“Should Christians join the armed forces?”

QUESTION: Should Christians join the armed forces?

ANSWER: This question troubles many Christians. Its answer must essentially be left to the conscience and conviction of each individual before God.

Some countries mandate military service for their citizens, at least for males. Some provide non-combat alternatives for those who have scruples about life-taking. Other countries make military service attractive by offering enlistment bonuses, specialized training and education.

Such benefits often appeal to young people who are jobless or lack the means to acquire such training. In a world characterized by self-will, the disciplined life of the Armed Forces may be beneficial. Opportunity for travel is another benefit, as is the appeal to patriotism.

In the Old Testament, Israel, dwelt among difficult heathen nations. He often sent them to war, and used their enemies as His rod to chasten them for disobedience. But nowhere in the New Testament does God do likewise.

Christians not only know that “thou shalt not kill,” but are also told by the Lord to “love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you” (Mt. 5:44). We are also told to “go into all the world and preach the gospel,” and “lay down our lives for the brethren” (Mk. 16:15; 1 Jn. 3:16). Jesus told Peter to put down his sword when Peter attempted to defend Him. A few hours later He told Pilate: “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews” (Jn. 18:11,36).

Though we are told to pray for rulers, pay taxes, and obey authorities, we are given no specific directions about fighting for our country. Instead, we are told that “our citizenship is in heaven,” and here we are to be “ambassadors for Christ” (Phil. 3:20; 2 Cor. 5:20).

But for some, this question still arises. Each Christian must examine the Scriptures himself, and seek God’s guidance for an answer.

By Eugene P. Vedder, Jr.