The word terrorism does not appear in our biblical text as one may currently employ the word in modern day English. Nonetheless, the Bible clearly addresses the concepts behind terrorism and those that “bring” or “strike” terror. Unquestionably in 21st century America, and perhaps throughout the modern world, terrorism has become a constant on the minds of most individuals, and has worked to alter our lifestyles in one way or another. Psalm 34:14 offers clear instruction to those who resort to these ungodly, almost inconceivable acts, “Turn away from evil and do good, seek peace and pursue it.” Terrorism is good only in the eyes of those that seek peace through fear, and the destructive power of an ungodly, oppressive, legalistic regime that hides behind the words and works of works-based religious systems, and their false prophets who seek the total annihilation of all their opponents/enemies. Personal peace comes only through a meaningful and dynamic relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ – civil/world peace can only be envisioned and accomplished as Christ is enthroned as KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.
Proverbs 6:16-19 reminds us that:
There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.” How many of these traits are easily identified as common attributes of modern day terrorists and terrorism?
Conversely, as believers, we uphold these truths from Romans 12:19-21:
Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’
To the contrary, ‘if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.’” In addition, certainly we cannot discount the message of Nahum 1:2-3 concerning God’s wrath against Nineveh:
The Lord is a jealous and avenging God; the Lord is avenging and wrathful; the Lord takes vengeance on His adversaries and keeps wrath for His enemies. The Lord is slow to anger and great in power, and the Lord will by no means clear the guilty. His way is in whirlwind and storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet.
The word “terror” appears at least 7 times in the Old Testament, and all of them are derived from the Hebrew word “pachad” which relates to a sudden feeling of fear; by implication something dreadful; great alarm or being filled/full of fear. That’s the exact goal of modern day terrorism – cause feelings of fear in the hearts and minds of individuals … those being terrorized! In I Chronicles 14, David overwhelmingly defeats the Philistines, and according to verse 17, all the nations were in terror/great (almost paralyzing) fear (Hebrew text) because of him. This is the purposed/intended response of terrorism today, seeing whole communities and nations bow in terror/great (almost paralyzing) fear.
So how then shall we live in a world filled with terrorists and terrorism?
- Pray (Ephesians 6:18): When suddenly our culture seems to uncharacteristically crave the necessity of supernatural intervention in the face of evil … we are the only ones with the direct link! So pray diligently.
- Help/Take Action (Matthew 25:40): All humans are loved by God and made in His image – a divine creation. WWJD? Minister according to the leadership of God’s Holy Spirit in word and deed/action! A situation of terror will most likely present opportunity for selfless, sacrificial service.
- Do Not Fear (II Timothy 1:7): As images of violence, hate, blood and panic flood our computer and television screens, it’s easy to be overcome with fear. Psalm 23:4 … “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” Followers of Christ should be seen as sources of mental/emotional/spiritual strength, courage, comfort and peace in times of trials. Unfortunately, Christians too often respond in the exact opposite manner.
- Have/Demonstrate Hope (confident expectation in Christ): May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope! — Romans 15:13
In life’s worst situations, we must look to our Lord Jesus — not government, police, military, media, peers, or others — to stand firm in Christ alone. We live and move by faith in Him under the glorious and far reaching protection of His wings … the omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent ONE – TRUE — GOD! Therefore, prepare now to properly respond should a day of terror rudely assault your life, family, etc.
— Pastor Frank