Participatory Pacifism: A Christ-Centered Defense of Nonviolence

By Daniel Payne

Participatory Pacifism: A Christ-Centered Defense of Nonviolence presents a groundbreaking theological framework that moves beyond traditional arguments for Christian pacifism. Rather than grounding nonviolence in ethical commands or eschatological hope alone, this work argues that pacifism flows naturally from believers' mystical participation in Christ's ongoing redemptive work.

Drawing from biblical theology, patristic wisdom, and contemporary participatory theology, Daniel Payne demonstrates how understanding ourselves as members of Christ's body makes violence not just morally problematic but spiritually impossible. When we truly participate in divine life, harming others becomes harming the very Christ we seek to serve.

This fresh approach addresses traditional objections to pacifism-from protecting the innocent to Old Testament violence-while providing practical guidance for living out nonviolent discipleship in personal relationships, church life, and social engagement. Payne shows how participatory pacifism offers resources for conflict transformation, restorative justice, and prophetic witness that can sustain faithful discipleship even in a violent world.

Written in an accessible, conversational style, this book offers both theological depth and practical wisdom for anyone seeking to understand how Christian faith relates to questions of violence and peace. It will be invaluable for pastors, students, peace activists, and thoughtful believers wrestling with what it means to follow the Prince of Peace in our broken world.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0FDR3C94F
• ISBN13: 9798288649691
• Release Date: June 2025
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 180 Pages
• Weight: 0.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 5.0" x 8.0"