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War
What does the Bible say about war? Does Christianity necessitate pacifism? What is just war? These are questions Augustine asked after the fall of Rome in 410, and questions evangelicals ask today. In an era of guerrilla conflicts, weapons of mass destruction, and preemptive warfare the boundaries have become even more hazy: Is it alright to start a war if it might prevent other wars? While many wars have definite end dates, some are more subtle and ongoing: the war against drugs, class warfare, and of course, the ever-present conflict in the Middle East. Inevitably, Christians can be found at almost every level of these conflicts: some on the front lines, some working for humanitarian agencies, and others in diplomatic roles.
All Articles
Just War Theory Is Supposed to Be Frustrating
The venerable theological tradition makes war slower, riskier, costlier, and less efficient—and that’s the point.
My Family Resisted Iran’s Regime. My Hope Is Not in Foreign Intervention.
Jesus spoke peace to his disciples as they hid. Iranian Christians modeled for me that same resistance with grace.
The Bulletin
Failed Iran Talks, Draft Registration, Orbán’s Loss, and Revenge Addiction
Vance’s failed negotiations with Iran, US draft registration for young men, Hungary’s prime minister loses, and the science of revenge.
Threatening Profound Evil Trivializes That Evil
President Donald Trump and Pete Hegseth speak often of Christianity—but they seem to have no interest in its vision for just warfare.
Public Theology Project
The Bible Doesn’t Justify War Crimes
Old Testament warfare ultimately points us to the Cross, where God’s justice and mercy meet in Christ.
The Bulletin
Military Rescue in Iran, Pam Bondi, Artemis II, and Social Media Addiction Trial
US military rescues airman in Iran, Pam Bondi fired, Artemis II mission circles moon, and landmark case against Meta and Google.
News
1,000 Kenyans Fought for Russia in Ukraine. Many Were Duped.
False advertising lured Africans to Eastern Europe for jobs, then recruiters pressured them into the army.
The Bulletin
War Projections, 2028 Hopefuls, AI Novels, and Men’s College Attendance
Trump predicts end of war, presidential candidates emerge, publisher detects AI-generated novel, and men think twice about college.
The Bulletin
Joe Kent Resigns, Iranian Threats, and a Victory for Parents’ Rights
Public opinions on the Iran war, homeland security risks, and disagreements about gender transition in the classroom.
The Just Life with Benjamin Watson
Johnny Joey Jones: What Do We Owe the Men and Women We Send to War?
Trauma, Responsibility, and the Honor of Being Needed