Journal: Bibliotheca Sacra
Volume: BSAC 181:724 (Oct 2024)
Article: Book Reviews
Author: Matthew S. DeMoss

BSac 181:724 (October-December 2024) p. 499

Book Reviews

By The Faculty and Staff of Dallas Theological Seminary

Matthew S. DeMoss

Editor

Kingdom of Rage: The Rise of Christian Extremism and the Path Back to Peace. By Elizabeth Neumann. Worthy, 2024. 309 pp. $18.99.

Neumann’s experience as a counterterrorism expert and homeland security professional yields a voice worth hearing in our tumultuous American climate. Situated at the ideal intersection of political profession and commitment to Christ, Neumann explains how America came to its current tempestuous situation and provides a hopeful path forward.

Part 1 explores the phenomenon of political radicalization by tracing its history, revealing the process by which right wing extremism associated itself with Christianity, and providing a list of common vulnerabilities that result in susceptibility to extremism. The author acknowledges that Christian nationalism includes “a wide spectrum of beliefs; some are more concerning than others” (118). She asserts that the problem lies in political (not faith) groups that “co-opt Christian elements and are heretical in their idolization of America, a party, or a candidate” (101). Neumann emphasizes that extremism occurs in ordinary people and that trouble arises from deeply rooted ideology leading to violence, not from simply supporting a conservative candidate or platform. She exposes the severe danger of radicalization, pointing to a trend of increasing violence in America. As average citizens encounter fewer people with differing perspectives, their impressions of others warp into caricatures. She reveals churches’ misaligned priorities, such as valuing weekend attendance numbers over the character of members. In response, she pleads for biblical teaching about following Jesus, suffering, and disciple making, accompanied by the orthopraxy of righteous, compassionate living alongside one’s neighbors.

Part 2 suggests solutions to the problems raised in part 1. Sprinkled with anthropological explanations, Neumann’s proposals find their roots in the reality of human nature and the world. She reminds readers of the innate human desires for purpose, belonging, and safety; she also confronts the pernicious idolatry of valuing country above Christ. Identifying the undercurrents of anger suffusing social media and news outlets, Neumann reveals the financial incentive perpetuating outrage. She calls for healing, which begins with empathy: We must have compassion for those who believe differently from us instead of alienating them. She also unearths the need for “responsible citizens modeling constructive disagreement (without contempt!)” (215) to enter the discourse. The recommended responses require re...