The Pulpit Commentary — 2 Samuel — Section 61

m11teri11lism" (Von Moltke). But this ie the view of one who has been "a man of war from hie youth" and "sbecl much blood" (1 Chron. xxii. 8). And it may be said that: (1) War ie not ordained by God like tempests and earthquakes or even pestile::ice, but ie directly due to the wickedness of men, That which is in itself evil, however, often becomes nn occasion of good, (2) "There is at least equal scope for courage and mag- nanimity in blessing as in destroying mnnkind. 'l'he condition of the human race offers inexhaustible objects for enterprise and fortitude and magnanimity. In relieving the countless wants end eorrowe of the world, in exploring unknown regions, in carrying the a.rte and virtues of civilization to unimproved communities, in extending the bounds of knowledge, in diffusing the spirit of freedom, and especially in eprea<ling the light and influence of Christianity, how much may be dared, how much endured!" (Channing). (3) The right of resistance to evil is limited, and does not justify the ta.king a.way of life (Wayland,' Elements of Moral Science;' Dymond, 'Essays'). (4) No advantages gained by war are an adequate compensation for the miseries inflicted by it; less suffering is experienced and higher honour acquired by enduring wrong than avenging it; the exercise of justice, forbearance, and active benevolence is the most effectual means of averting injury and securing safety and happiness. (5) 'fhe Divine sanction given to specific wars in the Old Testament was not given to war in genera.I, and it does not justify the wars which are waged, without the like authority, at the present time. (6) War is virtually forbidden by numerous precepts and the whole spirit of the New Testament (Matt. v. 9, 39, 44; xxvi. 52; Rom. xii. 18-21; 1 Thess. v. 15; 1 Pet. ii. 23; iii. 9-13). The most that can be said is that "any principles upon which the Christian casuist would justify war in certain circumstances would not justify perhaps one in ten of the wars that have been waged" (J. Foster, 'Lectures,' vol. ii.). II. .AN APPEAL FOR THE CESSATION OF STRIFE. "Shall the sword devour for ever?" Its ravages may be stayed; and means must be employed for that end, such as: 1. The consideration of the real nature and terrible consequences of war; and the educa- tion of the people, especially the young, so that they may cease to admire military glory and to be beguiled by "the pomp and circumstance of war"-may feel an intense aversion to it, and seek in other ways their co=on interest and true elevation. 2. The adoption of political measures for the settlement of international disputes and the removal of causes of strife; viz. arbitration by friendly powers, the reduction and disbandment of standing armies, etc. 3. The repression of evil passions in ourselves and others. 4. The practice and diO'u.sion of Christian principles; which indispose all in whom they dwell to break the peace themselves, and dispose them to make peace among others. "The sons of peace are the sons of God." III. AN ANTICIPATION OF THE PREVALENCE OF PEAOE. "Shall the sword devour for ever?" Surely not. The hope of uni versa! peace is warranted from : 1. The advancing intelligence of men, the growth of popular government (making war less dependent than heretofore on the arbitrary will of rulers), the possession of "nobler modes of life, with sweeter manners, purer laws." 2. The better understanding and more perfect realiza- tion of the spirit of Christianity. 3. The overruling Providence and quicbning Spirit of "the God of peace." 4. The express predictions of his Word concerning the effects of the reign of "the Prince of Peace" (4i_a. ix. 7; Micah iv. 3; v. 2, 5; Ps. lrili. 7), "It is in war that the power of the beast culminates in the history of the world. This beast will then be destroyed. The true humanity which sin has choked up will gain the mastery, and the world's history will keep sabbath. What the prophetic words affirm is a moral postulate, the goal of sacred history, the predicted counsel of God" (Delitzsch, on Isa. ii. 4). "0 scenes surpassing fable and yet true ; Scenes of accomplished bliss; which who can see (Though but in distant prospect) and not feel His soul refreshed wiili foretaste and with joy ? " (Cowper.) D. Vera. 30-32.-(GIBEON, BETBLl!lHEM, Hli:BRON,) The awrows of victory. "What a glorious thing must be a victory, sir I" it was remarked to t.ite Duke of Wellington. '"l'he greatest tragedy in the world," he replied, "except a defea•" (' Recollections,' by  60 THE SECOND BOOK or SAMUEt. (en. u. 1-32,