Christians and Violence

Someone might pick this book up because of an awareness of Lasserre’s role in bringing about a transformation in the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer regarding pacifism via the Sermon on the Mount. However, after one begins reading, one sees that this book is of immense inherent importance. For these are the mature reflections on Christians and violence by an active French Reformed pastor who gave a profound witness to shalom through a long, productive life. It is a wonderful gift to have these writings available in English. * Mark Thiessen Nation, Eastern Mennonite University, USA. Author of ""Bonhoeffer the Assassin?"" and ""Discipleship in a World Full of Nazis"". * Can a Christian glorify Jesus Christ with a weapon in his hand?” Jean Lassere’s life and work sought to answer this question under difficult conditions. His 1965 Christians and Violence, published now for the first time in English, invites English readers to become better acquainted with his fascinating and faithful story. A leading voice behind conscientious objection, an influence upon Bonhoeffer, Lasserre takes us through the biblical, traditional, and historical reasons that he and we should answer no. Read this book, share it widely, and listen to Lassere’s prophetic witness. It matters as much now as in his own lifetime. * D. Stephen Long, Southern Methodist University, USA * Jean Lassere gave us a gospel of non-violence long before John Howard Yoder came along preaching peace. Long after Yoder’s violence made a liar of his peace, Lassere’s gospel still calls to us from the wilderness. Lassere saves us not only from Yoder’s hypocrisy but the hypocrisy of any Christianity that would pair Jesus Christ with violence. Like many wilderness voices, Lassere’s gospel was nearly forgotten. Until now. The publication of this translation returns to us a voice we desperately need to hear. The message offered is not easy, but it comes from God and it bears good news. * Jonathan Tran, Baylor University, USA *