Evangelist Franklin Graham delivered a forceful and theologically provocative message during a Christmas service held this week for U.S. service members and Pentagon employees, emphasizing that God is not only loving, but also a God who judges and wages war.
The service, held Wednesday afternoon at the Pentagon, was hosted by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and his wife, Jennifer Rauchet Hegseth. The event featured Christian musical performances by artists Matthew West and Anne Wilson and was attended by military personnel, civilian employees, and their families.
In his sermon, Graham opened by referencing John 3:16, one of the most well-known verses in Christianity, which speaks of God’s love for the world and the promise of eternal life. However, he quickly expanded the message beyond comfort and reassurance.
“We know that God loves,” Graham told the audience. “But did you know that God also hates? Do you know that God is also a God of war? Many people don’t want to think about that, or they forget that.”
Graham then turned to the Old Testament, reading from 1 Samuel 15, which recounts God’s command—delivered through the prophet Samuel—for King Saul to destroy the Amalekites, Israel’s long-standing enemies. The passage describes a divine judgment that included the destruction of men, women, children, and livestock, a text that has long challenged modern readers.
“People will say, ‘That’s not the God I believe in,’” Graham said. “Well, you’d better believe in Him.”
He explained that, according to the biblical narrative, God waited roughly 400 years before executing judgment on the Amalekites for earlier attacks on Israel, underscoring what he described as God’s patience followed by accountability. Graham noted that Saul’s failure to carry out God’s command fully ultimately led to Saul’s rejection as king.
The evangelist connected the ancient story to contemporary America, urging reflection and repentance.
“I think of the sins of our country, and I pray that God will forgive the sins of our country,” he said. “Pray that God will heal our land and that America will once again turn to the God of our fathers.”
Franklin Graham is the son of Billy Graham, the late world-renowned preacher who served as a spiritual adviser to multiple U.S. presidents over several decades. Like his father, Graham has remained closely connected to American political and military institutions, often delivering messages that blend faith, patriotism, and moral accountability.
The remarks have drawn attention for their blunt framing of biblical theology in a military setting, highlighting ongoing conversations about faith, history, and the role of religion in public life—particularly during a season traditionally focused on peace, forgiveness, and hope.
