Includes bibliographical references (p. [205]-208) and indexes.

Society as God intended it to be -- What keeps going wrong? : evil that is more than personal -- What was Jesus about? -- What should the church be about? -- Nehemiah and the iron rule of power -- Jesus is Caesar : Paul's theology of power -- Building power around relationships -- Organizing for community action -- Biblical tactics for change avoided by today's church -- The spirituality of relational power.

Robert Linthicum offers an integrative, biblical study of the proper use of power. Based on an exploration of Scripture and his experience in community organizing and urban ministry, Linthicum's model of relational power provides strategies for changing individuals, communities, structures and systems. With insights from biblical mentors like Nehemiah and Paul as well as contemporary examples of Christians in action, this book offers hope for all who want to move toward the vision of the shalom community - God's intended best for communities and the world.--from publisher's description.