone most of the time. Often it is better to live a little poorer so that you can live a richer, fuller life.

I'm glad you are thinking about your future and the future of your family. Though the thoughts of what may be can be scary; yet, it can provide the motivation to learn and do something about your future. "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction" (Proverbs 1:7). Fear shows you that you have a pressing need to learn, so it isn't always a bad thing.

Regarding worship, those Christians whom I know are sailors usually will have a worship service with like-minded sailors who are on the same ship.

Yes, there are professions that Christians cannot be involved in because those professions involve sinful activities. For example, Christians cannot be involved in the gambling industry or the liquor industry.

Regarding judgment and the afterlife, Jesus said, "These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life" (Matthew 25:45). There are two states for people and neither involve annihilation. Jesus has said that there is eternal punishment for the wicked. See: What Is Hell Like? and The Problem of Hell. It is no different than that there is eternal life for the righteous. See Life Beyond the Grave. These articles should also help you start to understand what heaven and hell are.

In regards to those who do not know God, the question I always ask is: "What state is a person in who does not know God? Is he righteous or in sin?" If a person can be righteous without knowing God, then there would have been no need for Jesus to die on our behalf -- people could be saved simply through ignorance. See The Lost Who Never Heard the Gospel. One aspect of God is that He is just. He treats all people equally, holding them to the same standard. "But in accordance with your hardness and your impenitent heart you are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, who "will render to each one according to his deeds": eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality; but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness -- indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek; but glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works what is good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For there is no partiality with God" (Romans 2:5-11).

How are conflicts between military service and God’s will handled?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 02:32:00 +0000

Question:

I read the article on your web site about Christians and military service written by a friend of yours. It's a question that I am grappling with right now. There are quite a few things in his article that I am compelled to question. One of them is the section under the GOVERNMENT (WE THE PEOPLE IN THE U.S.).

What is the incentive for the U.S. to be considered in this government position over Iran, North Korea, Nazi Germany, or Venezuela? How does your friend reconcile these injustices with his duty to serve?

I have heard many military people in fighting positions say that they only carry out orders and that God will place responsibility on the leader. Can we accept this same line of reasoning with soldiers who committed under the Third Reich because they were ordered to?

This brings me to another inquiry: How does your friend reconcile oaths or allegiances to two entities -- one of which may propagate injustices at some period of time?

Another thing that I have heard is that it is utterly a Christian duty to 'serve your country.' I see nothing in scriptures that mandate a Christian's duty to 'serve your country.' Don't get me wrong -- I am a huge military enthusiast and the main catalyst for my exploration of the subject is that I am considering becoming an officer in the U.S. military. However, I just want to make sure that it's not as I will, but as He wills. Thanks.

Answer:

There were inflammatory statements made against one party involved in the United State's government that I removed because they were distractions from the issues raised.

While you object to one government holding power over several nations, the fact remains that such has been common in human history. The major empires of the past, such as the Egyptian, Assyrian, Babylonian, Persian, Greek, Roman, Ottoman, etc., all were of the form of one country holding domination over other countries. Christianity is not involved in statements of whether such should exist. It merely acknowledges that such does exist and operates in the given environment. Thus, when Paul stated, "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves" (Romans 13:1-2), it was made while the Roman government-controlled numerous other countries. Whether you like it or not doesn't change the fact that God has used such empires to accomplish His ends. I'm not saying that I might personally agree with the policies of a government at the moment, but I am pointing out that your claim of injustice is not scripturally supportable.

Since all governments exist by the will of God, Christians recognize that there is a chain of authority that flows from God, through governments to citizens. Because people are involved in government, we must expect corruption to exist. "If you see the oppression of the poor, and the violent perversion of justice and righteousness in a province, do not marvel at the matter; for high official watches over high official, and higher officials are over them" (Ecclesiastes 5:8). Such is the nature of mankind.

