We live in a world where violence is never far from the headlines. International conflicts continue to bring suffering to millions, with communities destroyed and families torn apart by war. Closer to home, organised crime and acts of violence leave many people feeling unsafe. Even in popular culture, violence is often presented as entertainment, with combat sports and aggressive forms of competition attracting growing audiences.
The Bible presents a clear explanation for why the world is in this condition. From its earliest pages, human violence is shown to be something that God doesn’t ignore or accept. Speaking of the world before the Flood, the Bible says “The earth was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence” – Genesis 6:11
Violence had become so widespread that God brought judgement upon that generation, preserving only Noah and his family. The problem was not simply that people were imperfect, but that their actions had created a society characterised by cruelty and harm.
The Bible also tells us that God Himself hates violence: “The LORD tests the righteous, but the wicked and the one who loves violence His soul hates” (Psalm 11:5). Violence is the very opposite of His character. God’s purpose for the earth is not conflict and suffering, but peace, justice and righteousness.
This is the hope at the heart of the gospel: the coming Kingdom of God on earth. A world where “nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore” (Isaiah 2:4). A kingdom where the causes of suffering will be removed, where people will live in harmony, and where righteousness will fill the earth.
God’s promise is not an escape from the earth, but the restoration of it. The message of the Bible is that peace is coming – through the righteous reign of Jesus Christ as King over the whole world.
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