Thoughtful Reflections on Faith and Life
Some time ago I heard an interview with Brian Zahnd and I was quite impressed. He talked about his ministry of a prosperty gospel-style megachurch and his transition to a deeper theological place. It was encouraging to hear. One of the transitions for Zahnd was moving toward Christian nonviolence. As someone interested in theology and … Read More “A Farewell to Mars – Review” »
I am a Christian and a pastor and I am in the military. I have actually read in books that it is impossible to be both a Christian and be in the military. I think I am doing both. I have been having a conversation with someone on Twitter and the person makes some good … Read More “Can a Soldier Love Their Enemy?” »
Are Christians required to be pacifists? One of the key verses that must be considered is: “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor’ and ‘hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemy and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be like your Father in heaven, … Read More “Why I’m Not a Pacifist: Part Four” »
In a previous post, I gave some reasons from the Old Testament why I am not a pacifist. While I need to get to the New Testament, I’m not quite ready to leave the Old Testament. Thou Shalt Not Kill? I understand that the case for nonviolence is much more complex than one of the … Read More “Why I’m Not a Pacifist: Part Two” »
I have no problem with Christians who embrace pacifism. However, I have encountered people people have argued that Christians must be pacifists. To some it is absolutely clear that the Bible teaches non-violence in all situations. I’m not convinced. This is the first of a series of posts on why I’m not a pacifist. But … Read More “Why I’m Not a Pacifist: Part One” »
Tripp York and Justin Bronson Barringer (eds.). A Faith Not Worth Fighting For: Addressing Commonly Asked Questions About Christian Nonviolence (Eugene: Cascade, 2012), 243 pp. Pbk. When it comes to issues of nonviolence and pacifism, every Christian has an opinion. It is not just about whether to join the military. Even the decision to call … Read More “A Faith Not Worth Fighting For” »
When I saw I had the opportunity to review Ron Sider’s Nonviolent Action, I had some mixed emotions. I do believe that violence is required in certain cases, as seen by my role as a chaplain in the Canadian Army. It is not just my job, I have reflected on these issues and am satisfied … Read More “Nonviolent Action” »
Before I go into this topic I should share two things: 1) I am a Christian, and 2) I am a military chaplain. Based on this you may be able to guess my answer to the above question. Having said that, I have been challenged on this both directly by friends and indirectly in books. … Read More “Should Christians Serve as Military Chaplains?” »
I have read in some pacifist publications that it is impossible for a Christian to serve in the military. I’m not sure that is a useful way of phrasing it. I know that I am a Christian and I proudly wear an army uniform in my role as a chaplain in the Canadian Forces. I … Read More “Can Christians Serve in the Military?” »
