Does the Bible Justify Violence? (Facets)

Renowned biblical scholar John J. Collins asks tough questions about the relationship between the portrayals of violence in the Bible and how they have been used throughout history. The Crusaders Puritans and abolitionists all used the Bible to justify their use of violence - and this process continues. In light of todays religious and political rhetoric how shall we interpret these ancient documents? How can we understand the biblical stories prophecies and songs in their historical contexts and avoid making self-serving and even violent use of them?