Are Christians deluding themselves when they speak of freedom and peace? Is such language credible on their lips? The record is hardly impressive, for Christian oppression begins in the New Testament. Imperious commands are backed up by specious promises and a dislike of other people. Often the tone is vindictive. Such authority demands critical examination. This book sheds new light on the pursuit of power in Paul and Mark and asks how that power is used. Paul's letters provide the starting point, because his self-assertion is explicit. He cannot resist manipulating his audience. He resorts to devious strategies of control.