A History of Christian Attitudes Toward Just War Theory and Combantacy

Abstract

The basic premise of Christian just war theory, a development of just war theory from the ancient world, is that, in a fallen world, war is sometimes necessary to protect innocent people or to defend against aggression. It is held, however, that such war should be undertaken only as a last resort and with a clear and just cause. The theory also sets out guidelines for the conduct of war, emphasizing the need to minimize harm to non-combatants and to avoid the use of excessive force. The Scriptural backgrounds of this theory are reviewed, then the history of the church is examined, to look at the waxing and waning of just war theory, and its interaction with other approaches, such as pacifism, conscientious objection, and conscientious cooperation. It is argued that, while the Christian ideal is one of peace-making and reconciliation, in this fallen world, the use of force is sometimes necessary to restrain evil and protect the innocent. Christians make their contributions best by working for peace and healing, and should do so at every opportunity. But Scripture teaches that God has ordained the state as His minister to use force to protect good and restrain evil. Christian citizens may at times find themselves needing to speak and witness to, and at certain times act in support of, the appropriate and just use of that force.