Just war tradition affirmed; significant pacifist wing; individual conscience determines service
The Church of God (Anderson) permits military service for those who believe it to be consistent with their Christian faith, while also maintaining a significant tradition of conscientious objection to military participation. The church does not uniformly bind all members to either military service or pacifism. Different Church of God members have made different choices regarding military involvement, and the denomination respects both decisions.
Historically, the Church of God emerged from the holiness movement, which has peace-church leanings, but the church has not adopted an absolute pacifist position. Members who serve in the military do so in the conviction that they serve country and defend justice; members who object to military service do so in the conviction that followers of Christ should not participate in warfare. Both positions are respected within the church as matters of Christian conscience informed by Scripture, prayer, and pastoral guidance.
Key Distinctions
- Practical stance:
- permitted for those whose conscience allows; defense of innocent considered just
Scripture References
Sources
- Church of God (Anderson) Official Statement on Military Service
- Daniel S. Warner, Peace Writings
- Church of God (Anderson) Pastoral Guidance on Conscience