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Christian Anarchism: A Political Commentary on the Gospel (Paperback)
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Short Description for Christian AnarchismChristian anarchism has been around for at least as long as "secular" anarchism, but, until now, no generic study bringing together these different thinkers or reflecting on their contribution has been published.
Full description- Publisher: IMPRINT ACADEMIC
- Published: 11 February 2011
- Format: Paperback 250 pages
- See: Full bibliographic data
- Categories: Anarchism | Philosophy Of Religion | Religion & Politics | Christian Theology | Christian Life & Practice | Christian Social Thought & Activity
- ISBN 13: 9781845402471 ISBN 10: 1845402472
- Sales rank: 218,658
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Reviews for Christian Anarchism
- Top review
One of the best books I've ever read
Christoyannopoulos simply and clearly chronicles the theology of Christian anarchism by drawing on notable advocates over the last two millennia. He affirms that the foundation of Christian anarchism is a rejection of violence. In following Jesus' nonviolent message these adherents withdrew their support for civil government, as all states retain power by using, or threatening to use, force.
Christoyannopoulos explains that even though "Christian anarchism" is a relatively modern term, the early church (such as the Church Fathers) had anarchist ideals by following Jesus' pacifist teachings rather than the militaristic empire of the day. However after Christianity became the official state religion in the 4th century, the church transgressed from a humble bottom-up sect to an authoritarian top-down organisation. Christoyannopoulos notes that Christian pacifism and anarchism were then submerged for nearly a millennium until the Middle Ages. He then cites the emergence of various pacifist/anarchist Christians such as Francis of Assisi, Peter Chelcicky and Leo Tolstoy.
One minor criticism. The conclusion is titled "The Prophetic Role of Christian Anarchism" and includes the section "Christian anarchists as prophets". The term "prophet" does not sit comfortably with me. I much prefer the preceding chapter "Examples of Christian Anarchist Witness". I would call myself a witness, not a prophet, due to Revelations and a belief that humanity has been blessed with all the prophets it needs.
However even with this criticism, it is still amongst the best books I've ever read and in my opinion on a par with Gandhi's autobiography. by Adam Clark
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