Looking Shame in the Eye: A Path to Understanding, Grace and Freedom

Shame is a powerful emotion that can hold us back from reaching out to others and experiencing the freedom that comes from God. This book helps Christians understand shame and how to break free from its grip through the gospel. It provides practical examples and applications to help Christians introduce shame thinking into their own lives and the lives of those they disciple and evangelize.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 17 October 2019
Publisher: Inter-Varsity Press

Shame, humiliation, and stigma permeate our society, with online shaming serving as a stark reminder of its power. It encompasses the crisis of self-worth, the weight of judgment, and the desire for freedom. While people may become less receptive to gospel messages focused on guilt, morality, and sin, it is crucial to communicate in their language—the language of shame. This book aims to help Christians integrate shame thinking into their own lives and the lives of those they disciple and evangelize. It demonstrates how God's freedom can release individuals from the debilitating grip of shame.

Introduction: Reputation Ruined

Shame manifests in various ways, including identity, perception, judgment, and its horizontal nature. Genesis provides a case study, highlighting the destructive impact of shame on individuals. Shame is a helpful emotion but can also be profoundly destructive. It relates to identity, as individuals struggle with their sense of self-worth and worthlessness. In the digital age, social media platforms like Instagram exacerbate shame by fostering comparison and judgment.

Shame and the Cross: Flipping the Script

Jesus Christ dealt with shame in a remarkable way. He exposed it, turning it upside down and putting it to shame. By embracing his shame on the cross, Jesus demonstrated the ultimate victory over shame. This means that we can also overcome shame by accepting our imperfections and embracing the grace and forgiveness of God.

Disposing of the Shameless Body

Cultural perceptions of shame often lead individuals to engage in behaviors such as hiding, distancing, and laughter as a means of coping. However, these strategies only perpetuate shame and hinder healing. Instead, we need to address the root causes of shame and work towards disposing of the shameless body. This involves embracing vulnerability, seeking support, and practicing self-compassion.

A New Life: The Role of the Church

The church plays a vital role in creating a brand-new social community for the shamed. It provides a safe space where individuals can be accepted, loved, and embraced without judgment. The church can offer support, counseling, and resources to help individuals overcome shame and rebuild their self-esteem.

Putting Our House in Order Before Helping Others

Before we can effectively help others who are trapped in the grip of shame, we must first address our own issues. This involves examining our own shame, forgiving ourselves, and working on our self-esteem. It also means being aware of our own biases and prejudices and working towards overcoming them.

Reaching Out to the Shamed: Practical Application

Reaching out to the shamed requires empathy, compassion, and patience. It involves listening actively, validating their experiences, and offering support without judgment. We can engage in outreach programs, volunteer at local organizations, and participate in community events that bring people together.

Conclusion: Embracing Shame and Finding Freedom

Shame is a universal experience that affects individuals from all walks of life. However, by embracing shame and seeking the freedom that comes through Christ, we can overcome its grip and help others find healing. The church plays a crucial role in creating a supportive and inclusive community for the shamed. By speaking their language and offering practical support, we can break free from the chains of shame and help others do the same.

Weight: 258g
Dimension: 138 x 216 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781783599202