281 - Christ and Violence

Christ and Violence
By Ronald J. Sider
Scottdale, Pennsylvania, Herald Press, 1979. 108 pp. $4.95.

In three essays and a concluding "sermon," this well - known evangelical social activist discusses various aspects of the Christian community with regard to violence. Directed primarily to his fellow - members of the "historic peace churches," Sider's essays also may provoke those of us in other traditions. To profess Christianity while rejecting "the nonviolent way in human relations" is, he insists, to embrace "a heretical doctrine of the atonement." He also stresses the equally heretical commitment to nonviolence in something less than "the vicarious cross of the Word who became flesh."

Sider is convinced that Jesus viewed himself as the Messiah. Through his ministry the messianic age breaks into history, although its full realization is yet to come. The followers of Jesus are called to live by the messianic "kingdom ethic" - to reject "lethal violence" and to look for proper nonviolent ways of using politi -

282 - Christ and Violence

cal and economic power against oppressors. The author offers helpful observations about the Pauline "principalities and powers," the relationship between creation and redemption, and practical strategies for economic discipleship. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter add to this book's suitability for "adult education" purposes.

Richard J. Mouw
Calvin College
Grand Rapids, Mich.