Why is There So Much War?

It feels as if every day there is an update about war or potential war. Tensions are rising in the US conflict with Iran and could erupt. China seems poised to invade Taiwan, and the US may intervene. Uktraine and Russia are still deploying drones against each other. Pick a part of the world and there is an ongoing war there.

All the conflicts, whether actual, potential, or escalating, have caused significant fractures within both the Republican and Democratic parties. Christians are also divided, holding various opinions on the nature of the wars and the role of the United States.

Popular cultural commentators like Tucker Carlson and Dave Smith are advocating a form of isolationism. On the other hand, political officeholders like Ted Cruz and Lindsey Graham promote and justify foreign conflicts. Much could be said both culturally and biblically about these men and their respective positions. But the question the Bible addresses even more than “What position should we take in the midst of war?” is this:“Why does war exist?”

Here is the answer. The reality of war can be summed up in a single word: sin.

Now, do not misunderstand; not every war is inherently sinful. However, sin is the root cause behind every war. Here is how the New Testament writer James answers the question:“From whence come wars and fightings among you? Come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members?” Here, James is speaking on a personal level rather than a national one. Nevertheless, the principle applies to every level of relationship, whether national or interpersonal. Why do conflicts arise? Because sin exists.

The reality is that nations are made up of people, and Scripture makes it clear that every person is a sinner:“For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).

The reason conflicts constantly arise between nations and within relationships is because of sin.

Many ideologies and religions around the world teach that humanity is naturally good. But if it were true that humans are good, why is conflict inevitable at every stage of life? The consistent presence of war and division points to a deeper problem. Sin affects every part of who we are and, as a result, it produces conflict, war, and every kind of quarrel and strife.

The universal problem of strife is precisely why Jesus Christ came. He was incarnated not to end all wars directly or immediately, but to redeem and restore the sinners who fight in them.

If Jesus had come to end all earthly conflict, it would appear He failed. But if He came to offer sinners eternal peace and eternal life, then He most definitely succeeded. Jesus’ mission was not to eliminate earthly suffering and death, but to offer spiritual life. The apostle Paul puts it this way:“If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved” (Rom. 10:9). He continues in 10:13:“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Wars are happening all around us. They are inescapable, and they will continue. Jesus Himself said:“And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.” So while national conflicts will increase, there is also a deeper spiritual reality: unseen battles are constantly being waged for the souls of men.

Friend, your soul will spend eternity somewhere—either in Heaven or in Hell. And Christ desires for you to spend eternity in a place where there is no more pain, death, or sorrow.

Jesus Christ came, lived, died, and rose again to save sinners—to save you and me. Your response to His person, work, and teachings will determine your eternal destiny.

So whether you are an isolationist, a war hawk, or anywhere in between, one day the final war will take place (Rev. 12). Jesus will win, and every knee will bow before Him.

So let me ask you: Have you placed your faith in Jesus Christ? If not, the enemy will claim victory over your soul for eternity. But today, you have a choice. Will you accept the Prince of Peace? Will you trust the One who died so that you wouldn’t have to? If you have trusted in Jesus Christ, share your testimony with others because souls hang in the balance. And remember: Christ is King.

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The above article was written by Andrew Johnson. He is on part-time staff at NorthStone Baptist Church in Pensacola, Fl. To offer him your feedback, comment below or email us at strengthforlife461@gmail.com.

Every Tuesday, SFL publishes relevant Bible-based content. Check back next Tuesday to read the next SFL article.

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