WAR What is it good for? Rae, Chapter 11

War in the Bible Old Testament Throughout the OT, God commanded Israel to go to war. Some were defensive, some were clearly offensive. Israel was a theocracy, ruled by God. No nation can say that today. Israel was promised the land of Canaan as a national homeland. God placed Israel in Canaan to help them learn to trust him.

War in the Bible New Testament The NT reflects a spirit of pacifism. Sermon on the Mount Forbids retaliation Commands love for enemies Blesses the peacemakers The apostles encouraged submission to government—even Roman empire.

War in the Bible New Testament The early Christians were pacifists. They did not serve in the military. The early Christians died as martyrs rather than defend themselves.

Pacifism Non-Violence War is never justified—it is always immoral. This was the teaching of the New Testament Jesus (Mat. 5:38-45) Paul (Romans 12:18-21) Peter (1 Peter 2:21-23)

Pacifism Non-Violence Strict separation of the church from the world. Violence is the way of this world. But followers of Jesus are to have different values from the world

Pacifism Non-Participation It is inconsistent to say a Christian cannot participate in violence such as war, and yet support the war through non-violent means. Therefore the follower of Christ must not participate in any way that supports war. Critics say it is impossible to draw any meaningful line between participation and non-participation.

Pacifism Criticism of Pacifism Sometimes violence is necessary to prevent a greater injustice. It can’t be right to stand by and let innocent people be harmed. Sometimes obeying Christ’s law to love others requires the use of violence to protect them from harm. According to Paul, the state has a legitimate right to use force to maintain peace and order.

Just War Theory Just Cause. Just Intent. Last Resort Approved by Proper Authorities Limited Objectives Proportionate Means Respect for Non-Combatants

Just War Theory Jesus is prohibiting retaliation and revenge, not self-defense, particularly in a life-or-death situation. Paul indicates government has a responsibility to use force to maintain peace. Peter is addressing enduring persecution for one’s faith, not self-defense in general. Sinful people and the biblical demand for justice sometimes makes the use of force necessary.

Extending the Just War Theory Preventative strikes are justifiable. Using force to reverse injustice is justifiable.

Critique of Just War Theory Some suggest Just War theory is out of date. Didn’t anticipate nuclear weapons, or terrorists attacks. There are questions about the relationship of Just War and the use of torture. Just War Theory can be used to justify just about any conflict.