Roman and Christian Just War: A Re-Analysis

There is no denying that the early Catholic Church grew up in a climate predominated by rich and broad religious pantheon. Emerging at first as perceived outgrowth of Judaism, Christianity was exposed to, among other things, Roman culture. practice, which typically very open to adopting foreign cults, felt threatened Christianity, resulting periods persecution. As result, Christian community had complicated relationship with Imperial Rome. The stressed non-collaboration, but evidence points there divide between teachings practice on topic military service. patristic writings Early fathers are noticeably sparse until Ambrose Augustine, who present what can generally be called theory just war. They also waver support condemnation, reflecting needs their congregations.
 Despite this relative absence discussion, prevailing attitude historical scholarship pre-Constantine pushed for non-collaboration society, i.e. not serving public office or army. After Constantine, same towards an about-face teachings, co-opting burgeoning community. What paper seeks address iustum bellum, war, were developments specific contemporary societies and, while definitely link, two form distinct systems thought. One might even say bellum more concerned justifying than moral quandaries