Abandoned to Lust
Book Description
In the earliest centuries of Christianity, accusations of sexual impropriety became powerful weapons in theological and political battles. Jennifer Wright Knust reveals how early Christian writers wielded charges of lustful behavior as rhetorical tools to establish authority, defend their communities, and attack their opponents.
Drawing from the works of Paul, Justin Martyr, Irenaeus of Lyons, and other foundational Christian voices, this scholarly exploration uncovers a complex web of moral accusations that shaped early Christian identity. These writers argued that only through Christ could believers achieve true self-control, while those who rejected this path inevitably fell into sexual corruption and divine punishment.
Knust demonstrates how Christian authors adapted classical techniques of rhetorical attack, transforming ancient methods of public criticism into instruments for challenging Roman authority and undermining political power. More surprisingly, she shows how these same tactics turned inward, as competing Christian groups branded each other as morally depraved to claim legitimacy as representatives of authentic faith.
This examination of early Christian polemics offers readers insight into how religious communities have historically used moral purity as both shield and sword. By understanding these ancient patterns of accusation and defense, modern spiritual seekers can better recognize how questions of sexuality, authority, and religious authenticity continue to shape contemporary faith communities.
For those interested in the intersection of spirituality, power, and human sexuality, this work provides valuable perspective on Christianity's formative centuries.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~8 hours)
📄 Length: 304 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Sexualité
- ✓ Explore Calomnie
- ✓ Explore Sexualität
- ✓ Explore Polemieken
- ✓ Explore History
- ✓ Explore Frühchristentum
- ✓ Explore Libel and slander
- ✓ Explore Sex, religious aspects, christianity
