We Must Obey God, Even When We Must Fight!

(Plain Text Version)

We are familiar with the devastation of entire societies by war. It does not have to be this way! Peace and justice can be established if we put on the mind of God (Romans 13:14).
The Fifth Commandment, “You shall not kill,” does not take away the right and duty to defend one’s country from attack by an enemy. By the “just war” doctrine, the Church helps us to defend ourselves without offending God or neighbor.
Unfortunately, the “just war” principles are seldom put into practice. When we think of “war”, we think of massive, inhumane actions by both nations. In our experience, it can be difficult to see how the words “just” and “war” can go together. Perhaps we should talk about “legitimate self defense”.
What Does the Church Say About Warfare?
The teaching of the Church on “just warfare” is summarized in paragraphs 2302 – 2317 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. I will try to make a summary of this teaching:
Love Your Enemies
This teaching of Christ applies to entire societies, Christian and non-Christian. It applies even when it is necessary to fight. We are never allowed to hate those who attack us.
The damage by an Aggressor Must be Lasting, Grave, and Certain.
Use of arms is not allowable if an attack against us is an isolated event, is minor, or is merely possible.
First, Exhaust all Possibilities for a Peaceful Solution
We must be open to diplomacy and discussions with the aggressor. We must be willing to listen to the advice of a neutral party. Non-violent actions, such as trade embargoes, can be effective in some situations.
There Must Be Serious Prospects for Success.
If there is no realistic way to stop the aggression, military action would bring harm with no benefit.
The Use of Arms Must Not Produce Evils and Disorders Graver than the Evil to be Eliminated.
In particular, harm to civilians must be avoided. This is not easy with modern weapons.
Personal Responsibility for Military Actions
The correct application of the “just war” principles is not always obvious. Leaders of nations must use wise judgement in applying them. If soldiers are given orders to do something obviously evil, they must not carry them out. It is better to suffer the consequences of “insubordination” than to offend God.
We must never forget the Day of Judgement which will come for each of us. We will be judged by God, who knows everything, and judges with perfect justice.

Many thanks to: Catechism of the Catholic Church
Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J., Pocket Catholic Catechism, 1989, Doubleday