Some of the strongest supporters of the war declare that we are a Christian nation, yet use their religious beliefs to justify the war. They claim it is our Christian duty to remake the Middle East and attack the Muslim infidels. Evidently I have been reading from a different Bible. I remember something about 'Blessed are the peacemakers.' My beliefs aside, Christian teaching of nearly a thousand years reinforces the concept of 'The Just war theory.' This Christian theory emphasizes six criteria needed to justify Christian participation in war... The war in Iraq fails to meet almost all of these requirements. This discrepancy has generated anger and division within the Christian community. Some are angry because the war is being fought out of Christian duty, yet does not have uniform support from all Christians. Others are angry because they see Christianity as a religion as peace and forgiveness, not war and annihilation of enemies.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The quote argues that many Christians use religion to justify war, but the war does not meet just war criteria, causing division.
- In plain terms
- Christians claim war is a duty, yet it fails moral standards, creating conflict.
- What can you take from it?
- Check moral criteria before supporting war.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What standards should define a just war?
- How can religious communities address internal disagreements?
Another view
Interpretations of just war theory vary widely.
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