Question: What does it mean in Christianity when it says in the Bible that “So now, kill all the boys, as well as every woman who has had relations with a man, but spare for yourselves every girl who has never had relations with a man.” [Numbers 31:18]?

Thank you for the biblical question on Numbers 31:18 as it applies to Christianity.

The citation of Numbers 31:18 does NOT apply to Christianity. That command of God was given to the nation of Israel in their conquest of the Promised Land.

It would be equally mistaken to think that Christians have to bring an animal sacrifice for their sins or that all Christians have to gather in Israel to celebrate the Day of Atonement or the festivals required by God. No one would think that all Christians have to live in the Promised Land.

Christians are not commanded to kill people. The interpretation and application of Numbers 31:18 regarding Christians are false and faulty.

SUMMARY: Proper interpretation and application must be considered in the context of the passage.

-Kingston