QKAG: Issue # 54

PAST ISSUE # 54
Questions Kids Ask About God

Question: Is it all right for a Christian to bear arms and fight in a war?

Answer: It is all right for a Christian to defend his nation as a soldier in the military. There were many instances in the Bible by which the Israelites took arm and fought against their enemies (Deuteronomy 20; 2 Samuel 10:12). The Bible also tells us to obey our civil and military rulers (Romans 13:1; Titus 3:1). Therefore, if we have been conscripted in the military and ordered to defend our nation, we should do so willingly and obediently. Serving our nation in the army is admirable and does not contradict with what the Bible teaches us. However, it is important to remember that the Bible teaches us to live in peace with people (Romans 12:18; Hebrew 12:14), and to love our enemies (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 5:44). Jesus also warns us that those who draw the sword will die by the sword (Matthew 26:52). If every nation embraces this teaching, it is possible that many wars can be avoided.

Key Bible verses:
1 Chronicles 19:13; Jeremiah 40:9; 1 Peter 2:13-14, 17

My views:
I rejoice with the other 3 million citizens of the Republic of Singapore as we celebrate 34 years of independence on 9th August 1999. As a Christian, I take pride being a Singaporean and serving the nation. In Singapore, there is mandatory conscription for every able male citizen. This is known as National Service and lasts for at least 2 years. Many Singaporean males I know do not consider it a joy to spend 2 years of their lives doing National Service. As for me, I initially did not enjoy my National Service as it was tough and laborious. However, I learn that it is honourable to serve one's nation because God has commanded us to do so (Romans 13:1-2).

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, as it is written in Romans 13:1, the authorities that exist have been established by You. I want to thank You for giving me a great nation to live in. I thank You for showering my nation with many blessings. Father God, I will wait for the time when every nation will worship You as written in Revelation 15:4. Right now, I want to exalt You over (name of your nation, e.g. Singapore). I ask that You continue to bless my nation with peace and prosperity. I also ask that You continue to give my national leaders the wisdom and strength to rule in righteousness. In Jesus' Name, I pray. Amen..

Last words...
"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." (Romans 12:18)
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