When a government official takes action that exceeds his authority and violates the commands of God, then God's commands overrule. This is what Peter told the Sanhedrin council, the Jewish high court, when it ordered them to stop preaching in the name of Jesus. "But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: 'We ought to obey God rather than men'" (Acts 5:29). Governing officials need to realize that they function as God's representatives to the people. If they misbehave, God will judge the judges. "God stands in the congregation of the mighty; He judges among the gods. How long will you judge unjustly, and show partiality to the wicked? Selah. Defend the poor and fatherless; do justice to the afflicted and needy. Deliver the poor and needy; free them from the hand of the wicked" (Psalm 82:1-4).

Therefore, a person working for the government cannot blindly follow orders. He must always be conscious that he ultimately works for God. If his superiors do not like this, that is their problem. This the moral argument that was used against the German soldiers in World War II. The fact that they served in government did not relieve them of moral responsibility.

The same point goes for oaths to governments. Governments work under God whether they wish to acknowledge it or not. An oath to a government is also an oath to God who is above the government. Thus, to a Christian, there is no conflict between serving a government and serving God. Conflicts will arise when individuals in government try to go beyond what God allows, but since the government's authority comes from God, a Christian simply chooses to obey the government's government (i.e. the King of kings).

Brother Treat's article did not claim that there was a duty to serve the country, nor do I know of anyone who holds that position. Serving a government is something a Christian may choose to do. The choice is neither right nor wrong in and of itself. Brother Treat did point out that he would rather see Christians involved in government than non-Christians because they would more likely make decisions that other Christians would find agreeable.

Is it right for a soldier to kill in war?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Sun, 19 Aug 2007 02:57:10 +0000

Question:

Shortly after my fiance and I get married I will deploy to Iraq for the first time. I, being an infantry soldier, am trained to kill. It has always been a major concern of mine to kill in war, and I wonder if this is a sin recognized by God. I figured since and before the biblical times, there has always been war. God was with David when he killed Goliath. I'm not much on Bible smarts, but I know there were many other occasions God was with someone, or other peoples when killing. So my question is, is it ok to kill others while at war? Thank you for your time, sir.

Answer:

You seem to be making a habit of committing yourself to a course of action and only afterward wondering if you made the right decision. The appropriate thing is to know in advance that your chosen course of action is correct because you did your homework, then you can move forward with confidence. Though talking about food, the principle remains the same: "Do you have faith? Have it to yourself before God. Happy is he who doesn't judge himself in that which he approves. But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because it isn't of faith; and whatever is not of faith is sin" (Romans 14:22-23).

In regards to your question, I addressed a broader question earlier that also touches on your question: "May a Christian serve in government?" The questioner was particularly concerned about the functions of a government that might involve killing, such as a police officer or a soldier. Rather than repeat it here, I will ask that you read it. I was also asked, "Should a Christian serve in the military?" I happen to have a neighbor and fellow Christian who serves in the Air Force, who kindly offered to address the question directly. To understand all that is being presented, you will need to read all the verses he cited and not just the article, but it is well worth the study time.

Finally, you raised a good point in noting that God obviously made use of killing in the past. Again there is a prior question, "How can God command us not to murder when God murdered people in the Old Testament?" which addresses this issue. By reading the verses involved you will be able to stand on your moral decision because of facts and not just your personal opinion.

To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die;
A time to plant, and a time to pluck what is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal;
A time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones;
A time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to gain, and a time to lose;
A time to keep, and a time to throw away;
A time to tear, and a time to sew;
A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate;
A time of war, and a time of peace.
(Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)

Should a Christian serve in the military?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Fri, 18 May 2007 00:07:24 +0000

Question:

Should a Christian serve in the military?

Answer:

I asked a friend, neighbor, and fellow Christian to address this question.

I entered the Air Force in 1983 and have been a Christian for an even longer period of time. I am still serving my country and my God. Being in the military, like maybe anything else we might do, is to a large extent what we make of it ourselves. How many civilian jobs stress putting other people first, like in our armed forces? Not only does the armed forces put others before themselves, servicemen and women even die for others. How Christ-like! Some people may join for the adventure, some for the prestige or money and other self-serving reasons; however, the armed forces are still in the service business no matter what someone's motivation may be.

