The recent increase in activists, commentators, and political leaders calling for a cease-fire or a pause in the Palestinian/Israeli war is addressed by ordained minister Dr. Dennis Hall. He begins the podcast by discussing the international humanitarian laws known as the Geneva Conventions. These laws protect civilians, medical personnel, injured soldiers, and prisoners of war. The ideas that undergird the Geneva Conventions can be traced back to the writings of St. Augustine who lived in the fourth century. These ideas are known as the just war theory. The most common justification for war is the crime of aggression, and leaders of nations have a responsibility to protect their citizens from barbaric aggression. Just war theory also includes the principles that must be followed during a war. Conventionally, this has been understood to mean that only enemy combatants may be targets and that civilians must never be intentionally harmed. The concept known as Proportionally of Means is analyzed. This concept means that a military response to an attack should not be more than is necessary to right the wrong. Dr. Hall points out that the Bible makes it very clear that God is not opposed to killing and that since he and Jesus are one it eliminates the argument that Jesus is opposed to war and killing. The Bible makes it clear that governments are established to punish those who do evil. It has been said that there are many reasons for war. Imperialism. Financial gain. Religion. Feuds. And racial arrogance. But God condones war in response to wickedness. Dr. Hall concludes this podcast by asking the listeners to pray for godly wisdom for leaders, for a quick solution to the conflict and a minimum of casualties among civilians on both sides. Can also be seen on YouTube at:
https://youtu.be/v9LRVLcP35M