Christianity: Attitudes to Peace and Forgiveness

This section explains Christian Attitudes to Peace and Forgiveness, focusing on Attitudes to Peace and Pacifism and Forgiveness and Reconciliation.

Attitudes to Peace and Pacifism

Christianity is not inherently a pacifist religion, although many individual Christians may hold pacifist views. The Christian denomination of Quakerism, however, is firmly pacifist and opposes war in all circumstances. Quakers believe that non-violent methods should always be used to resolve conflicts and disputes.

The Quaker belief system is rooted in the idea that there is something of God within every individual, which gives each person unique and inherent worth. For this reason, Quakers place great value on all human beings and oppose anything that could harm or threaten them, including the violence of war.

While Jesus taught that violence should never be the answer and that peace should always be pursued, some Christians maintain that war may be necessary under certain circumstances, provided that all other means of restoring peace and justice have been exhausted. In 2022, Pope Francis articulated this view, stating: “A war may be just; there is the right to defend oneself.”

Forgiveness and Reconciliation

Forgiveness

Forgiveness is a central tenet of Christianity and is emphasised throughout the Bible. Jesus’ teachings highlight the importance of mercy and forgiveness, as seen in the passage:

“Blessed are the merciful.”
— Matthew 5:7

Many Christians believe that because God is all-forgiving, it is their responsibility to forgive others. The Lord’s Prayer reinforces this idea: “And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.” This reflects the teaching of Jesus, who said:

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
— Matthew 6:14-15

In another passage, when the disciple Peter asked Jesus if forgiving someone seven times was enough, Jesus responded: “Not seven times, but seventy times seven.”
— Matthew 18:21-22
This is interpreted by many Christians as evidence that forgiveness should be offered without limit, no matter the situation.

However, other Christians might argue that forgiveness should only be extended if the person who has wronged them shows genuine remorse for their actions. This view is supported by the passage:

“If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them.”
— Luke 17:3

Reconciliation

Reconciliation goes beyond mere apology; it involves actively rebuilding relationships and fostering peace after a conflict. It is a process of healing, working to restore trust and unity between opposing parties. In the Christian tradition, reconciliation is seen as an essential way to move beyond past wrongs and to create harmony.

Many Christians believe that forgiveness and reconciliation are not just important after conflicts, but also as a proactive means to prevent future disputes. Jesus’ life and teachings are often cited as the ultimate example of reconciliation, where the relationship between humanity and God was restored through Jesus’ death and resurrection. As stated in the Bible:

“For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!”
— Romans 5:10-11

In this way, reconciliation is not just about forgiveness but is also about striving for peace and unity in all relationships, inspired by Christ’s own example.