Military Service
Human Government is an institution established by God. (Genesis 9:6; Romans 13:1). The Church collectively and the Christian individually must be loyal to the Government. (1 Peter 2:13-14). Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man. Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man. Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. Genesis 9:6
Romans 13:1
1 Peter 2:13-14
As citizens, we "render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's"; as Christians we "render to God the things that are God's". (Mark 12:17). And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. And they marvelled at him. And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. And they marvelled at him. Mark 12:17
The Christian conscience of the followers of the Lord Jesus Christ and of those who practice the teachings of the Holy Bible does not permit them to participate in the use of weapons of war to shed blood. (Exodus 20:13; Matthew 5:39, 44). Thou shalt not kill. But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; Thou shalt not kill. But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; Exodus 20:13
Matthew 5:39, 44
At the same time they are in the best disposition to cooperate with the Government in those ways that are in harmony with their biblical faith...
Questions
1. Is the institution of Human Government biblical?
2. What kind of citizens should Christians be?
3. What is the correct attitude of the Christian regarding war?