Fingerprints of Fire, Footprints of Peace: A Spiritual Manifesto from a Jesus Perspective

by Noel Moules

In this vibrant and radical book, Noel Moules offers a compelling vision of
identity, community, life and faith from a Jesus perspective. By sketching a
bold and colourful manifesto that teems with graciously passionate
provocation, the author explores creativity, wisdom, spiritual growth, truth,
ecology, values, justice, faith-dialogue and activism, all wrapped in the thrilling
encompassing vision of shalom.

Presenting a rooted and rugged spirituality that is accessible to all readers,
this book asks big questions and dares to offer answers that pulsate with
beauty, energy and grace. It is a humble invitation to join a thrilling
conversation and to continue to explore together on the journey into the
wonderful mystery of life.

I predict that this book will become an essential handbook for spiritual
renewal and transformative action … Noel gives us hope just when we need it
most. Stuart Masters – Woodbrooke Quaker Study Centre UK
Work for peace, Noel tells us, is about getting our hands dirty, paying a price,
changing the world in the here and now. Pat Gaffney – General Secretary of
Pax Christi UK, Nobel Peace Prize nominee 2005
,

254 pages, Paperback

First published September 16, 2012

Reviews

[Peter Haslehurst · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm enjoying this book immensely. Every sentence breathes Noel's winsome personality and unique vision of the Christian life. It takes me right back to the heady days of 2003/4 when I first did the Workshop course.

[Darnell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recommend it if your interested in exploring how the biblical theme of shalom is integrated into all of faith and life with Jesus. Its an inspiring book.

[Mark Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a former Christian, and now a humanist/atheist, I approached Noel's book as a letter from a dear friend.
Noel is charismatic, thoughtful, full of passion for his Jesus and above all a faithful and considerate human being. All of these characteristics leap out of the text along with his deep and intimate knowledge of the biblical text. His words are not just for believers, they will interest and move anyone who wants the world to be a better place.
I suspect that his vision of biblical justice and compassion encapsulated in the word 'shalom', could do much to help those within the various structures and strands of Christianity to adjust their priorities and understanding, making their churches more attractive and relevant to the 21st century. Indeed, embracing Noel's message would, I suggest, make their own communities resonate more strongly with people who seek truth and justice within other faiths and those, like me, with no faith at all.
Noel demonstrates clearly that it is quite possible to be a disciple of the biblical Jesus without the baggage of dogmatic and restrictive theology, or a judgemental and abrasive relationship with those who think differently.
The whole book shouts inclusiveness and excitement about what could be (and Noel truly believes will be), yet with practical and challenging ideas about how that can be worked towards now, in the real world. Noel is not a 'heaven tomorrow' Christian, but a true activist (and perhaps a spiritual anarchist!) who believes that action now is needed.
If you care about our world, for it's people or for the natural environment, then please read this book. If you are a Christian, then this Humanist begs you to read it and embrace the non-judgemental and attractive interpretation of the ancient writings that Noel illuminates and shares with such passion. If you are someone who has labelled all Christians with the 'irrelevant or exclusive' badge, then Noel may convince you that not all are obsessed with human sexuality or nuance of theology.
I love the man for his integrity, and I love this book, it contains words of wisdom from an experienced traveller.

[Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

It has taken me ages to read this book - it has been an intense experience, challenging, unsettling, encouraging.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

Noel Moules' new book is a provocative, uncompromising, insightful look at the life and teaching of Jesus.

Citing the Hebrew and Christian scriptures, Moules reveals Jesus, an itinerant rabbi whose goal was nothing less than world transformation: the kingdom of heaven made tangible on the earth. Read more

[Sean · Rating 4 out of 5]

A surprising read. Although I disagree with the universalist argument I found much that I agreed with in this book. HIgh points include the portrayal of passive resistance as a viable alternative to violent resistance. Lots of really good illustrations and socio-cultural references which are great for sermons. A book I could happily recommend to others for its challenge, insight and application. I am sure to read the book again.

[Dick Davies · Rating 5 out of 5]

Radical, worrying (mostly in a good way), yet challenging.
Noel has some way out views - I'm not so comfortable with his universalism, yet I find the challenge of reading this book - and letting it read me, a very good one.

[Connie Bradbury-caiceros · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written- Noel translates the meaning of life into simple, clear and inspirational words. Shalom