There are four views of war that Christians have held through the centuries.PACIFISM
This view holds that any participation in war is in violation of New Testament teaching. The theological premise is based on statements referring to Christians as being citizens of heaven. We are called pilgrims and ambassadors of heaven. Jesus said that we should not resist evil and love our enemies. This was the position of the early church and is held by various Christian denominations and groups to this day.
REACTIONS TO PACIFISM
Bible students point to encounters with military people who were not told to become pacifists. John the Baptist told soldiers to not be guilty of extortion, false accusations and to be content with their military wages. Jesus praised the Roman Centurion for his great faith. Peter commended the Centurion Cornelius for his faith in Christ. Paul appealed to the government for justice and protection. It must be noted that Jews were exempt from military service by Roman law. It was not a position of pacifism but the issue of loyality to Caesar. Christians were considered a sect of Judiasm.
NON-RESISTANT
This position is held by Christians who believe the Scriptures teach that we have a responsiblity to the state. They believe that there is a separation between church and state. But they need to be positive models by preforming non-combatant roles. Their theology focus is on grace that destroys the law of retribution. Christians are to be separate from the world of greed and power. Christians can participate in war as doctors, nurses, chaplains, mechanics, office administration and various non-aggressive service roles.
THE JUST WAR
This position is based in the New Testament assertion that government is given by God to resist and punish evil. Christians are under both grace and governmental law. Jesus said to render to Caesar what is his and render to God what is His. All military action is to be limited to secure peace and justice. Vengeance and aggression are to be denied by the "rules of engagement." Fair and humane treatment of POWs and respect for civilian populations are high priorities.
REACTIONS TO THE JUST WAR
We now have weapons of mass destruction. We cannot control the "collateral damage" factor. Jesus told Peter to put away his sword. Those who live by the sword will die by the sword. Have all diplomatic resources been exhausted? Can victory be assured? A just war must be seen as the last resort for a lasting peace.
THE PREVENTIVE WAR
This view sees war as a righteous crusade is expel evil before it can spread. The Christian is to obey godly government and "bear the sword". Using Old Testament illustrations from history, the best defense is a good offense. If the Kingdom of God is to come to earth then evil and injustice must be confronted quickly and destroyed.
CONCLUSIONS
There are two hats the Christian must recognize. One is the helmet of government responsibility and action. The military and police are given by God to punish evil, execute evildoers and protect society. They are called ministers of God. (Romans 13:1-7) The other hat is the cap of personal responsibility and action. Christians are to obey and respect government, pay their taxes and pray for leaders. Christians that are forced to violate God's higher laws do have options. Some democratic countries allow for civil disobedience. Christians must take advantage of constitutional rights to vote and use the court system. If in a totalatarian government, flee the country or suffer injustice for the glory of God.
