Can Love Triumph Over Conquest in Scripture?
In this article, you will learn how Deuteronomy 21:10 contradicts Matthew 5:44, Romans 12:21 and James 2:8. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The Bible, a complex tapestry of laws, teachings, and stories, sometimes presents us with apparent contradictions. These inconsistencies can be challenging, particularly when it comes to understanding how we should treat others. One such example involves the instructions found in Deuteronomy 21:10, where Moses provides guidance on dealing with captives after a victorious battle. This Old Testament verse seems to focus on the practicality of war and the handling of those who are defeated.
In stark contrast, the New Testament offers a different approach. Matthew 5:44 advises us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. This teaching, attributed to Jesus, emphasizes compassion and forgiveness over the acquisition of captives and victory in battle. When placed side by side, it's like comparing two opposing strategies: confronting an adversary with force versus embracing them with love.
Further reinforcing this message is Romans 12:21, which urges believers to overcome evil with good. Here, the Bible seems to suggest a shift from the wartime actions allowed in Deuteronomy to a more peaceful approach that seeks to transform adversaries through kindness and righteousness. It presents the idea that true victory comes not from triumphing over others, but through positive actions and virtuous deeds.
In James 2:8, the royal law commands us to "love thy neighbor as thyself." This directive extends love universally, including to those we might otherwise consider enemies, challenging the concept of captives and war described in Deuteronomy. It's akin to the difference between engaging in a protracted struggle versus opting for genuine empathy and understanding.
So, how do we reconcile these contrasting messages? Should we seek to capture and conquer, or strive to love and transform? This apparent contradiction encourages us to delve deeper into the broader narrative of scripture, urging us to consider how love might triumph over conquest in the grand story of our faith.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Deuteronomy 21:10 | When thou goest forth to war against thine enemies, and the LORD thy God hath delivered them into thine hands, and thou hast taken them captive, |
| 2. | Matthew 5:44 | 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; |
| 3. | Romans 12:21 | Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. |
| 4. | James 2:8 | If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: |