Skip to main content

Jesus and the Abolitionists



Terry J. Stokes (pictured above), is a lay theologian who presents a radical message of love and mutual thriving in his book, Jesus and the Abolitionists. He offers a systematic Christian theology that centers on anarchy, a political structure based on “anti-rulership.” Stokes challenges the popular notion of anarchy as chaos, offering a fresh perspective. The nation-state is a system of dominance rooted in violence and coercion, which contrasts with anarchy’s emphasis on personal autonomy and mutual benefit.

Stokes’ manifesto is not just a recounting of his family and personal history but a deep dive into the dichotomy of opposing views of true liberation. His work is a refresher on Biblical scripture that centers on anti-establishment themes, with the potential to inspire a fresh perspective on the intersection of theology, social justice, and political theory.

Amid the current divides in public discourse, this book offers a unique perspective that could resonate with a wide range of readers. It is likely to attract those who possess a curiosity and openness to exploring new and unconventional ideas. It may particularly appeal to Christians looking for a different way to engage meaningfully in political work and to anarchists seeking to anchor resistance and reform in Christian principles.

Editor's Note: This review was originally published in Portland Book Review. 

Buy from Bookshop

Popular posts from this blog

Minding the Wealth Gap

As a Black investor and startup founder, Cliff Goins IV brings firsthand experience and sharp insight to one of America’s most urgent issues: the racial wealth gap. Having navigated the worlds of finance and entrepreneurship, Goins has seen up close the systemic disparities in wealth creation, access to capital, and asset management. From unequal opportunities in homeownership and education to persistent challenges in business funding and employment, the historical gaps are perpetuated in present-day practices. In "Minding the Wealth Gap," Goins skillfully blends data, lived experience, and the insights of experts to illuminate the deep-rooted economic disparities facing Black Americans. More importantly, he highlights the power of collective uplift. Through the voices of nine dynamic “gap closers,” Goins shows how real change happens when Black investors and leaders open doors for others. Each success “play” or strategy underscores the ripple effect of support. Selena Cu...
Read more

Slow Down: The Degrowth Manifesto

In "Slow Down: The Degrowth Manifesto," renowned Marxian scholar and philosopher Kohei Saito offers a compelling argument against the relentless pursuit of economic growth that permeates contemporary capitalism. Saito’s thesis focuses on the concept of degrowth—a radical reduction in production and consumption that aligns with sustainable ecological limits rather than constant expansion. Pictured above is Kohei Saito Saito makes a significant and timely contribution to the ongoing conversation about sustainable living. Slow Down adopts an interdisciplinary approach, drawing insights from environmental science, economics, and social theory to present a clear and urgent depiction of the current ecological crisis. Saito critiques the widely accepted belief that economic growth equates to progress and questions the sustainability of existing global consumption patterns. He advocates for a fundamental reshaping of our economic systems to prioritize human well-being and ecologica...
Read more

A Beginner’s Guide to the Roots of Yoga

The modern practice of yoga in Western culture is often criticized for disconnecting from its cultural, historical, and spiritual roots. In many studios and gyms, yoga is reduced to a fitness routine—focused on stretching rather than its original purpose of enlightening the mind. In "A Beginner’s Guide to the Roots of Yoga," celebrated practitioner Nikita Desai reconnects readers with yoga’s ancient Indian origins. Drawing on her Indian heritage, Desai explores the deeper meanings behind yoga’s forms, postures, and intentions, offering a rich historical and philosophical context for those seeking a more authentic practice. Desai shares her personal journey of reclaiming yoga’s essence, inviting readers to do the same by integrating cultural awareness into their practice. Her tone is welcoming and nonjudgmental, making the book accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Although I do not practice yoga, my meditation roots lie in Zen Buddhism. Through conversations with prac...
Read more