Power has a God-given role in human relationships and institutions, but it can lead to abuse when used in unhealthy ways. Speaking into current #MeToo and #ChurchToo conversations, this book shows that the body of Christ desperately needs to understand the forms power takes, how it is abused, and how to respond to abuses of power.
Although many Christians want to prevent abuse in their churches and organizations, they lack a deep and clear-eyed understanding of how power actually works. Internationally recognized psychologist Diane Langberg offers a clinical and theological framework for understanding how power operates, the effects of the abuse of power, and how power can be redeemed and restored to its proper God-given place in relationships and institutions. This book not only helps Christian leaders identify and resist abusive systems but also shows how they can use power to protect the vulnerable in their midst.
Contents
Prelude
Part 1: Power Defined
1. The Source and Purpose of Power
2. Vulnerability and Power
3. The Role of Deception in the Abuse of Power
4. The Power of Culture and the Influence of Words
Part 2: Power Abused
5. Understanding Abuse of Power
6. Power in Human Systems
7. Power between Men and Women
8. The Intersection of Race and Power
9. Power Abused in the Church
10. Christendom Seduced by Power
Part 3: Power Redeemed
11. Redemptive Power and the Person of Christ
12. Healing Power and the Body of Christ
Postlude
Redeeming Power: Understanding Authority and Abuse in the Church is in the following collections:
