Brian Zahnd

Brian Zahnd is the founder and lead pastor of Word of Life Church in St. Joseph, Missouri, and a pastor-theologian known for his rich engagement with the Christian tradition. He has authored numerous books, including Sinners in the Hands of a Loving God, A Farewell to Mars, When Everything’s on Fire, and The Wood Between the Worlds. His work explores the beauty of the gospel, the nature of God, forgiveness, peace, and the cruciform shape of Christian discipleship.

Brian’s own journey has led him toward a deeper vision of Jesus as Prince of Peace, challenging Christianity shaped by power and violence and calling Christians to rediscover the gospel as a way of life shaped by Jesus’ teachings and self-giving love.