War and Peace: Biblical Perspectives on Conflict and Conscience

📖 Introduction

War and peace are among the most profound and complex themes in the Bible. Throughout the Scriptures, believers encounter narratives of battles fought, calls for peace, and teachings that challenge both the sword and the heart. This study invites you to explore how the Bible addresses military conflict, weighing 'just war' concepts against the call to nonviolence. God’s word does not give us easy answers, but it offers truths that guide our conscience and shape our response to conflict.

From the Old Testament battle accounts and God's judgments to the radical teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, Scripture reflects the tension between justice and mercy, judgment and reconciliation. While some passages affirm the role of government in wielding the sword (Romans 13:4), others call us to love our enemies (Matthew 5:44) and pursue peace at all costs (Psalm 34:14). This study will help you wrestle with these tensions, equipping you to pray, reflect, and listen to God’s voice amid complicated questions.

As we journey through seven days, expect honest engagement with challenging Scriptures and honest questions about conscience, violence, and God’s heart for humanity. Whether you lean toward just war theory, pacifism, or somewhere in between, this study is designed to deepen your understanding and help you embody Christ’s peace in a broken world. May the Holy Spirit guide you into wisdom, peace, and a clearer vision of the gospel’s call on your life. 🙏🕊️⚔️