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.
"The voice of Michael Rhodes is fresh, clear, and strong. With a deep foundation in theology and a strong grasp of biblical scholarship, he skillfully brings texts from across the scriptural canon to bear on contemporary issues of racial and economic justice. Writing in an accessible style with plentiful examples, Rhodes issues a timely challenge to the church to become just people in a deeply unjust world. I recommend this book highly: it is a creative and provocative invitation to embark on a journey of change."
John Barclay, Lightfoot Professor of Divinity at Durham University
"It is rare to find scholars with expertise and experience in biblical studies, theology and ethics, and practical theology. Michael Rhodes is among them, and in Just Discipleship he demonstrates how all these disciplines contribute to our understanding of what it means to follow Jesus. Rhodes models how Scripture is to be read theologically and missionally, and in doing so he provides clear direction for those on the path of discipleship today. All followers of Jesus will benefit from this book."
