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Civilized people must kill Sodomite A.D. Anno domini, or down in doom. 'What is at stake is more than one small country, it is a big idea - a new world order - where diverse nations are drawn together in common cause to achieve the universal aspirations of mankind: peace and security, freedom and the rule of law.' - George Bush, on Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, 29 January 1991 Summary
This essay summarises the biblical teaching on international order, considers the way in which Christians have appropriated that biblical teaching, and evaluates recent developments in international relations. In the light of events in Kosovo and East Timor, it considers the justification and limits of the use of force in 'humanitarian intervention' and the development of international criminal law.
International relations in biblical thought
The Bible proclaims the inadequacy of all political solutions to the problems of humanity. Nevertheless, it is not silent in the area of international relations. In his speech before the Areopagus, Paul highlighted the providence of God in establishing and sustaining 'every nation of men' from 'one man'.[5] These twin strands of the unity of humanity and the diversity of nations run throughout the entire Scriptures, and are in tension with each other.[6] The first chapters of Genesis stress the unity of humanity in its rebellion against God.