No doubt about it. ISIS is an evil group. They kill Christians, other Muslims, news reporters, etc. While evil will ultimately be defeated by Jesus (Revelation 17:4), how should we deal with ISIS right now?
A great example has been given to us by Florida state attorney general John Tanner and how he treated serial killer Ted Bundy. Bundy had brutally tortured and murdered numerous women. The law finally caught up with him. Tanner and his wife, both born again Christians, began writing to Bundy. As other Christians did, they probably told him that they were praying for him. Bundy became a born again believer thru his relationship with the Tanners. In this process, John Tanner became one of Florida’s state attorneys general. He pursued the legal punishment of Bundy to the fullest extent of the law (which included execution) while reaching out to him with the love of Jesus. Because of the relationship they forged, Bundy began cooperating with the authorities.
John Tanner put Bundy in touch with detectives in other states so he could try to remember the whereabouts of all the other women he killed. Until his conversion, Bundy had steadfastly refused to reveal the details of any of his murders. But thanks to his friendship with the Tanners, he remembered many of the gruesome details and whereabouts of his victims. This brought closure to many families. He also realized the full extent of his sins. He realized that forgiveness for his evil deeds could only be given by Jesus Christ. He didn’t expect it from the victim’s families.
Bundy’s last meal was a communion with the Tanners. He was then electrocuted. Read more of this incredible story at articles.orlandosentinel.com/1989-01-27/news/8901270405_1_ted-bundy-john-tanner-death-warrant. For Bundy’s last interview with Dr. James Dobson, see www.pureintimacy.org/f/fatal-addiction-ted-bundys-final-interview/.
So how should we treat ISIS? We should pursue them to the fullest extent of military law (Romans 13:1-7) while at the same time, telling captured ISIS fighters about Jesus (John 3:16). Yes, most captured terrorists won’t accept what we say. But we’re only responsible for telling them about Jesus. They’re responsible for what they do with Him. Per chance, what if some of them do accept Jesus? Like the thief on the cross, it will have been worth it. Remember, Jesus died for these terrorists also (Romans 5:8). This is true justice with mercy. What do you think? Could you defend your position before Jesus?
For His Kingdom,
Dave Maynard
