Pacifism and Conscientious Objectors

• What is pacifism?


  The belief that violence of any type is always wrong. The Bible does not give a clear answer on whether war is permitted or not. However, many Christians may be pacifists because of Jesus' teachings such as "turn the other cheek" and "love your enemies"
• What is a conscientious objector?


  Someone that refuses to fight in a war due to their conscience. They may refuse to fight because of their beliefs
• A Christian or Jew may be a pacifist or a conscientious objector because:

  • Belief in sanctity of life (life is sacred and God given)
  • Imago dei (humans are created in the image of God)
  • War doesn't show stewardship (looking after the world)
  • Commandment "Thou shall not kill"
• Good


  Actions which are morally right. Church teaches it is good not to sin
• Evil


  Actions which are immoral and cause suffering. E.g. torturing
• Forgiveness


  To pardon someone for their wrong doing. Jesus taught to forgive 70x7
• Justice


  Doing what is fair. Where everyone has equal provisions and equality of opportunity and receives what they are due
• Morality


  Principles that determine what is right or wrong. Jesus taught morality through parables
• Pacifism


  Belief that war cannot be justified. Some Christians may be pacifists because of "thou shall not kill"
• Conscience


  A person's moral sense of right and wrong. Catholic believe it's the voice of God speaking deeply within a person