War and Our Christian Duties

America’s new war in Iraq and Syria does not seem to have any chance of success. Statements in numerous papers allege that “Obama leaves behind a world of chaos”; that America “will be at war for generations to come”; that the “military campaign against ISIS will fail, possibly with disastrous consequences”; and that “the West is irrevocably set on another bloody adventure in the Middle East.” How should a true Christian view this situation? Is there ever justification for us to fight in war? We are quoting extensively from Herbert W. Armstrong’s writings on military service and war and from our free booklet, “Should You Fight in War?” We point out that historically, true Christians have steadfastly refused to fight in war—but that many nominal Christians compromised in the face of political propaganda and persecution.