Robert
Lupton opened an important line of conversation with his book Toxic
Charity. The longtime urban minister taught churches to move
beyond immediate relief to working on long term solutions to the root
causes of poverty. In fact, he says, “Giving to those in need what
they could be gaining from their own initiative may well be the
kindest way to destroy people.”
His
second book on the topic, Charity
Detox, offers results-oriented, practical strategies. I recommend
both books to all Christians, especially those involved in charitable
ministries.
I also
recommend Theirs
is the Kingdom: Celebrating the Gospel in Urban America. This is
a collection of short stories of the people Lupton met while he lived
in the impoverished Atlanta neighborhood where he ministered. Stories
of heartbreak and hope reveal Lupton's heart and serve as a
backdrop for his other books. It is inspirational for folks who work
with the urban poor as scripture passages and parables come to life.
The other two books demonstrate the how. Theirs
is the Kingdom reminds us
of the why. It is a quick and worthwhile read.
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