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The Word in the Desert: Scripture and the Quest for Holiness in Early Christian Monasticism. By Burton-Christie Douglas. New York: Oxford, 1993. xvi + 336 pages. $55.00 (paper $19.95).

This book is a most impressive reflection upon the contemporary pertinence of the Bible for evangelical combat in a world where the "domination systems" seem always to prevail. Wink gives us the "large picture" of the world as it is redescribed by biblical texts. That "large picture" will make a suggestive alternative to the conventional, passionless, bourgeois notion of social reality now so widespread among students. Inside that "large picture" which Wink voices so well, I note three matters of special interest in the book. First, Wink seems to have read and digested everything, so that his extensive documentation is a rich resource for further study and discussion. This applies especially to more popular critical commentary on the current shape of power in the world. Second, Wink offers a haunting, powerful exposition of Matt 5:38-42, which he takes to be the pivotal text in discerning Jesus' "Third Way" beyond cooperation and confrontation. This exposition is the best example I know of for learning to reread the text. Third, Wink brings to the text not only close social analysis, but a powerful self-expose which is neither maudlin nor self-serving. In this offer of himself, he shares his own move from his dreams to a new, nonviolent vocation. The book culminates in a ringing affirmation of active, intentional, nonviolent response to "the powers" which moves beyond domesticated 'just war" and beyond romantic "pacifism." Wink's capacity to hold together "the journey in" and "the journey out" keeps one focused on the coherence of mature faith, discerning textual activity, and courageous living. From a scholarly perspective, Wink's book is discerning, because one cannot identify its genre or category. But this is germane to its power and character. I have no doubt that Wink (along with Ched Myers) has it exactly right. Jesus' way in the world is indeed dangerous. Such a discernment requires us to read differently and invites us to live differently. The easier case studies are Northern Ireland and the Republic of South Africa, where violence is so palpable. Wink lets us see each of us, upon our reflection, as an enduring study in and struggle for a new life of liberated faith. Wink's is indeed a fresh model for the interaction of study, faith, and life. It is no book for the faint-hearted!