Several books have been recently published that explore the
dangers inherent in ministries that target the poor and underserved segments of
the population. Toxic Charity shows
how well intentioned ministry can actually be detrimental in the long run, particularly
if that ministry fails to address the causes that precipitated the individual’s
dependence upon our charity. When I requested the book, The Spiritual Danger of Doing Good, I thought would be reading along
the same lines.
Peter Greer offers a great balance to the growing list of
titles about people helping people. Unlike Toxic
Charity, Greer does not deal with how our helping people can hurt those who
are helped; rather he shows how helping people can hurt the people who are the
helpers. The Spiritual Danger of Doing
Good recounts the dangers that may easily overtake the leaders involved in
ministry. Chapters cover topics like “the Spiritual Danger of Giving Leftovers
to Loved Ones” (especially convicting), “The Spiritual Danger of Justifying
Minor Moral Lapses for a Good Cause” and “The Spiritual Danger of Thinking You’re
the Superhero in Your Story,” to name a few.
When you read the chapter titles, it is easy to think of
certain individuals in the public spotlight who have become the poster child
for the dangers covered in the chapters. Greer, however, avoids the easy
targets and shows how all of these dangers can trip up any of us. He takes a
shot at all of us with words like, “Nothing is wrong in taking pleasure in your
work… Work is a gift. But finding your identity in your work is a cheap substitute
for finding your worth in Jesus Christ. And I’d forgotten my identity as a Christian
leader was subordinate to my calling
as a follower of Him (italics
original).”
My wife finished The
Spiritual Danger of Doing Good before I did. Her comment was that “every
man in ministry should be required to read this.” I finished the book. I
concur.
Disclosure of Material
Connection:
I received this book free from Library Thing as part of their Early Review
Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have
expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade
Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements
and Testimonials in Advertising
