Exploring the teachings of Jesus on peace and war in the classroom: Implications for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict

Abstract

Effective social studies teachers are willing to discuss controversial issues such as war and peace. This article examines how educators can specifically examine these issues in the context of Christianity. This paper focuses on how this can be taught in light of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Though studying various religions stance on war and peace may be helpful in the classroom, the focus Christianity in the U.S. or western context is particularly important both due to it being the largest religion and the most influential in policy decisions. Through understanding the actual teachings of Jesus on war and peace, teachers can help critique and problematize much of the militarism and nationalism in the larger society.