Playing God

Power corrupts—as we’ve seen time and time again. People too often abuse their power and play god in the lives of others. Shady politicians, corrupt executives and ego-filled media stars have made us suspicious of those who wield influence and authority. They too often breed injustice by participating in what the Bible calls idolatry.

Yet power is also the means by which we bring life, create possibilities, offer hope and make human flourishing possible. This is “playing god” as it is meant to be. If we are to do God’s work—fight injustice, bring peace, create beauty and allow the image of God to thrive in those around us—how are we to do these things if not by power?

With his trademark clear-headed analysis, Andy Crouch unpacks the dynamics of power that either can make human flourishing possible or can destroy the image of God in people. While the effects of power are often very evident, he uncovers why power is frequently hidden. He considers not just its personal side but the important ways power develops and resides in institutions.

Tables of Contents: 

Introduction

1. The Discovery of Power

Part 1: The Gift of Power: In the Beginning It Was Not So
Exploration: Genesis 1 – 2 – Original Power
2. Power Is a Gift
3. Idolatry
4. Injustice
A Note: Evangelism and Social Action
5. Icons
Exploration: John 2 – The Wedding Wine

Part 2: The Grip of Power: It Will Not Be So Among You
Exploration: Exodus 20 – The Ten Words
6. The Hiddenness of Power
7. Force, Coercion and Violence
8. The Lure of Privilege
Exploration: John 13 – Jesus, Power and Privilege

Part 3: Institutions and Creative Power: From Generation to Generation
9. The Gift of Institutions
10. Principalities, Powers and Broken Institutions
11. Becoming Trustees
Exploration: Philemon – The Peculiar Institution

Part 4: The End of Power: We Had to Celebrate
12. Disciplined Power
13. The Sabbath Ladder
14. The End of Power
Exploration: Luke 15 – Prodigal Power

Acknowledgments
Notes

This title has been compiled by the Rabbit Room Press. You can see the full collection we carry here.