This is a study of the concept of power and how it may be used to heal and benefit both the church and society. Power is a pivotal concept with myriad associations and definitions, a concept that includes a spectrum of notions from the traditional to the radical. The goal of this book is to explore a range of theories and practices of power and to consider how its exercise might be renewed and released for the benefit of both church and society. As well as showing that the church has much to learn through interaction with society, the authors also argue that the church should not be afraid to retrieve from its own tradition, insights into the nature and practice of powers that can contribute distinctively to the world's healing. Drawing on renewed explorations of biblical imagery and other doctrines, the authors look beyond traditional notions of power as domination and polarization. They believe that the church needs to stand against all forms of power that diminish others and instead nurture distinctive and vital notions of power as love. "The Changing Society and the Churches" series is designed to present theologically coherent arguments in a way that engages with secular issues. The series editors are Al McFadyen and Peter Sedgwick of the Church of England Board of Social Responsibility.