Reflections on Palm Sunday

On the day that the Passover Lamb was traditionally selected, Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. Spontaneously, the people along the road began to wave palm branches and shout “Hosanna!” but what’s really going on might surprise you. First of all, the people received Jesus as a prophet (Matt. 21:11) but not as the Messiah.

This event was prophesied in Zechariah 9:9:

“Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”

The truth is that the rest of that prophecy was about the Messiah coming as an agent of peace:

“I will take away the chariots from Ephraim and the warhorses from Jerusalem, and the battle bow will be broken. He will proclaim peace to the nations. His rule will extend from sea to sea and from the River to the ends of the earth.” (v. 10)

Notice that Jesus weeps over the fact that they do not understand what his mission is when he responds to their adulation and palm-waving with this statement:

“As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes. The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you and encircle you and hem you in on every side. They will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. They will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God’s coming to you.” (Luke 19:41-44)

See, the fact that they were waving palm branches is significant. Those palm branches were a direct throwback to the Maccabean period when the triumphant Jewish warriors rode into Jerusalem and the people celebrated their victory over the Seleucids, which incidentally was followed immediately by a ritual cleansing of the temple. At that time the people waved palm branches as a symbol of military conquest over an oppressive enemy. By waving those palm branches, the people are saying that they are ready for war. They are ready for the blood of the Romans to be spilled in an uprising that they hope Jesus will lead them in. It’s no different than when Peter cut off the servant’s ear in Gethsemane and received the rebuke from Jesus.

Today we usually read that passage about the people shouting “Hosanna!” as an indication that the people received Jesus as their King. But on the contrary, the people were rejecting Jesus as their personal, spiritual Messiah and calling out for him to be their political, militant Messiah. When they shout “Hosanna!” which means “Save us!” they are demanding him to lead the charge of attack against the Romans.

This is why Jesus weeps over the people. He knows that their hearts are far from God’s heart. They want war. He has come to bring peace. They reject him and his mission. They can’t receive him for who he is. They cannot submit to him as he is – a humble servant riding on a donkey – they only want him to meet their expectations for a warrior who will set them free from earthly oppression, but they are unwilling to be set free from their own lusts and desires.

See, this was the day that the Passover Lamb was traditionally chosen to take away the sins of the people. On this day, the people rejected the Lamb because they wanted a Lion instead.

Ironically, the people of Jerusalem would receive the very punishment they sought to bring upon the Romans, as Jesus predicts in Luke 19:41-44, and later in Luke 21:5-38. This is why Jesus weeps. He knows that in AD 70 the Romans will surround the city and kill everyone and destroy the very temple he is about to go and cleanse.

The cleansing of the temple echoes the Maccabean cleansing roughly 200 years before, but when Jesus cleanses the temple this time it is more than ceremonial. Instead, he chases out the corrupt money changers and the sellers of doves who were exploiting the poor, and he clears the floor that was intended to be a place of prayer for the nations.

When you wave a palm branch on Palm Sunday, you should know that it’s a symbol of military power and conquest, not a symbol of humble devotion to the King who rides on a donkey to reign as the Prince of Peace in every human heart.

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Letting It Go

On November 8, 1987, Gordon took his daughter, Marie, out to watch a parade. She wasn't a little girl anymore, but she was quite happy to have the day off from her nursing job and to spend some time with her Dad.

Then, a little after 10 a.m., the bomb exploded, blasting them to the ground. Gordon never let go of his daughter's hand, even when the building fell in on them and buried them in darkness.

Unable to move, they lay beneath the crushing weight of the rubble and spoke to one another, choking back dust and tears.

"She gripped my hand tightly," he remembered. "Gripped me as hard as she could. Then she said, 'Daddy, I love you very much.'"

When her grip relaxed a few seconds later, he knew she was gone. Five minutes later they pulled him and his daughter Marie out from under the debris. Marie never regained consciousness and was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Speaking to the BBC reporters just a few hours later, Gordon said, "I bear no ill will. I bear no grudge. Dirty sort of talk is not going to bring her back to life. She's in heaven and we shall meet again."

Then he added, "I will pray for these men tonight and every night."

According to historian Jonathan Bardon, "No words in more than twenty-five years of violence in Northern Ireland had such a powerful, emotional impact."

The Remembrance Day bombing, as it came to be known, killed 11 people and injured 64 when a single 40 pound bomb was detonated by the Provisional IRA during a Remembrance Sunday ceremony held to honor those who had served in the British Special Forces.

The BBC would later describe the bombing as a turning point in the ongoing struggle between the IRA and the British. Not because the bombing itself accomplished anything strategically for either side, but simply because the response of forgiveness by one 60 year old man “shook the IRA to its core".

Not only did Gordon Wilson publicly forgive those who had planted the bomb that killed his dear daughter, Marie, he said he would pray for them and that is exactly what he did for the rest of his life. He also begged that no-one took revenge for Marie's death and pleaded with others not to do so.

How could this man forgive those who took away his daughter so quickly? Because Gordon Wilson loved Jesus with all his heart. He had spent many years serving his community faithfully, simply, and quietly, as a follower of Christ.

After the bombing, Wilson went on to devote his life to the peace effort and even met face to face with the members of the very same terrorist organization that planted the bomb that day.

He believed in forgiveness and he trusted in the Prince of Peace. This made all the difference in the world.

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GO AND BUY A SWORD?

In the dialog between Christians about whether or not following Jesus entails embracing a non-violent lifestyle, there are certain verses in the New Testament that have to be addressed.

For example, whenever non-violent Christians quote Jesus saying, “Put your sword back in its place…for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.” (Matthew 26: 52), there are pro-war Christians who will respond by saying, “(Jesus) said to them, ‘But now let the one who has a moneybag take it, and likewise a knapsack. And let the one who has no sword sell his cloak and buy one.’” (Luke 22:36)

In other words, some Christians believe that Jesus fully endorsed owning and using weapons for self-defense (or for use in war), and other Christians believe that Jesus categorically prohibited His followers from using violence. What’s the real story?

Well, those verses where Jesus forbid violence are numerous and they are not difficult to understand. In addition to the one quoted above, we also hear Jesus declare that we should love our enemies, do good to those who hate us, turn the other cheek, and forgive those who seek to harm us. These are not figurative passages and taken together they paint (in my mind at least) a pretty straightforward picture of Jesus’ expectation that his disciples would not do violence.

In addition to Jesus’ commands we also have His example of forgiving those who crucified him, healing the ear of the soldier who came to arrest him in the Garden, restraining the Legions of angel soldiers at his command, and telling Pontius Pilate that his Kingdom was not of this Earth, and if it was his disciples would fight, begging the question, “If His disciples do fight then are they not part of Christ’s Kingdom”? (see John 18:36)

But this one verse where Jesus tells his disciples to go out and buy a sword is right there in the Bible, isn’t it? What’s it there for? If Jesus didn’t intend for us to own or use swords then why did he say this? Especially if, later on, he was going to contradict himself and rebuke Peter for using the sword he told him to go out and buy?

Well, here’s what I think is going on. First of all we need to look closely at this passage in Luke. Notice that right after Jesus tells his disciples to buy a sword he goes on to say, “For I tell you that this Scripture must be fulfilled in me: ‘And he was numbered with the transgressors.’ For what is written about me has its fulfillment.” And they said, “Look, Lord, here are two swords.” And he said to them, “It is enough.” (Luke 22:36-38 ESV)

Right away we can see that Jesus’ statement about the swords is directly related to prophecy (“…this Scripture must be fulfilled in me”) and what is the prophecy that must be fulfilled? The one in Isaiah that says, “And he was numbered with the transgressors”.

Was the statement about buying a sword about self-defense? Probably not. Why? Because first of all, two swords are not “enough” to defend 13 guys against a legion of Roman soldiers. Also, because when Peter uses his sword in self-defense (or to protect Jesus from the soldiers) he is harshly rebuked with the verse we’ve already looked at, “Put it away! Those who live by the sword shall die by the sword”.

Clearly, Jesus is not a fan of self-defense here. At least, not according to the overall context in this passage. However, he does tell the disciples that he wants them to have those two swords with them so that the prophecy about the Messiah being numbered with the transgressors may be fulfilled in Him. That’s why two swords are “enough” for Jesus; to fulfill the scriptures, not to endorse war or physical violence.

Are we sure that Jesus only meant this in light of fulfilling the prophecies about Himself? Yes. How? Because after Peter cuts off the soldiers ear, listen to what Jesus has to say, “Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?" (Matthew 26:53-54)

See? Jesus tells them to get a few swords so that the prophecy in Isaiah will be fulfilled. Then, once it’s fulfilled in the Garden he makes a point of saying that this is what he had in mind in the first place. So, it’s all about fulfilling the prophecies, not a statement from Jesus endorsing violence.

As sincere followers of Jesus we must take into account all the many other teachings of Jesus regarding turning the other cheek, loving our enemies, and not resisting an evil man. We must also be careful to interpret the Old Testament scriptures in light of Jesus, not the other way around (i.e. – trying to fit Jesus into the Old Testament context).

Jesus came to fulfill the Old Covenant, and He accomplished this in full. The Old Covenant is obsolete. (see Hebrews 8:13) We don’t need to refer back to it again when it comes to guiding our daily lives. We have Christ. We have the Living Word of God who has come to make His home in us. Jesus gave us a New Covenant and He lived a better example for us to follow.

