God and Empire

In God and Empire, John Dominic Crossan contrasts the oppressive Roman occupation of the first century with the non-violent Kingdom of God envisioned by Jesus and the message of equality promoted by Paul in early Christian churches. He critiques the misinterpretation of apocalyptic visions in the Book of Revelation, particularly how they have been used by modern theologians to justify military actions. Surveying the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, Crossan reveals a hopeful message that emphasizes peace and justice over violence, arguing that true peace can only be achieved through equitable treatment of all people, not through military conquests.