David A. Leiter

Is it possible to reconcile the image of the God of wrath in the Old Testament with the peaceful God of love in the New Testament? David Leiter’s carefully crafted analysis of topologies and theologies reveals that peace is significant and widespread in the Old Testament. He looks at five major themes: (1) circumstances in which individuals or select communities in ancient Israel looked to means other than violence to prevent potentially violent situations; (2) multiple peace passages that envision a time when peace will abound in the world; (3) legal statements that set the framework for an atmosphere of shalom; (4) states of peace after conflicts or time of war; and, (5) the ideology of peace that runs through materials designed for worship. Mandates for peace in the legal traditions, prophetic discourse, and proverbial wisdom sayings strongly suggest that all members of society must adapt certain behavioral patterns that bring about peace in communities. Inter-woven with the exegesis are threads of contemporary implications and application serving as a springboard to thinking about and creating peace in today’s world. A bibliographic essay at the end of the book directs the reader to other authors and works addressing the issue of war and peace, and a scripture index facilitates study of individual passages. Multiple denominational websites with worship resources for peace are listed. “Neglected Voices” addresses an important concept that has not received adequate press in Christian communities and religious traditions, and merits addition to not only Historic Peace Church but also mainstream denominational libraries.… (altro)