The military has its share of problems, but overall, the military probably is a more positive work environment than most in this world. The military has standards. The military has certain expectations of its people. Military members are under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ.) The military will not take just anybody into its ranks. The Core Values of the United States Air Force are Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence In All We Do. Those are some good values. According to Wikipedia, the Marine Corps adopted the motto Semper Fidelis in 1883. According to Wikipedia, Semper Fidelis is Latin for "Always faithful." Not a bad motto for a Christian.

I was a pretty strong Christian when I came into the Air Force and have had a great opportunity to meet and worship with so many other Christians. I have probably grown as a Christian differently than I might ever have if I had stayed at home in rural Arkansas. I even got to be a deacon in Louisiana and got to preach some in Italy. The congregation I attended in Italy was not one that would be considered "conservative." However, where is the physician more needed, in the house of the sick or the well? What would the Apostle Paul do? Would he worship at home by himself, or get out there and try to save souls? Shouldn't we give our liberal brethren the benefit of the doubt and not judge their heart and make an effort to set the proper example and teach as we have an opportunity? If you have no other reasonable alternative to worshipping by yourself at home, other than joining some liberal brethren and trying to make a difference, shouldn't you at least try?

I would advise that wherever servicemen or women go, they find a good place to worship and they commit themselves to more than just attending services. Get involved with the local congregation. Take on teaching a Bible class, be one of the song leaders, commit to mowing the lawn...do more than just attend. Get involved socially with some of the brethren. They may make Christian friends that last a lifetime. They may even hear much the same words of wisdom or encouragement that they heard as a youth but delivered in a different way that has a more lasting impact. Just the change of scenery and personal perspective might help them mature as a Christian. There is no guarantee that a young Christian staying close to home will not stray or stagnate. If you, as a parent, desire, once you know where your son or daughter is to be stationed, find out where he or she plans to worship and contact someone there and ask them to make an effort to help your son or daughter.

I have missed many Sunday worship services because of military duty. I have spent some of my time in the past working on sermons on the Sundays that I did not worship with a congregation. Think of the opportunities to let your Christian light shine to others, or the opportunities to have a serious Bible discussion with others. If you miss services because you were unjustly imprisoned, or because of military duty, or duty as a firefighter or police officer, or in a hospital, it doesn't mean you should cease thinking about God, reading your Bible, or finding an opportunity to "sow some seed."

I didn't marry a girl back home. I married a woman who attended the same congregation I did close to where I was stationed in Texas. Military service doesn't guarantee that you will mature as a Christian and marry a Christian spouse, but it doesn't have to prevent you either.

Please consider the following:

Can Christians be in Law Enforcement, the Military, and Government?

(If not, who would you rather have?)

If a Christian believes it is wrong to serve in the armed forces or in law enforcement, then wouldn’t it be wrong to use those services as well? If it is sinful to be a police officer, then what would justify our calling for police protection in a time of crisis?

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 - The wise man of God says there is a time ...

Moses knew there was a time to kill when he defended his oppressed brethren. Acts 7:22-35, Exodus 2:12-3:10

In John 15:12-13 Jesus said, “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” Also see I John 3:16. Men and women who serve in law enforcement and in the military may lay down their lives for their fellow man. They may sometimes sacrifice their needs, hopes, desires and even their very lives for others.

In Luke 10:27, Jesus says we must love our neighbor as ourselves. Just as this means do them no harm, it must also imply that we are to see that no harm comes to them. Remember the Golden Rule? If we enjoy protection and freedom, are we willing to protect and defend our family and neighbors?

Luke 3:12-14, John the Baptist told the tax-collectors and soldiers what? Give up your occupation? No.

Matthew 8:5-10 and Luke 7: 1-10, Jesus does not condemn the work of the centurion, but rather commends his faith.

Luke 14:31-32, Jesus discusses kings taking counsel before a battle. Would he use an illustration which did not have his approval?

