[1] Esteemed readers of the Journal of Lutheran Ethics, this edition offers a fascinating biographical examination of New Testament scholar John Dominic Crossan’s 2024 examination of Paul’s as a Pharisaic Jewish teacher whose messianic message resonates today. Crossan links the prevalent violence of first-century Roman civilization to modern ecological and societal issues, presenting Jesus’ execution as a revelation of this systemic violence and the resurrection as a “realized eschatology”—a call to live a dynamic, non-violent life in the present.
[2] The Rev. Dr. Johan Bergh is a retired ELCA Word and Sacrament Rostered Minister, retired Professional Life and Leadership Coach, blogger, and author. He resides in Ocoee, Florida.
[3] We are currently seeking new reviews. Please feel free to contact me with unsolicited reviews, or please peruse the list of available books for review. These books can be mailed to interested parties. We are also seeking reviewers for the Fortress Press Series “ReEngaging ELCA Social Teaching,” and a special series on immigration and refugees.
William Rodríguez is Assistant Professor of Religion and Philosophy at Bethune-Cookman University, Daytona Beach, Florida. He serves as Book Review Editor for the Journal of Lutheran Ethics.