The traditional debate between pacifist and non-pacifist Christian needs to be re-opened in the light of new conditions of warfare and peacekeeping. The massive destructiveness of modern weapons, the emergence of international institutions dedicated to the peaceful settlement of disputes, the common will to enforce human rights and the success of mass 'non-violent action' in many parts of the world are factors which compel a fresh look at the old arguments.

This book is the fruit of two years of discussion between Christians holding a wide variety of views and responsibilities. The contribution both of the Bible and of Just War thinking is critically assessed, the present predicament posed by war to the Christian conscience is honestly faced, and the whole argument is set in the context of the biblical vision of the supremely valuable but intensely demanding gift of peace.



A. E. Harvey was formerly lecturer in theology in the University of Oxford and then a Canon and Sub-Dean of Westminster.