Luke 22:35-38, Jesus now tells His disciples they will have need of a sword--a need that is even greater than the need for a robe. (Self defense is approved)

Luke 22:48-52, Jesus criticizes those who have come to arrest him with swords and clubs--things which would be rightly used against a robber.

In Acts 10 Cornelius was a Roman Centurion

Please read II Timothy 2:3-4.

Romans 13:1-7, excellent, self-explanatory verses on the function and authority (from God) of governments.

I Peter 2:13-14, discusses submission to governing authorities.

Colossians 1:16-17, discusses God’s part in creating governments.

Proverbs 29:2, What happens when righteous people rule?

Please also See Deuteronomy 20

Biblical examples--consider the roles that each of these people played in their governments.

Naaman 2 Kings 5:1-2
Abraham Genesis 14:12-16, 20
Joseph Gen 41:38-44
Joshua
Nehemiah 4:7-23 (Private Weapons)
David
Esther, Queen of Persia
Daniel, Ruler of Babylon
Children of Israel Exodus 32: 22-28 (Private Weapons)

Next, let’s examine the often-misunderstood sixth of ten commandments found in Exodus 20, “Thou shalt not kill.” People who grew up reading the King James Version of the Bible, and whose intent was to simply understand God’s will and obey it, should have known beyond a shadow of a doubt that “Thou shalt not kill” did not prohibit all killing. Any thorough student of the Bible could learn that there were animal sacrifices under the Old Law, (please see Leviticus chapters 1– 8), that God sanctioned the eating of meat in Genesis 9:3 and Acts 10:10-15, (also, please see Deuteronomy 12:20-25,) that God at times guided his armies in battle as found in Joshua 6, and commanded capital punishment in Genesis 9:6. In Proverbs 6: 16-17 we learn that God hates hands that shed innocent blood. Notice that he did not say hands that shed blood.

God also allows self-defense as we read of the young David slaying both a lion and bear in defense of his flock in I Samuel 17. In verse 37 David said it was the Lord who delivered him from the attacking beasts and he would likewise deliver him in battle against the Philistine (Goliath.) Remember the Apostle Paul killing the attacking viper in Acts 28:1-5? Isn’t it obvious that “Thou shalt not kill” means “You shall not murder?”

However, if the context of the sixth commandment isn’t convincing enough, please examine the original Hebrew word ”ratsach” used for kill in Exodus 20:13 and the Greek word used for kill “phoneuo,” found in Matthew 5:21 and Mark 10:19. According to The New Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Of The Bible, 7523 ratsach is "a prim. root; prop. to dash in pieces, i.e. kill (a human being), espec. to murder:--put to death, kill, (man-) slay (-er), murder (-er)." Also According to The New Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Of The Bible, 5407 phoneuo "from 5406; to be a murderer (of):--kill, do murder, slay." Newer translations such as the New American Standard and New King James Bibles accurately translate the famous command as “You shall not murder.” This is both honest with the original source texts and the context in which the command was given.

By the way, one can only be a murderer if he kills another human. Why? “For in the image of God He made man,” Genesis 1:26 and “Whoever sheds man’s blood, by man his blood shall be shed; for in the image of God He made man,” Genesis 9:6.

No theologian has any right to contradict God.

In fact, Jesus spoke of hypocrites who pretend to worship God but instead teach as doctrines the commandments of men. Matthew 15:7-9.

GOD EXPECTS THE INDIVIDUAL TO:

Render no evil for evil (I Thessalonians 5:15, Romans 12:17)
Blessed are the meek and peacemakers (Matthew 5:5, 9)
Turn the other cheek, walk the extra mile and do good to enemies (Matthew 5:38-48; Luke 6:31 )
Forgive your brother (Matthew 18:21-23)
Vengeance is Mine, I will repay (Romans 12:19 )
Love one another (I John 4:7-21 )

GOVERNMENT (WE THE PEOPLE IN THE U.S.)

