Page Range
217-233
Keywords
Just War Theory, Pacifism, Church History, Early Church, Reformation
Abstract
This paper, in addressing Just War Theory and Pacifism, will argue that throughout church history there are faithful Christians that can be found on both sides of the debate. With that being said, each side has an obligation to uphold peace and justice. The Just War adherent has an obligation to seek peace, be selective in what is deemed “just war,” and be conscious of the dangers of supporting his nation’s priorities over the teachings of Christ. On the other side, in the case of a just war, the pacifist cannot use his pacifism as an excuse to sit out. He must use his skills to further the just cause through non-violent ways. The paper shall conclude with a call for just war adherents and pacifists to learn from each other and work together in order to bring about greater unity in the Church.
Recommended Citation
Payne, Michael. 2021. "What Can Church History Tell Us about the Debate Between Just War Theory and Pacifism and What Does This Mean for the Church Today?." Eleutheria: John W. Rawlings School of Divinity Academic Journal 5, (2). https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/eleu/vol5/iss2/14
Included in
Applied Ethics Commons, History of Christianity Commons, Religious Thought, Theology and Philosophy of Religion Commons