Dancing Through Life: The Expression of Love in Action

The mere conceptualization of love is not enough to make a difference. As James reminds us, “the body without the spirit is dead,” and perceptions of love alone can be similarly lifeless. We must learn to express and practice love through our actions. Love can be embodied and encoded in our memories through various activities—whether dancing, singing, walking, running, or helping others. Love is action, not just a concept.

I recall leading a Bible study group where a participant posed a thought-provoking question: "How is it possible to dance when I am feeling low?" This question was somewhat expected, as that day's theme focused on dancing with God. My thesis was that we could dance, both bodily and spiritually, in any circumstance.

What is dancing? If we think of dance purely as an expression of joy through bodily movement, it may seem impossible for someone feeling down to dance at all. However, what if we reframe dancing as a holistic expression of our being, regardless of our emotional state?

In Korea, there is a mournful yet liberating dance called Hanpoori, traditionally performed by women. This dance serves as a powerful outlet for expressing "Han," which embodies feelings of bitterness, hurt, and oppression. Thus, Hanpoori transcends mere joy or happiness; it becomes a channel for releasing emotional pain and burdens. Through this process, women find moments of liberation and harness the energy needed for self-empowerment.

With this broader understanding, we can recognize that we can dance at all times, whether feeling elevated or downtrodden. Dancing, in its essence, reflects God's nature, as God embodies a divine dance within the intra-divine relationships of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Just as there exists a divine community engaged in this sacred dance, our own expressions in dance occur within a community, regardless of our emotional highs or lows.

New Book Project for This Summer

I am working on a new book project and have prepared a book description and table of contents. This book is designed to be both academic and practical, targeting an audience that includes scholars, clergy, and laypersons alike. It will comprise seven chapters, with each chapter approximately 7,000 words in length, totaling about 50,000 words for the entire book.

"Reading Parables through the Lens of Justice"

Reading Parables through the Lens of Justice

How Political Philosophy Sheds Light on the Parables of Jesus

 (T&T Clark, 2026 projected)

The cover is tentative

 Key Words: Parables, Jesus, Political philosophy, Justice, Contemporary relevance, Transformative potential

In the final stages of my nearly 80,000-word manuscript, I explore the vital theme of justice. The book examines various types of parables in their historical and literary contexts, highlighting their contemporary relevance. My goal is to illuminate the moral challenges within these stories and inspire dialogue about justice and its implications in today's society. The book covers ten types of justice, including distributive, restorative, and environmental justice, and addresses significant events like the Sewol Ferry tragedy and the Itaewon Halloween crush in Korea, alongside other global issues. I engage with a diverse range of thinkers, including classical East Asian philosophers such as Confucius, Laozi, and Mencius, as well as Western philosophers.

Book Description

This book presents a comprehensive examination of justice as illuminated through the parables of Jesus, structured into ten distinct chapters, each dedicated to a specific type of justice. These chapters facilitate an in-depth analysis of parables while contextualizing them within the framework of contemporary justice issues, including environmental, racial, and global justice.
    Employing rigorous historical-critical methods alongside metaphorical interpretations, this book invites readers to engage with the moral complexities that each parable elucidates. The format allows for a non-linear exploration, empowering readers to select chapters based on their individual interests, thereby encouraging a personalized academic inquiry. Each chapter culminates in thoughtfully crafted discussion questions that promote critical engagement and foster dialogue in educational settings, thereby enhancing the interpretive process.
    The work addresses urgent global concerns such as climate change, systemic racism, and the interconnectedness of poverty and social justice, asserting that these themes are not merely modern dilemmas but are deeply rooted in the parables' narratives. By situating the teachings of Jesus within their historical milieu of first-century Palestine, the author argues for the relevance of these ancient texts in grappling with the complexities of contemporary moral and social issues.
    Ultimately, this book serves as an invitation to reevaluate and reinterpret the parables of Jesus through the lens of justice, urging scholars, students, and general readers alike to consider the transformative potential of these narratives. It positions itself not merely as a study of theological literature but as a robust framework for understanding and advocating for justice in a multifaceted, global context. Through this analysis, the work contributes to the ongoing discourse surrounding justice, morality, and the imperative for societal equity.

