The Just War Theory –

Many folks have asked me to post the Just War Theory I discussed in church this morning. It dates back to none other than Saint Augustine in the 4th century. The doctrine of the Just War Theory was first developed in the Christian tradition by Augustine in his work, Civitas Dei, The City of God. The church has leaned heavily upon this work to discern whether or not a war is just and warrants support from the Christian community. Traditionally, all eight questions need to be answered affirmatively before a war is considered just.

1. Is the cause just?
2. Is the intention to restore justice?
3. Is the action a last resort?
4. Is the action instigated by the highest governmental authority?
5. Are the goals limited?
6. Is the action proportional to the offence?
7. Will casualties be kept low, particularly among those who cannot or do not bear arms?
8. Is there a reasonable hope of success?

May God grant us, and our enemies, peace and wisdom....