This brief introduction surveys Christian thinking on an array of topics related to security and peace from a just war perspective. Drawing primarily on Scripture and theology, Eric Patterson explores the moral dimensions of order, justice, and peace in light of key Christian doctrines such as love of neighbor, stewardship, vocation, and sphere sovereignty. He also examines the perennial questions of civil disobedience, terrorism, revolution, and holy war (including a discussion of Israel's removal of the Canaanites and the Crusades) and interacts with theological thinkers throughout Christian history. The volume concludes with a treatment of punishment and restitution, considering how these can help move a society toward conciliation. While ideal as a textbook for courses on Christian ethics, theology and politics, and church and society, this book will also appeal to pastors and lay readers questioning the morality of war and Christians' involvement in force. Christians who serve in government, law enforcement, and the military will also find helpful guidance for thinking theologically about their vocations.
By:
Eric Patterson
Imprint: Baker Academic, Div of Baker Publishing Group
Country of Publication: United States
Dimensions:
Height: 216mm,
Width: 140mm,
Spine: 15mm
Weight: 666g
ISBN: 9781540965479
ISBN 10: 1540965473
Pages: 176
Publication Date: 12 December 2023
Audience:
Professional and scholarly
,
Undergraduate
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active
1. Just War Statecraft: The Quest for Peace 2. Theological Foundations of Just War Statecraft: Governance, Calling, and Stewardship 3. Historical Overview of the Christian Just War Tradition: Pursuing Peace and the Problem with Pacifism 4. Morality and Contemporary Warfare: Distinguishing Moral Resistance from Violent Rebellion 5. The Motivations and Characteristics of Just Warriors: The Role of Love, Anger, and Virtue 6. Ending Wars Well: Order, Justice, and Conciliation Index
Eric Patterson (PhD, University of California, Santa Barbara) is president of the Religious Freedom Institute and scholar-at-large and former dean of the Robertson School of Government at Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He previously served in the US military and at the US State Department. He has authored and edited numerous books on the ethics of war, including Just American Wars: Ethical Dilemmas in US Military History and Just War and Christian Traditions.
