A Letter To Mr. Carlton

The following is a letter I wrote to a Mr. Carlton regarding a discussion about war and religion.  I shared a few brief words with him.

Mr. Carlton, you are correct when you say "people have used religion as an excuse to kill."  I do not like the word "religion," it is too often misused in speech as well as action.  It is a poor substitute for the real deal.  What is the "real deal"?  Jesus Christ is.  His teachings teach peace.  The "religious" of His day had a great deal to do with his execution by crucifixion.  Nevertheless, He taught forgiveness.  "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you."  (Matt. 5:44)  Do those sound like the words of a warmonger?  Read all of chapter 5.  Jesus is the "Prince of Peace."  His Word declares it.  I also speak from personal experience.
On the other hand, what if the government of the nation of which I am a citizen, and enjoy the benefits thereof, asks me to take up arms and go to war?  Well.......that is a separate issue......with resolutions.