Christian Responses to Terrorism

How should Christians respond to terrorism and terrorists in their midst? Terrorism is a global problem, and no society on earth faces it alone. The mainly Christian society of Kenya has suffered more than most as it attempts to counter the threat of al-Shabaab. Some pastors have asked for permission to carry guns. Many Christians support government military action, while others recommend pacifist stances, and strive for dialogue and reconciliation with the Muslim community. In this book, ten Kenyan Christian thinkers and practitioners share their experiences and insights. A response section from seven others, including a Kenyan Muslim scholar, enrich the discussion.In this important book, Gordon Heath and David Tarus have assembled a remarkable grouping of those with special awareness and insights into this global issue, with specific reference to the north and east of Africa. Within the shifting sands of peoples, ideologies, cultures, and human aspiration, this topic is critical. We are indebted to Heath and Tarus for providing insights on terrorism for our understanding and Christian witness.  --Brian C. Stiller, Global Ambassador, The World Evangelical AllianceThis book attempts to elucidate this phenomenon as it affects Kenya with a view to interpreting it in a wider global scope. Kenya being a predominantly Christian society with a sizable Muslim community has faced a serious threat posed by a terrorist group, al-Shabaab. I commend this book to educationists, theologians, pastors, counselors, and all people of good will, for it is designed to equip them with the necessary knowledge which will enable them to make appropriate decisions that will translate to appropriate responses to such contemporary challenges.--Zablon Nthamburi, Professor of Religion, Africa Nazarene UniversityGordon L. Heath is Professor of Christian History and Centenary Chair in World Christianity at McMaster Divinity College, Hamilton, Ontario, and Director of the Canadian Baptist Archives. His publications are mainly on the intersection of Canadian, British, and American churches and imperialism, war, and nationalism.David K. Tarus has a PhD from McMaster Divinity College, Hamilton, Ontario. His publications are mainly on the intersection of Christian theology and socio-political realities in Kenya and Africa as a whole. He is from Kenya.