[shorter version]
This book offers a comprehensive examination of justice as depicted in the parables of Jesus, structured into ten distinct chapters, each dedicated to a specific type of justice. By employing rigorous historical-critical methods and metaphorical interpretations, the book facilitates an in-depth analysis of moral complexities while contextualizing parables within contemporary issues such as environmental, racial, and global justice.
    Readers are empowered to explore the material non-linearly, selecting chapters based on individual interests. Each chapter includes discussion questions designed to promote critical engagement and dialogue in educational settings, thereby enhancing the interpretive process.
    Addressing pressing global concerns like climate change, systemic racism, and social justice, the author asserts that these themes resonate profoundly within the parables' narratives. By situating Jesus's teachings in their historical context of first-century Palestine, the work highlights their relevance in confronting contemporary moral dilemmas. This book invites readers to reevaluate the parables through the lens of justice, encouraging scholars and general readers alike to consider their transformative potential. It positions itself not merely as a study of theological literature but as a vital framework for understanding and advocating for equity in today's multifaceted global context.

 

   

In this book, I introduce readers to ten theories of political philosophy:

Classical liberalism, modern libertarianism, utilitarianism, communitarianism, egalitarianism, virtue theory, intersection of race, gender, class, and sexuality, postcolonial theories, environmentalism, and Marxist theory. 

The ten types of justice discussed in this book are as follows: Distributive, attributive, procedural, social, racial, restorative, compensatory, retributive, global, and environmental.

 

Working on

I am working on a unique book that combines my personal experiences with a critical engagement with scripture. This is my first time writing a book of this kind. It includes incisive reflections on mental health and examines scripture through the lens of mental health awareness. My goal is to assist those serious about mental health and to provide new insights into reading scripture from that perspective. 

Correct understanding of justification by Paul

I wrote this statement, correcting the traditional doctrine:
"Justification by the grace of God through the faithfulness of Jesus for all who share in his faith."
(Yung Suk Kim, based on Rom 3:21-26)

I wrote extensively about Paul's theology, featuring the threefold gospel, where three elements are essential: God's righteousness, Jesus's faithfulness, and Christian participation in the faith of Jesus. 

For example, see my recent publication, How to Read Paul (Fortress, 2021). 

The more I teach, the more I am convinced about this.

"At the Intersection of Hermeneutics and Homiletics"

I have some exciting news! I received the typeset pages for my edited volume, At the Intersection of Hermeneutics and Homiletics: Transgressive Readings for Transformational Preaching. (Pickwick, 2025, forthcoming). I will proofread them carefully. The book is approximately 290 pages long, and I expect it to be published in May or June. Thanks to all of my contributors for their support.

This edited volume promises to be remarkable due to its thought-provoking nature. In addition to introductory chapters written by homiletics professors, the ten biblical scholars examine the same stories—the book of Ruth and the encounter between the Canaanite woman and Jesus—each from a different perspective and context. Five contributors focus on the book of Ruth, while the other five analyze the New Testament text. They provide multiple layers of unconventional, incisive, and powerful interpretations that lead to transformational preaching. Biblical texts are not monolithic; they do not remain isolated or stagnant. Instead, they require innovative, transgressive perspectives that allow readers to engage with the texts in ever-evolving contexts. See all contributions.

 

  

 

 

editorial board

I am thrilled to be part of the editorial board of Perspectives in Religious Studies, a renowned journal with a rich history rooted in Baptist schools, and I am grateful for the Nominating Committee's invitation to join this esteemed group. My term begins in July 2025 and ends in 2029 (a 4-year term).

