The Hidden Teachings of Jesus: The Political Meaning of the Kingdom of God

by Lance deHaven-Smith

In this radical new view of the person of Jesus, political philosopher Lance deHaven-Smith examines early Christian writings to discover the message of social reform underlying the teachings of Jesus. Based on the premise that Jesus could not speak his thoughts openly without running afoul of the authorities, the book demonstrates how Jesus sought to dismantle worldly systems of command and status, and replace them with a society governed by a spirit of holiness. The Hidden Teachings of Jesus also explores how Jesus' prophecies are being fulfilled in the modern era. Huge systems of power, privilege, and acquisition have arisen, but so too has a global public opinion which bristles at oppression and demands love and respect for every living thing. In this work, Lance deHaven-Smith points to a spirit of holiness emerging worldwide to dismantle power an status in abusive families, autocratic corporations, tyrannical governments, and many other areas of life. This spirit, he suggests, can bring about the real kingdom of God, the divine order Jesus urged his followers to establish here on earth.

244 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 1994

About the author

Lance deHaven-Smith is Professor Emeritus at the Reubin O'D. Askew School of Public Administration and Policy at Florida State University.

A former president of the Florida Political Science Association, deHaven-Smith is the author of more than a dozen books, and has appeared on numerous U.S. television and radio programs.

He is the author of Conspiracy Theory in America (University of Texas Press, 2013).

Reviews

[R.. Mark Hamilton]

Some interesting reflections, but not what I was looking for. The book espouses ultra-leftist, utopian theories on Jesus.