“Jesus said, "Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you." (Luke 6.27-28)

CHURCH HISTORY 101 - QUOTES OF PEACE

Quotes from first and second century Christian writers about the continuing posture of non-violence in the early Church following the age of the Apostles:

"The Lord, in disarming Peter, disarmed every soldier." —Tertullian from "On Idolatry"

"Christians could never slay their enemies. For the more that kings, rulers, and peoples have persecuted them everywhere, the more Christians have increased in number and grown in strength." —Origen Contra Celsius Book VII

"Wherever arms have glittered, they must be banished and exterminated from thence."
—Lactantius’ Divine Institutes IV

"As simple and quiet sisters, peace and love require no arms. For it is not in war, but in peace, that we are trained." —Clement of Alexandria Chapter 12 of Book 1

"Above all, Christians are not allowed to correct with violence."
—Clement of Alexandria

"I do not wish to be a king; I am not anxious to be rich; I decline military command... Die to the world, repudiating the madness that is in it."
—Tatian’s Address to the Greeks

"We who formerly used to murder one another now refrain from even making war upon our enemies."
—The First Apology of Justin Martyr

"Whatever Christians would not wish others to do to them, they do not to others. And they comfort their oppressors and make them their friends; they do good to their enemies. Through love towards their oppressors, they persuade them to become Christians."
—The Apology of Aristides

"A soldier of the civil authority must be taught not to kill men and to refuse to do so if he is commanded, and to refuse to take an oath. If he is unwilling to comply, he must be rejected for baptism. A military commander or civic magistrate must resign or be rejected. If a believer seeks to become a soldier, he must be rejected, for he has despised God."
—Hippolytus of Rome

"There is nothing better than peace, in which all warfare of things in heaven and things on earth is abolished."
—Ignatius of Antioch to the Ephesians

"The new covenant that brings back peace and the law that gives life have gone forth over the whole earth, as the prophets said: "For out of Zion will go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem; and he will instruct many people; and they will break down their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks, and they will no longer learn to make war." These people formed their swords and war lances into plowshares,” that is, into instruments used for peaceful purposes. So now, they are unaccustomed to fighting, so when they are struck, they offer also the other cheek."
—Irenaeus

"We would rather shed our own blood than stain our hands and our conscience with that of another. As a result, an ungrateful world is now enjoying–and for a long period has enjoyed–a benefit from Christ. For by his means, the rage of savage ferocity has been softened and has begun to withhold hostile hands from the blood of a fellow creature. In fact, if all men without exception…would lend an ear for a while to his salutary and peaceful rules,…the whole world would be living in the most peaceful tranquility. The world would have turned the use of steel into more peaceful uses and would unite together in blessed harmony."
—Arnobius

"Those soldiers were filled with wonder and admiration at the grandeur of the man’s piety and generosity and were struck with amazement. They felt the force of this example of pity. As a result, many of them were added to the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ and threw off the belt of military service."
—Disputation of Archelaus and Manes

"We have rejected such spectacles as the Coliseum. How then, when we do not even look on killing lest we should contract guilt and pollution, can we put people to death?"
—Athenagoras of Athens’ A Plea for the Christians

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NOTE: This post originally appeared here in July, 2009.

JESUS: THE PRINCE OF PEACE (Part 4 of 4)

By definition, we who call ourselves "Christians" should be followers of Jesus. Our Lord is known as the Prince of Peace. We are commanded to "Love one another" and to be known for our love. Jesus pronounced a blessing to those who would be peace makers saying, "Blessed are the peace makers for they shall inherit the Earth."

Yet, somehow, we who are called by His Name are not known for our great love. We are not known for our expertise on the ways of peace. Even though we are given the ministry of reconciliation, we are not the ones people come to when they hope to resolve conflict and experience peace in their lives.

What has happened?

It was not always this way. In our New Testament we find a seamless flow of love from our Lord to His disciples and from his disciples to the world.

In fact, for roughly 300 years the followers of Jesus were models of peace. Even though they were hunted and beaten and pursued and persecuted and put to death by the sword and wild animal, they did not raise a hand in retaliation. They shared all that they had with anyone in need and gave up their own daily bread to feed the hungry in their midst. For 300 years they were people of peace and examples of love to everyone they met.

Imagine that. Imagine 300 years of Christian history where not one recorded instance of violence is found in the record books where a follower of Jesus took a sword to another person or raised his hands in violence.

Something happened to change our tune. Someone stepped in and rearranged the music, and the saddest thing is: We listened.

When Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity in 312 A.D. and established himself as the "Pontifex Maximus" of the Church he effectively unraveled 300 years of Christian pacifism and ushered in a new era where Christianity would be re-defined as a belief system rather than as a way of life.

In 316, Constantine acted as a judge in a North African dispute concerning the validity of Donatism (a Christian sect). After ruling that the Donatists were heretical in their faith, Constantine led an army of Christians against the Donatist Christians. For the first time in Christian History, after 300 years of pacifism, a Christian took up a sword aganst another person - and those people were other followers of Jesus. *[See Reference below]

This radical shift created by Constantine set in motion a series of changes to the Christian faith that are still being felt to this day. While the early Christians peacefully opposed the Empire and lived a life of quiet subversion against the pattern of this world, the new Christians (under Constantine) became the tool of the Empire.

To this day the Christian faith remains the puppet of the Empire. In America, the Christian Church has alligned herself with the State and has adopted the party message, seeking to influence the world through political means rather than through the transformative power of the Gospel.

I've met Christians who cannot imagine their Christian faith apart from an allegiance to the Republican Party. I've spoken to Christians who feel that the use of deadly force against another person is not only acceptable, it would be endorsed by Jesus. I've debated Christians who support the use of torture against other human beings as long as it means we can sleep safe in our beds at night.

These views are not in line with the words of Jesus. We have to divorce our faith in Christ from such blind Nationalism and rediscover what it means to submit to Jesus as our Lord, placing Him on the throne of our hearts.

If our allegiance is to Christ, then we must take seriously his commands to love our enemies and do good to those who hate us. We must wrestle with these difficult issues of ethics and faith.

Our calling as followers of Jesus is not only to avoid violence, it is to take the initiative to show love to our enemies and to bless those who want to bring violence against us.

These are not political issues, these are personal issues. These are matters of personal faith and obedience to the words of Jesus.

Either we love Him and we believe His words to be true, or we must admit that we've found another way that is more attractive to us than the Way of Christ and embrace the American Dream. We cannot have it both ways.

My prayer is that Christians in America would rediscover their original DNA as peaceful, loving followers of Jesus and jettison the Nationalized Christianity that enslaves us to the Empire.

Let us place Jesus back on the Throne of our hearts, and crown him again as King of the Church. Let us pledge allegiance to Christ and to His Kingdom, not to any man-made creed or political system.

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*REFERENCE:
"Irritated at the obstinacy of the Donatists in declining even yet to accept their defeat, Constantine now enforced the decision of the councils by the aid of the secular arm. The Donatists were proscribed, deprived of their churches, their property was confiscated, their bishops were exiled. When they still remained refractory Constantine sent an army, and for the first time in the world's history Christians slaughtered Christians. Fire and sword swept over the country. Such were the fruits of the alliance of Church and State." - Robinson Souttar; A Short History of Medieval People. From the Dawn of the Christian Era to the Fall of Constantinople, p. 227


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"You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.'
But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil. When someone strikes you on your right cheek, turn the other one to him as well. If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic, hand him your cloak as well. Should anyone press you into service for one mile, go with him for two miles. Give to the one who asks of you, and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow.

"You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you,
that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.

For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brothers only, what is unusual about that? Do not the pagans do the same? So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect." - Jesus (Matthew 5:25-30)

JESUS: THE PRINCE OF PEACE (Part 3 of 4)

HOW RELEVANT IS CHURCH HISTORY?
The behavior of the first and second century church is relevant because it shows us how the early Christians consistently carried out the practice of radical love and non-violent resistance to persecution and evil in their day. The practice of loving, non-violent behavior originated with Christ and continued under the Apostles. It endured for over 200 years as a defining mark of Christian faith and practice.

Non-violence wasn't an "error" that showed up after the new testament was written. It was not a new teaching that was introduced after the Apostolic Age. No, it was simply a continuation of practice from the founder of the movement. One of the premier characteristics of the church, which was founded on the teaching and example of Jesus, was love. And that love was expressed in humility and peaceful interaction with all men.

Jesus is our blueprint for life in the Kingdom of God. The early Christians understood this. They knew that they were held to a higher standard of love than anyone else on the planet. When Stephen is stoned to death for his faith in Christ, he doesn’t defend himself or retaliate, or even run away. Instead he stands his ground and forgives his killers, even as Jesus did, before giving up his life for Christ.

The New Testament is full of references, both from Jesus and from the Apostles, regarding the expectation of non-violence in response to persecution. Furthermore, we also know that hundreds of followers of Jesus also went to their deaths for their faith and they did not raise a hand in self-defense. They either ran away or they submitted to torture, crucifixion and death. Why? Because of the example of Jesus and out of obedience to His command to love our enemies and endure hardship and persecution.

For anyone serious about following Jesus and learning to be His disciple, non-violence is a critical element of obedience. Jesus set us an example and he expects us to follow it.

The Christian practice of radical non-violence flowed from the example of Jesus and his commands to his disciples regarding love for our enemies. This example and teaching was carried forward by the Apostles and it was further embodied by the early church for over 200 years.

As Shane Claiborne once remarked when asked if he was a Christian: “Go and ask my enemies, or the poor, or my neighbor and if they say I am a Christian then I suppose I’m a Christian.”

Could our enemies affirm that we are followers of Christ? Would the poor in your community testify to your faith in Jesus? Would your neighbors on your street, or your co-workers bear witness to your Christ-like attitude?

What we do matters. How we live is critical. We are the Ambassadors of the Risen Lord. We are the Body of Christ, Incarnate on this Earth.

Let love be our tattoo.

Peace,
Keith
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JESUS: THE PRINCE OF PEACE (Part 2 of 4)

One of the more creative arguments in favor of Christian violence has been the suggestion that the conversion of Cornelius the Centurion to the Christian faith is an indication that Christians accepted violence and even professional soldiers among their ranks. If there is any real instruction to be found here (in Acts 10) regarding the attitude of the early Christians towards violence it is mostly from silence. The point of the passage is that Cornelius, a Gentile, is miraculously converted to the faith in Christ as the Messiah. The inference in this passage is that Cornelius was a practicing Jew who cared for the poor and loved God. He did not, however, know about Jesus and it was only through an angelic vision that he was told how to seek out Peter in order to receive the Gospel and be saved.

