The Desire of the Nations: Rediscovering the Roots of Political Theology Book

Oliver O'Donovan puts forward an account of political theology grounded on the reign of God as revealed in the history of Israel and in Christ. His approach contrasts with political theologies constructed on more narrow bases, such as a single narrative or a few select verses of Scripture. From the foundation of a reign of God, O'Donovan conceives of secular authority as fulfilling a modest function between the times of Christ's first and second advents, exercising judgment even as it heeds the prophetic voice of the church. Along the way, O'Donovan defends the Christendom "idea" (if not fully Christendom itself) as the attempt of the church to fulfill its mission by establishing a pattern for receiving obedient secular rulers into its ranks. O'Donovan's writing is tough sledding, especially in the early chapters, but reading becomes easier once the reader understands what the author is up to and well worth the effort.