Every year I teach a class in early Church history to a group of young people attending the Ambassador Bible Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. One of the sections we cover is the controversy in the fourth century over the question of whether Jesus Christ was indeed the divine Son of God come to earth in the flesh or whether He was merely a good man who founded a new religion and was elevated to a divine status by tradition. This theological argument created enormous conflict that is with us to this day. Though church councils negotiated a truce about it at that time, it still stirs religious tension.

Looking at our articles for this issue, I am struck by the connection between this ancient debate and today's war on terror. Both involve deep issues of religious belief that have never been effectively resolved. The issue comes down to the question, Who is God? It is the dividing point between the major world religions. Until this question is resolved, there will be continued religious strife.

The conflict between radical elements of Islam and Western Christian society is a clash over who is God—Allah or the Christian God? Is there a fundamental incompatibility between the two? Is it possible for the two faiths to coexist and work together in one society? Several European nations, such as the Netherlands, Great Britain and Spain, are being forced to examine that question. Bombings and the killing of innocent civilians going about their daily lives could impel leaders to more drastic measures to protect their nations.

History shows that when differing views of faith and God divide people, there is no easy or permanent solution found in the councils of men. This is a hard fact to accept, yet it must be understood in today's conflict.

We bring you two articles this issue that focus on the war on terror. Melvin Rhodes takes a critical look at where appeasement can lead when the fundamental nature of a problem is not addressed. This has broad implications that impact our personal lives as well. Compromise with error and evil never results in a positive conclusion. We must adopt a vigorous and watchful stance. We must have a firm foundation in truth if we hope to withstand the attacks that are launched against our belief, safety and security.

Our British-based correspondent, John Ross Schroeder, has an exclusive interview with world terrorism expert Christopher Dobson. Mr. Dobson has studied terrorism firsthand for decades and has a firm grasp of the underlying ideology and its impact on modern nations. Included here is a photo of Mr. Dobson conducting an interview with Ariel Sharon some years ago. Prime Minister Sharon still wrestles today with the effect of centuries of conflict between differing faiths and peoples.

How will today's conflicts be resolved? Who will step forward with the will and wisdom to put forth a lasting solution that brings peace? Men and nations will try, and there are indications from the Bible that they will seem to achieve a "peaceful" solution. But the real solution will not arrive until Jesus Christ returns to restore all things, including the way of peace among peoples.

That way includes true knowledge that has been rejected by many. It also includes the truth of who Christ is and was and will be. Even many who consider themselves Christians would be surprised at the answer. Without that vital key of understanding, we will not see God as He is nor understand His true message of salvation and eternal peace. WNP