Christianity & Issues Surrounding Conflict (Edexcel GCSE Religious Studies B): Revision Note
Christian teachings and responses to problems involved in conflict
Christianity and conflict
Christians believe that peace is essential because of the teachings from the Bible and Jesus' example
Because of these, they feel that they have a responsibility to help bring about the end of conflict across the world
To this end, Christians work to resolve causes of conflict, such as injustice, political issues, lack of resource shortages, and human rights abuse
Christians address the problems caused by conflict in various ways, influenced by Biblical teachings, church doctrines, and ethical principles
These responses can be seen in efforts to heal the wounds caused by violence, promote reconciliation, advocate for justice, and provide humanitarian aid
Christian responses to the problems caused by conflict
Christians are taught to forgive those who have wronged them, following the example of Jesus
In the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:44), Jesus instructs his followers to ‘love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you’
Forgiveness can be a crucial step in healing divisions caused by conflict, allowing individuals and communities to move forward
After the Rwandan Genocide (1994), many Christian organisations were involved in reconciliation initiatives, helping survivors and perpetrators of violence come together to promote healing and forgiveness
Many Christian groups focus on bringing peace to conflict zones, both locally and globally
Churches and Christian organisations often mediate disputes and work for peaceful solutions, particularly in situations of war or civil unrest
These groups emphasise dialogue, understanding, and the peaceful resolution of differences
Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) are an example of Christian groups that work in conflict areas worldwide, promoting non-violence and peace through direct intervention
How Christianity has overcome the problems of conflict
How has Christianity overcome the problems of conflict?
Christianity has faced various conflicts throughout its history, but it has also found ways to overcome these challenges
In the early centuries, different Christian groups disagreed over key beliefs, leading to disputes (e.g., the split between Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy)
Christianity responded with ecumenical councils like the Council of Nicaea (325 AD) to establish common doctrines and beliefs
Over time, many Christian denominations have worked for unity and dialogue, especially through organisations like the World Council of Churches
Throughout history, Christianity has been involved in wars and violence, such as the Crusades and the Thirty Years' War
In modern times, Christian leaders have advocated for peace and reconciliation, emphasising Jesus' teachings on love, forgiveness, and non-violence
Christian peace organisations, such as Quakers and Catholic peace groups, promote peaceful solutions and work to prevent war
Christianity has also addressed conflicts over issues like slavery, racism, and women’s rights
The abolition movement was supported by many Christians, who argued that slavery was incompatible with Christian values
The Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, led by Christian figures like Martin Luther King Jr., used Christian principles to fight against racial segregation and injustice
Over time, Christianity has become more inclusive, working towards gender equality and human rights
Today, Christianity is a global religion, and Christians are involved in peace-building efforts around the world
Many Christian leaders continue to work for interfaith dialogue and cooperation, especially in regions with religious tensions
Christianity and non-religious views about the issues surrounding conflict
Atheist views towards the issues surrounding conflict
Atheists, or people who do not believe in God or gods, have various views on the issues surrounding conflict
These views are shaped by reason, and secular ethics rather than religious teachings
Many Atheists argue that religion can contribute to conflict
They point to historical events like the Crusades, the Thirty Years' War, and modern religious conflicts such as those between different religious groups
Atheists may argue that religious differences can fuel wars and violence, and that religious beliefs can sometimes be used to justify conflict
However, some atheists acknowledge that religion can also promote peace and social justice
Atheists generally believe that morality and ethics do not depend on religion
They argue that humans can create moral guidelines based on reason, human well-being, and shared human values, rather than relying on religious teachings
Many atheists support secular morality, where ethical decisions are made through reason, evidence, and discussion, rather than religion
This approach focuses on resolving conflicts through dialogue, negotiation, and mutual respect, without the need for religious authority
Atheists are often critical of the use of religious justifications for violence
For example, they may argue against the idea that war is acceptable if it is done in the name of God, as seen in some historical conflicts
Atheists may support secular governance, where laws and policies are based on reason and evidence, rather than religious beliefs, in order to avoid conflicts driven by differing religious views
Humanist views towards the issues surrounding conflict
Humanists are people who believe that a good life can be lived without religion, and that people should focus on being happy and making the most of their time on Earth
Humanists believe in human rights, equality, and the well-being of all people
They work towards peace and conflict resolution by promoting tolerance, compassion, and cooperation
Humanists advocate for peaceful solutions to social issues, like poverty, injustice, and discrimination, which can contribute to conflict
They believe in social responsibility and the importance of working together to improve society
They emphasise that people can make ethical decisions without religion and work towards a society where justice, equality, and human well-being are central to resolving conflicts
Humanists may believe that religion is responsible for or contributes towards conflict
They may believe that a world without religion would be a more peaceful world
Christian responses to non-religious views about conflict
What are Christian responses to non-religious views about conflict?
Christian responses to non-religious views about conflict often focus on the importance of faith, forgiveness, and reconciliation in resolving dispute
Christians might argue that peace is not only about resolving practical issues through dialogue, but also about spiritual peace that comes from a relationship with God
They believe that true peace comes from following Jesus’ teachings, such as loving your enemies and forgiving others
In contrast to secular views that focus on justice or reparation, Christians believe that forgiveness is a key response to conflict
The teachings of Jesus emphasise forgiving others, even in difficult situations, as a way to heal relationships
Christians may argue that reconciliation is more important than punishment or revenge, which might be more common in non-religious approaches to conflict
Christians often agree with secular views that violence should be avoided whenever possible
However, Christian responses to conflict also include the idea of Just War Theory, which permits war only under certain strict conditions (e.g. to protect the innocent or to restore peace)
While some atheists might argue against any form of violence, Christians would often see just causes for war in some situations, such as when self-defence or protection of human rights is necessary
Christians may challenge non-religious views that see religion as a source of conflict
While acknowledging that religion has sometimes caused violence (e.g. the Crusades), many Christians point out that Christianity has also been a source of peace-building, as seen in movements like the Civil Rights Movement led by Christian leaders like Martin Luther King Jr.
Many Christian groups work alongside secular organisations to promote justice, peace, and human rights, recognising the importance of collaboration in addressing the root causes of conflict
Worked Example
Explain two Christian responses to the problems caused by conflict
In your answer you must refer to a source of wisdom and authority
(5 marks)
Answer:
Some Christians would respond to problems caused by conflict by praying for peace (1 mark) in the hope that God would answer the prayers by ending the conflict and protecting those who are suffering (1 mark) The ‘Lord's Prayer’ includes a petition for God's will to be done on earth as it is in heaven, and for deliverance from evil (Matthew 6:10-13) (1 mark)
Some Christians may be involved in conflict resolution (1 mark), which may involve providing aid to those suffering from the effects of war, and acting as a voice for peace and justice (1 mark)
Examiner Tips and Tricks
Remember that conflict is not always a bad thing. Be able to explain both the positive and negative role religion plays in conflict
For example, Christianity has inspired both violence (e.g., Crusades) and peace-building (e.g., Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights Movement)
Knowing this should help you to respond to evaluation questions relating to the relationship between Christianity and conflict
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