A Field Guide to Christian Nonviolence
Key Thinkers, Activists, and Movements for the Gospel of Peace
About
Christian nonviolence is not a settled position but a vibrant and living tradition that includes mystics, feminists, liberation theologians, civil rights activists, Niebuhrian realists, and more. This book offers a concise introduction to the variety of recent movements within the broad stream of Christian nonviolence.
Since the 1980s, there has been an explosion of writings on Christian nonviolence, yet no work exists to make sense of this plurality or to orient newcomers to the resources available to think faithfully and critically through what it means to be a proponent of Christian nonviolence. This book provides such an introduction for professors, students, scholars, and lay readers. The authors explore the myriad biblical, theological, and practical dimensions of Christian nonviolence as represented by a variety of twentieth- and twenty-first-century thinkers and movements, including previously underrepresented voices. They invite readers to explore the tradition and to discover how they might live out the gospel in our modern world.
Contents
Introduction
1. Nonviolence of Christian Discipleship
Following Jesus in a World at War
2. Nonviolence as Christian Virtue
Becoming a Peaceable People
3. Nonviolence of Christian Mysticism
Uniting with the God of Peace
4. Apocalyptic Nonviolence
Exposing the Power of Death
5. Realist Nonviolence
Creating Just Peace in a Fallen World
6. Nonviolence as Political Practice
Bringing Nonviolence into the Public Square
7. Liberationist Nonviolence
Disrupting the Spiral of Violence
8. Christian Antiviolence
Resisting Sexual and Gender-Based Violence
Conclusion
Index
Endorsements
"A Field Guide to Christian Nonviolence will become the indispensable textbook that with relative simplicity introduces the varieties of pacifism to modern--especially Protestant--Christian audiences. This book will be featured in all my peace and war classes at both the undergraduate and seminary levels for years to come. Highly recommended."
David P. Gushee, Distinguished University Professor of Christian Ethics, Mercer University; host of the Kingdom Ethics podcast
"How do white evangelical scholars offer guidance on needed Christian theological understandings of nonviolence that acknowledges the revelations about John Yoder's sexual violence against women? Cramer and Werntz do so with a critical perspective that insists on advancing divergent expressions of Christian commitments to actual practices. Whether you argue with their interpretations or relish the gift of their expansive vision, you will find an impressive Christian exploration of lived practices and traditions of nonviolence."
Traci C. West, professor of Christian ethics and African American studies, Drew Theological School
"A Field Guide to Christian Nonviolence is a much-needed, fresh critical introduction to the many streams of this dynamic, yet often narrowly conceived, tradition of thought and practice. Historically and theologically sensitive, this book lifts up diverse representatives that reveal the breadth and urgency of Christian nonviolence in a world where violence wears many faces. This accessible volume is highly recommended for the church, the academy, and all those who care about peace."
Eric Gregory, professor of religion, Princeton University
"With unusual nuance and insight, Cramer and Werntz identify eight forms of Christian nonviolence, bringing to life its ecclesial and spiritual depth. They also magnify the political and transformative voice of nonviolence, illustrating how its inspiration and effects reach far beyond the church. A new and important note for standard accounts of Christian pacifism resounds in the chapter on Christian antiviolence. This creative yet historically grounded volume is a valuable addition to the war and peace literature, easily accessible and captivating to students, yet with an originality that will take theological scholarship on nonviolence into new territory."
Lisa Sowle Cahill, Monan Professor of Theology, Boston College
"Cramer and Werntz brilliantly move the conversation on Christian nonviolence beyond Yoder to show the full diversity of approaches, which often diverge from and challenge one another. Not a typology with winners and losers, this book is rather an invitation to further discernment and debate, and an aid to the practical wisdom needed to follow Christ in a violent world. This book is much needed and splendidly done."
William T. Cavanaugh, professor of Catholic studies, DePaul University
"In a world torn apart by racism, sexism, militarism, and other types of violence, this book offers a beacon of hope and profound insight. It unveils the rich diversity of the Christian pacifist tradition in a style that is both elegant and engaging. Truly a must-read!"
Andrew Prevot, associate professor of theology, Boston College
"This is a wonderful survey of the many ways in which the gospel of peace has been interpreted and enacted nonviolently. I found the eight models helpful both for understanding varying approaches to nonviolence and as a tool for self-inquiry and spiritual discernment. I will be recommending the book to students and friends."
Nancy E. Bedford, Georgia Harkness Professor of Theology, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary
The Authors
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© Peter Ringenberg David C. Cramer
David C. Cramer (PhD, Baylor University) is managing editor at the Institute of Mennonite Studies, sessional lecturer at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary, and teaching pastor at Keller Park Church in South Bend, Indiana.
Continue reading about David C. Cramer
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Tammy Marcelain Myles Werntz
Myles Werntz (PhD, Baylor University) is associate professor of theology and director of the Baptist Studies Center at Abilene Christian University in Abilene, Texas. He is the author and editor of eight other books in Christian theology and ethics, most...
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Reviews
A Word & Way 2022 Book of the Year
Sojourners' 2022 Book Roundup to Inspire Faith and Justice
"Spoiler alert: Christian nonviolence is not a singular 'thing' or a fixed set of beliefs and practices. As Cramer and Werntz show through careful comparative work, Christian nonviolence is a family of ideas, with the same concoction of shared genes, grafted-on new branches, and fierce internal disagreements that we expect of any family."
Betsy Shirley,
Sojourners