What is War Good For?

Commentary

by

Perspectives

Pacific Northwest Conference | March 4, 2026

I write today’s newsletter intro, thinking about a lifetime shaped by wars fought somewhere else. Raised in the shadow of Vietnam, my childhood impressions of war are well summarized by a popular song of the era.

“I said, war, huh (good God, y'all)What is it good for?Absolutely nothing, just say it again.”

– from “War” by Edwin Starr (1970)

As I grew into adulthood amid increasing conflicts in the Middle East, I became more aware of competing Christian concepts of pacifism, just war, and active peacemaking. These traditions offered alternatives that felt more faithful to Biblical authors than the holy war-mongering I would hear on conservative Christian talk radio.

“God shall judge between the nations   and shall arbitrate for many peoples;they shall beat their swords into plowshares   and their spears into pruning hooks;nation shall not lift up sword against nation;   neither shall they learn war any more.

– from the Book of Isaiah 2:4 (740 B.C.E.)

After seminary, when I began working as the youth director at First UMC of Vancouver, I encountered the United Methodist Social Principles for the first time. As our youth group met in the weeks, months, and years following the September 11 attacks, this resource became solid ground.

“The church deplores war and all other forms of violent conflict and urges the peaceful settlement of all disputes. We yearn for the day when there will be no more war, and people will live together in peace and justice.”

– from “War and Military Service,” UMC Social Principles (2025-2028)

Now, as I wrestle with thoughts and feelings about yet another war in a far-off land, these ideas continue to percolate in my mind. What is war good for? When will God’s people experience and deliver on the promise of peace?

In an era increasingly shaped by social media algorithms and outrage, I find solace in the old ideas our Church continues to shepherd. I'm still searching for answers, but I'm grateful to be doing so alongside a Church that seeks peace and justice, rather than mistaking war as a shortcut to either.

Patrick Scriven is director of communications for the Pacific Northwest Conference of the United Methodist Church. This post is republished with permission from the conference newsletter.