Can God Be Both Love and War?

In this article, you will learn how 1 John 4:16 contradicts Exodus 15:3, Romans 9:13, Nahum 1:2, Isaiah 45:7 and Matthew 10:34. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..

The Bible presents God as a complex and multi-dimensional figure, encapsulated in various scriptures that sometimes appear contradictory. While 1 John 4:16 tells us "God is love," and speaks of His abiding presence when we love others, several other verses paint a contrasting picture of God's nature.

Exodus 15:3 calls God "a man of war," suggesting a character inclined towards conflict and battle, rather than the pure embodiment of love. This vision of a warrior deity stands in stark contrast to the gentle, loving image in John's epistle. It's like describing someone as both a peacemaker and a fighter—a duality difficult to reconcile.

Romans 9:13 mentions God's hatred for Esau, starkly opposing the idea presented in 1 John 4:16 that God's nature is love. If God is love, how can He also harbor hate? This dichotomy is akin to a parent claiming unconditional love for their children, yet openly admitting dislike for one of them.

Nahum 1:2 speaks of God's vengeance and fury, suggesting a side of God that is wrathful and vengeful. In contrast to the all-loving portrayal, this verse introduces a God who is consumed by fury, challenging the notion of Him being purely love. Imagine a judge who is both merciful and unforgiving; can they truly be both at once?

Isaiah 45:7 indicates God creates evil, which further challenges the concept of Him as purely love. A creator of both light and darkness, good and evil, this God seems to embody dual forces, complicating our understanding of divine love.

Finally, Matthew 10:34 records Jesus as saying He came not to bring peace, but a sword. This statement challenges the notion of divine love, portraying His mission as divisive rather than unifying. It’s comparable to a diplomat who speaks of peace yet acts in ways that cause division.

These verses collectively provoke thoughtful examination of the multifaceted nature of God, raising questions about the essence and expression of divine love.