Pastor’s eNote: Weekly Update

At the beginning of Sunday’s sermon, I shared a short time of prayer regarding the eruption of a new war in Iran. When hostilities are just beginning, they are often met with a sense of shock for those are in harm’s way and surprise for those who witness our world embroiled in armed conflict. No one is outside the sphere of impact that war and violence bring.

As Christians, war places us in an awkward place where the integration of our faith in the Lord Jesus intersects our views of public policy and the global order. A quick scroll of social media reveals the divergent opinions of those for and against this current conflict based on their faith perspective.

The Free Methodist position on war is outlined in our Book of Discipline, as follows:

“At the same time, we regard aggression, as an instrument of local, state, or national policy, as indefensible. The destruction of life and property necessary to warfare are contrary to the spirit and mind of Jesus Christ (Isaiah 2:4; 9:6-7; Matthew 5:44-45). It is our duty as Christians to promote peace and goodwill, to foster understanding and trust among all people, and to work for the renunciation of war as a means to settle disputes.” – 2023 Book of Discipline, ¶3331.C

How might we respond in this moment?

1. Follow the biblical imperative to pray for our leaders and leaders around the globe. (1 Timothy 2:1, 2)

2. Make space to hear and share our uncertainties and questions to encourage one another. (1 Corinthians 8:1)

3. Affirm our common call to peacemaking and reconciliation. (Matthew 5:9, 2 Corinthians 5:18-20)

4. Pray for Christians in the region and their ministries to meet the deep needs of those suffering. (Romans 12:12-13)

I invite us to a generous way of sharing these hard issues. Our world seems to be spinning into more uncertainty, which should not surprise any of us. The world in which we live is under the affliction of sin for which there is salvation and hope in the Lord Jesus Christ. May our prayers and acts of compassion be filled with love and grace.

Grace to You All,

Pastor Craig Brown

(March 3rd, 2026)