Just War, Holy War—they are not the same. Has the modern nation-state of Israel engaged in either? In our exploration of My People/Not My People, the reality of war in the Middle East is what drives much of the antisemitism in our present culture…which is why it’s worth addressing even if it’s not a cheerful subject.
God uses wars of man as a moral instrument which distinguishes a Just War from a “holy war”. Last time we saw avenging angels do the destroying, but God is not limited. He also uses other nations.
“God gave them all into the hands of Nebuchadnezzar. 18 He carried to Babylon all the articles from the temple of God, both large and small, and the treasures of the LORD’s temple and the treasures of the king and his officials.
19 They set fire to God’s temple and broke down the wall of Jerusalem; they burned all the palaces and destroyed everything of value there. 20 He carried into exile to Babylon the remnant, who escaped from the sword, and they became servants to him and his successors until the kingdom of Persia came to power.
21 The land enjoyed its sabbath rests; all the time of its desolation it rested, until the seventy years were completed in fulfillment of the word of the LORD spoken by Jeremiah. (2 Chronicles 36:17-21)
Questions for further thought:
To Jeremiah, God said, “13 I am against you, Jerusalem, you who live above this valley on the rocky plateau, declares the LORD– you who say, “Who can come against us? Who can enter our refuge?” 14 I will punish you as your deeds deserve, declares the LORD. I will kindle a fire in your forests that will consume everything around you.'” (Jeremiah 21:13-14)
Was Israel–at that time—an “innocent third party,” or had they filled Jerusalem with sin?
Jesus was crucified in around 30-33 AD. The destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD was another instance of God allowing Jerusalem to fall. Serving God’s purposes in fulfillment of God’s Word, it was Just …even if the outcome appeared horrible for Israel. What were God’s purposes in destroying Jerusalem and the temple at that time?
God alone knows the secret extent of sin in Israel, in America, and in every other nation. When Jesus returns for His elect and the wrath of God is poured out upon the earth, can we count on God to be Faithful and Just? Why was Jesus’ earthly ministry focused on Repent and Believe?