Saving Paradise

Saving Paradise examines the effects of the crucifixion becoming Christianity's defining image when, for the first ten Christian centuries it was never depicted. It explores what this shift in focus has done to our understanding and practice of faith, and raises deeply significant questions for the church today.

Beginning with a masterly survey of Christian imagery in early art, church architecture and spiritual writing, Saving Paradise reveals a rich visual world filled with images of Christ as shepherd, guide and healer, and of the earth as paradise once again. When the crucified Jesus appears, the history of Christianity in the world takes a dramatically different turn and violence and sacrifice in God's name is sanctioned. This profoundly challenging book examines the consequences of this for us today and asks how we can rediscover our lost spiritual heritage.