Reading Parables through the Lens of Justice

Securing a book contract is a significant challenge and a tedious process. However, I'm thrilled to share that today, the editorial board meeting of the publisher Bloomsbury (T&T Clark) unanimously approved my book proposal! Despite the hurdles of the peer review process, I remained committed to my vision and did my best. I'm grateful for my editor's trust and the valuable feedback from the anonymous reviewers. This will be my twentieth published book, marking an exciting milestone in my career.

Yung Suk Kim, Reading Parables through the Lens of Justice: How Political Philosophy Sheds Light on Jesus's Parables (T&T Clark, 2026 projected)

Tentative book cover

1 Cor 6:17 (ὁ δὲ κολλώμενος τῷ Κυρίῳ ἓν πνεῦμά ἐστιν)

1 Cor 6:17

ὁ δὲ κολλώμενος τῷ Κυρίῳ ἓν πνεῦμά ἐστιν.

"But anyone united to the Lord becomes one spirit with him" (NRSVue).

Paul argues that Christians should cleave to Jesus and his way of life, remembering his grace and faithfulness. Then, a Christian's spirit will be united with the spirit of Christ, which means there is one mind, one will, and one action that seeks God's will on earth: all people's deliverance from evil and their sanctification.

Otherwise, Paul does not seek a mere unity of the community like the hierarchical conception of a society based on homonoia (unity or concord) that does not advocate for the weak members. Rather, he envisions a new community of God based on Christly examples. This vision will be realized only when people share in the spirit of Jesus, following his way of life. 

Likewise, in 1 Cor 12:27 ("You are the body of Christ, and individually members of it"), his argument is not to establish a unified community based on an organism model but to emphasize Christ-ruled living and community. That is, Christ-followers must embody his spirit. The Corinthians are a Christic body, a Christ-ruled community. Individually and communally, they must follow the way of Jesus. The sense of the body Paul uses here is not an organism but a site of living (cf, 1 Cor 6:20: "For you were bought with a price; therefore, glorify God in your body").  

For more about this argument, you may want to read my recent book How to Read Paul: A Brief Introduction to His Theology, Writings, and World and other articles, including “Reclaiming Christ’s Body (soma christou): Embodiment of God’s Gospel in Paul’s Letters,” Interpretation 67.1 (2013): 20-29.

The above point began with my doctoral dissertation, which led to the publication of my debut book, Christ's Body in Corinth: The Politics of a Metaphor, in 2008.

BOOK REVIEW OF "HOW TO READ PAUL"

I just discovered my book review in RBL (Review of Biblical Literature).

"Kim has given instructors another tool to introduce Paul and his theology to introductory students. There is a lot packed into this book, and that means there is a lot that can be unpacked productively from it. Thanks to Kim for his effort to bring Paul and his theology alive for a new generation of students." ---James W. Aaegeson, in RBL Feb 2025

Whose Faith? (Gal 2:20)

I am now more convinced than ever that when Paul refers to the faithfulness of Christ Jesus in Galatians 2:20, he is emphasizing his relationship with Jesus. The traditional translation often supports the doctrine of justification by faith, as seen in the NIV: "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." However, Paul's main point is to highlight that the one living in him is not himself, but Christ. Therefore, he must live by Christ's faithfulness.

For example, the NRSVue says, "And it is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." 

See also the CEB and NET, which all follow the subjective genitive transition: "by the faithfulness of God's Son" and "because of the faithfulness of the Son of God."

"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. And the life that I now live in my body, I live by faith, indeed, by the faithfulness of God’s Son, who loved me and gave himself for me." (Gal 2:20, CEB)

"I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So the life I now live in the body, I live because of the faithfulness of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Gal 2:20, NET)

I hope that more people will understand what Paul means by faith in Galatians 2:20. His point isn't about his own faith in Jesus, as he believes he no longer exists, at least theologically. Instead, he refers to the faith of Jesus, which serves as the driving force for his new life. 

