The Paradox of Faith: Conservative Policies vs. New Testament Ethics
Is the Modern Christian Right at Odds with the Actual Teachings of Jesus?
In The Paradox of Faith: Conservative Policies vs. New Testament Ethics, author Neil Jackson provides a provocative and deep-diving theological analysis of the growing divide between American conservative politics and the radical, communal ethics of the New Testament.
For decades, the American Christian Right has claimed a monopoly on "Biblical values," yet their platform often prioritizes individualism, free-market dominance, and the accumulation of wealth. Jackson deconstructs these narratives, contrasting them with the "Socialist Jesus"—a radical figure who advocated for the redistribution of resources, the upliftment of the marginalized, and a society rooted in collective responsibility.
Inside this eBook, you will explore:
- The Clash of Ideologies: Why the "Prosperity Gospel" and individualistic capitalism directly contradict the communal living seen in the early Church (Acts 2 & 4).
- A Radical Manifesto: How the Sermon on the Mount and the Beatitudes flip societal values on their head, prioritizing the poor over the powerful.
- The Policy Gap: A critical look at how modern stances on healthcare, poverty, and immigration fail the "Good Samaritan" test.
- Reclaiming Faith: A roadmap for "deconstructing" believers to reconcile their spiritual identity with a commitment to social justice and equity.
Whether you are a progressive Christian looking for biblical grounding, a secular activist interested in the historical context of religious socialism, or a believer questioning your political alignment, this book is an essential guide to reimagining a faith that truly serves the "least among us".