Episode Description: A Biblical View of War

In this episode of Focused on Christ, host Mike Crump and Pastor Nathan Smith tackle the heavy and often controversial topic of war. Amidst rising global tensions, they step back from political commentary to establish a sturdy biblical framework for understanding conflict, government authority, and the Christian’s response to a world in turmoil.

• The Root of Conflict: Explore why war is a horizontal reality of human existence that mirrors the vertical state of rebellion between mankind and God.

  
  

• War as Justice: Discuss the "Just War" concept and how God uses governing authorities as servants to restrain evil and enforce justice, even using imperfect nations to accomplish His purposes.

  
  

• The Tension of Rejoicing and Grieving: Is it right to celebrate the fall of evil regimes? Pastor Nathan and Mike navigate the complex emotions of rejoicing when injustice is dealt with while simultaneously grieving the tragic loss of life.

  
  

• Waging War Rightly: A look at how the means of war matter to God as much as the ends, referencing Old Testament laws that governed how warfare was to be conducted.

  
  

• Our Responsibility: Learn why Paul urges Christians to pray for those in high positions—not just for peace, but so the Church can freely exercise its mission to extol Christ.

  
  

• Matthew 24:6-8 (Wars and rumors of wars)

• Romans 13:3-4 (The authority of the sword)

• James 4:1-2 (The source of quarrels)

• 1 Timothy 2:1-4 (Praying for those in authority)

  
  

Focused on Christ is a ministry of Heritage Baptist Church dedicated to exalting Christ and equipping the church. We invite you to join us as we seek to live out the Gospel in a broken world.