The argument in support of Christians who practice violence seems to be that, since it says Cornelius was a Centurion then it must be an endorsement of his violent lifestyle. However, we do not know what happened to Cornelius after his conversion to Christ. Did he continue to serve the Roman Empire and engage in war? Maybe he did, we don't know. But even if he did the question remains: "Does the New Testament endorse such behavior in any way?" No, it doesn't. At least, not for a follower of Jesus.

We could ask, “Did Cornelius resign his commission in the Roman Army and face martyrdom?” Again, we just do not know. Although we do know that many other Roman soldiers who came to Christ did just that and were put to death for it, as in the example of Martin of Tours.

Martin of Tours was a soldier in the Roman army under Constantine. After the Emperor “converted” to Christianity in 312 A.D. and began to re-define the faith it became acceptable in the church for followers of Jesus to define their faith by a set of beliefs rather than by a practice of values and principles embodied by Christ. As Christianity and the Empire became entangled, the line between following Jesus and being loyal to the State became blurred. Much like it is today.

One Roman soldier, Martin of Tours, upon converting to faith in Christ dared to defy the status quo. Even though it would have been completely acceptable to many within the State-sponsored Christian Church of his day and age, Martin instead took a bold step to follow Christ and not bow his knee to the Emperor. So, at a ceremony in which soldiers were given a monetary reward for their service, Martin of Tours stood up and explained to his commanding officer that he could no longer remain a soldier in the army of Rome, saying:

“Up to the present I have served you as a soldier. Allow me now to become a soldier of God. Let the man who is to serve you receive your donation. I am a soldier of Christ. It is not lawful for me to fight.”

For this act of disobedience, Martin was condemned and he volunteered to go to the front lines in the upcoming battle to show that he was not a coward, choosing to remain loyal to Jesus rather than to compromise his faith in submission to the State.

Did Cornelius do the same? We’re not sure. Perhaps yes, or maybe no. The point is that the scriptures do not tell us what Cornelius did after his conversion to faith in Christ. All we know is that Jesus clearly teaches us to love our enemies and to refrain from violence. What Cornelius did is less important to us than what Jesus expected, and of that we are well-informed and accountable.

At any rate, the story of Cornelius’ conversion is not meant to teach us anything about violence, it is meant to teach us how much God loves the Gentiles and how Peter was obedient to God and allowed them to receive the Gospel of the Kingdom and enter the Body of Christ.

[END PART 2]
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NOTE: The previous version of this article erroneously mentioned that Martin of Tours was executed for defying the Roman Military. This mistake has been corrected. This series was originally published here in July of 2009.

JESUS: THE PRINCE OF PEACE (Part 1 of 4)

*Over the next few days I will be publishing a series of articles regarding the radical teachings of Jesus on love and non-violence. Some of these will also touch on the Americanized-Christianity heresy which continues to plague our nation.

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One of the most difficult teachings of Jesus involves love. Thought at first his commands to “Love God” and “Love one another” seem simple to our ears, we soon discover that living these things out takes more out of us than we are prepared to give.

Lately I’ve been spending some time looking at the more radical teachings of Jesus regarding non-violence and how it informs our practice of the Christian faith.

If you only learn one thing from Jesus in the Gospels it’s that he expects his followers to be known as people who love with extravagance. Jesus teaches his disciples to not only love those who love them, but to also love even their enemies and to bless those who curse them.

Love, above all else, is the defining characteristic of a true follower of Jesus.

BUT WHAT ABOUT…?

Some Christians today flat out ignore the dozens of verses from the mouth of Jesus regarding love and the practice of peace and look instead at one or two verses to base their theology upon. This is largely endorsed by a certain segment of Christians who teach a decidedly Americanized form of Christianity, one fueled by politics and infused with an heretical twisting of the words of Jesus to conform to those of the Founding Fathers of our Nation. These America First Christians teach that the United States is God’s favored nation. They teach, either outright or by inference, that God loves America more than He loves the rest of the world and justify the use of force to advance American interests in the name of God and country. They even endorse torture and believe that Jesus would approve of it.

This is one of the main reasons I so vehemently oppose the politicized version of American Christianity. Because it distorts the pure Gospel of Jesus and attempts to mix such opposing ideas as “Take up your cross daily and die to yourself” with “The pursuit of happiness”.

Even more, this Americanized brand of Christianity aligns the Gospel with a specific political party and equates loyalty to one with righteousness and justification in the other. In many ways the two concepts are tightly intertwined and many cannot imagine following Jesus apart from pledging allegiance to the Party.

Not that Christians shouldn’t exercise their freedom to vote or to stand for justice, mind you. Those are wonderful opportunities and I applaud those who take the time to do their civic duty and participate in politics. There is a time and a place for this.

However, whenever we begin to place our allegiance to Christ beneath the shadow of a political party or system, we have jumped the tracks. Whenever we are more passionate about our candidates or our political issues than we are about the Gospel of the Kingdom, we are off base. Whenever we begin to judge someone’s salvation based on whether they vote the way we do, we are misguided. Whenever we find it impossible to imagine following Christ apart from being a good Republican or Democrat, we have another Jesus and we have embraced a false Gospel.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a Republican or a Democrat or a Socialist or a Libertarian. If you cannot imagine following Jesus apart from participation in, and agreement with, your political views, you are not really following Jesus, you’re following a political system.

ONE BODY, ONE SPIRIT, ONE CHURCH

Most of our brothers and sisters in this world today are found in communist or socialist nations such as North Korea or China, or in continents such as Africa or Asia. If someone hears the Gospel in one of these nations and receives Christ as Lord and Savior, do they then also become a Republican at the same time? No, of course not. But if the majority of Christians in this World, who make up the largest segment of our Body, are not also Good Americans, or faithful Democrats or Republicans, then it must be possible for us to divorce our politics from our faith in Christ. Not only must it be possible, it must be accomplished in order for us to see clearly who our Lord is and what it means to fully die to ourselves and follow Him alone.

GO AND BUY A SWORD

Some have recently questioned me regarding whether or not Jesus really taught such a radical form of non-violence in the Gospels. They reference one verse where Jesus asked his disciples to go and buy a sword so that “this scripture must be fulfilled in me: “And he was numbered with the transgressors.’ For what is written about me has its fulfillment.” – (See Luke 22:35-38). It’s easy to read this passage and simply conclude that it is an endorsement of violence in the name of self-defense. Yet, one must take into account all the many other teachings of Jesus regarding turning the other cheek, loving our enemies, and not resisting an evil man.

Is this passage an example of Jesus making an allowance for violence in the name of self-defense? Perhaps. Although two swords is hardly enough to protect 13 people. And furthermore, when the soldiers arrive to arrest Jesus and Peter responds as we might also have responded, Jesus rebukes him and offers another strong teaching on non-violence saying,

“Put your sword back in its place…for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.” – Matthew 26: 52

One possible interpretation lies in the reference Jesus makes to a passage in Isaiah which he quotes in the same breath as he asks about swords. He then refers again to the fulfillment of scripture when Peter cuts off the soldiers ear saying:

“Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?" – Matthew 26:53-54

Perhaps what we’re missing here is the necessity for the scriptures to be fulfilled in that Christ was treated as a criminal and “numbered with the transgressors”? This is a viable interpretation, especially in light of the response Jesus has to the act of violence itself and his constant statements that “the scriptures must be fulfilled” in this way.

[END OF PART 1]
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WHERE ARE THE PEACEMAKERS?

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)

Last month most everyone who follows Jesus took the time to remember the birth of the Prince of Peace. We sang songs that announced the incarnation of Christ and we re-read the scriptures that reminded us of the angels who sang of peace on earth and goodwill towards Men.

Jesus was a man of peace. He said that the peace makers would be called the Sons of God. (Matthew 5:9)

To be someone who loves peace and brings peace and makes peace is to be like the Son of God...it's to be like Jesus.

Never mind that the American Church today is alligned with a political machine that is pro-war. Never mind that Christians today are more notorious for their hatred of sinners than they are for their love of people who sin.

If you want to be a follower of Jesus, be one who makes peace - in your community, in your workplace, in your family and in your church. Promote peace. Stand up for peace. Become someone who brings the peace of God into the room with you.

As followers of Jesus we need to be experts on the subject of peace. We need to be known as people of peace.

If we cannot love another human being because they disagree with us on doctrine, or because they are from another race, or because they embrace a different faith, or because they choose a different lifestyle than us, we must seriously question whether or not the love of God is in us at all.

Our calling as followers of Jesus is to love people. Freely we have received His love, and freely we are commanded to give it away. The love He gives us is not for us to bury in the ground. It's not for keeping to ourselves. It's for sharing with a world who has never truly known what His love is all about.

In this world we will have trouble. That's one of the promises that Jesus made to us. Trouble will come. And people who dislike us will bring that trouble to our door. How then should we respond? Should we call down fire on them from heaven to consume them? Should we pray for God's judgment to fall on them? Hardly. Jesus condemned such responses in his own disciples. (Luke 9:54)

Instead, our response to this trouble and to hardship and to persecution and disagreement should be love and we should work for peace if at all possible.

"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." (Romans 12:18)

"Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing." (1 Peter 3:9)

"Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else." (1 Thessalonians 5:15)

Start today. Let the love of Christ dwell in your heart. Pray for those who persecute you. Ask the Lord Jesus to fill you with His love for people. Learn to walk humbly with your God and to serve others, even (and especially) if they hate you.

How great would it be if a year from now people could see how your life has reflected the love of Christ?

That's my prayer for each of you, and for myself as well.

"Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord." (Hebrews 12:14)

Peace,
kg

WAR IS NOT CHRISTIAN: The dialog

Over on my Facebook page I posted this simple statment: War Is Not Christian.

What followed was a very long and fascinating dialog debating the topic, and several peripheral concepts related to the ideas of non-violence and following Christ.

Here is the text of that exchange between myself, Paul Martin, Lionel Woods, Sam Sim, John Lamoreau, Randy Gallagher, Robert Manigold, Martin G., David Flowers, Derrick Pedranti, Lito and Ruth Bujanda-Moore and several others.

