Brian Neil Peterson Libri

Thomas Sankara: A Revolutionary in Cold War Africa offers the first complete biography in English of the dynamic revolutionary leader from Burkina Faso, Thomas Sankara. Coming to power in 1983, Sankara set his sights on combating social injustice, poverty, and corruption in his country, fighting for women's rights, direct forms of democracy, economic sovereignty, and environmental justice. Drawing on government archival sources and over a hundred interviews with Sankara's family members, friends, and closest revolutionary colleagues, Brian J. Peterson details Sankara's political career and rise to power, as well as his assassination at age 37 in 1987, in a plot led by his close friend Blaise Compaoré. Thomas Sankara: A Revolutionary in Cold War Africa offers a unique, critical appraisal of Sankara and explores why he generated such enthusiasm and hope in Burkina Faso and beyond, why he was such a polarizing figure, how his rivals seized power from him, and why T-shirts sporting his image still appear on the streets today.

Focusing on the biblical account of Sodom in Genesis 19, this book argues for its significant role in shaping a God-ordained sexual ethic. It counters the trend of downplaying this chapter in contemporary discussions about same-sex relationships, emphasizing its relevance as part of the Torah. By exploring the implications of this narrative for both ancient Israel and the modern Church, the author seeks to provide a deeper understanding of sexual ethics rooted in scripture.

The interpretive debate surrounding Ecclesiastes centers on whether its author is a pessimist or an optimist. Brian Neil Peterson posits that Qoheleth's message conveys hope rather than despair, offering a perspective that acknowledges life's brokenness while emphasizing resilience and optimism in a fallen world.

Focusing on the analysis of motif and characterization within the Deuteronomistic History, the author critically examines scholarly presuppositions. This work seeks to identify a potential figure who had both the motive and opportunity to create a proto-narrative that encompasses key elements from the books of Joshua, Judges, Samuel, and 1 Kings, offering a fresh perspective on the historical and literary context of these texts.

The book presents a compelling argument that Genesis should be viewed as legal instruction for Israel rather than just a historical account. Peterson suggests that the narratives within Genesis function as case law, illustrating key laws from the Pentateuch in practical scenarios. By analyzing Genesis through this legal lens, the author's rhetorical strategies and the significance of specific narratives are revealed, offering a deeper understanding of its role in the Torah.

Exploring the evolving landscape of sexual ethics since the 1960s, this book addresses the challenges faced by Evangelicals and conservative Christians in today's culture. It seeks to provide guidance on responding to significant societal changes and examines biblical perspectives on these issues. Additionally, it offers insights for believers on navigating family life amidst the complexities of the twenty-first century.