PACIFISM

ABSOLUTE PACIFISM is when someone refuses to fight in any situation

CONDITIONAL PACIFISM is when someone only thinks it acceptable to fight in specific conditions, such as self defence 

SELECTIVE PACISM is when someone opposes to certain types of war eg nuclear weapon usage

During war, most pacifists will register as CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTORS 

Only one branch of Christian Church has officially adopted pacifism- QUAKERS

No longer any conscription so conscientious objection is not required but now pacifism takes the form of:

• protest groups campaigning against current conflicts
• going into war zones to help affected eg RED CROSS GROUP
• pressure groups to campaign for peaceful resolution to conflicts
• showing pacifism through lifestyle
• sharing pacifism through education

Non-violent action is:

• HUMANE- avoids hurting or killing others
• UNIVERSAL- applied to all genders, races, classes or ages
• RADICAL- it changes the world for better
• CREATIVE- works positively without destruction
• DIGNIFIED- standing up for yourself without violence
• RESPECTFUL- towards the SANCTITY OF LIFE

Old Testament has numerous references to wars sanctioned by God, showing it is UNAVOIDABLE 

"Everything that happens, happens at the time God chooses.. the time for war and the time for peace" -Ecclesiastes

New Testament however, Jesus teaches peace with God will lead to peace with others. This isn't just to do with war but it also promotes the idea that peace should be within themselves. 

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God"-Matthew

Christians try to continue the work Jesus died to secure because peace is only possible in a just and humane society where all human beings feel valued