**
War Is Not Christian.

Robert Manigold But, it gets you out of the house....

Samuel Sim ...but what if the Pope says I have to go kill infidels?

Kathy Johnston Lindquist Praying for our soldiers is.

Lionel Woods Kathy, praying for Iraqi soldiers and terrorist is also :o) hopefully we are not just praying for "our soldiers".

Kathy Johnston Lindquist Please pray for mine.

Lionel Woods I was in six years Army as a Tank Gunner I was in the middle east so I understand, though it was not as bad when I was there about 13 years ago

David D. Flowers I am reminded of Mel Gibson's character prayer in the movie WE WERE SOLDIERS: "Lord, ignore their heathen prayers and help us blow those bastards to hell."

Wendy Engebrecht Giles Kathy we will pray for yours.

Kathy Johnston Lindquist Lionel, my husband is a retired tanker. He also served during Desert Storm. My son is in the Army now.

Lionel Woods I will definitely be praying. My heart aches and I know everyone involved wants to see this thing be over. I am grateful for both your son and husband and like Mrs. Giles said I will be praying. Whats his name?

Kathy Johnston Lindquist Noah, thank you.

Keith Giles Yes, we will. And we'll also pray for everyone caught in the violence of war.

Paul Martin War is not "not Christian"-it is sometimes necessary, a form of social justice (i.e., the righting of wrongs).

Ruth Bujanda-Moore @ Paul M: The righting of wrongs is not done so by MORE wrong doings...and, as Keith poined out, we will pray for eveyone caught in the violence of all current wars going on: soldiers (ours and theirs), civilians, etc.

Anthony Mathenia War is a necessary business of the World - thankfully our Lord says we are no part of it. Praise God!

Keith Giles Whether or not War may be necessary, it is not necessary for a follower of Jesus to engage in War. In fact, it is never "necessary" for a Christian to engage in War.

Paul Martin Yes, we should pray for ours and theirs. But "our Lord" never said to his followers "though shall not go to war." In fact, he told his followers to pay taxes...so that Rome could continue its wars!

And thank our Lord that, for example, men and women fought (war) to end the murderous injustices of Hitler.

Keith Giles "Love your enemies", "Turn the other cheek", "Pray for those who mistreat you", "Do good to those who seek to harm you", "Those who live by the sword shall die by the sword", "Do not return evil for evil for overcome evil with good."

Does any of this ring a bell?

Keith Giles Wars will be fought. No argument. But Christians need not fight them.

Paul Martin Thank God millions of Christians have disagreed with the pacifist stance you take!--it has saved the lives of millions of innocent women and children.

Anthony Mathenia It doesn't take long before Hitler gets raised from the dead, dusted off and trotted out in support of military action by Christians. Since he is already out I'll give you something to think about, Adolph Hitler's "murderous injustices" were carried out with the support of "Christian" churches. If the Christians living in germany had been obedient to Jesus' word then the course of World War II would have been entirely different.

Keith Giles War saves lives. Not sure why I never realized that before. Wow.

Paul Martin Guys: google Obama's Nobel Peace Prize speech on war.

Anthony, respectfully, "churches" don't support anything. I think what you mean is that certain people who called themselves by that name supported Hitler. To that claim, (1) you will find, should you wish to study this, that so much of Germany didn't learn of these atrocities until after the war. And (2) any German who was both aware and supportive of Hitler's injustices, I think it's fair to say, could not have been a follower of Jesus.

I think it's important to understand the very lucid distinction (yes, Biblical and linguistic) between murder and killing. And yet, Keith, while the Romans were even murdering, Jesus says nothing to them about it--but he tells his followers to give them more money for war. I'm with you about murder, but this issue cannot be a simplistic as turing a blind eye to those kinds of atrocities found in concentration camps. That was, by definition, social justice.

Charles Pike paul, can you please explain this: " In fact, he told his followers to pay taxes...so that Rome could continue its wars!" ? i am curious to know what you are talking about, where the source information is, and how you come up with this conclusion? thank you.

Andy Yoon Surprised no one has yet mentioned the biblical accounts of God's role with Israel as it warred against other nations.

Paul Martin Sure, Charles. Matthew 22. Another plot to have Jesus deemed heretic by Jews or worthy of immediate death by Romans. Who will he side with? The Pharisees or Herodians (Rome)? They hand him a coin--one with Tiberius' face, a Roman coin that the Palestinian Jews had to use for poll taxes. What Jesus does not say: "they are holding Jews hostage," "Rome will wage war with this and kill the innocent (eventually me!)," "don't give him these coins..they are evil/pagan/for ill purposes."

He was in a perfect position for a sermon on war, secularism, the evils of this godless government, the perils of paganism, the effect of using these coins (how they will be used for evil), or even the need for pacifism.

He says, "give Caesar what's his" (he is referring directly to the coin), appeasing the Herodians, "and to God what is God's," appeasing the Jews....

You see Paul do the same later when he calls for submission to governing authorities (even if you happen to be their slave!).

Paul Martin So, Andy, it seems as if God was not always against war. Though I agree with Obama's speech, which is an eloquent packaging of Just War Theory.

Keith Giles If you go to the OT then you can justify war. But I said that War wasn't Christian which is NT.

Jesus was not concerned w/ politics so his answer about the coin was meant to put emphasis back on the Kingdom of God. "Give to God what is God's" was his point. Not to submit his opinion of Rome.

I just can't reconcile Jesus' commands to love our enemies, turn the other cheek and do good to those who harm you with the concept of participating in - or supporting - a war.

Your mileage may vary.

Paul Martin We agree to disagree, again. Dang. You had to have rooted for the Saints though? Please say yes! :)

Keith Giles Of course I rooted for the Saints! I'm not THAT crazy.

Paul Martin K. If we are to follow him, should we not engage in politics either? Jim Wallis is listening.

Paul Martin After I sent that I remembered you lived in Indiana. Is that right? So I was scared for a moment!

Andy Yoon i would posit that if (1) 'turning the other cheek' still allows for certain acts of self-defense (ex: protecting one's family); and if (2) some wars are fought as an act of self-defense for a nation; then (3) 'turning the other cheek' would allow for these types of wars.

Martin Gugino Holy cow. What a discussion

Paul,
1. re Obama's Noble speech that you asked us to google: he said "We have never fought a democracy" http://bit.ly/aBgX23
Of course we have, Germany among them.
2. you mention the command to pay taxes as a proof text for the support of war, but why dont you quote 'go the extra mile' as approving military logistical support? That seems like a more specific verse to me.
3 re Just War: http://bit.ly/9dLZX6...
4. If you can conduct a war while full of love for the enemy, then I suppose it would be morally ok.

A question might be why God was so bloodthirsty and warlike in the OT, and such a pansy in the NT. But I assume that the reason is that the Jews were numbskulls and

He wanted to be practical rather than go fanatic on them. After all, he only gave them 10 rules, and they couldn't manage to keep those, and one of them was: try not to kill too many innocent people if you can. Very sketchy guidance if you ask me.

Even Jesus later said - you dont get it when I talk of earthly things - so how can you expect me to talk to you of heavenly things? meaning he was leaving some things out.

Paul: You are suggesting that the Pope is not Catholic?

Paul Martin Martin: To point #1, I don't believe that you believe Hitler's Germany was a democracy. You've studied the burning-down of the Reichstag building and Hitler's Enabling Law, right. The US declared war on, by definition, a Dictatorship. To point #2, I don't understand what you mean. To point #3, I don't understand what you mean. To point #4, I might have loved Hitler as an Allied Christian soldier; I might have prayed for him, too. Same with Bin Laden (I do pray for him). My love form them has nothing to do with my duty to save the lives of innocent men, women and children.

Martin Gugino The Christians in America did " turn[] a blind eye to those kinds of atrocities found in concentration camps."
Unless I am mistaken.

Paul Martin The pope is not a catholic? Huh? And, the Americans were the ones to let them out of the camps (am I missing something here?).

Martin Gugino Are you agreeing with Obama that the US has never fought a democracy, and if so, what is the conclusion that you draw from that statement? That's the real question. But also -
History shows that Germany held elections. Are you saying that you believe that those elections were not as fair as the recent elections in Afghanistan?

Martin Gugino
re #2: maybe someone else can explain point 2 - it seems as clear as i can mke it to me.

re#3: Just War is the title for the theory of the good war.
But war entails atrocity, and atrocity is just war - a play on words. It means that all war is sick, and modern war more so.

re#4: if you shoot the enemy out of indifference or hate, then it's wrong. Raghead and gook and chink and other such terms, used in military training, indicate that even if you think that some wars may be dandy, we are not waging those kinds of wars.

Paul Martin Iraq was a democracy as well under Hussein, I suppose? Because the people voted? OK, then. Have it your way. The US fought Democratic Germany. Same end. We saved the lives of millions of innocent men, women and children. Like my grandparents who lived in Italy and had to live in the mountains with my (then newborn mother) because the Nazis would come into the villages and rape, pillage and murder. Thank God that Christians--even if they acted against Jesus' teachings, which I don't believe they did--came to rescue lives.

Paul Martin I see your point, Martin. I'm not a hawk. Was very outspoken against Iraq (as was the Pope). But I just don't see how we can sit back when we know there are plans being devised to, quite literally, murder innocent lives. The US has by no means be perfect. Gotta go. War...I mean peace out. (:

Martin Gugino Regarding Germany, it IS true that by the time the US got involved, Germany was well at war, and they had raised their threat level to White, and certain emergency measures were being taken to secure the Homeland, but I don't think that that meant that Hitler was unpopular with the people, or would have lost another plebiscite, had the security situation have allowed one.

Timothy L. Price That's why I have a t-shirt that askes: Who Would Jesus Kill for America's foreign policy... Its a poignant thought seriously, no credit to me whatsoever.

