Good Neighbor, Bad Citizen: Reflections on the Core Social Conflict Revealed by Jesus Christ’s Way of the Cross

by Domenic C. Scarcella

Jesus Christ preaches and models what it means to be a good neighbor. He is also frequently considered a bad citizen. There is no escaping this tension. Being a good neighbor requires a different mindset and value system than being a good citizen. They often conflict.

Explore this tension and conflict by following the 14 traditional Stations of the Cross – and a bonus 15th station – with Jesus and the people He encounters along the way.

Meditate on the historical context and what it means today, bolstered by references to events described in the four Gospels of the Bible.

And wrestle with the resolution encouraged by Be a good neighbor, even if it means you have to be a bad citizen.

63 pages, Paperback

Published October 15, 2023

Reviews

[Joseph Macolino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clear, Concise, and Thoughtful

The author's writing was straight and to the point, without the usual fluff that tends to accompany these sorts of books. As a result, it makes for a light and easy read while still remaining full of substance. These ideas are easy to grasp and the included biblical references and context paints a clear picture. Christians are called to worship Christ alone, and anyone seeking to realize such a lofty goal ought to pick up a copy of this and spend some time in prayer. And then you must ask yourself: am I being a good neighbor, or a good citizen?

[Roben Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

While it goes through the stations it doesn’t address how Jesse was a “good neighbor” or “bad citizen” very much. There are some key examples, but I would have expected more, especially for this to be something that someone could read and utilize in discussions.

[Jeff Macolino · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful and very digestible read that reveals some incredibly intelligent insights.

[Matt Brady · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book helped me reflect on my purpose as a Christian. I hope it will help other Christians (especially my mom and church leaders) better understand why I no longer vote, pledge allegiance, or celebrate government holidays. This book was also a great addition to my observance of Holy Week.