As we approach Easter 2011 we are at war again. This time against Colonel Gadaffi’s regime in Libya. It is always sad when a dispute cannot be resolved by peaceful means.
The earliest Christian tradition was one of strict pacifism, but as Christianity became more widespread, and especially following the conversion of Constantine in 312, Christians recognised that there might be occasions when war was necessary.
Augustine of Hippo (354-430) was the first major Christian theologian to define how a war might be considered as Just, but theory has been refined and developed over the centuries.
The classic Just War theory can be divided into principles to consider before engaging in war, and secondly principles for conducting a just war. They are usually set out as below, with some minor variations:
Preparation for war
i) War must be undertaken and waged exclusively by the leaders of the State
ii) War must be waged for a just cause.
iii) Resource to war must be a last resort.
iv) There should be a formal declaration of war.
v) Those engaging in war must have a reasonable hope of success.
vi) The evil and damage which the war entails must be judged to be proportionate to the injury it is designed to avert or the injustice which occasions it.
Conduct of war
i) Non-combatants must not be attacked directly.
ii) Methods of fighting must be proportionate to the just cause and objectives of the war.
You will realise that many of these criteria are open to debate, and this often keeps the moral philosophers busy at times of war!
So is the war against Gadaffi a Just War? Clearly those who voted in the United Nations and in the Westminster Parliament were broadly persuaded of it, but it is probably, as with most things, open to debate. What we must clearly do as Christians, is to pray for those who have to take these decisions, that they may act justly and wisely. We must pray for the people of Libya, that they may be kept safe so that they may have the opportunity to come to know freedom in Christ. We must pray too for the armed forces involved in the conflict, that they would act justly, proportionately and seek to preserve life.
Amidst all of this we know that we follow Christ, who offers hope where there seems to be no hope, and life in the face of death. Resurrection Sunday reminds us that Jesus has conquered death, and as we go through the ‘dark valley’ of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Saturday, we know that the Day of Resurrection is just around the corner.
God bless,
Nik
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