Peaceable Hope Contesting Violent Eschatology In New Testament Narratives, A

By David J. Neville

Book Description

In the sacred texts of the New Testament, a profound contradiction emerges that has puzzled spiritual seekers and scholars for centuries. While Jesus embodies a message of peace and nonviolence, the same scriptures often portray God as wielding destructive power in the final days. This theological tension lies at the heart of how we understand divine justice and the ultimate destiny of creation.

David J. Neville invites readers on a transformative journey through the narrative heart of the New Testament, examining the Gospels, Acts, and Revelation with fresh eyes. Rather than accepting the conventional association between biblical prophecy and divine retribution, he develops what he calls a "hermeneutic of shalom" - a peaceful lens through which to interpret these ancient texts.

Through careful analysis, Neville reveals a striking pattern: for every passage that seems to anticipate violent divine judgment, another points toward a fundamentally peaceful resolution. This discovery opens new pathways for understanding how divine love and justice might work together without contradiction.

For those wrestling with questions about God's character, the nature of ultimate justice, or how to reconcile seemingly conflicting biblical messages, this work offers thoughtful interpretive tools. Neville provides resources for engaging responsibly with difficult texts while maintaining faith in a fundamentally peaceful divine nature, contributing to ongoing conversations about violence, redemption, and spiritual transformation.