The Sex Trade, Evil, and Christian Theology

As a scholar and an activist, Glenn Harden seeks a theology of hope that can sustain opposition to evil. Looking into the face of evil without blinking, he uses the sex trade as an example of how horrendous evil can be. But he also uncovers stories of radical healing which are problematic for those who deny either God or the resurrection. This book is for those people of faith who walk in dark places and need deeper theological sustenance to sustain their journey. ""By using the contemporary sex trade as a lens through which to understand the demeaning nature of evil, Harden attends to the deeply human implications of various assumptions and arguments. A concise, thought-provoking, and important book."" --Christine D. Pohl, Professor of Social Ethics, Asbury Theological Seminary ""Harden's work provides fresh insights into the ongoing debate on the problem of evil. Using the sex trade as an example of this problem, he delineates practical ways in which relevant applications of the Gospel can help alleviate human suffering. Glenn's work provides invaluable insights to thinkers interested in new ways of confronting the problem of evil."" --Joseph B. Onyango Okello, Associate Professor of Philosophy of Religion and Ethics, Asbury Theological Seminary ""The title alone captures the heart and importance of this book. Harden has thoughtfully parsed the major arguments and concerns around helping women exploited in prostitution. Glenn not only helps the Christian understand where helping women in prostitution falls into the biblical narrative but, maybe for the first time, how our own narratives can be enriched when we pause to think differently of the prostitute."" --Bonnie J. Gatchell, Pastor & Director, Route One Ministry, Emmanuel Gospel Center, Boston, MA ""[Harden] explores both the evil nature of the trade and insightfully considers opposing viewpoints of those who deny the evil and prefer to legalize prostitution. Ignoring the role of both God and evil does little to further the help and healing of men, women, and children who are trapped and drowning in despair around the world. May this book draw you closer to the One who rescues, and compel you to participate in loving men, women, and children outside your comfort zone."" --Dawn Herzog Jewell, Author, Escaping the Devil's Bedroom: Sex-Trafficking, Global Prostitution and the Gospel's Transforming Power (Monarch, 2008) Currently a doctoral student of political science at the University of Kentucky, Glenn M. Harden founded ministries to work with victims and survivors of the sex trade in the Dominican Republic where he lived for twelve years. He now lives with his wife and rescued dogs in Wilmore, Kentucky. He is an oblate of St. Brigid's of Kildare Methodist-Benedictine monastery.