God desires shalom for all people, but peace is difficult to come by amid the sin-filled reality of our life here on Earth. Lutheran ethicist William Rodríguez provides a clear path through the complexities of philosophical, theological, and historical context to help readers grapple with the enduring vision for peace offered in this 1995 social statement.
How do Lutherans approach peace and justice? What does the ELCA teach about peace?If we are to follow our Lutheran call to work for peace in God’s world, we must understand how and why humans have justified war. Rodríguez’s straightforward explanations of such thorny concepts as “just war” and “just peace” provide an interpretive grounding that will help educators and students engage in critical reflection upon contemporary conflicts. By drawing upon the deeper history of the ELCA’s predecessor synods, Rodríguez demonstrates how Lutheran social teaching has evolved, addressed the signal issues of the times, and continues to inform our call to be Christian peacemakers. Educators and students in contexts ranging from seminary and Lutheran undergraduate settings to congregational forums will find this book to be a deeply helpful resource. This volume includes study questions and recommended readings.