9 questions every Christian should ask about the concept of ‘just war’

The idea of a just war has been a topic of intense debate among Christians.

Does the concept align with Christian principles or contradict them?

The concept of a “just war,” where conflict is theoretically justified under certain conditions, has long been debated among theologians and ethicists.

This article outlines 9 critical questions every Christian should consider when grappling with the idea of just war.

1. Is it a last resort?

The very first question to ponder upon might be this: Is war the absolute last option?

In your journey of faith, you’ve probably come across the principles of peace, love, and forgiveness. These are the cornerstones of Christianity.

But the concept of ‘just war’ can often seem like a direct contradiction to these values.

However, one critical aspect of a just war is that it should only be considered when all peaceful alternatives have been exhausted.

If you find yourself grappling with this concept, think about it in this light:

If a conflict arises and every peaceful resolution has failed, where does your faith guide you?

This question will challenge you to reconcile your innate desire for peace with the harsh realities of a world where conflicts do exist.

It’s not easy, but trust me, it’s a necessary exploration for every Christian seeking to understand the concept of just war.

2. What about the principle of proportionality?

Once you’ve wrestled with the idea of war as a last resort, another question might naturally follow:

Does the scale of war align with the principle of proportionality?

The principle of proportionality in just war theory states that the violence used in war should be directly proportional to the injury suffered.

In other words, the force used should not exceed what is necessary to achieve peace and justice.

I remember a time when I was faced with a situation that made this principle very real for me. I had a disagreement with a close friend over something seemingly trivial.

However, things quickly escalated, and harsh words were exchanged.

At that moment, I could have retaliated with equal harshness, escalating the situation further. But I remembered this principle.

The ‘war’ between us did not warrant more aggression. Instead, it called for understanding and forgiveness.

It was a small-scale conflict, but it brought to life the essence of proportionality – a principle that applies just as much in our personal conflicts as it does in the larger context of war.

3. What does the Bible say about war?

The Bible encompasses a wide range of views on war, from outright condemnation to tacit endorsement.

In the Old Testament, there are accounts of wars sanctioned by God, such as the Israelites’ battles in the Promised Land.

Conversely, the New Testament, particularly in the teachings of Jesus, emphasizes love, forgiveness, and turning the other cheek.

This apparent contradiction might seem confusing. However, it’s essential to consider the context of these scriptures.

The reason why all Christians should try to ask and answer those questions is that biblical perspectives on war aid in forming a balanced view on the subject.

What’s more, it helps Christians navigate the moral complexities associated with warfare.

This question encourages deep engagement with the Scriptures and fosters a more nuanced understanding of the concept of just war in Christianity.

4. How does the concept of a just war align with Christian values?

We all know that Christianity upholds values such as love, forgiveness, peace, and the sanctity of life.

At face value, it might seem that war, even a just one, contradicts these principles.

Yet, some theologians argue that in specific circumstances, engaging in war can be a form of pursuing justice and defending the innocent.

This argument is rooted in the “just war theory,” which sets criteria for when war is morally acceptable.

Look, I know it’s a complex issue.

But by wrestling with this question, you’re invited to reflect on the intersection of Christian values and real-world conflicts.

How do we reconcile our commitment to peace with the necessity to stand against injustice and oppression?

This exploration opens up avenues for profound contemplation on the practical application of Christian values.

5. Can war ever truly be “just” in a Christian worldview?

Building on the previous point, we arrive at another important question.

Though some argue that just war is possible, others believe the very notion of a “just war” is oxymoronic.

They contend that war, by its very nature, involves harm, destruction, and death – elements seemingly at odds with Christian teachings of love and compassion.

Christians are called to be peacemakers and to turn the other cheek. It raises the question:

Can there ever be a situation where these principles are set aside in favor of armed conflict?

This question challenges us to grapple with difficult ethical dilemmas. It pushes us to engage with our faith in a deeper, more introspective way.

6. How should Christians respond to conflicts and injustices?

How then, as Christians, should we respond when faced with conflicts and injustices?

This next question delves into the practical implications of our beliefs. If war is viewed as incompatible with Christian teachings, what alternatives do we have in confronting injustice and protecting the innocent?

Jesus taught us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. He also stood against injustice, as evidenced by his actions in the temple.

This question asks us to consider our role in promoting peace and justice. It highlights the need for thoughtful engagement, dialogue, and non-violent forms of resistance in response to conflicts.

Thought-provoking point: The early Christian church was predominantly pacifist, with many believers choosing martyrdom over violence.

7. What are the criteria for a war to be considered “just”?

If we entertain the idea of a just war, what criteria must be met for a war to be considered “just”?

The Just War Theory, developed by Christian theologians and philosophers, proposes several conditions. These conditions create a framework for evaluating whether a war can be morally justified.

Here are some key elements of this theory:

• Jus ad bellum: The right to go to war
• Jus in bello: The right conduct within war
• Jus post bellum: The justice after war

Each element is crucial in assessing whether a conflict meets the moral standards of a just war. These criteria challenge us to approach the concept of just war with careful scrutiny and discernment.

What’s more, they provide a rigorous ethical framework that can guide our judgment in complex moral scenarios.

8. How do different Christian denominations view the concept of just war?

The concept of just war isn’t universally accepted across all Christian denominations.

This diversity in interpretation and belief is what makes Christianity such a rich and multifaceted faith.

For instance, some Christian traditions, like Quakerism and Anabaptism, uphold pacifism as a fundamental belief. They reject the idea of just war outright, believing that all forms of violence contradict the teachings of Jesus.

On the other hand, Catholicism and many Protestant denominations have historically accepted the concept of just war under certain circumstances.

They reference the Just War Theory as a framework for discerning when engaging in war might be morally permissible.

In contemplating this question, we’re invited to appreciate the diversity within Christianity and respect different perspectives on complex issues like war.

It serves as a reminder that faith can guide us differently, yet we’re united in our shared pursuit of truth and justice.

9. Is the goal to restore peace?

Is the ultimate goal of the war to restore peace?

While grappling with the reality of war and its justification, it’s easy to lose sight of what should be the ultimate aim – peace.

A ‘just’ war should not be waged for revenge, power, or conquest. Rather, its end goal should always be to restore a state of peace and justice.

This question forces us to look beyond the immediate objectives of a war and consider its long-term implications.

Will it lead to a sustainable peace? Or will it merely sow the seeds for future conflicts?

As Christians, we strive to be peacemakers.

So when contemplating this question, think about how it aligns with this calling.

Can a war truly pave the way for lasting peace? Or does it simply perpetuate a cycle of violence and conflict?

Considering this question will lead you to reflect on the ultimate goals of war from a Christian perspective.

Final thoughts

I hope exploring these 8 questions has deepened your understanding and challenged your perspectives.

The intersection of faith and real-world issues like war isn’t straightforward. It’s a complex, nuanced topic that requires thoughtful reflection and engagement with Scripture.

Engaging with these questions isn’t merely an intellectual exercise. It’s an opportunity to grow spiritually, to grapple with tough ethical dilemmas, and to apply Christian values practically in our world.

This exploration can lead to a more mature faith, one that seeks peace, advocates justice, and loves unconditionally.

Let this understanding guide you in your path of following Jesus, bringing light into situations of conflict, and being a peacemaker in a broken world.