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Book Review: Does God Approve of War |
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Written by Zöe Franklin
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Saturday, 29 December 2007 |
Zöe Franklin reviews Christopher Brearley’s recent book, ‘Does God Approve of War?’.
In a global climate where war is a daily reality for so many, whether through its direct impact or through media cover of its events, Christopher Brearley's Does God Approve of War? presents a timely discussion of what the Christian response to war should be.
From the outset Brearley makes it clear to the reader that the book does not provide a simple yes or no answer to the question, but rather attempts to provide a scriptural perspective on war and conflict combined with some of the related positions taken by Christians. This approach is successfully achieved through the book's six short chapters and conclusion each of which concludes with a series of summary questions points.
Brearley's presentation of scriptural references from both the Old and New Testaments alongside clear explanations of how they uphold rather than conflict with one another and encouragements to study them within their biblical context is particularly helpful in maintaining his non-prescriptive style. In addition to scriptural discussion Brearley is not afraid to tackle more complex and controversial issues relating to war, in particular looking at Islam and the Iraq war. His examinations of these are concisely presented concluding with the astute observation that 'many monstrous acts have been committed in the name of religion through a lack of discernment'.
Personally speaking, my stance to war before reading to this book fell firmly on the side of pacifism. However, reading Brearley's balanced discussion made me take time to reassess that stance as I found myself challenged by the notion that God can both disprove and approve of war, but that His primary requirement in both is justice.
I would thorough recommend this book to both individuals, no matter what your personal conviction war, who wish to consider afresh the topic of a Christian's response to war or to small groups wishing to tackle the issues discussed with the freedom to come to their own conclusions.
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