Human instinct desires to take a side in any controversy. This tendency is a result of the original sin, where each of us thinks more highly of ourselves than we ought (Genesis 3:4-6; Romans 12:3). We substitute for Biblical reasoning, always in a tension that seems illogical to us, for our own opinions. For example, are we mighty men of valor or meek? The Bible extols both. Can men be tough warriors and gentlemen? In Christ we can. One of the best examples I know is a Christian American frontiersman and businessman of the name Jedediah Smith, known as Bible-Toter Jed.
This inherent tension in Scripture is hard and requires faith to accept it. If we do not act on the both/and, then we will tend to follow every eccentric path producing a constant pendulum swing between Biblical ideas, choosing one over the other, when we ought to accept their both/and. Another way to say this is, as Solomon teaches in Proverbs One, we must stop being simple, but get wisdom and learn discretion instead.
Most have taken a side with Ukraine over Russia. Fewer see a just cause in Putin’s war. The aggressive war of Russia against Ukraine does not at all appear to constitute a Biblically just war—always defensive. Yet with atrocities apparent from the governments on both sides, and with at least Christian minorities in both countries trying to live for God, the situation is complex to say the least. Some claim the Ukrainian government persecutes Russians living in Eastern Ukraine. Even if true, and the facts are disputed, such is not a positive threat to Russia proper. Accusations of bioweaponry development in the country seem plausible. George Soros supports Ukraine. Godless people live in both countries. How do we judge? How do we act?
With the respect to Russia, Ukraine, and all the rest of the governmental states in the world, here is what the Bible says:
Why do the nations rage,
And the people plot a vain thing?
[2] The kings of the earth set themselves,
And the rulers take counsel together,
Against the LORD and against His Anointed, saying,
[3] “Let us break Their bonds in pieces
And cast away Their cords from us.”
[4] He who sits in the heavens shall laugh;
The LORD shall hold them in derision.
[5] Then He shall speak to them in His wrath,
And distress them in His deep displeasure:
[6] “Yet I have set My King
On My holy hill of Zion.”
[7] “I will declare the decree:
The LORD has said to Me,
‘You are My Son,
Today I have begotten You.
[8] Ask of Me, and I will give You
The nations for Your inheritance,
And the ends of the earth for Your possession.
[9] You shall break them with a rod of iron;
You shall dash them to pieces like a potter’s vessel.’”
[10] Now therefore, be wise, O kings;
Be instructed, you judges of the earth.
[11] Serve the LORD with fear,
And rejoice with trembling.
[12] Kiss the Son, lest *He be angry,
And you perish in the way,
When His wrath is kindled but a little.
Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.
Psalm 2 ©NKJV
Here is the crux of the matter. Again, upon the original sin, powerful people who consider themselves smarter than God refuse the constraints He places on kings. God places such rulers over people who refuse to serve the Lord and consequently live the impulses of native sin. Jesus Christ, the Son, is the watershed. Kiss the Son. Serve Yahweh with fear. Christ rules the nations (Psalm 110.) The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. God hates injustice as only He can define. The pride of man makes himself the measure of justice. The ends do not justify the means Biblically speaking. God defines justice. Just ends require just means.
As to nations taking sides, the Bible provides a great example of what not to do. The good King of Israel of the name Josiah, meddled in an affair that did not concern Israel or its interests. It was not a matter of defense, but apparently strictly political. Josiah lost his life thereby (2 Chronicles 25:20-24). The United States and other countries greatly risk the welfare of their own people when they likewise meddle.
Those brave missionaries to places like Russia and Ukraine, acting independently of states, especially those armed with the historic Biblical tools for godly self-government, represent the true answer. They who take the Great Commission seriously, baptizing nations, are the great ambassadors for Christ.
It isn’t always a good idea to take a side, except the side of Jesus Christ. Otherwise, it may be best to watch the Providence of God rule over the nations, while we ourselves repent of our own sins.
Nordskog Publishing (NPI) provides articles and essays by select guest authors which we believe have much to offer the Christian community—to motivate Biblical thinking and action. We believe in the market place of ideas within the context of God’s Word. However, we may disagree at points. Publishing an article does not mean absolute agreement. Therefore, please understand that opinions expressed are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of NPI, nor of its editorial staff.
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