For more about my views of Paul, read my latest book on Paul: How to Read Paul. Other Pauline verses about the genitive case of Pistis Christou are Rom 3:21-22, 3:26, Gal 2:16, and Phil 3:9. 

See also related posts:

A brief analysis of Gal 2:20

Pistis Christou Texts 

A Bone of Contention

Sanders's book review

Pistis Christou video.

Truth Telling about the Cross

Truth telling is essential to my vocation. I don’t claim to know everything, but I dare to speak the truth based on my understanding. I convey my scholarly insights through speaking, writing, and engaging with others. One topic I am particularly passionate about is the discussion surrounding the cross of Jesus.

Confusion about the Cross: True Meaning of the Good News

"The Cross of Christ in African American Christian Religious Experience"

 

I want to bring your attention to a book by one of my colleagues, Dr. Demetrius K. Williams: The Cross of Christ in African American Christian Religious Experience: Piety, Politics, and Protest (Lexington Books, 2023).

I reviewed his book, which will be published in the April 2025 issue of Interpretation: A Journal of Bible and Theology (79.1). My understanding of African American religious experience has become deeper now because of this provocative, transformative, deeply spiritual, and insightful book. Simply put, it is a soulful book.

Dr. Williams engaged in an extensive discussion about his book in an interview with the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship.

"Parables and Justice": My Ongoing Book Project

I received peer reviewers' comments through my publisher. Of course, I don't know who they are other than they know me. Their critical feedback is indeed gratifying. There are things I missed and will improve because of their review. There are also things they love and affirm in my book. Book writing is not a solitary task. I appreciate all of them.

I am truly uplifted by the positive feedback I received on my book proposal. All four readers highlighted its strengths. The quotes below are paraphrases of the original words.

Reader 1 stated, “The book presents an interdisciplinary and unifying question that is accessible to lay readers while acknowledging the social, political, and ethical implications of Jesus's teachings.”

Reader 2 noted, “The book's relevance to students who study and interpret the parables of Jesus from a justice perspective is significant.” I am particularly encouraged to emphasize the importance of the Greek translation (e.g., Matthew 20:15) in the study of these parables.

Reader 3 commented, “The use of comparative cross-cultural materials, such as the Dao De Jing, is commendable.” Based on this feedback, I plan to include Confucianism in the discussion by drawing on the Analects, as they contain relevant insights concerning justice.

Reader 4 remarked, “The book clearly and intelligently introduces readers to Jesus’ parables, makes a strong case for the theme of justice concerning them, and persuasively advocates for the use of political philosophy in biblical interpretation.”

This feedback has been incredibly encouraging as I continue to refine my work.

Analects 13:23

君子和而不同。小人同而不和。

"The noble person seeks harmony while remaining distinct from others. In contrast, the small person desires uniformity without achieving true harmony." (Analects 13:23, trans. by Yung Suk Kim)

My commentary:
The wise individual pursues harmony or coexistence while remaining unique. Such a person embraces diversity while maintaining authenticity and striving for a greater community. On the other hand, the petty individual conforms to the majority without considering the importance of achieving deeper harmony.

Photo courtesy of Inhee Lee 2025

Analects 13:25

[13-25] 子曰。君子易事而難說也。說之不以道、不說也。及其使人也、器之。小人難事而易說也。說之雖不以道、說也。及其使人也、求備焉。

Analects 13:25: The Master said: "A noble person is easy to work for but difficult to satisfy. If you try to win their approval through questionable methods, they will not be pleased. When they assign tasks to others, they do so according to each person's abilities. In contrast, an inferior person is difficult to work for but easy to please. Even if you resort to deceitful tactics to make them happy, they will still be satisfied. When hiring others, they tend to exploit their workers to the fullest extent possible" (trans. by Yung Suk Kim). 

Pep Talk about Human Transformation and Mental Health

A sustainable transformation must involve both human and social transformation. We should not focus on either one or the other. Both are fundamental to our daily lives and maintaining our overall health. Any discussion of transformation must begin with questions about human transformation. I initially recorded my talk on my phone. Then, I combined the audio file with photos and made a video file through an app. The same episode can also be found on Spotify.

