JUST WAR

 

Is World War 3 about to begin? We’re not sure. Wars aren’t new. Even during the time of our ancestors, they were already present. Although wars have always been a part of our history, they still instill fear in people whenever they make headlines in the news.
For us believers, these events prompt reflection. One of the commonly asked questions is whether wars are really justifiable. Some notable Christian thinkers, such as Augustine of Hippo (AD 354–430) and later Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274), suggested several factors to determine when a war may be considered just or rightful. These are often called the Seven Principles of Just War:

Just Authority. A just war must be declared by a proper authority. Augustine said, “the power to declare and counsel war should be in the hands of those who hold the supreme authority.” Since government authorities are placed by God to punish evildoers (Romans 13:3–4), they are solely responsible for determining whether war is necessary. This means wars initiated by terrorists or hostile groups should not be regarded as legitimate.

Just Cause. A just war must have a rightful reason. Aquinas said, “those who are attacked should be attacked because they deserve it on account of some fault.” This implies that defensive wars may be justified, but unprovoked wars are not.

Just Intention. A just war must have a proper objective. According to Aquinas, it means “they intend the advancement of good, or the avoidance of evil.” Wars driven by revenge, exploitation, or oppression cannot be justified. Just wars are meant to protect and preserve peace.

Last Resort. War must be the absolute last option when all others have failed. This means that every peaceful and nonviolent method of resolving disputes must be exhausted first before turning to war.

Probability of Success. Sometimes called Limited Objectives. Rhodes (2010) says, “The goal of a just war is never the complete destruction of the opposing nation. Hostilities must cease as soon as the objectives have been reached.”

Proportionality. A just war must result in more good than harm. For example, if the damage caused by war far outweighs the intended good (such as defending the innocent), then it’s no longer just. Using nuclear weapons to respond to minor threats, for instance, cannot be justified.

Just Conduct. A just war must avoid harming civilians. This is also known as Discrimination in War. This means that civilians (non-combatants) should never be targets, while attacks on combatants may be justifiable.

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These just-war principles are based on biblical truths about pursuing justice (Proverbs 21:3; Micah 6:8); the divine role of government (Romans 13:1–5; 1 Peter 2:14); and protecting the weak (Proverbs 31:8–9; Psalm 82:3–4). They also help minimize the damage caused by war. These points can also serve as a guide when evaluating recent news.
When we think about it, there are really no true winners in war. Every country or party involved sacrifices something. And so, Christians must pray for peace for all. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9, NIV). Our hearts must lean toward those who are affected by war. For our God is close to those who are broken and suffering (Psalm 34:18), and He expects us to have a heart like His.
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children.” (Ephesians 5:1, NIV). Stay Curious.

Sources and Studies:

Rhodes, R. (2010). Just War. 5-Minute Apologetics for Today. Harvest House Publishers.
Thomas Aquinas. (1920/2017). Summa Theologiae II‑II, Question 40, Article 1: “Whether it is always sinful to wage war?” (Fathers of the English Dominican Province, Trans.). New Advent. Retrieved June 25, 2025, from https://www.newadvent.org/summa/3040.htm#article1
GotQuestions.org. (n.d.). What does the Bible teach about just‑war theory? Retrieved June 25, 2025, from https://www.gotquestions.org/just-war-theory.html