This book is essentially a neo-Anabaptist primer for political theology and church-state relations...With an approach more akin to theology than social science, this volume is an extended argument for Christian pacifism and peacemaking that some readers will welcome as a corrective to contemporary right-wing Christian political activism. * Choice * an impressive book * Andrew S. Gilmour, The Living Church * This book skillfully counters the global rise of religious nationalism by deftly analyzing the founding mission of Christianity. It shows that by politicizing itself, Christianity has lost its prophetic voice, urgently needed to advance human rights and peace everywhere. This book will be a light for Christians and a template for religious social activism around the world." -Mark Juergensmeyer, author of God at War This remarkable book shows how state privilege both harms Christianity and undermines global peace and democracy. In contrast, independent Christian communities that live by the radical ethic of Jesus promote human rights, dignity for the poor, women's empowerment, and peace & reconciliation. Beautifully written and cogently argued. * Allen Hertzke, author of Freeing God's Children * Tracing the theology and charting the history of churches across the globe, Nilay Saiya lays bare the startling realization that whenever the church attains a privileged status with the state, true Christian practice withers and dies. This book couldn't be more timely. It is a significant contribution to the study of the church in society. It cannot be ignored by anyone who cares about the politics of Jesus Christ in our time." -David Fitch, BR Lindner Chair of Theology, Northern Seminary, Chicago This impressive book is a cautionary tale for religionists worldwide seeking a closer alliance with the state. The allure of political power is great, but such a union almost inevitably leads to a degradation in the church's social witness. Saiya also offers a valuable reminder that religionists should celebrate church-state separation's spiritual, political, and social benefits rather than seeking its erosion. * J. Christopher Soper, Journal of Church and State * This is an important and welcome intervention in the global debate about religion state relationships, focusing on Christianity. * Jonathan Chaplin, The Journal of Religion * This is an important and welcome intervention in the global debate about religion state relationships, focusing on Christianity. * Jonathan Chaplin, The Journal of Religion *
