Pastor Blogs

Pastor Andrew - 13th June 2026

†88.  Peace and World Order

We believe that Christianity cannot be nationalistic; it must be universal in its outlook and appeal. The influence of the church must always be on the side of every effort seeking to remove those conditions of heart and mind, of social, economic, and international injustice, and of ideological conflict in which wars begin.

We must actively and constantly create the conditions of peace. We 

stand for the promotion of understanding, reconciliation, and good will; 

the relief of suffering, the lifting of living standards around the world; 

concern for the freedom and welfare of dependent and subjected persons; the removal of racial tensions; the taking of steps towards disarmament; and the support of patient negotiations.

1.  International Organisation

     We believe that the United Nations, The Commonwealth of Nations 

and ASEAN are working centres of international co-operation which provide the most hopeful avenues leading to peace and world order. The United Nations, The Commonwealth of Nations and ASEAN, with their related agencies, should be strengthened through governmental co-operation and support. This effort deserves the support of all Christians. The Church itself, as a world fellowship, makes an important contribution to the development of world order.

2.  The Christian and Military Service

The Methodist Church, true to the principles of the New Testament, teaches respect for properly constituted civil authority. It encourages both love of country and love of all men. Believing that government rests upon the support of its conscientious citizens, it holds within its fellowship those who sincerely differ as to the Christian’s duty in regard to military service. We ask and claim exemption by legal processes from all forms of military preparation or service for all religious conscientious objectors and for those of the historic peace churches. We recognise the right of the individual to answer the call of his government according to the dictates of his Christian conscience. We also recognise that non-violent resistance can be a valid form of Christian witness. In all of these situations members of The Methodist Church have the authority and support of their church.