Religion, peace & conflict - Violence and Terrorism

Question 1

What is an example of violence condemned by God in the Bible?

Answer 1

When Cain murders Abel.

God punishes Cain as the violence came from evil within.

Question 2

What does the Bible say about murder and violence?

Answer 2

• You shall not murder (Exodus), attacking, kidnapping, punching and stoning are forbidden.
• God condones some war. E.g. God ordered the Israelites to fight in a war. Either to claim or protect promised land.
• Those wars are allowed due to the greater good of peace it will bring.

Question 3

What did Jesus say about violence?

Answer 3

• He blessed the peacemakers
• He said to Love your enemy
• He said to pray for the persecutors
• He said to turn your cheek in response to violence
• He believed Jesus’s teachings mean he condemns violence in any situation.

Question 4

What is a reason for a terrorist to perform their actions?

Answer 4

• Their actions will force change
• Terror is an appropriate response to the situation
• Terrorist groups may feel they are prejudiced and they haven’t got as many rights.
• They fight for independence or international recognition and land
• Or for religious reason

Question 5

What are different Christian attitudes towards terrorism and solutions towards it?

Answer 5

• Use of hatred terror and violence by Christians is inappropriate
• Catholics say just war is an appropriate counter to terrorism
• Anglicans accept the use of lethal force as a last resort to dealing with terrorists

Question 6

What are Christian views on involvement with voting?

Answer 6

• Some argue it is unnecessary as God an trusted to allow things to fall into place
• Some argue it is necessary to vote for the greater good of Christianity and Christian values.
• It is important to stay informed about politics and to stand up to injustice.
• Voting and involvement into politics (e.g. being an MP) is a way of serving God as you cause change in God’s way.

Question 7

What is the role of the Church in the UK?

Answer 7

• C of E is the state church in England.
• Monarch is Supreme Governor of C of E and Defender of State and promises to maintain the church
• Monarch appoints archbishops, bishops and deans upon PM’s recommendation.
• Church is involved with law-making
• 26 bishops who make up the Lords spiritual and are involved in the spiritual consideration to the secular process of law.