F. David Bronkema - Advocating for Justice: An Evangelical Vision for Transforming Systems and Structures

An excellent book that meets an urgent need. In recent decades, evangelicals have greatly expanded their concern for the poor and oppressed. To a large extent, however, we have not understood how advocacy for improved public policies could produce important change in the lives of the poor. This very readable, solidly biblical book shows us how to do that. Every Christian should read it.

Ron Sider , president emeritus, Evangelicals for Social Action

A groundbreaking book for the twenty-first century, Advocating for Justice blends biblical, theological, and historical foundations in presenting advocacy as integral to the work of justice. True justice does not take place without systemic change. The authors lead us to understand and embrace advocacy as part of our spiritual journey and call to discipleship.

Jo Anne Lyon , general superintendent, The Wesleyan Church

This is a remarkable and much-needed book! It is robustly researched yet deeply personal. It is focused on the character and example of God rather than partisan versions of social strategies. The book will help me as a pastor lead my church in a more effective public witness of Christs love and service and help us impact the systems of this world.

Joel C. Hunter , senior pastor, NorthlandA Church Distributed

Forty years ago Ron Sider introduced us to the insidious and pervasive presence of structural sin that generates so much of the worlds poverty and hunger, but the Christian community has yet to coalesce around a strategy to overcome these dark structural forces. Now, in this compelling and inspiring book, the authors present a persuasive case for advocacy as an essential tool that the Christian community must no longer shy away from. Building on a Trinitarian foundation to describe why followers of Christ must become advocates to the powers and principalities of our day, the authors explain what advocacy looks like, how it can and should be done, what organizations are currently engaged in advocacy, and how we can resolve some major concerns, including how to integrate evangelism into the work of justice advocacy. Well-researched, well-written, and timely, this book will have staying power to inform, educate, and advise the Christian community for many years to come.

Roland Hoksbergen , Calvin College

Scripture is filled with examples of Gods people being called to speak up and defend the rights of the vulnerable and oppressed. Advocacy is not an option for us; its a biblical responsibility and an integral part of our discipleship and witness. But advocacy is not easy, and Christians have struggled (and often failed) to do it well. This timely and practical resource offers a robust vision of what faithful advocacy can look like today. Read this book if you want to understand better how to renew our witness for justice, peace, and the flourishing of all creation.

Ben Lowe , activist and coauthor of The Future of Our Faith