Appreciative

Dr. Boyd,

Wow, I cannot say how appreciative I am to you for writing this book. I have read several books on the “Just War” theory, and it has made me sick. I do not understand how so many Christians could support a war theory that has almost zero Biblical or historical support. By historical, I mean the first few hundred years of Christian history. Through studying the Bible and history, I have come to the same conclusion as you.

I was raised and still a member of a very patriotic church. I see the idolatry every Sunday, when the Christian flag is given a less prominent position to the American flag. I shared my thoughts to the church leadership, but they thought I might have just misinterpreted the verse on turning the other cheek. However, I know that there are hundreds of verses concerning suffering, persecution, love of God, etc.

Now my wife and I are applying to do mission work through our denomination that is trying to support America’s war and missions at the same time. I often feel torn. Do I speak out against the idolatry or keep my mouth shut to get to the mission field? I do not desire to create divisions or oppose the leadership in my church, but I also believe my church’s love for the country interferes with missions.

Any help would be much appreciated. I also have thought about quitting my job to write a book similar to yours. However, it would present an alternative war theory to Just War. Again, I love your book. You see God’s desire to be glorified among all the nations of the earth.

May God bless you.

Thank you again