The Intersection of Trump, Iran, and the Moral Limits of War

What should Christians think about the U.S. war with Iran, Israel's role in the conflict, and the risk of a wider Middle East war? In this Good Faith Podcast episode, Curtis Chang and New York Times columnist David French unpack the escalating U.S.-Iran war through the lens of Christian theology, just war theory, constitutional checks and balances, and the moral limits of presidential power. They explore whether America's military action against Iran is just, legal, or dangerously reckless, while also addressing Israel, regime change, MAGA foreign policy, and the growing risk of a wider global conflict. Join David and Curtis for a thoughtful framework for understanding war in a volatile moment.

Get tickets: Illuminate Arts + Faith Conference and our recording with Matt Maher

02:32 - Did Anyone See This Coming?

04:51 - Distinguishing Just and Legal Wars

09:25 - Evaluating America's War Against Iran

14:46 - Why Hasn't Congress Acted?

17:59 - Truthfulness of the Administration

22:32 - Potential Consequences of Prolonged War

33:12 - What About the Theory That Trump's War is a Diversion From Personal Scandals?

39:04 - Evangelical Support for Israel

44:08 - Are We Heading Toward World War III?

53:49 - Christian Prayer and Moral Response

Scriptures:

1 Timothy 2:1–2 (ESV)

Mentioned in This Episode:

A primer on Just War Theory
Augustine and Just War Theory
The UN Charter Chapter VII, Article 51: the use of force and collective self-defense
What is the War Powers Resolution?
Abraham Lincoln'sLetter to Congress: January 12, 1848 (Speech regarding Mexican War)
Background on U.S. Relations With Iran (1953-2026)
Background on Operation Praying Mantis
Impacts of the U.S. killing of Qassem Soleimani
More about the Lockerbie bombing
The Ezra Klein Show, March 3 episode: The Great Lie of War

David French on The Iran War: If It's Illegal, Is It Just?