Background
War is a tragic state of affairs. At a time when war and conflict seem to dominate the headlines, it helps to take a look at the biblical and historical resources that inform Christian views of war and peace. Two well-established streams of thought are known as the just war theory and pacifism/nonviolent resistance. Faithful Christians can and do advocate both of these approaches, as well as numerous positions in between. A separate but related issue is the connection, if any, between religious commitment and patriotism. This becomes particularly significant when a nation is at war and when members of a congregation are serving (or choosing not to serve) in military roles. Over the centuries, churches have addressed these concerns in many ways.
Where the United Methodist Church Stands
Within the UMC, you will find groups and individuals who advocate many positions on war and peace in general, as well as on certain wars in particular. These stances range from traditional just war theory to traditional pacifism, with many variations on both. As a denomination, we encourage everyone to engage in prayerful study and reflection before taking a stand on issues such as war and peace. Furthermore, we offer official support for individuals and congregations that make conscientious choices with regard to war, with an emphasis on the conscientiousness and not the resulting choices that differ from person to person.
Officially, only the General Conference can speak for The United Methodist Church on social issues such as war and peace. Every four years, the United Methodist Social Principles are reviewed and revised, along with the rest of the Book of Discipline. The most recent revision comes from the 2008 General Conference. Paragraphs 165C, War and Peace and 164G, Military Service are the most complete discussions of United Methodist attitudes toward war.
Regarding war, the Social Principles (2008 BOD) state:
We believe war is incompatible with the teachings and example of Christ. We therefore reject war as an instrument of national foreign policy. We oppose unilateral first/preemptive strike actions and strategies on the part of any government. As disciples of Christ, we are called to love our enemies, seek justice, and serve as reconcilers of conflict. We insist that the first moral duty of all nations is to work together to resolve by peaceful means every dispute that arises between or among them. We advocate the extension and strengthening of international treaties and institutions that provide a framework within the rule of law for responding to aggression, terrorism, and genocide. We believe that human values must outweigh military claims as governments determine their priorities; that the militarization of society must be challenged and stopped; that the manufacture, sale, and deployment of armaments must be reduced and controlled; and that the production, possession, or use of nuclear weapons be condemned. Consequently, we endorse general and complete disarmament under strict and effective international control.
The Book of Resolutions also contains many nonbinding statements approved by General Conferences over the years. These are excellent resources for individual and group study designed for making conscientious choices related to war.
Read More from the Book of Resolutions
The United Methodist Church and Peace
Plan to Eliminate Terrorism
Rejection of Unilateral First-Strike Actions and Strategies
Prohibition of Arms Sales to Foreign Countries for Purposes of War
Saying No to Nuclear Deterrence
The United Methodist Church and Peace
What We're Doing in This World
The United Methodist Church actively works within the context of war for lasting peace and justice all around the world. For instance, UMCOR (the United Methodist Committee on Relief) cares for those harmed in war by providing for their welfare during conflicts and by helping them rebuild their lives and their communities afterward. We also support troops and their families by providing military chaplains.
Local churches, Annual Conferences, and various United Methodist organizations (such as United Methodist Women and United Methodist Men) often take specific actions related to matters of war and peace. Check out what is happening in your neighborhood if you would like to become involved.
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