This verse contains some of the most legally explicit language regarding warfare in Islamic jurisprudence:
Surah 47:4
So when you meet those who disbelieve strike necks until, when you have inflicted slaughter upon them, then secure their bonds, and either favor afterwards or ransom until the war lays down its burdens."
Modern apologists often claim that Quranic warfare is strictly defensive, analogous to modern just war theory. Verse 4 shows an explicit prescription for battlefield conduct—specifically targeting the neck (decapitation)—that goes far beyond standard defensive deterrence.
Contrast this directly with the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament ("Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you," Matthew 5:44) and His rebuke of Peter for drawing a sword to defend Him ("Put your sword back in its place... for all who draw the sword will die by the sword," Matthew 26:52). This highlights a fundamental contradiction in the character, ethical commands, and methodology of the two faiths.