2024 Ellison-Jones Convocation

I remember speaking at the faculty panel during the annual 2024 Ellison-Jones Convocation. I felt energized as I discussed the implications of biblical studies for politics. We must approach our studies with honesty and transparency, and there are no sacred topics that we should avoid or shy away from.

My talk is entitled “The Danger of a Singular Order: Joshua’s Conquest Narrative of Canaan, Jesus’s Dealing with a Canaanite Woman, and Christian Nationalists’ Reading of the Bible.” A briefer title for publication is "The Danger of a Singular Order: Engaging with Some Controversial Texts."

One thing significantly lacking in libertarian hermeneutics and homiletics is self-criticism.
Yes, we need self-knowledge that we are precious and weak (frail).
Yes, we need social change. We can be critical of others and other things.
But we need more than anything; that is self-criticism, which is not the same as criticizing the self.
Self-criticism is a recognition that we all need continual awakening. We all need deconstruction.

Toward that goal, we must study and read various things, including books, society, and the self.

• The danger of a singular order
• Oppressors and the oppressed are everywhere: external and internal
• True liberation from everything and everywhere
• God’s effectiveness to those who change

Knowledge and Humility: A Peek into Thoughts of Jesus and Classical Philosophers

Photo courtesy of Jonghoon Jeong

Jesus exemplifies humility by acknowledging that he does not know everything. On three occasions, he demonstrates this humility and recognition of his limitations. For instance, Jesus states that he does not know about the time of the end of the world (Mark 13:32); only God knows. Additionally, when a man addresses him as "Good Teacher," Jesus replies, "Why do you call me good? No one is good except for God alone" (Mark 10:18). He also shares a parable called The Seed Growing Secretly, emphasizing that the work of God is beyond human control (Mark 4:26-29). This suggests that there are things that only God can manage, while there are other things within human capability. Overall, the Gospel of Mark showcases the essential qualities of Jesus's humanity.

Classical philosophers also recognize human limitations. Socrates believes that knowledge is inherently limited. Confucius states, "If you know something, you know it. But if you don't know something, you don't know it" (Analects 2:13). Laozi further adds, "Knowing not to know is the best. Pretending to know when you do not is the worst disease" (Dao De Jing 71). He even warns against biases with the phrase, "Taste without taste." This emphasizes the importance of an open mind approach.

The mindset of acknowledging "I don't know" is fundamental to our identity and crucial for living a healthy life. Knowledge is not static; it evolves continuously over time. Einstein notes: "Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the entire world" (quoted in p. 96 of Maggie Jackson's book, *Uncertain*).

Assignments for Working Preacher

Photo courtesy of Working Preacher

Again, I received an invitation to write for Working Preacher for April and May 2026 commentaries (4 pieces) on four texts in John's Gospel. Previously, I wrote on Paul's letters, Matthew, Acts, and 1 Peter (12 commentaries for this site). I was told that in the past 12 months, Working Preacher garnered more than six million visits from 200 countries. I love this kind of assignment because it is short yet deeply engaging. 

-4/2/2026: Maunday Thursday (John 13:1-17, 31b-35)
-4/3/2026: Good Friday (John 18:1-19:42)
-4/12/2026: Second Sunday of Easter (John 20:19-31)
-5/10/2026: Sixth Sunday of Easter (John 14:15-21)

Textual Criticism Matters: In the Case of John 3:18

 If you ever wonder about Christology in John's Gospel, you must first tackle John 1:18. 

Feeling Alive

I feel truly alive when I speak, teach, or preach. In these moments, I am confident and focused on the ideas I want to share, and I never hesitate to embrace these opportunities. Afterward, I take time to reflect on my experiences and continuously work on self-improvement. I study diligently and ask questions. I think deeply and reconsider my thoughts. My priority is to be sensible toward myself first. I believe that my journey of learning and engagement will continue to unfold in this way.

