These essays in Christian social ethics, some previously published but most appearing in print here for the first time, are all about the way in which the church, in the midst of the world, is called to think and act on behalf of the world.
As the title indicates, this affirmative stance is the opposite of the way John Howard Yoder has often been interpreted under the label of "sectarian." The church is called to serve as a prophetic model and discerning pioneer, addressing the surrounding society's concerns about power and righteousness. The examples chosen for interpretation range from the ancient Jewish experience of dispersion as mission to modern examples like Martin Luther King, Jr.

John Howard Yoder (1927-1997) earned his PhD from the University of Basel, and taught theology at the University of Notre Dame. For 19 years he served the Mennonite fellowship in church relations and education. Dr Yoder was Professor of Theology and President of Mennonite Bible Seminary. His published books include 'The Politics of Jesus', 'The Priestly Kingdom', 'To Hear the Word', 'When War Is Unjust, What Would You Do?', and 'He Came Preaching Peace'.