Reasons for war

The three main causes of war are:

• Greed

• Self-defence

• Retaliation

Whilst some religious people agree with wars to defend a country, few would agree with wars fought for greed or retaliaton.

GREED

• Wanting more than you have already

“Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” Luke 12:15

“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” 1 Timothy 6:10

SELF-DEFENCE

• A country fighting back when attacked by another

The bible often talks about fighting on behalf of those who cannot fight for themselves, therefore causing some Christians to believe that a war fighting on behalf of self-defence is acceptable.

RETALIATION

• Getting payback

“You have heard it said, ‘Eye for an eye, and tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.” Matthew 5:38-39

Some Christians believe, from quotes like this, that retaliation is not a valid reason for war.

Some believe that it’s not right to take this principle and apply it to countries as a country has a duty to protect its citizens.

“It is mine to avenge, I will repay…” Deuteronomy 32:35

Some Christians would say that it isn’t right to retaliate and we should leave revenge in God’s hands.