The Problem of War in the Old Testament

Since the fall into sin, war is waged between the Holy God and unholy humans. God responds with promise of peace through the Christ (Messiah) and enmity (war and hatred) between Satan and his children, and this Promised Prince of Peace. Jesus is the Lord Sabbaoth, Commander of the Angel Army.

With guest Rev. Dr. Kevin Golden of Village Lutheran Church, Ladue, MO.

For more information about today’s subject, check out these two great resources:

The Problem of War in the Old Testament

Written by Peter Craigie — The predominance of war in the Old Testament troubles many Christians. However it is an issue that must be faced, says Peter C. Craigie, because it has serious ramifications for contemporary Christian attitudes about war. Craigie categorizes the problems into two kinds — personal and external. The personal problems arise from the Christian’s attempt to grapple with the emphasis on war in a book fundamental to faith. Three areas are considered here: the representation of God as warrior; God’s revelation of himself in a book which preserves an extensive amount of war literature; and the seemingly conflicting ethics taught in the Old Testament and the New Testament. The external problems are critiques against the Bible and the Christian faith, based on the war-like nature of the Old Testament and the close association between Christianity and war throughout history. Only by examining and understanding the problem of war in the Old Testament will Christians be able to respond intelligently to attacks on their faith, to educate their youth in the nature of war, and to influence modern attitudes toward war.

Joshua – Concordia Commentary

Written by Adolph Harstad — Joshua narrates Israel’s conquest and inheritance of the Promised Land. Joshua prefigures Christ as he faithfully leads God s people, like the church militant, through battle into triumph. This commentary explores the history, culture, archaeology, and theology of the book to deepen faith in the victorious Savior. It focuses on the faithfulness of God in keeping his covenant promises, which are fulfilled in Christ. Throughout the commentary the author s intimate knowledge of the Holy Land and his experience as a missionary and pastor bring the biblical text to life. The commentary is illustrated with maps and photos.