Interview 49: War and the Just War: A Christian Perspective (Gary Fisher)

We are talking about the July/August FrontLine on the theme, "God, the Christian, and Human Government."

For this interview I am speaking with Chaplain Gary Fisher. We've known each other for several years through the FBFI and we had a very interesting conversation about a Christian philosophy of what is called "just war." Gary's article was called, "War and the Just War: A Christian Perspective."

Christian discussion of "just war" goes back at least as far as Augustine. Gary takes us through the history and philosophy of just war and what it means. We deplore war, but it is a reality in a fallen world. Christians need to know what is right and wrong when conducting war or when sending their sons into the military.

I found the discussion very helpful and stimulating. In the discussion Gary mentioned a book, Just War as Christian Discipleship by Daniel M. Bell (Foreword by Lt. Col. Scott A. Sterling). (As with almost all authors, we have to note that we don't share all their biases, but Gary recommends this book as helpful for understanding.) We’d also like to highlight another book Gary mentioned, The Allure of Battle by Cathal Nolan.

Before we get to the conversation, I once again want to encourage you to subscribe to our podcast and share it with your friends. We want to get the word out to as many people as possible. Paying subscribers will have access to Gary's article right away, here on our substack.

Here is the link to Gary’s article for paying subscribers of the podcast: War and the Just War: A Christian Perspective (substack.com) (preview for everyone else).