Military Support
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Definition and Context: Military support in the biblical context refers to the provision of resources, manpower, and strategic assistance to ensure the defense and success of a nation or group in warfare. This support can be seen in various forms, including the mustering of troops, provision of weapons, and divine intervention.

Old Testament Examples:

1. Divine Support: The Israelites often relied on divine support in battles. In Exodus 17:8-13, during the battle against the Amalekites, Moses held up his hands, and as long as his hands were raised, Israel prevailed. This act symbolized reliance on God's power for military success.

2. Tribal Contributions: In the conquest of Canaan, different tribes of Israel provided military support. Joshua 4:12-13 notes that the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh crossed over armed for battle, as Moses had directed them, to support their fellow Israelites.

3. King David's Army: David's military campaigns were supported by a well-organized army. In 1 Chronicles 12:22, it is recorded that "day after day men came to David to help him, until he had a great army, like the army of God."

4. Alliances: Military support also came through alliances. In 2 Chronicles 18:1-3, King Jehoshaphat of Judah allied with King Ahab of Israel to fight against Ramoth-gilead, demonstrating the strategic use of alliances for military purposes.

New Testament Perspective:

1. Spiritual Warfare: While the New Testament does not focus on physical military support, it emphasizes spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:10-18 describes the "armor of God," encouraging believers to stand firm against spiritual adversaries with truth, righteousness, faith, and the word of God.

2. Jesus' Teachings: Jesus taught about peace and turning the other cheek (Matthew 5:39), which contrasts with the Old Testament's physical military engagements. However, the concept of support is seen in the spiritual realm, where believers are called to support one another in faith and prayer.

The Role of God in Military Support:

1. Providence and Sovereignty: Throughout the Bible, God's providence and sovereignty are evident in military victories. In 2 Chronicles 20:15, during King Jehoshaphat's reign, the Lord assured the Israelites, "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's."

2. Judgment and Deliverance: Military support is sometimes a means of divine judgment or deliverance. In Judges 7, God reduced Gideon's army to 300 men to demonstrate that victory was by His hand, not by human might.

Ethical and Moral Considerations:

1. Justice and Righteousness: Military support in the Bible is often tied to the pursuit of justice and righteousness. The Israelites were commanded to fight against nations that practiced idolatry and immorality, as seen in Deuteronomy 20.

2. Mercy and Compassion: Despite the necessity of military action, the Bible also emphasizes mercy and compassion. In Deuteronomy 20:10-12, the Israelites were instructed to offer peace to a city before engaging in battle.

Conclusion: Military support in the Bible encompasses both physical and spiritual dimensions, with a strong emphasis on reliance on God for victory and the pursuit of justice and righteousness in warfare.
Subtopics

Military

Military Instruction of Children

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