Many Christians and churches are rediscovering that God cares deeply about justice, but opinions abound as to what an approach to biblical justice might look like in contemporary society. What exactly does the Bible mean by justice, and what does it have to do with poverty, racism, and other issues in our world? More importantly, how do we become the kind of people who practice justice?
Biblical scholar Michael Rhodes argues that the Bible offers a vision of justice-oriented discipleship that is critical for the formation of God's people. Grounded in biblical theology, virtue ethics, and his own experiences, he shows that justice is central to the Bible, central to Jesus, and central to authentic Christian discipleship. Justice stands at the heart of Scripture. Following Jesus demands that we become just disciples in an unjust world.
"One of the things that most impressed me about Just Discipleship is the diversity of voices that Michael Rhodes engages with to both inform and challenge readers. The author engages in rigorous biblical, theological, and missiological analysis without being pedantic. Rhodes is a wise, compassionate guide for any and all who desire clarity on what the notion of justice can mean for contemporary Bible readers."
Dennis R. Edwards, dean of North Park Theological Seminary
"Jesus says that the kingdom is not for all who say 'Lord, Lord,' but for those 'who do the will of my Father.' Just Discipleship takes seriously Jesus' call to heed the Father's will by tapping into the justice-rich lodes that fill Scripture's pages. Rhodes's study is deeply personal, rigorously exegetical, and inspiring. Rather than leaving readers depleted and disheartened by the insurmountable problems of injustice, Just Discipleship will leave readers captivated by the gospel's scope and vision for holistic discipleship. I pray that churches-especially those with privileged legacies-take up the challenges and opportunities that this book offers."
Matthew Lynch, associate professor of Old Testament at Regent College
