Source: (2001) Paper presented at the Theology and Culture: Peacemaking in a Globalized World conference. Bienenberg Theological Seminary, Switzerland, 25-29 June.
In this paper Weaver argues that nonviolence is intrinsic to Christian theology, not simply optional or peripheral. Toward this end he explores two theologies: (1) the classic theology of Christendom that, he claims, marginalizes nonviolence and accommodates violence; and (2) a theology that, in his view, manifests the intrinsically nonviolent character of Christian identity. Underscoring these two theologies, Weaver traces two distinct ecclesiologies – an established church ecclesiology and a believer’s church ecclesiology – and key theological implications of each, particularly with respect to violence, justice, atonement, retributive justice, and victimization.
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