Violence is a recurring theme in Scripture because the Bible records real human history. From the murder of Abel in Genesis 4 to the wars of ancient Israel and the persecution of early Christians, the Scriptures do not conceal humanity’s brutality. Yet they consistently reveal Jehovah’s righteous standards concerning violence.

Violence as a Result of Human Sin

Genesis 6:11 states, “Now the earth was corrupt in God’s sight, and the earth was filled with violence.” This condition led to the Flood in 2348 B.C.E. Violence was not part of Jehovah’s original creation. It arose from human rebellion and demonic influence.

After the Flood, Jehovah established the principle of capital punishment in Genesis 9:6: “Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed.” This directive underscored the sanctity of human life. Murder violates the image-bearing status of humanity.

The Sixth Commandment, “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13), distinguishes unlawful killing from divinely authorized judgment or self-defense. Scripture consistently condemns personal vengeance and unjust aggression.

Jehovah’s Hatred of Violent Wickedness

Psalm 11:5 declares, “Jehovah tests the righteous, but his soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence.” Violence as a disposition of heart is detestable to Him. Proverbs 6:16–19 includes “hands that shed innocent blood” among the things Jehovah hates.

Isaiah 59:7 describes the wicked: “Their feet run to evil, and they are swift to shed innocent blood.” Violence is linked with moral corruption and injustice.

Just Warfare in Israel’s History

At times, Jehovah commanded Israel to execute judgment against nations whose corruption had reached fullness (Deuteronomy 9:4–5). These were specific historical acts within the Mosaic covenant. They do not provide a model for modern religious violence.

Ecclesiastes 3:8 states there is “a time for war, and a time for peace.” This acknowledges that in a fallen world, civil authorities may bear the sword to restrain evil (Romans 13:4). The sword symbolizes lawful authority to punish wrongdoing.

The Teachings of Jesus and the Apostles

Jesus Christ, whose ministry began in 29 C.E., rejected personal retaliation. In Matthew 5:44 He taught, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Christians are not authorized to wage holy wars. Their struggle is spiritual (Ephesians 6:12).

Romans 12:19 instructs, “Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God.” Vengeance belongs to Jehovah. Christians overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21).

Nevertheless, the New Testament recognizes governmental authority to restrain violence. Acts 25:11 shows Paul acknowledging the legitimacy of capital punishment if he had committed a crime worthy of death.

The Final Removal of Violence

Scripture anticipates a future in which violence will cease. Isaiah 2:4 envisions a time when nations “shall beat their swords into plowshares.” Under Christ’s thousand-year reign following His return, violence will be eliminated from the earth.

Revelation 21:4 promises that death and pain will be no more. This future hope rests on the atoning sacrifice of Christ in 33 C.E., which makes possible the resurrection and restoration of obedient humanity.

The Bible addresses violence honestly, condemns unjust aggression, affirms lawful justice, and points to a coming age in which righteousness dwells.

You May Also Enjoy

Is the Holy Spirit a Person According to Scripture?

About the Author

CLICK LINKED IMAGE TO VISIT ONLINE STORE

CLICK TO SCROLL THROUGH OUR BOOKS