How You Should and Shouldn't Interpret Violence in the Old Testament

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on interpreting violence in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of discussions surrounding God's nature and the commands given in scripture. Drawing insights from a conversation with theologian Mike Winger, this guide aims to clarify common questions and misconceptions regarding the portrayal of violence in the Old Testament, contrasting it with the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament.

Step 1: Understand the Context of Old Testament Violence

• Historical Background: Recognize that many Old Testament narratives occur in a specific cultural and historical context where warfare and harsh judgments were prevalent.
• Divine Judgment: Acknowledge that instances of violence often represent God's judgment on particular nations or peoples due to their persistent sinfulness, as seen in the examples of the flood and the destruction of the Amalekites.
• Hyperbolic Language: Understand that ancient Near Eastern texts frequently employed hyperbolic language. Terms such as "destroyed completely" may not always mean total annihilation. Similar expressions are found in other ancient texts, indicating that exaggeration was common in warfare descriptions.

Step 2: Distinguish Between Literal and Figurative Language

• Figurative Interpretation: Recognize that some Old Testament passages may not be intended to be taken literally. For instance, when God commands the Israelites to "utterly destroy" a people, it may reflect a broader principle rather than a strict command for total annihilation.
• Examples:
  • In 1 Samuel 15, Saul claims to have destroyed all the Amalekites, yet later, Amalekite warriors appear again, suggesting the command was not absolute.
  • Joshua 11 states that none of the Anakim were left, but Caleb later encounters them, indicating a figurative interpretation of "none left."

Step 3: Compare Old Testament and New Testament Perspectives

• God's Consistent Nature: Understand that God’s character remains consistent throughout both Testaments. Instances of judgment in the Old Testament express His holiness and justice, while the New Testament emphasizes His grace and mercy through Jesus Christ.
• Jesus as Fulfillment: Acknowledge that Jesus embodies the fulfillment of the law and the prophets. His teachings clarify and deepen the understanding of Old Testament laws rather than contradict them. For example, the Sermon on the Mount expands the moral implications of the law, urging believers to not only avoid sin but also to address sinful thoughts and intentions.

Step 4: Engage with Common Misinterpretations

• Addressing Misconceptions: Be aware of the common narrative that pits the "angry God of the Old Testament" against the "loving Jesus of the New Testament." This dichotomy misrepresents the unified nature of God.
• Understanding Judgment and Mercy: Recognize that both Testaments illustrate God's judgment against sin alongside His desire for repentance and restoration. For instance, Jesus emphasizes repentance in the face of calamity, indicating that sin has serious consequences.

Step 5: Explore Scholarly Perspectives

• Resources for Further Study: Consider reading works by theologians like Paul Copan, who addresses the moral implications of Old Testament violence and provides thoughtful interpretations.
• Balanced Viewpoints: Engage with various theological perspectives to enrich your understanding and avoid extreme views that demonize or overly simplify God's character.

Conclusion

Interpreting violence in the Old Testament requires a nuanced understanding of context, language, and the consistent nature of God. By recognizing the historical and cultural backdrop, distinguishing between literal and figurative language, and comparing the teachings of Jesus, one can arrive at a more coherent understanding of these complex issues. For those seeking to delve deeper, exploring scholarly works on the topic can provide valuable insights and broaden perspectives on the relationship between justice, mercy, and God's character across both Testaments.