Rulers are ministers of God (Romans 13:1-7)
They don't bear the sword in vain; an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil
Also please see I Peter 2:13-17
According to the inspired Apostle Paul, one can commit something deserving of death
Please see Acts 25:10-12
Please see the wisdom of executing a sentence speedily against an evil work (Ecclesiastes 8:11)

Darryl G. Treat, Colonel, United States Air Force

Is there any biblical support for war?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Sun, 29 Apr 2007 23:50:33 +0000

Question:

Is there any biblical support for any country or human being to be in all-out war or conflict?

Answer:

Actually there are hundreds of passages that support the concept of war. War is one of those topics that pacifists have to work hard to try to get it out of the Scripture. To keep this relatively short, I'll just point out a few.

God commands Israel to go to war many times. On occasion, he has ordered the complete destruction of a nation (what we would term as genocide in our day). On one such occasion, he not only ordered the complete annihilation of nation, but he punished the king of Israel for leaving one man and a few sheep alive. King Saul was told in I Samuel 15:3 "Now go, attack the Amalekites and totally destroy everything that belongs to them. Do not spare them; put to death men and women, children and infants, cattle and sheep, camels and donkeys." By verse 8 we are told, "He took Agag king of the Amalekites alive, and all his people he totally destroyed with the sword." In verse 10 and 11 we learn "Then the word of the LORD came to Samuel: 'I am grieved that I have made Saul king, because he has turned away from me and has not carried out my instructions.' Samuel was troubled, and he cried out to the LORD all that night." A few verses later we learn that God rejects Saul as king.

In the New Testament, we find some different kinds of passages. God does not deal with his people on a national level like he did in the Old Testament and his people are now spiritual people. However, the spiritual people of the New Testament have to live in the reality of the world as it exists -- which includes armies and war. So, at no time are we told to take up arms to advance the kingdom. We are told what our attitude toward the military and war should be.

"Then some soldiers asked him, "And what should we do?" He replied, "Don't extort money and don't accuse people falsely—be content with your pay"" (Luke 3:14).

In this passage, John the Baptist was asked by soldiers on how to repent. I think it is significant that John did not say anything like "give up being soldiers". He told them to do some things that soldiers of his time were known to have problems with. I find John's reply very telling because John was not afraid to "tell it like it is" -- since he eventually lost his head for telling the king that he was guilty of adultery. If being a soldier was being immoral, John would have said something.

"At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly. One day at about three in the afternoon he had a vision. He distinctly saw an angel of God, who came to him and said, "Cornelius!" Cornelius stared at him in fear. "What is it, Lord?" he asked. The angel answered, "Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God" (Acts 10:1-5).

Cornelius ends up being the first Gentile convert to Christ. His status as a Gentile caused problems for Peter, so there is a lot to the story about how this man was chosen. Again it is telling that Cornelius was also a soldier -- and considered so worthy that he was chosen to be the first Gentile convert. At no time is he told to quit being a soldier in order to become a Christian, nor is there any record of him changing occupations. He is a Christian and a soldier.

"Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor" (Romans 13:1-7).

This one is a little more complex. It is obvious that Paul is saying that governments exist at the will of God. We like to think that they exist because of the will of man, but Paul said they actually work for God. God has granted to them the right of using the "sword". A sword does not have many uses outside of police work and military might. Paul is saying that we have to submit to the authorities because they are established by God as his agent to execute his wrath. The execution of wrath is not limited to police work. Sometimes a whole nation becomes so evil that the only recourse left is for God to punish the whole nation. The only difference between police work and war is a matter of size. In our society, we also change the rules, but the effect is the same.

Darrell Hamilton

Do you have advice for a young Christian going into military service?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 15:01:36 +0000

Question:

I have two nephews who have enlisted. One in the Marines, and one in the Navy. The one who is going to the Navy has struggled as a Christian for a very long time. He is easily swayed; he is a follower and gives in easily to peer pressure. I am very concerned about him. I think he joined up because he mainly wants to get out of the house. I am very worried that he is going to have a hard time remaining faithful in these circumstances. I wondered if you might have some advice for him and for my other nephew before they leave for boot camp. What do they do in regards to worship services? What if there isn't a sound congregation nearby? We got into a discussion last week about whether you should partake of the Lord's Supper if you are the only one?

