It would be easy to feel convicted by Joash P. Thomas's "The Justice of Jesus: Reimagining Your Church's Life Together to Pursue Liberation and Wholeness."

However, the overall feeling I came away with from Thomas's effort here is one of revolutionary hope. Thomas, a public theologian and speaker recognized internationally, dives into a discussion that feels especially relatable with material that is theologically grounded, applicable to daily life, and immensely relational.

"The Justice of Jesus" isn't just a lecture toward us. It's a conversation with us. Thomas connects-the-dots in a discussion about how honest, authentic biblical faith leads us toward living a faith that isn't simply about "social issues" but essential to how we follow Christ.

Oh sure, Thomas isn't afraid to challenge us. He isn't afraid to call us out. However, he does so in a way that leads us toward communal justice, caring for the community's most vulnerable, and leaning into positive change.

While Thomas grounds his discussion in Scripture, his writing here feels so relational that there's an immense compassion in the way he writes and gives us easy to understand actionable info and illustrations:

1) As a church to better serve our community and struggling families inside/outside our congregations
2) To illustrate that caring for others isn't an option - it's part of what it means to be a Christian.
3) Brainstorming ideas for making a difference even when the budget doesn't seem to allow it.
4) Offering tangible examples of churches leading the way. And yes, in this world when so much in Christianity can seem askew there are churches, organizations, and people providing tremendous examples of how a church's life can pursue liberation and wholeness.

As is often true of Brazos Press titles, "The Justice of Jesus" is a weaving together of academic exploration and compassionate application in life. Its ideal for small groups studying discipleship, those wanting to better understand faith-based social action, and those asking themselves "How can I live a more meaningful life of faith?"

It's easy to feel convicted by "The Justice of Jesus," though for those who surrender to its infinite possibilities this is a book that will guide and encourage all of us and our faith communities toward living a more just and meaningful life of faith.

Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic