Church, Military Service, and the Sixth Commandment

The church does not disobey the "Thou shalt not kill" commandment by disfranchising those who partake in military service because the commandment is often misunderstood when applied to such circumstances. The sixth commandment, "Thou shalt not kill," as found in Exodus 20:13 prohibits murder, not all forms of taking human lifeARSH October 14, 1862, page 154.13+2.

Here's why this distinction is important:

Understanding the Sixth Commandment 🛡️

The commandment "Thou shalt not kill" is not an absolute prohibition against all forms of taking human life, such as in warfare or capital punishment. Instead, it specifically forbids malicious murderARSH October 14, 1862, page 154.13+1.

• Divine Intent: The law of God, including the sixth commandment, is spiritual and reaches beyond outward acts to the thoughts and intentions of the heartSITI December 30, 1889, page 632.93+3. While it condemns hatred and malicious thoughts that could lead to murder, it does not condemn all forms of taking lifeAMS December 25, 1889, page 377.7+5.

• Biblical Examples: Throughout the Bible, God commanded or permitted the taking of life in specific contexts:

• Warfare: Abraham, who "obeyed God's voice, and kept his charge, his commandments, his statutes, and his laws" Genesis 26:5, was a warrior who engaged in battle to rescue Lot Genesis 14:13-17ARSH October 14, 1862, page 159.13. This demonstrates that killing in defensive war, or war commanded by God, is not a violation of His lawARSH October 14, 1862, page 159.13. Joshua also led the Israelites in war against Ai, and God commanded them to take the spoil Joshua 8:19-21+1.

• Capital Punishment: God explicitly commanded capital punishment for certain offenses, such as blasphemy Leviticus 24:14-16 and Sabbath-breaking Numbers 15:32-36ARSH October 14, 1862, page 154.13+1. This shows that the civil power, as God's minister, is authorized to execute wrath upon evildoers Romans 13:4-6ARSH October 14, 1862, page 154.13.

• Self-Preservation: The principle of self-preservation, which includes safeguarding human life, is implicitly acknowledgedARSH October 18, 1853, page 114.10+1.

Disfranchisement and the Church's Stance 🤝

The concept of "disfranchisement" in a civil context means the removal of certain rights or privileges, such as the right to vote or hold public officeAMS June 18, 1896, page 195.15+4. When this term is used in relation to the church and military service, it points to a misunderstanding of the church's role and its interpretation of divine law.

• Church and State: The church's purpose is not to enforce civil laws, but to uphold God's moral lawNSLS27 151.2+2. While civil governments may forbid murder and theft, they do not do so as "commandments of God" but as part of maintaining societal orderNSLS27 151.2+2. The church's focus is on the spiritual application of God's law, which involves the heart and motives, something no earthly power can legislateNSLS27 151.2+1.

• Maintaining Moral Purity: The church seeks to guide its members toward holiness and conformity to God's will, which includes keeping all ten commandments, not just the letter, but the spirit of the law Psalm 51:6+1WOR 43.3+1. This means cultivating a heart free from malice and hatred, which aligns with the true intent of "Thou shalt not kill" 1 John 3:15+1SITI December 30, 1889, page 632.93+1.

• No Disfranchisement for Military Service: The church does not "disfranchise" individuals for participating in military service. The principle is that if an individual sincerely believes in the command "Thou shalt not kill," they would not engage in war to take lives unnecessarilyAMS April 7, 1898, page 210.3. However, this is a personal conviction and not a basis for formal church "disfranchisement." The church's responsibility is to teach and uphold God's law, which is perfect and converts the soul Psalm 19:712MR 236.3+1.

In essence, the misunderstanding arises from equating all taking of life with "murder" as condemned by the sixth commandment. The divine law, when properly understood, permits certain instances of taking life, particularly in the context of justly defending one's nation or executing divine justice, without violating the commandment against murder.

The Seventh-day Adventist Church has consistently upheld principles of non-combatancy and religious liberty, deeply rooted in its understanding of biblical teachings and historical experiences. The church's stance on military service during the United States Civil War of the 19th century exemplified this commitment, emphasizing that God's people, as His peculiar treasure, cannot engage in perplexing wars, as it is opposed to every principle of their faith7MR 112.2. This position was maintained at a time when military service was voluntary, and provisions for non-combatant service were later provided in draft laws, which the church did not oppose7MR 112.2.

While the church faced internal and external pressures throughout its history, it has consistently affirmed the importance of maintaining its distinct identity and principles, including its commitment to peace and its rejection of war. The church strives to be patterns of piety, holy in heart and in conversation, and any sin or transgression within the church is seen as dishonoring God's name, especially when it gives enemies occasion to reproach His causePH011 18.1+1.

The church's growth and organization were established to carry the three angels' messages to the entire world, focusing on present truth in the Bible2SAT 1.1. This includes promoting the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus16MR 227.1. The church acknowledges that there will always be challenges and that "tremendous pressure will be brought upon every Seventh-day Adventist with whom the world can get into close connection"SpM 442.4. It is essential for the church to remain vigilant and faithful to its foundational beliefs, resisting any attempts to introduce worldly policies or doctrines that would compromise its missionSpM 137.5+1.

Regarding specific historical events or groups, such as the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement and its origins in World War I, the church's focus remains on the unity of its worldwide body and the proclamation of the gospel. The church endeavors to maintain unity, to reconcile, and to return to God, understanding that repentance and turning from evil ways are essential for all, as stated in Ezekiel 18:21-23, 27, 30-31 and Ezekiel 33:9-11, 18-19. The Lord does not desire for people to perish, but to turn and live.

The General Conference, as the highest authority God has on earth, makes decisions for the global church3T 492.2. It is through this body that the church addresses matters that affect its mission and principles worldwide18LtMs, Ms 144, 1903, par. 4. The church's leaders are encouraged to walk humbly with God and seek wisdom from Him10LtMs, Ms 31, 1895, par. 1. The core mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church is to be watchmen and light bearers, entrusted with the last warning for a perishing world, allowing nothing else to absorb its attentionGRC 48.4. This work includes relieving those in distress, ministering to the needy, and helping those who suffer for accepting the truth1MR 224.3. As Christ Jesus came to bring peace to us, Ephesians 2:14-15 so His children must seek peace with all men, Hebrews 12:14.

While challenges and disagreements have arisen throughout the church's history, the fundamental principles of faith, including non-combatancy and religious freedom, have been consistently upheld. The focus remains on the church's divine commission to spread the truths of the Sabbath and the second advent, and to prepare for the mansions Christ has gone to prepare for those who purify their souls by obeying the truthCM v.1+1.