I know that Christians can and do remain faithful and serve our country. But, I am sure it is a very hard way to go, especially when it is a young person who struggles to remain faithful in regular day-to-day life.

Thanks for your time, as always.

Answer:

Almost everything depends on the dedication of the Christian who is going into the service. "Then He said to them all, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost? For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father's, and of the holy angels" (Luke 9:23-26).

If a Christian makes service to the Lord his or her top priority, then things will tend to work themselves around the problems that will naturally arise. But if a person is willing to compromise, the compromises will never end.

While in boot camp, the first few weeks are completely booked. After that, they start to ease up. They can't get off base, but there are services on base. Just about every boot camp training area has services held by a church of Christ. Usually, it is one of the institutional brethren, but for those few weeks, such a difference isn't going to matter. What matters is having an opportunity to worship God.

At each base assignment, all one needs to do is find the nearest congregation. When my son knew where he was going, I just started asking around and quickly found the nearest congregation. They were very used to young soldiers coming into the area. Usually, the first week or two is locked up so they can't go off base, but again there is usually a group on the base that will do in a pinch. Once freedom to leave the base is available, a phone call will arrange a ride to services -- and often a home-cooked meal before you have to return to the base. But it is not going to automatically happen. The Christian has to take the initiative.

Foreign assignments are a bit worse. Finding other Christians is a bit more difficult. On many posts, there are Christians who join together, but they are of a variety of persuasions. The need to worship often pulls them together. Discussions get very interesting because of the diverse backgrounds, but often it gets everyone searching through their Bibles.

Naval assignments are very difficult because a Christian will be off for months at a time with only a limited number of people and the likelihood that there will be one or more additional Christians on the same ship gets slim. Still, I know a number of men who were converted in the Navy. When you don't have much else to do in your spare time, Bible discussions get popular.

When one finds himself alone, options for worship is limited. Since the Lord's Supper is meant to be taken as a congregation sharing the memory of the Lord's death together (I Corinthians 10:16-17), it is really not something a person can do alone, though I won't fault a person who strongly desires to do so. But again, the Christian must drive himself to take advantage of every opportunity he has to meet with fellow Christians.

In some ways, it will be a time of strengthening one's resolve. Being able to see and worship with Christians around the world will bring joy to one's personal worship that you never knew was missing. Finding out that you have brothers and sisters in the least expected places becomes a treasured memory that lasts a lifetime. There are brethren who will bend over backward to help you no matter where you are -- but only if they know you are there and you put some effort into being with them. I think the saddest thing I see is young servicemen who drop in and when someone asks when they arrived, "Oh, I'm been here about three months." You know you will rarely ever see that person, and you know they won't do much for the congregation nor will the congregation be able to do much for them. But there are others whom I treasure in my heart, who arrived on Saturday and were at Bible study the next morning. Those are Christians you know are going somewhere and are going to take others with them. The ties with them remain even though they have long since moved on, even after their military career has ended.

The close camaraderie in service can be a blessing in friendships and a danger when a bad apple is in the bunch. Drinking, drugs, pornography, and sex are severe problems in the service because it tends to not be isolated events. The armed forces work hard to limit the danger because it affects their ability to serve, but their tolerance is laxer than a Christian's ought to be. "Do not be deceived: "Evil company corrupts good habits"" (I Corinthians 15:33) is well illustrated in the service. I remember a strong Christian bemoaning the fact that he was stuck sharing a room for several months before he qualified for his own apartment when he got married. You don't get to choose your roommate. He mentioned that there were times he came in to find his roommate in bed with a woman, actively engaged in sex. Usually, roommates try to avoid such "discoveries" but such things happen when you can't control your own schedule. This particular young man survived, but he would be the first to say he wasn't better because of it.

I've tried through the years to correspond with Christians in the service, but the strong often don't bother because they will make opportunities where they are. The weak don't bother because they will find other things to do. But a person does what he can for those he runs across.