Playing God

Midwest Publishing Association Award of Excellence

Outreach Magazine Resource of the Year

ForeWord Book of the Year Award Honorable Mention

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.

Throughout Crouch offers fresh insights from key biblical passages, demonstrating how Scripture calls us to discipline our power. Wielding power need not distort us or others, but instead can be stewarded well.

An essential book for all who would influence their world for the good.

1. Introduction
2. Chapter 1: The Discovery of Power
3. Part 1: The Gift of Power: In the Beginning It Was Not So
4. Chapter 2: Power Is a Gift
5. Chapter 3: Idolatry
6. Chapter 4: Injustice
7. Chapter 5: Icons
8. Exploration: John 2: The Wedding Wine
9. Part 2: The Grip of Power: It Will Not Be So Among You Exploration: Exodus 20: The Ten Words
10. Chapter 6: The Hiddenness of Power
11. Chapter 7: Force, Coercion and Violence
12. Chapter 8: The Lure of Privilege
13. Exploration: John 13: Jesus, Power and Privilege
14. Part 3: Institutions and Creative Power: From Generation to Generation Chapter 9: The Gift of Intitutions
15. Chapter 10: Principalities, Powers and Broken Institutions
16. Chapter 11: Becoming Trustees
17. Exploration: Philemon: The Peculiar Institutions
18. Part 4: The End of Power: We Had to Celebrate Chapter 12: Disciplined Power
19. Chapter 13: The Sabbath Ladder
20. Chapter 14: The End of Power
21. Exploration: Luke 15: Prodigal Power