Peace :)

Marlys Samler Does anyone understand how the same God (Jesus) who tells us to turn the other cheek, told the Jews to fight a lot of bloody wars in the Old Testament? I don't really get it. The Old Testament is very hard to comprehend sometimes.

Paul Bujanda-Moore wow... what a small venue for such a heavy topic of faith, society, and history. My worldly interests find me grateful for a standing military and law enforcement, prepared to destroy lives in the name of society's expectations. It's the threat of force that sometimes compel many to rethink their intents. But, I readily agree with Keith's initial statement. History is full of examples of devout believers committing acts in direct contrast to how others view their faith ("killing in the name of....") Turns out, very few people really want to kill... but, even fewer still want to die or see harm come to their loved ones.

Keith Giles Marlys: Jesus himself pointed out this difference, so it's not something we should be afraid to talk about.

Jesus said, "You've heard it said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth', but I say to you, do not resist and evil man, and whoever shall shall strike you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also." - Mtt 5:38-39

So, Jesus came to announce a Kingdom and to proclaim a New Covenant. The New is not like the Old. So, we shouldn't be surprised at the differences. In fact, what frustrates me is how we seem to confuse the OT and the NT when it comes to Christianity and the Gospel of the Kingdom and what Jesus was coming to proclaim.

We suffer from "Old Testament Christianity" (as I sometimes call it). What we need is true New Testament Christianity that fully embraces and understands the Kingdom that Jesus came to announce.

Paul Martin Keith. It's both. Not either, or. Right?

Keith Giles Paul: If I'm understanding your question correctly (please let me know if not), I'd say that the OT and NT are not concurrent. I'd say that the OT is fulfulled in Christ and now we are under a New Covenant. Behold the old is gone and the new has come.

Paul Martin I guess I'm in the historical/traditional camp here, where we see Jesus' model of using the OT. He quoted it quite often. Not under the law of course, but as part of sacred scripture and the fabric of our story, God's nature, etc.

Keith Giles The OT is not irrelevant at all. But it's the shadow which pointed to Christ and so understanding it is important to connecting all the dots in the New Covenant. I think the challenging part is understanding what has been fulfilled and what hasn't.

So, the 10 commandments are still valid as God's Law, but we're under Grace (as an example).

I think that it's the areas where Jesus says things that challenge us that are most important. Like this one, actually. We're more comfortable with "an eye for an eye" and we have all our reasons and justifications (IMHO), but then have to reconcile this with Jesus words which challenge that: "Love your enemies".

I'd suggest that the remedy is more to adopt Jesus' viewpoint than it is to justify the opposing argument simply beause we're more comfortable with it.

John Lamoreau This is not a matter of war or peace. If you are a Christian it is a matter of following Christ. If Christ taught His followers war then go. But if he taught His followers love your enemy, do good to those who hate you, to turn the other cheek, to go the extra mile... then if you are a Christian... you should stop making excuses for not following these instructions and start giving your whole heart and life to Christ.

Jesus died on the cross for His enemies. He asks us to be willing to the same.
Yesterday at 8:57pm · John Lamoreau The Christians closest to the time of Christ renounced Christiian participation in violence and war. From the first 300 years of Christianity there is no writing from any of the early church leaders who supported Christians being engaged in any form of violence. None. It was the fallen church that argued the church could be violent.

John Lamoreau “We, who were formerly slayers of one another, not only do not make war upon our enemies, but, for the sake of neither lying nor deceiving those who examine us, gladly die confessing Christ.” - Justin Martyr, 100 - 165 A.D.

“You cannot demand military service of Christians any more than you can of priests. We do not go forth as soldiers.” Origen of Alexandria, 185-254 A.D.

"And so, in this commandment of God, no exception at all ought to be made to the rule that it is always wrong to kill a man, whom God has wished to be regarded as a sacrosanct creature…Thou shalt not kill… It is always unlawful to put a man to death.” - Lactantius of Bithynia, aprox 240-317 A.D.

Martin Gugino My response "Is the pope Catholic"? was to your statement that "Any German who was both aware and supportive of Hitler's injustices, I think it's fair to say, could not have been a follower of Jesus."
Since Cardinal Ratzinger was a German and was both aware of and supportive of Hitler, it follows that you think that the pope is not Catholic. I say that Ratzinger was supportive of the Nazis in that more Nazis than Jews were smuggled out of Italy.

This may be a bit of a stretch, but it is close enough to be worth stating. The many Christians who supported Hitler are like the many Christians that you thank God for that are waging the war on terror - mistaken.

Martin Gugino Paul - you dodged the question - why does Obama repeat the false statement that we have never fought against a democracy? Ans: the implication is that if the leaders of the other countries would just pay attention to the will of their people, as we do here in America (flag waves in breeze), then we would have no need to go kill those people.

This veiled assertion is absurd of course. We kill people not because the ruler is a dictator, but because our Way Of Life is not negotiable, and we need what they have.
[We have obviously undermined many democracies and assisted others who fought against them - as noted in the list referenced - to which we can probably now add Bolivia].

Martin Gugino re:"I'm was very outspoken against Iraq. But I just don't see how we can sit back when we know there are plans being devised to murder innocent lives. "

Kind of an odd argument. That cant be in relation to Iraq. Do you mean that there are Iraqis planning to murder American soldiers, do you?

The invasion of Iraq was not a "mistake", it was a war crime, and Bush & co will be tried and convicted for it.

Martin Gugino Keith re: "Jesus himself pointed out this difference"
I am holding out for a reconciliation of the OT and the NT, so I would like to comment on the difference, which I am sure you know.

An eye for an eye was intended as a limit (No more than: an eye for an eye) I believe. So that Christ's instruction was to through light on what God's heart was, not the practical political this-world matter of restraining excesses. The OT kingdom WAS of this world, not that God intended that, but was dragged into it as He is with so many of our hair brained ideas. (maybe)

Martin Gugino By the way, in Iraq, we have passed 'an eye for an eye' quite a long time ago. Actually, we lost no eyes at all, and our corrupt embargo, itself an act of war, killed hundreds of thousands of innocents. The formulation of "plans devised to kill innocent lives" could be pointed towards the US all too easily.

Charles Pike paul, thank you for sighting a quote from scripture as your source. this makes it easier to see where you are coming from. i can see how you would make those assumptions about matthew 22. "..give to caesar what is caesar's, and give to God what is God's...".

you seem to interpret this as a command or suggestion for us to pay both. perhaps Christ's wish is for us is to weigh what belongs to each. so, for sake of argument we ask our selves, "well, what belongs to caesar?" and we list off things. servants, wives, land, countries, the civilized world. etc. a lot of stuff. the we ask, "what is God's?" and the answer is to long to list, because we realize that everything belongs to God, including caesar and all of his stuff. it all belongs to God. the pharisees were trying to trap Christ. trying to get him to speak out against rome, or against the temple. instead he does something really jiggy and invites them to think for themselves.

It all belongs to God, and there is more "all" than we can even imagine. i am curious, do you have any other examples of Christ endorsing war, taxes, revolution, or rome's political structure?

Martin Gugino @John Lamoreau: right on.

Martin Gugino hermenuitics: the pay tax command implies that war is ok.

My altenative proof text was that Jesus advised people to carry a soldiers burden for two miles rather than one, and that this could be interpreted to mean that he supported the Romans and their wars in so far as they had logistical requirements.

He approved ad hoc "CO" service in the Army. This seems a slightly more direct text that the one you chose (taxes) as a support for His backing of war, but of course, I am intending to ridicule the argument - probably not a nice thing to do.

Charles Pike thank you martin. i was reiterating paul martin's quote of matthew 22. a roman soldier, as occupier, by law could force a subject to carry his burden for only one mile. more than that would be an abuse the soldier could be disciplined for. Jesus has offered a hilarious way to subvert the occupying power. it would make it more worth while to carry one's own load and not risk recrimination.

Martin Gugino yes Charles - we were both struggling with the idea that Mathew 22 on taxes could be interpreted as an acceptance of war. Your understanding of Jesus's reason for 'an extra mile' are amusing, but I don't believe that the advice was offered as a tricky way to subvert the Roman practice. Rather I think it was a suggestion first to accept reality unpleasant as it may seem at times, and then second to be generous even while in that unpleasant reality in recognition of the abundant grace of God if nothing else, and lastly being friendly with grumpy people who are heavily armed is generally a sound idea.

Martin Gugino Regarding Hitler and World War II
Howard Zinn examines our Holy Wars
http://bit.ly/9NajzU

Timothy L. Price I think its needful to differentiate "our" wars as in the secular belonging to the nation states that have to do such to stay in existence and "your wars" putting us outside such belonging into the kingdom of God, which does not have to fight to stay in existence. Our kingdom exists through war, tyranny, "freedom" plenty and famine: coexisting with the reality of the world that the unregenerate have recreated it in their image. Our kingdom is a testimony that contrast theirs, their foolishness and inability to better than "mankind" (thats people in general for all you gender neutral folks) has been in the past. Man cannot "improve" himself in the ultimate sense and war is mere proof. In all the so-called improvements in mankind of the last three centuries, in the last more wars were fought and people killed in such than in the prior 17 centuries COMBINED. That kind of "improvement" I want nothing to do with. This is why all the peace efforts are bullocks of the highest order. Man is not capable. Peace is one of the chief marks of the Kingdom of God. We are peace because we are subjects of the King of peace.

Paul Martin The weirdness factor is only rising here. Martin: study your facts about what the Nazi Youth was. I am ignoring the folly about democracies, etc. The US does not and never has been an aggressor in the spirit of the Axis powers, Russia under Stalin, Amin, Pot, etc. Look into the eyes of those rescued by our courageous in France, Italy, Germany. Speak with English men and women who can recall years of the terror of bombs being dropped into their neighborhoods. Look these people in the eye and peddle this flimsy and trendy pacifism which is being utilized while you enjoy the luxury of freedom at the expense of Christians who had the courage to love their enemies by standing-up to their murderous schemes. I would kill to defend my children, my wife, and for that matter you. We are called to care for the helpless, those being targeted for murder. Jesus never said a word about war, he said many things about murder. And if you want to get fancy with passages about going the extra mile, then I'll misuse passages about Jesus saying he would bring the sword, not peace.

