John Howard Yoder

John Howard Yoder (December 29, 1927 – December 30, 1997) was an American Mennonite theologian and ethicist, widely recognized for his advocacy of Christian pacifism. His seminal work, *The Politics of Jesus*, published in 1972, became highly influential, arguing that radical Christian pacifism was the most faithful approach for followers of Christ. Yoder, rooted in an Anabaptist perspective, spent the latter part of his career teaching at the University of Notre Dame. Despite his theological contributions, Yoder's reputation was severely impacted by allegations of sexual abuse that emerged in 1992, with reports indicating over 50 complainants. The Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary later acknowledged the abuse and apologized for the institutional response. Yoder's academic background includes degrees from Goshen College and the University of Basel, where he studied under prominent figures like Karl Barth. He was also involved in post-World War II relief efforts for the Mennonite Central Committee in Europe. His theological thought centered on Christian ethics, rejecting the idea of history being driven by coercive power and emphasizing the nonviolent, nonresistant community of disciples as God's primary force. He critically examined the concept of Constantinianism, the church's alliance with political rulers, viewing it as a dangerous temptation. Yoder's work re-energized debates in Christian ecclesiology, Christology, and ethics, challenging Enlightenment presuppositions about universal ethics and advocating for a focus on "being the church" through practices of peace, charity, and non-resistance.