Blessed Are the Peacemakers: A Biblical Theology of Human Violence

This volume in the Biblical Theology for Life series explores the topic of human violence, addressing its definitions, origins, prevalence, and purpose. It examines the Bible's creation narratives, conquest of Canaan, and the teaching of Jesus to reveal the seeds of violence within every human heart. The book discusses resistance movements in the Bible and the concept of divine vengeance, culminating in the resurrected Christ's lack of vengeance. It challenges readers to consider their own privilege and complicity in a world where violence is the exception and the church can be a non-othering body.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 23 November 2023
Publisher: Zondervan

This comprehensive volume in the Biblical Theology for Life series delves deeply into the complex and multifaceted topic of human violence. Before embarking on a exploration of the Bible's teachings on violence, Old Testament scholar Helen Paynter provides a foundational framework for the study by addressing various definitions of violence and the theories surrounding its origins, prevalence, and purposes.

What exactly is violence? Is there a concept of "natural violence"? Is violence solely a human or societal construct, or can we also describe natural phenomena as violent? How does the concept of violence relate to the idea of evil?

Violence permeates every aspect of our existence; can it be eradicated? How can we effectively resist violence?

Having posed these critical questions, Paynter takes us on a journey through the Bible, seeking answers. Beginning with the creation narratives in Genesis, she compares them to ancient Near Eastern myths, shedding light on the origins of human violence and its profound consequences. Throughout biblical history, the prevalence of violence is undeniable. Scripture reveals the multifaceted nature of violence, encompassing structural violence, verbal abuse, sexual violence, violence as a public or political act, racialized violence, and even othering. Through the voices of the prophets and the teachings of Jesus, the Bible reveals that the seeds of violence reside within every human heart. While we witness resistance movements in the Bible, such as the responses to attempted genocide in Exodus and Esther, it is only on the cross that the ultimate absorption of violence by God takes place: a victory of self-sacrifice over violence.

Along the way, Paynter also explores other relevant biblical themes, such as the apocalypse and crucifixion. She examines how these events relate to the topic of violence and offer insights into its ultimate resolution.

In conclusion, this volume in Biblical Theology for Life series provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of human violence. By examining the Bible's teachings on violence from various perspectives, Paynter offers valuable insights into the origins, consequences, and potential solutions to this pressing issue. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of human violence and its impact on individuals, communities, and society as a whole.

Weight: 594g
Dimension: 189 x 232 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780310125549