Paul Martin Charles: to your question. Do I have examples of Jesus making endorsements of war, taxes, Rome, etc.?

Here's my logic:

1. Some Christians have firm and ardent convictions about war--namely, that war, in any and all cases, is wrong, and especially wrong for Christians....

2. These Christians cite Jesus as their example and teacher on issues of morality and ethics (war). They are FOLLOWERS of Christ's teachings.

3. During Jesus' life, Rome was an aggressive, pagan, warring, superpower that, at the time, held "God's chosen people" captive.

4. What did Jesus say about Rome in general, and about war specifically?

5. At this point, it seems to me at least, that a proponent of pacifism would have clear, direct and lucid material from Jesus. Instead (as Keith states earlier) he appears to have not shared your passion about the evils of superpowers, military might, Rome's murderous history around the world. Nothing. Not a word. Zilch. Instead, he talks about caring for the lost, least and oppressed. He says so much about social justice--the righting of wrongs.

6. So, to you Charles, why is he so silent about Rome's pagan, murderous and warring regime? Charles, why is he so silent on the issue for which you are all so passionate?

David D. Flowers Paul, you confuse "pacifism" with Jesus' actions. And it's Jesus' living that Keith is promoting (1 Jn. 2:6). Pacifism is non-violent "political" revolt. It uses non-violence with an intent to change the political landscape. It still has in mind the same thing as a person who trusts in the sword to suppress evil. But we are called to overcome evil with the good of Jesus. And that always looks like the cross.

Pacifism doesn't require a person to love their enemies, only trust in non-violence as a method. If it's just a method... I agree... it's a bit "flimsy." Folks like Ghandi can actually hate their enemies and not harm them. But Jesus did something much different. His actions were born solely out of God's love in a wonderful display of the Kingdom of God. And he intended us to follow. Christ and his followers do effect worldly kingdoms by their living, but it is always indirectly, not by directly involving ourselves in their civil affairs. Our citizenship is in "heaven."

Take a long hard look at the New Testament and church history. Ask yourself, "Did Jesus really mean for me to love my enemies as he loved them? Does Jesus truly show us how to live? Why is it that Christians first started killing in the 4th century?" If we are honest... I believe... the answer to these questions will totally change the way we view the world and our radical call to discipleship. His Kingdom is "not of this world" but it is coming to this earth.

Paul Martin Thank you, David. The problem with my position is that I immediately become a non-loving, neo-con, hawk to those taking the true "Jesus/kingdom position." Undergrad and graduate degrees are both in philosophy, and ethics was a big part that. The definition of love varies from believer to believer to believer; the issue if ethics ("what should be done?") from philosopher to philosopher. The argument from the first centuries is irrelevant. So what? Believers have changed their minds on war and on the practice if making the Sign of the Cross. We disagree. But what should we do to today to protect women and children from being murdered en masse? Talk? Have a conversation? Sing All You Need Is Love? Think social justice here. Not how do we do good to the murderers; how do we do good to the murderees?

David D. Flowers Paul, "love" is not defined by Christians, but by Christ. And his love always looks like the cross. It changes the hearts of men... it does not use force to reform their actions. (Matt. 5:38-48; Rom. 12 & 13:8; 1 Cor. 13)

Romans 12-13 contrasts believers with the kingdoms of the world. We are agents of Christ's "love" and are called to overcome evil with that love. The state is ordained to be "agents of wrath" to execute force and suppress the evildoer. What kingdom do we trust?

Regardless, of how Christians have defined "love" through the centuries... it remains the same in Jesus. Look to the Gospels... every time you turn there... you will find Jesus commanding Peter to put away his sword. And it was Peter that said we should mimic Christ's example of love in patient suffering. I have found that there have always been those who have taken Jesus at his word. They were the ones being persecuted by the state and the imperial Church who discarded those first-century believers as primitive.

Jesus' love always looks like His example. If we move away from that... it's all relative and we've lost Christianity. There can be no Christianity without Christ.

Paul Martin Oh no, David! I shudder. I just realized that I am not taking "Jesus at his word." I guess I'm not a real follower. Thank you also for pointing out that love is defined by Christ. I will now turn my attention to the gospels instead of of diaries of Charles Manson.

Has it dawned on you that good people might disagree about Christ's definition of love? Or do you possess some supernatural interpretive powers that those for whom you disagree lack?

I think Jesus calls us to be inclusive of others' views, without judging them as having "Christianity without Christ." That's old fashioned fundamentalism.

Martin Gugino Paul - we clearly disagree.
-Re: the US has never been that bad an aggressor: The war against Iraq was a war of aggression. Did you forget? Together with the "run-up" to the war, sanctions, killed maybe a million people? And at the other end of our glorious history, we see the US killing off the Indians. Manifest Destiny was realized by the gun. The USA has pursued its national interests even when it could not achieve those interests peacefully, viz The Panama Canal; the actions of the Dulles boys supporting the United Fruit Company.

- I am sure you would retract your comment that freedom is a luxury. Not sure what you mean by the folly of democracy - you probably mean that you think that my argument related to democracies is foolish, but of course, I don't think so; I think it betrays a deep national self-deception, as I pointed out.

- I don't take seriously the idea that Jesus forbids killing but allows war.

- You ask - what should we do about evil and evil doers? Like the Nazis. And your solution is to say that luckily many Christian soldiers killed them lovingly? Not historical, obviously. Or possibly you say that that is the ideal, what Christ would want, which we approximated more or less. Well, less.

-You say Jesus never said a word about war? I thought you were arguing that by supporting taxes he was approving war. Glad to see that you have stepped away from that thought. And, Jesus did mention "war" twice in the gospels.

- yes He did say "I came not to send peace, but a sword."
meaning I assume something like "Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed."

Keith Giles Paul: I don't know David very well (we're just "online friends") but I don't think he's intentionally trying to insult you here. I think (maybe I'm wrong?) that he's pointing out his own difficulty with your position when you appeal to other philosophers or modern examples to justify your postion.

Ok, maybe I'm projecting here. I guess I have a problem with that, too.

For me, (and I know for you as well, Paul), I'm trying to follow Jesus here, and it makes me nervous to interpret the words of Jesus through Catholic saints or political figures or even my own inner voice. ...

I am constantly being challenged by the words of Jesus. "If you look at a woman lustfully you have committed adultry in your heart". Now, I can go to all sorts of other sources and smooth that statement out until I'm comfortable with it...or I can grapple with those actual words on a daily basis and draw wisdom from Christ and try to reconcile His words with my life.

So, we wouldn't recommend that a brother in Christ treat the words of Jesus in this way when it comes to lust or greed or anger, etc...and it makes me nervous when we appear to waffle on His words about loving our enemies and turning the other cheek, etc.

We know that the Kingdom is upside down to the World system. We should expect that His words would challenge and come into conflict with what we know to be common. "That's just the way things are" and "The real world doesnt' work that way" are not acceptable responses to the sermon on the mount.

David D. Flowers Paul, please do not resort to sarcasm. I'm really not trying to be rude. It is Jesus' word when we call others to live by "love your enemies." It's not my word... it's His. And living by it... is "taking Jesus at His word."

I know good people disagree, brother. I didn't always believe this way. It seemed quite foolish to me at first. But there was simply no way I could reconcile the American view of Jesus with the Christ of the Gospels. If there is no authority in the words of Jesus, then I guess there's nothing to talk about.

Jesus "includes" people into himself. And he "excludes" those not coming into the Kingdom of God by the way in which he has laid before us....

Love you, bro.

Martin Gugino I want to express my thanks to all who are contributing.

David D. Flowers Thank you, Martin. :-)

Paul Martin Oh but Martin. I never defended war with Iraq. In fact, I vote for John Kerry because Bush's war was totally unjustified and evil. That was not a just war. Nor was the murdering of the Indians. You see, I am support of just wars. Those that save the lives of millions of innocent people who are under direct threat. Those I support precisely because of the call of Jesus for social justice--to defend the cause of the weak and defenseless.

Don't categorize me as one ignorant of the US's imperfections. May I say it again... I am not a hawk. Extremes, Martin, are easy. Either war or no war. Either Jesus or not Jesus. Either peace or violence. I am glad to have on my side great liberals (meaning non-hawks) like FDR, Kennedy, Clinton, Obama, all of whom understand the sad necessity war (though they are never perfect either).,

Martin Gugino Paul re " why is he so silent on the issue for which you are all so passionate?" - or - why is christ silent on the Roman oppression?

Ans: I assume that he felt that the corruption in the temple was the issue that needed urgent attention, and that the oppressive Roman administration could only kill the body; in the larger scheme of things, not that important.

Paul Martin David. There is no "American view of Jesus." There are people. Millions. Each with his or her own view on Jesus. There are individual views, like yours and mine. There is not one "American view."

David D. Flowers Paul, I understand. I had other things in mind as well. You're right, maybe that's not the best descriptor when targeting this issue alone. I guess I find that there's usually a whole system of thought that accompanies the belief that it's perfectly in-keeping with the Christian faith to support war in any form.

Martin Gugino david - yes!
"It changes the hearts of men... it does not use force to reform their actions."
Not only is war useless, so is force.

Keith Giles I would also like to thank everyone in this thread for maintaining civility and demonstrating what brotherly Christian love (and debate) should look like.

I would also acknowledge that this issue is not an easy one and that we are all in process when it comes to grappling with this - and every - command of Jesus.

Charles Pike paul, i am having a little trouble following you. you seem to be addressing several people and issues at once. the result is rather convoluted. i say this with no passion whatsoever. by the way, thank you for listing your degrees, i am a high school drop out. in which courses did they teach you that failure to mention a subject is a defacto endorsement of anything? i am very interested in the logic and assumptions you make about Christ based upon what he does not say. thanks.

