HISTORY TELLS US HOW THE WAR WILL END: 14 October – a turning point?
14 October 2024 could well mark a turning point in the Israel-Gaza conflict. The event was less conspicuous than the military breakthrough many pundits were anticipating but for those who study history, it was a significant indicator that events may be reaching a climax. Yes, the countless prayers for peace in the region have not been in vain.
THE GAZA DEATH TOLL: Can the numbers be trusted?
Instead of being pierced with a deep sense of sorrow, the numbers of those who have died in Gaza are often received with a mix of cynicism, anger or simply skepticism and apathy. Can the numbers be trusted? After all, it is released by Hamas. Or is it?
SOWING SUSPICION, the 7th sin when discussing global events
How serious are we really about scripture when we attempt to interpret the wars in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, and Yemen? With what attitude do we report on Elon Musk and his new brain microchip or Bill Gates and the vaccine? Through which lenses do we approach upcoming elections in more than half of the globe and the political parties we engage in? How do we apply the truth that we so eagerly proclaim when we discuss the marginalised, displaced and broken-hearted? Simply put; how do we engage in a season of opportunities from a Biblical and Godly perspective?
GAZA: Proportional retribution or disproportional grace?
Targeting civilians in a conflict is a war crime. But what if there are civilians in or near a legitimate military target? This is where something in the laws of war called “proportionality” comes into play. But what does the Bible teaches about proportional retribution?
ASSIGNMENT versus ALIGNMENT: what the Gaza conflict exposed
Over the past few days, we have been contemplating vices that the conflict in Gaza has exposed within the Christian community. As Christians, we are consecrated like Christ to be impartial, full of mercy, and reconciling people with God. If we fail to do so, we will inevitably relinquish our role as peacemakers. Today we look at how we sometimes pursue the false spiritual duty of alignment instead of embracing our spiritual assignment as followers of Christ.