Issues of War & Peace

Issues of War & Peace: As Christians and as Christ's church, what position should we take regarding war versus peace?Sermon Notes:Perspectives on War and Morality Crusade Cost-Benefit Analysis Pacifism Just War Theory Going-to-war considerations legitimate authority just cause right intention/motives proportionality likelihood of success Conducting warfare proportionality non-combatant immunity Additional theological considerations Global church Nature of patriotism/nationalism Impact on missions/evangelism Why evangelicals don't speak out much against war policies Scepticism about "official" church pronouncements Dissatisfaction with selective use of biblical passages Presumption of "subjection" to authority (Romans 13) America and "chosen nation" thinking Individualizing of authority Spiritual issues John Calvin's warning: Rules for "competing pray-ers" Keep praying about what matters to you. Focus on underlying issues. Pray for those whom you consider to be your enemies. Acknowledge that you may be wrong in the way you view things. (Psalm 139: 23-24). Resources for a life of following Jesus, every day, everywhere, with everyone.