Paul Martin I couldn't agree with you more, Keith. I guess my feathers get a bit whacked when I hear the dualism. I read the exact words you read. I've given my life to promoting, preaching, living, teaching, sacrificing to follow these words. I'm called a liberal by my conservative friends, a hawk/right-winger by those with views like yours. I look at individual issue. I read the red letters every day. Jesus is my final source.

But you and I have disagreed before on "other sources." If you are honest, you also drink for other sources (Shane Claiborne?, Jim Wallis?). Honesty, Keith. Each of us has a free will, a choice, as to what genres of literature we will attend to. You seem to gently critique the influence of "Catholic Saints or political figures" upon my thinking.

But I'm just like you, and David, and Martin. I am an ardent follower of Jesus Christ, and very, very serious about the thoughtful study of his teachings, and, moreover living them....

And yet, we disagree. But please don't imply my lack or unwillingness to take them seriously, just because my interpretations differ from your.

That, to me at least, is a judgment of my heart.

Martin Gugino Paul: " how do we do good to the murderees?"

Yes how do we protect, for example, the children.

Again, as an example, the pretty girl whose picture I use as an icon, recovering nicely from a cluster bomb.

Ans: oppose the war.

David D. Flowers Thanks for your patience, Paul.

What do you think about Jesus' words "love your enemies... turn the other cheek" and the apostle Paul's words "love does no harm to its neighbor"?

How do you understand "Those who claim to live in Him must walk as Jesus did."
1 John 2:6

Keith Giles To go back to our original touch point: "War is not Christian" was the statement that launched this dialog. My point was that it is not specifically "Of Christ" to kill another person for any reason.

When we debate the need for use of force, or the merits of a"Just War", etc. we are not specifically doing so as followers of Jesus. (I feel).

Under the definition of "What is a Christian?" I would argue that "one who participates in the shedding of blood" does not belong there.

Charles Pike but keith, isnt this what the eucharist is all about :) ??

Paul Martin OK, Charles. War is evil. Rome was a warring machine. Jesus did not directly speak about Rome. Keith agrees on that earlier.

Peter tried to stop the cross; he struggled earlier about his Lord being murdered, earlier.

The passage about the sword is about Jesus not letting Peter get in the way of the cross, not about war....

Gotta go, guys. I love you all. I pray that we be honest with ourselves. We write about all this without the immediate threat of violence to us and our loved ones.

I really wonder if your respective Christian pacifism would endure while your families were under the direct threat of evil and crazed murderers.

Keith, Jesus said murder is also about hating your brother though your words. Did he mean that literally? If he did, then murder cannot be reduced only to physical killing. So the believer that shoots and kills with a gun is no different than he that shoots hate with his mouth. So I guess we are all murders?

Keith Giles You tell me, Paul. What did Jesus intend to communicate?

David D. Flowers Paul, Jesus didn't speak to Christian's about war because his words and living preclude the notion that his followers can kill for Rome. He is calling them to come out of Rome and come into the Kingdom.

Is it wise to compartmentalize Jesus' words and actions? To say that Jesus simply didn't want them to interfere with the cross is not only a stretch here... but it also says that Jesus' words and actions were merely a guise in order that he might get nailed to a tree for our sins. If this is the case, then Jesus doesn't truly show us the character of God and how to live out the Kingdom on the earth. He only wants to "woo" us by words that don't really mean what they mean. Then we make Jesus out to be a liar and a deceiver.

Was Peter really going to stop the cross from happening? One lone man who can't swing a sword right (chopping of ears instead of heads)? And Jesus put the man's ear back on his head. Does that not reveal something else is going on in the garden?

Jesus went on to say he was not leading a bunch of rebels that you need to come at him with clubs. Why? Is this just a bunch of nice proverbial adages or is Jesus speaking about the eternal nature of His Kingdom that is "not of this world"?

I really hope we can dialogue about this. It just seems to me you have quickly swept Christ words aside to go about this business of swinging swords for Rome.

Paul Martin Again, David, your comments are sad. You accuse me of sweeping Jesus' words aside because my interpretation differs from yours. Brother, I hate war too. Call me one who compartmentalizes. Call me names. I respect you nonetheless. I respect your earnest belief in your position. Even though I disagree with its conclusions. I will remain inclusive and tolerant of all those serious about understanding and following the teachings of Jesus. Bless you.

David D. Flowers Paul said: "We write about all this without the immediate threat of violence to us and our loved ones. I really wonder if your respective Christian pacifism would endure while your families were under the direct threat of evil and crazed murderers."

There's always a threat to us believers. We are like "sheep for the slaughter" everyday. And there are many Christians presently enduring extreme persecution that would disagree with you. Some of them pray that we would experience this "immediate" threat in order that we might know the real power that is missing in our pop-culture Christianity.

And again... it's not "pacifism." I clarified that in a previous comment: it's living like Christ called us to live (as he lived) and ceasing this carnal desire to trust in redemptive violence and protecting earthly goods. We are called to overcome evil by cross-shaped living... always.

Paul Martin Keith: he intended to communicate that we are all sinners in need of grace. We all murder with our mouths. Murder is not only about the physical. Hate and divisiveness and lust is the root of all war. Hate is the problem, it is the genus. War is a species of hate. Peace is more than mere pacifism. Christians have honestly believed that stopping rampant murdering was a form of social justice. You just cannot dismiss these people as being un-Christian. That judges the heart of the person. You might say that you disagree with their interpretation; but to say they are not followers of Christ, is wrong.

I stood up to your view on the church, exactly for the same reason. Let's separate people from their ideas. People are not evil or not Christians because they differ in their respective interpretations. Paul SPECIFICALLY gives us instruction on issue for which Christians disagree. His summary: don't judge you brother, don't be mean to him, he's part of God's family even though you disagree with him on war and church polity.

Paul Martin David: when I said "we" I was referring to you and me. Your theory on pacifism is easy as long as you remain in your warm living room, with your remote control. It's different from previous believers who did not have the luxury you now have--who had to put their pacifism into action at the expense of the lives of their loved ones.


David D. Flowers Paul, I am not "accusing" you of anything. I am only saying that you have not sufficiently dealt with the words and example of Jesus... and the entire New Testament. You can not sweep aside his words with a quick jab of the computer keys by presenting a weak argument that doesn't reflect any serious engagement with the text.

I'm not calling you names. I expressed my heart before... you never acknowledged it. I am sorry if our limits on this thread has given you that impression. I'm simply trying to talk about the words of Christ.

Martin Gugino Paul: "So the believer that shoots and kills with a gun is no different than he that shoots hate with his mouth"
Reply: "no different" is not the right phrase. But I do agree that "pushing someone out of your heart" is the action that is being spoken against, of which shooting would be a typical extreme manifestation.

Paul Martin Again, David. Because you don't "see" my interpretations, you accuse me, me, say I "sweep aside his words." Sad. Accusatory. Mean.

We could play tennis with his words all day long. I could cite passage after passage, just to have you judge me again of not being a real follower.

I could tell you that he says "inasmuch as you've done it to the least of these, you've done it unto me." Then, I could say that saving hundreds of thousands of captives on the brink of death in concentration camps, IN MY HONEST VIEW, is a mode of following Jesus. But you will accuse ME of "not sufficiently" dealing with the words and example of Jesus..."and the entire New Testament."

So, my friend, I cannot convince you. But I do respect you, and know that you are sure of your position, even though I disagree. But I will not accuse you of sweeping aside anything. Peace to you.

Martin Gugino Paul: What's the reference for this: Peter tried to stop the cross?..... ?Is it this: http://bit.ly/beb3AX

Here Christ looks at Peter and sees a flash of Satan - surely the enemy. Does he try to kill him? No. Does He reject him? No, not even Satan.

David D. Flowers Paul, you have spent the majority of this thread arguing about the differences of opinion that Christian's have on the issue and insistent on driving in one direction (regardless of what others are actually saying)... instead of meeting us around the words of Jesus. That's my only concern. I will back out now.

JUST TO BE CLEAR: If we are calling ourselves "Christian"... we must look to Christ in everything and follow His example. He is central and supreme for life and living. We must not be so quick to resort to philosophy, ethics, and human logic to come to any "not of this world" interpretation.

Blessings, bro. If you are interested in discussing these things further, please shoot me (poor choice of words) a message. :-) Thanks!

Martin Gugino Paul, here is a problem. you say: "Christians have honestly believed that stopping rampant murdering was a form of social justice. You just cannot dismiss these people as being un-Christian."

Let's forget Christ. Let's go back to an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth, a much more lax standard. Even by that standard, we need to stop the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. We have exceeded our allotment of eyes and teeth five times over.

Why do you not see the fire-bombing of Dresden and Tokyo, the atomic bombs of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the napalming of villages in Vietnam and France as rampant murder?

Paul Martin And that's what I just did in my last comment, David. I cited a specific passage...of Jesus' words! I met you "around the words of Jesus." And you didn't respond to them.

Earlier in the thread, I commented on Jesus' lack of specific teaching on a topic--war. I surmise, if war was such a big deal, if governments and politics, and policy was so paramount, why didn't Jesus speak specifically about them? Michael has much to say, as believer, about the US and its anti-Christian policies. So, it would seem to me, that Jesus would have shared this kind of explicit censure of Rome.

He doesn't. So Keith concluded earlier that "Jesus was not concerned w/ politics..." If HE wasn't concerned with politics, and we are to follow his example, why are you concerned with politics?

Paul Martin Michael: I really have to go this time...(: There's a context to the "eye for eye" passage that I don't have time for.

I despise the atrocities you cite. Pathetic.

I can only say that many believe the actions to be defensive, ultimately, in nature.

We did not, one day, decide to invade France or Japan or Vietnam. There was justification. You know that. We tried to stay out of WWII for years. You know that, too. Estimates were that millions of innocent lives would be lost if Japan didn't stop. Germany had already murdered millions before their (forced) surrender.

Some hold that the killing of those lives prevented the killing of millions of others. Hard stuff, I know. Sad. Seems to me, though, that the evil initiated (in these cases) with murderous aggressors. Would it be just have let Hitler to take over the world (then exterminate and experiment on "sub-humans"?).

