Joining the Army That Sheds No Blood

J.G. Reade was Librarian of the Dalhousie Ocean Studies Programme, Dalhousie University, Halifax.

This is a discussion book for use with teenage groups, Bible study classes, etc., on the subject of Christian pacifism; it could also be used with adult groups. It is interesting as a text which confronts the notion of pacifism within the Christian context — a notion and a doctrine neither well defined nor well promoted in the traditional churches.

Chapters are short and to the point. The author begins by looking at the whole question of the lack of peace in a world that accepts the existence of a benevolent God, and moves from this to the teachings and actions of Jesus Christ concerning peace and non-violent action. Not one to shirk difficulties, Mrs. Steiner then goes on to deal with the existence of violence and warfare in the Old Testament and the concept of Israel as a warring nation. She also pays some attention to the problem of “rendering unto Caesar” — i.e., of obeying a government that becomes involved in warfare and expects its citizens to respond to the call to arms. Final chapters concentrate on those positive steps we can take to promote peace, with examples taken from the work of peacemakers of the past.

At the end of each chapter is a list of questions for further discussion and review, and titles for further reading. Chapters are concise and consist usually of the relevant Scripture passages (in a modern, paraphrased version) with connecting narrative.

Joining the Army That Sheds No Blood explains clearly the Christian pacifist stance, as based on the Scriptures. The book is therefore useful for those who have thought about this issue as Christians, but who need guidance in expanding their knowledge and support of the pacifist viewpoint. It will serve also as a very useful manual for discussions with teenagers, to introduce them to the topic and to promote serious interest and commitment to Christian peacemaking.