Franklin Graham Cites King David to Counter Pope Leo XIV’s War Rebuke

Evangelist and Samaritan’s Purse CEO Franklin Graham responded to Pope Leo XIV’s recent statements regarding war by citing the Old Testament example of King David. During a Tuesday episode of “Piers Morgan Uncensored,” Graham addressed the pope’s Palm Sunday homily, in which the pontiff quoted Isaiah 1:15 to assert that God rejects the prayers of those who wage war. Graham countered this view by pointing to David’s historical role in biblical history, noting that David prayed for God to train his hands to fight enemies and that God granted him favor and wisdom in battle.

Graham distinguished between different types of conflict, citing World War II as an example of a just war. He characterized the Iranian regime as a danger to the world and an “evil government,” attributing the approximately 70,000 Palestinian deaths in Gaza since October 2023, as well as thousands of deaths in Lebanon and Yemen, to Iran. While stating that he does not support war and desires peace, Graham expressed a belief that there is justification when fighting evil and voiced his hope for a regime change in Iran.

Addressing the pope’s specific theological claim, Graham noted that he is not Roman Catholic and comes from a different perspective. He argued that if the biblical context is considered, God did not reject David’s prayers, but rather heard, guided, and directed him in his wars. Graham suggested that Pope Leo XIV may be applying the biblical text to a modern context, but maintained that the biblical record shows God taking sides in history and supporting David’s actions.

The conversation also touched upon the debate surrounding Christian Zionism. Graham stated that the idea that Jesus Christ cannot return until Jews regather in their ancestral homeland is not found in the Bible. However, he affirmed his belief that the land promises made to Abraham in Genesis remain in effect and described the 1948 establishment of Israel as a fulfillment of prophecy.

These statements reflect a broader public discourse on the intersection of faith, geopolitics, and moral responsibility in times of conflict. The exchange highlights differing theological interpretations of divine justice and the role of prayer in the midst of violence. As public figures navigate these complex issues, the call for truth, mercy, and accountability remains central to the Christian witness in the public square.

In addressing such matters, the principle of seeking peace while maintaining moral clarity is evident. The biblical call to pursue peace, as seen in Romans 12:18, encourages believers to work for harmony with their neighbors whenever possible. Similarly, the mandate to act justly and love mercy, outlined in Micah 6:8, provides a framework for evaluating political and military actions through the lens of righteousness and care for the vulnerable.

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