Keith Giles Jesus doesn't explicity speak about torturing puppies or child trafficking, etc., etc., but we can take what he did teach about and apply those principles of the Kingdom - or at least wrestle with the application of them - in light of His life, His example, and how the earliest disciples who walked with Him responded.

Martin Gugino paul. "accuse me of sweeping Jesus' words aside because my interpretation differs from yours." Not exactly.

He IS saying show me the words that you interpret to mean that war, that killing another, is OK, in the face of Love Your Enemy. Show where it says that people are allowed to kill provided that they are in an official army and the Congress has declared war, and they need to protect the lives of their darling children or national interests or do regime change.

Some may want to justify war on the basis of common sense, but your claim is that your interpretation of His words is different.

David D. Flowers Ok, I couldn't resist.... :-)

Paul, I did answer your question. Are you reading my comments? I said...

"Jesus didn't speak to Christian's about war because his words and living preclude the notion that his followers can kill for Rome. He is calling them to come out of Rome and come into the Kingdom."

Martin Gugino Paul: "You see, I am a supporter of just wars."

Possibly it would help if you explain how one goes about justifying war, or at least say that the justification for war is not to be based on the words of the gospels or the leading of the Holy Spirit.

David D. Flowers I highly recommend the book: "The Myth of a Christian Nation" by Gregory Boyd. His presentation on "war" and the rest of the concerns is one of the best I have read. It's a very helpful book for those interested.

Keith Giles Well, if you need a source outside of Jesus and the NT, I'd suggest "Jesus for President" by Shane Claiborne and that other dude.

Paul Martin Keith. From a point of grammar, War is not Christian" is incorrect. Christians have fought in wars. Christians have had abortions. Christians have not loved their enemies. Christians have been materialistic and selfish and thieves and fornicators and blind to the plight of the poor. For 2000 years. You and me too. None of us are true followers of Christ.

David D. Flowers "Jesus for President" was good. I also like "Jesus and Empire" by Richard Horsley. "Mere Discipleship" by Lee Camp is challenging. But that's for us who believe that books can help shed light on the New Testament. :-)

Martin Gugino Paul:I could tell you that he says "inasmuch as you've done it to the least of these, you've done it unto me."

Is this the passage upon which you want to base your defense of war?

You also did mention you could cite passage after passage. I wonder what the next passage might be?

Martin Gugino Paul "I can only say that many believe the actions to be defensive, ultimately, in nature."

Michael: So defensive wars are ok then?
Paul: There was justification. you know it.

Michael: I thought that was what we were questioning: Is there justification for war. I mean, for followers, and what is it. That's "begging the question", it its original (and correct may I say) sense....

Paul: Estimates were that millions of innocent lives would be lost if Japan didn't stop."
Michael: Yes, but were those estimates after the fact attempts to justify of a war crime? Yup. http://bit.ly/c33NkX


Martin Gugino Paul:"Christians have fought in wars. "
Michal: True but aside from the point. The question is SHOULD Christians have fought in wars. Or under what conditions SHOULD Christians fight in wars, or what kind of wars SHOULD Christians fight in. You mention "just wars" I assume referring to a vast collection of Catholic literature. But could you summarize one or two of the more salient points. You mention saving innocents or helping the poor. So do you mean it is ok to kill the strong to save the weak? Or kill the rich to save the poor? And can you explain if or how the other statements in the NT about "love your enemy" etc do or do not restrain that interpretation.

Martin Gugino It would be nice to collect all these comments and try to arrange all the arguments in a tree of some sort. some software thing that would do this would be so helpful.

Keith Giles Paul: I would say, in your examples above, that whenever Christians do those things: kill, steal, committ adultry, etc., that they are not following Jesus in those actions. I think that is my point. Whenever a follower of Jesus engages in activity that is un-Christlike they are not "following Jesus" in that action.

So, when I say, "War is not Christian" I am saying that whenever a follower of Jesus engages in this un-Christlike activity they are not being like Christ.

"Nobody Follows Jesus"...hmmm..sounds like a great title for a book!

Paul Martin You are funny, Keith.

Martin Gugino I think that Paul's question amounts to: what do we do about Hitler?

He could use Proverbs 24:11-12
11 Rescue those being led away to death;
hold back those staggering toward slaughter....
12 If you say, "But we knew nothing about this,"
does not he who weighs the heart perceive it?
Does not he who guards your life know it?

This is, I believe, the Operation Rescue text.

The problem with using this text is that it is intended to stimulate involvement, not limit involvement; so that you cant get at the limits through this text, in my opinion.

As to Hitler, Dietrich Bonhoeffer's answer was it was worth a try to assassinate Hitler. This didn't work out well as a practical matter, nor establish its morality.

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Keith Giles It's amazing to me how those 4 words can cause such a negative reaction. It makes me wonder, what if I had said, "War IS Christian" - would I have an equal level of response or would I get "Amen, brother!"...?

David D. Flowers Yep. In our last organized church a few years ago, we were basically told we weren't welcome there anymore because we believed Jesus when he said, "love your enemies" and Paul when he said, "love does no harm to its neighbor."

I was actually asked, "Where in 'love your enemies' does it say not to kill them?" I kid you not. We stood up against nationalism and began questioning the church's faithfulness to the teachings of Jesus. This concern was one among many growing suspicions we had about the Church. It factored in to our exodus of organized religion.

Isn't it a horrible thing that we must defend this among the brethren? I have found it's not so much a confusion with the Old and New Testament Scriptures as much as it is an unhealthy love of the world that forces us to read those Scriptures in keeping with our blind nationalism. The very walls of tribalism that Christ destroyed on the cross.

Derrick Pedranti I hear you both but remember sometimes war is necessary. I agree which wars is indeed debatable. But we wouldn't have our nation without the Revolutionary War. And we might not still have it if we didn't fight in WWII... I believe there is a difference between a nation defending it's national security and us loving the neighbors who mistreat us. Unfortunately we live in a fallen world where sometimes we need to protect ourselves and our children from evil forces that would kill or enslave us.

Keith Giles For a follower of Jesus who is chiefly concerned with following Christ, the question of whether or not war is necessary or not is moot. It doesn't matter to us because we are not going to be fighting in those wars or taking another human life to show our nationalism.

War is a fact of life. I agree. But Christians need not participate in those wars.

Ruth Bujanda-Moore @ Keith: "Amen, brother!" (and no, you would not have gotten that response from me had you posted "War IS Christian)

Derrick Pedranti I don't think though that soldiers who fight to defend our country are not true Christians.

We are blessed to have the freedom to talk about these things and voice our opinions and religious freedom without being jailed or killed for it. I'm thankful for those who fought for those freedoms.

And remember if we didn't fight against ruthless madmen like Hitler, we might be living under tyranny and genocide. War in of itself is a terrible thing but I think unfortunately sometimes necessary.

Ruth Bujanda-Moore @ Derrick: "we might be living under tyranny and genocide"...WE who? There are many peoples, cultures still living under these conditions, and war (whether OURs or not) does not create sustainable, viable solutions to these and other horrid conditions.

Derrick Pedranti Do you think we should have not fought against Hitler? Do you think we should have a national defense that protects us against foreign invaders? Is it ever okay to fight against these kinds of atrocities? I believe in my heart that it is. And even in the Bible some battles are righteous. Agree to disagree I guess. I still love you guys! :)

Keith Giles Derrick: What I want to point out is that being a follower of Christ isn't the same as being an American. So, when you say, "We are blessed to have the freedom to talk about these things.." I agree, but is having that freedom "Christian"? Wasn't our faith born under the tyranny and oppression you say we should be afraid of?

Not that I WANT to live under tyranny or oppression, but my point is that Christians aren't called to fight or kill to avoid oppression and tyranny. In fact, orginally, the only blood shed in opposition to Government such as this was our own as we (followers of Jesus) lived peacefully and died by the sword. Was that "UnChristian"?

Derrick Pedranti I agree with your last point. There is no greater love than to give your life for the Lord or your brother. That definitely is Christian. Though we can never comprehend what that would be like -- to give yourself over to be eaten by lions -- we should never deny our faith and be willing to suffer the consequences for doing so.

If someone came into my house and tried to kill my wife and children and I killed that person to stop them I don't think that goes against the teachings of Jesus. In that case I wouldn't sacrifice my family or myself for this person's evil intent.

Forget nationalism. I agree with you that the life of a person in another country is viewed equally in God's eyes. But if an evil ruler like Stalin tried to invade this country, impose their rule, enslave the citizens, ban Christian or for that matter, free expression and commit genocide, I don't think it's unchristian to fight against him. Remember that God viewed some battles as righteous such as those fought by David. BTW, this stuff can get a bit heated but it's good to talk about it!

Keith Giles Derrick: In the case of self-defense or the defense of the innocent, it is not always automatic that our response should result in the death of the perpetrator. It's possible to disarm them, to render them unable to harm others, etc. Killing shouldn't be our intent- even in that extreme example.

As you point out, if I were to take the life of someone who was attempting to harm an innocent then perhaps that would not be a sin (murder), assuming I did not want or intend to kill the person.

Again, this is not my original point. My point was that War is not Christian. All of the other debate is fascinating, and important, but not exactly on point.

For a follower of Jesus, the one who said, "love your enemies", it is not consistent to engage directly in the act of taking another human life in War. Period.

Should wars be fought? Should we be allowed to defend our children from home invasion? I think these are good conversations to have. And we are. But, again, this was not my original point.

Keith Giles We can fight, but does that always mean killing? MLK fought for human rights, but the only one who died was MLK.

Again, if you want to justify violence you have to go to the OT. But God wouldn't allow David to build His Temple on Earth. Why? Because David had blood on his hands. Apparently there is a need to separate these two things: violence and holiness.


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NOTE: A huge "Thank you" to everyone who participated in this long, and mostly civil dialog of such a touchy subject.

Share your comments and reactions below if you like.

Peace!
kg