Stand Against Torture

I've recently had my eyes open to what I believe is an instance of the current state of affairs being "not the way things ought to be". The Bible and Christian tradition makes clear that torture is always wrong, all the time. All throughout history, torture has never been an option. Now, it seems, we are toeing that line. What does that say about us as Americans? More importantly, what does that say about those of us who are followers of Jesus?

It breaks my heart that there could even be a debate about the use of torture in the interrogation and detainment of POWs. It breaks my heart even more that many on the right (the Christian right) are not saying anything about it. The arguments in favor of using some forms of torture (or "alternative interrogation" or however you want to label it) almost all seem to be practical: "we need to torture them to get information that could save lives" or "we'd get much worse if we were their captives" or "they are trying to kill us".

This reasoning clings to safety and security over goodness and mercy and disregards those values that give meaning life (regardless of whether or not that life is "safe" or "dangerous"). I want my life to be one of goodness and mercy, I want the fellowship of believers to promote goodness and mercy througout the world, and I want my country to stand up for goodness and mercy for all people - regardless of the cost. America has truly done this in the past (though imperfectly) and I believe we can do it again. The church will always stand for these things because they are some of the things that the Lord of the church stands for. I stand for these things and, therefore, I stand against torture in all its forms.

If you're interested in reading more about a biblical response to these issues (from the perspective of a pastor with a long career of military service under his belt) read the articles at these links:

Article 1

Article 2

Article 3