Strangers and Scapegoats - by Matthew S Vos (Paperback)

About the Book

A Christian sociologist explains how the problem of the stranger lies at the root of many problems humanity faces, such as racism, sexism, and nationalism, but an identity in Christ frees us to love strangers as neighbors and friends.

Book Synopsis

We live in a world of oppositional relationships and increasing in-group/out-group divisions. Christian sociologist Matthew Vos explains how the problem of the stranger lies at the root of many problems humanity faces, such as racism, sexism, and nationalism. He applies classic sociological theory on "the stranger" to matters of faith and social justice, showing that an identity in Christ frees us to love strangers as neighbors and friends. The book also includes two guest chapters, one on intersex persons and the church and one on stranger-making in the "correctional" system.

From the Back Cover

"A timely response to the widening cultural divides between 'us' and 'them'"

Christian sociologist Matthew Vos explains how the problem of the stranger lies at the root of many problems humanity faces, such as racism, sexism, and nationalism, but an identity in Christ frees us to love strangers as neighbors and friends.

"I learned so much from reading Strangers and Scapegoats. We love to talk about diversity and the image of God, but Vos challenges us to consider what that actually looks like, what it costs, and the great reward of extending God's welcome to others."
--Aimee Byrd, author of The Sexual Reformation and Recovering from Biblical Manhood and Womanhood

"This bracing book is powerful, eye opening, and hope filled. It empowers us to be good news and a healing force in this hurting world."
--Carolyn Custis James, author of Half the Church: Recapturing God's Global Vision for Women and Malestrom: How Jesus Dismantles Patriarchy and Redefines Manhood

"A masterful fusion of classic sociology, analysis of contemporary social problems, and personal experience that will support and stimulate Christians toward loving their neighbors."
--Jenell Paris, Messiah University

"A great exploration of the truth that being considered a stranger is too often accompanied by physical, economic, emotional, and psychological harm. Vos asks us to see the gospel as a call to empty ourselves, particularly on behalf of those who are unfairly labeled as strangers and scapegoats."
--Steve Corbett, Covenant College

"A timely response to the widening cultural divides between 'us' and 'them.' Strangers and Scapegoats reminds Christians of our countercultural distinctive to welcome the stranger, to love our neighbor."
--Lisa Graham McMinn, George Fox University

"Vos develops a fresh lens by which to consider some of the most polarizing issues in the Christian community today related to gender, race, human sexuality, immigration, economic exploitation, and incarceration. This book will help you rediscover your own identity in Christ."
--Amanda W. Benckhuysen, director of Safe Church Ministry for the CRCNA

"Vos writes a Christian sociological study of the strangers and scapegoats in American and Western culture, holding up both a mirror to show us ourselves and a clear lens to show us how we view others--how we maintain our status by keeping strangers in a position that minimizes their threat to us. While readers may not completely agree with Vos's emphasis or interpretation of events, they will follow his cogent arguments with fascination and find themselves unable to stop reading. He holds us with his thorough research, wide scope of history, vivid narratives and descriptions, overpowering biblical allusions, and depth of insight. A must-read for sociology courses; it will spark discussion and debate."
--Mary J. Dengler, Dordt University (emeritus); editor of Pro Rege

About the Author

Matthew S. Vos (PhD, University of Tennessee, Knoxville) is professor of sociology and chair of the department at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia, where he has taught since 2000. He serves as vice president for the Christian Sociological Association and as an associate editor for the Journal of Sociology and Christianity.