The 2024 war in Lebanon shattered many assumptions. As a community, we prepared for a conflict similar to that of 2006, only to find that this war was more drastic in its consequences, particularly regarding extensive displacement and expected long-term socio-political instability. As we reflect on what we have learned, we must ask: how can the evangelical community in Lebanon move forward in a way that aligns with biblical truth, historical wisdom, and a theological vision rooted in the gospel?
As I write these words, we find ourselves in a ceasefire period, yet the war has not officially ended. Perhaps such a state of limbo is a good reminder that the absence of war is never equated to the presence of biblical shalom. It goes without saying that the biblical concept of shalom is far deeper than the mere cessation of conflict; it speaks of holistic peace—reconciliation with God, neighbor, and creation. The “Prince of Peace” in Isaiah 9:6–7 brings about shalom that signifies wholeness, restoration, and divine harmony. This Messiah establishes a just and righteous rule that brings everlasting reconciliation between God and humanity, and his governance expands shalom without end, fulfilling the Davidic covenant (2 Samuel 7:13) and anticipating the eschatological peace of the new creation (Isaiah 11:6–9). Unlike temporary earthly peace, His reign ensures perfect well-being, justice, and flourishing, affirming divine sovereignty over history and redemption.
Even amidst war, Christ’s followers are called to experience and extend God’s shalom. Jesus himself declared, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you” (John 14:27). The early church thrived in hostile circumstances, demonstrating that shalom is not dependent on external conditions but on the reign of Christ in our hearts and communities. One notable example is found in Acts 8:1–4, where the church faced severe persecution. After the martyrdom of Stephen, a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, causing believers to scatter throughout Judea and Samaria. Despite this, those who were scattered preached the word wherever they went, leading to the spread of the gospel and the growth of the church.
The Call to Engage: Rolling Up Our Sleeves as Agents of Hope
In times of crisis, disciples of Christ have a choice: disengage and retreat, or step forward as agents of hope and peace. Understandably, and due to unprecedented hostile circumstances, some churches were paralyzed by the recent situation in Lebanon, while others managed to embrace their calling as God’s hands and feet. The church does not need to deliberate over whether to engage—our very identity compels us to act. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) is a reminder that we do not stop and pray about whether to help the wounded on the side of the road; we simply act in obedience to our Lord.
The early church set a powerful precedent. In times of plagues and persecution, Christians distinguished themselves by their sacrificial service, caring for the sick and vulnerable even when the world retreated in fear. Today, the evangelical church in Lebanon is faced with the same challenge: will we withdraw for our own security, or will we embody the self-giving love of Christ?
Perhaps one lesson learned here is that in times of crisis, the church is called to actively engage and serve as agents of hope and peace, by embodying Christ’s self-giving love rather than retreating in fear.
Post-War Planning: A Call to Practical Discipleship
One of the hard-learned lessons of this war is that post-war needs must be anticipated, not merely reacted to. Displacement is not a short-term crisis; rebuilding lives takes time. While some may argue that reconstructing homes is the responsibility of the state, history has shown that the church has many times stepped into gaps left when governments fail to provide for their people.
From early Christian communities that provided for widows and orphans (Acts 6:1-7) to missionary movements that built schools and hospitals, the church has done a lot to meet tangible needs. The question we must ask is: How can we as a church engage in sustainable, gospel-centered restoration?
Thus, another lesson learned is that it is not merely simply about physical rebuilding, but about the church pushing towards restoring human dignity, stability, and community.
Attending to Spiritual and Relational Brokenness
Beyond physical destruction, war leaves deep spiritual and relational wounds. The vulnerable—widows, orphans, the displaced, and the economically devastated—are increasing. Additionally, familial relationships are under severe strain, and we anticipate that many marriages might collapse under the weight of war’s aftermath.
The church is called to be a place of healing, extending care, trauma counseling, and a vision of reconciliation. As Scripture affirms, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). In moments of profound loss, God commissions His people to stand in solidarity with those who suffer. This entails creating spaces for lament, offering professional counseling, and cultivating supportive communities. The Psalms remind us that biblical faith does not deny grief but instead brings it honestly before God in worship and trust (Psalm 13; Psalm 88).
In Lebanon, I know of some churches that have responded to such brokenness—especially in the aftermath of the Beirut port explosion—by establishing clinics that provide affordable physical and psychological care. The demand for such ministries continues to grow as churches nowadays reflect on the needs of post-war realities.
Hence, a third lesson learned is churches’ proactive embodiment of Christ’s healing presence, addressing not only spiritual wounds but also the deep relational and psychological scars inflicted by war and crisis.
Reconciliation and Loving the Enemy: A Biblical Challenge
Perhaps one of the most challenging lessons we must embrace is the call to reconciliation. In Lebanon, war has once again deepened divisions between those who supported the conflict and those who opposed it. Yet, the church is uniquely positioned to be an agent of reconciliation within its complex socioreligious context. Many churches in sectarian Lebanon are located in Christian-majority areas where blame and resentment toward other Lebanese communities run deep. However, these churches must resist the temptation to gloat or assign blame. Instead, they are called to model forgiveness and acceptance, creating spaces where healing can begin.
Jesus’ command to “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44) is not a naive idealism but a radical gospel mandate. On the cross, Christ died for both the victim and the victimizer, demonstrating that reconciliation comes at great cost. He did not wait for humanity to make the first move: “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).
The lesson is clear: churches must follow Christ’s own model and take the initiative in the ministry of reconciliation, even when every human instinct calls for blame and division.
Conclusion: Embracing Our Calling for the Future
Despite the darkness of war, we must remember that God remains sovereign—neither absent nor surprised. The cross stands as history’s darkest moment, yet through that very suffering, God accomplished redemption and brought forth His shalom. In the same way, the devastation of Lebanon’s 2024 war, though overwhelming, carries the potential for God’s transformative work. The church must anchor itself in the hope of our future destiny, when “the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ” (Revelation 11:15). Lebanon’s fate is not determined by global powers but by the sovereign hand of God.
This war has tested us—and continues to do so. Yet, as a church in Lebanon, we are called to be a people shaped by the gospel of our loving sovereign God: grounded in biblical truth, steadfast in faith, and unwavering in love. Our response must not be despair, but a hopeful confidence in the One who sustains us, for “He who began a good work in us will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6). Our task is clear—to embody Christ’s shalom, extend His love, and labor faithfully for His kingdom until He returns.
