“For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, 6 and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled” (2 Corinthians 10:4-6).
How many wars have been fought in the name of God? In the new covenant ratified with the blood of Jesus Christ, the concept of warfare changed. It has nothing to do with swords, chariots, horses, or bullets, missiles and ships. What does that mean? It means that the eight crusades, battles fought between the Catholics and Muslims from 1096 — 1291 were misguided. The Kingdom of Christ had no possessions or land to guard or reclaim.
It means that Medieval Catholic tortures as a part of the Inquisition, and the conversions at sword point of the indigenous population in the Americas were likewise egregious examples of the corruption of the Christian faith.
Our method of battle is persuasive. It is the casting down of arguments, not the blowing up of city walls. Our purpose to save is accomplished through the gospel, “the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16).
All accounts will be settled in judgment. Rewards and punishments will occur after our time on earth is over (2 Peter 3:14), with Christ as our judge (Romans 14:10-12).
