Palestine (MNN) — The West continues to rain sanctions down on Russia after the invasion of Ukraine. Most measures have specifically targeted wealthy oligarchs and banks in an attempt to isolate Russia from the world economy.
But have these sanctions extended to other conflicts in the world? Andrew Bush with the Bethlehem Bible College says, “International law is international law. From the perspective of the U.S. or Europe, you can’t apply it in one place and not apply it in the other.” Bush says bad actors of the world will notice if their actions are ignored on the international stage.
Peacemaking class
Conflict and injustice continue to rage in places like Myanmar, Yemen, Palestine.
Bush serves as the director of the Bethlehem Institute of Peace and Justice. In the fall, the class “Peacemaking and Justice in the Palestinian Context 1” will let students hear from peacemakers in Palestine, Israel, Myanmar, and other places.
For instance, Bush says, “Reverend Frank Chikane in South Africa has spoken with us about his role and experience in peacemaking, as it opposed apartheid and ended the apartheid regime. Then we have a very excellent lecturer on the Dalit people and their pursuit of social justice in India.”
Class details
Bush says the course will cover a wide variety of topics, including: “the theology of peacemaking, the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, women in peacemaking in Israel and Palestine, the role of international law in resolving conflict, and more.”
The class looks at religious dimensions to peacemaking, including a deep dive into Jewish and Muslim thinking. Bush says, “Our goal is to bring the voices of Palestinian theologians and leaders that have worked in peacemaking, and to value the role of peacemaking as Christ called us to.”
Anyone can take this course for credit or audit for half the price. Learn more here. And ask God to raise up more Kingdom peacemakers all over the world.
The header photo shows the separation wall between Israel and Palestine. Photo courtesy of Bethlehem Bible College.
