Atonement and Ethics in 1 John: A Peacemaking Hermeneutic

Christopher Armitage examines the previous theological perception of 1 John as a text advocating God's abhorrence of violence and contrasts it with biblical scholarship analysis that focuses on its birth from hostile theological conflict. He argues that a peace-oriented reading of 1 John is still viable, but questions whether the commandment to love each other includes opponents and whether the text can be used to advocate non-violence and love of neighbors. Armitage concludes that a peacemaking hermeneutic is integral to reading the epistle.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 240 pages
\n Publication date: 15 July 2021
\n Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
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Christopher Armitage delves into a profound exploration of the historical and theological perspectives surrounding 1 John, a text traditionally perceived as advocating for the notion that God abhors violence. In contrast, biblical scholarship offers a different lens, highlighting the text's origins in a hostile theological conflict between 'insiders' and 'outsiders.' This conflict was characterized by intense rhetoric directed towards 'antichrists' and those who had left the community. Armitage challenges this conventional understanding by proposing a peace-oriented reading of 1 John, emphasizing the potential for reconciliation and compassion within the Christian community.

However, he raises crucial questions regarding the commandment to love one another, specifically whether it extends to opponents. Armitage also explores the hermeneutic implications of 1 John in advocating non-violence and love for one's neighbor. In this book, Armitage examines five key words from 1 John: hilasmos, sfazo, anthropoktonos, agape, and adelphos. He delves into their historical background and usage in the Old Testament, both in Hebrew and the LXX. Armitage argues that these central themes presuppose a God whose engagement with the world is characterized by peace, rather than assuaging divine anger or defending truth at the expense of love. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of avoiding hatred, which inevitably leads to violence and death.

Armitage concludes that a peacemaking hermeneutic is not merely viable but essential for interpreting 1 John. He emphasizes the need to embrace a perspective that seeks harmony, understanding, and compassion, recognizing the transformative power of love in reconciling differences and fostering a more peaceful world. This book offers a valuable contribution to the study of 1 John and sheds light on the broader themes of violence, reconciliation, and the role of love in shaping Christian theology and practice.

\n Weight: 524g\n
Dimension: 164 x 241 x 21 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780567700742\n \n