Religion, peace and conflict

Question 1

How is murder/violence condemned in the Bible?

Answer 1

Murder is forbidden, sixth commandment is ‘you shall not murder’
In Exodus, attacking, kidnapping and hitting with a fist or stone are condemned and there are punishments for these actions.

Question 2

How is murder/violence condoned in the Bible?

Answer 2

God ordered the Israelites to go to war to claim or protect the land that He had promised them. However, these calls to war are set in the context of looking forward to a time of peace. Many Christians interpret these events in the Old Testament as giving justification for war to defend people and nations. They argue that war in such circumstances may be the only way left to establish a peaceful resolution.

Question 3

Why do some Christians not agree with violence?

Answer 3

In the New Testament, Jesus said ‘blessed are the peacemakers’ in the Sermon on the Mount. Also teaches followers to love their enemies, to pray for those who persecute them and to turn the other cheek. Some Christians believe his teaching makes it wrong to use violence in any context.

Question 4

Why do people get involved in terrorism?

Answer 4

• Marginalisation of minority groups: a group may feel that they receive fewer rights or that their culture is being attacked and destroyed
• They are fighting for independence or international recognition and land, so they use violence
• When religious freedoms are violated, extremists may choose to use violence to address the issue

Question 5

What are different attitudes towards terrorism?

Answer 5

All mainstream Christian churches believe that terrorism is wrong. The Church believes that creating stronger communities will help to combat some of the causes of terrorism.

• The RCC accepts that sometimes a just war is an appropriate response to terrorism
• The C of E accepts the use of lethal force as a last resort in dealing with terrorism

Question 6

What are the differing views about the relationship between Christians and politics?

Answer 6

• Some Christians argue that it’s wrong to get involved in politics as they believe that God is sovereign and can be trusted.
• Others argue that’s there’s a moral obligation for them to be involved in politics as believe it’s important to stay informed about government decisions + to speak up if there seems to be any form of injustice.