Lecturing in Seoul, 2024

Human Transformation

Photo credit to NASA

At the heart of human transformation lies the concept of "metanoia," which means a change of mind. In the Gospel of Mark, this change represents a radical shift toward ways of thinking and behaving based on God. Mark 1:14 states: "The time is fulfilled, and the reign of God has come near; change your mind and believe in the good news [of God]." This indicates that God's appointed time (kairos) cannot be fully realized in the present in people's lives without metanoia. The same applies to the reign of God. The task is to explore and discern what metanoia entails: what needs to change? What aspects of God's ways must be pursued? I addressed this issue in two of my books.

 

Resurrecting Jesus: 

The Renewal of New Testament Theology

A Transformative Reading of the Bible:

Explorations of Holistic Human Transformation

Bible Study at a local church: Justice and the Parables

I facilitated an engaging adult Bible Study session tonight at a local UMC church in my neighborhood. The pastor informed me that she sought out biblical scholars in Richmond and I was selected along with two others. To my surprise, I also discovered that Rhiannon Graybill is featured on the flyer and will lead next week's session.

Last night, after a Bible study session at a local church, a young woman in her early twenties approached me to discuss the study of Greek. She mentioned her interest in pursuing seminary studies, having majored in religion during her college years. Additionally, she showed a strong interest in the New Testament. I shared with her the "languages" page from my blog and provided other resources. Her enthusiasm was evident, and I truly believe she will make valuable contributions to the understanding of the Bible and its impact on society. 

"Racial Identity Hermeneutics"

I received a copy of this book, which contains my chapter, "Racial Identity Hermeneutics." In it, I explored the notions and strategies for reading scripture through the complexities of race, politics, and culture.

 

Implications of Adversity

At the Jongmyo in Seoul, Korea (2024)

Uncertainty arises from various precarious life situations. No one is exempt because life is inherently unpredictable. Everyone experiences different levels of uncertainty or anxiety, and some individuals have a long history of adversity. The key question is how each person responds to these challenges. According to the study, if managed properly, these moments of uncertainty can serve as opportunities for awakening and steady progress. "Children with autonomy-supportive caregivers tend to be more successful, motivated learners who experience high well-being" (Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure, 187). However, we cannot overlook the negative impact it can have on our souls, particularly for minors or vulnerable individuals. When this happens, a significant healing process is necessary, which may not be achieved in a single effort.

Parables of Jesus

I love Jesus's parables because they provide alarming insights into how to live justly, individually, and communally. There are 27 parable videos on my channel. 

New Year Hope

Uncertainty as a Gift

–Yung Suk Kim

I perceive an amazing azure sky

with glistening dazzling trees coated in snow.

I find hope amid uncertainty.

Embrace uncertainty as a cognitive tool for rethinking

and as a time and space for awakening and progress.

Don't stick to what you already know.

In effect, you think you know something.

But the reality is bigger than you.

Wonder about the mystery and miracle of life.

*Meaning of Education and Uncertainty

new year poem "uncertainty"

Uncertainty

–Yung Suk Kim

Human life is filled with uncertainty.
We all are born with crying — the first acknowledgment that we are nothing.
We cry for help.
By crying our soul starts off on our tortuous journey.

We smile, seeing the scary world not so much as a threat but a malleable one.
But soon our comfort zone evaporates since things are not going how we wish.
We lament and seek justice.

In lament, we falter to the ground, hard breathing and seeing no hope in ourselves.
We are listless!
But there is insuperable power surrounding us and the world: the irresistible grace of God.

In lingering uncertainty, I am not crushed.
I am I.
I find regeneration through the power of uncertainty.
Feeling on the edge, I sense a greater power than me.

I feel safe sailing not because there are no storms or tempests
but because I know there is a way of grace beyond me.
I am reborn with turbulence.
I move with uncertainty, through which I am alerted and awakened, and find the true light for a path forward.