Power with Purpose
In Power with Purpose, David R. Dunham and Krista Dunham thoughtfully explore God’s design for power dynamics in marriage, offering a biblically grounded and pastorally sensitive perspective. The book challenges common assumptions about authority in marriage and calls couples to reimagine power as a means of love, service, and mutual flourishing.
This book considers relational power in marriage, which refers to the ability to influence, guide, or affect another person. For Christians, we believe that this power (authority) is given by God for the glory of God and the good of others.
More Than Headship and Submission
Marriage is more than headship and submission. The reality is that both husbands and wives have their own unique types of power that are meant to be used for the flourishing of the other. The book demonstrates how, through influence, there can be a mutual equality of impact rooted in the biblical principle of unity in marriage. This brings balance to power dynamics while still leaving room for sacrificial love toward one another.
I was reminded of my own sinful tendency to use power in relationships for personal gain. As a husband and father, the goal is to love sacrificially like Jesus. One example in the book that especially moved me was the examination of Priscilla and Aquila, who displayed mutual equality of impact in their ministry.
Authority and Influence
The book concludes by exploring how power can be applied in marriage through collaboration, companionship, and consideration. Two appendixes are particularly helpful, addressing the misuse of power in marriages and providing guidance for determining whether one is in an abusive marriage.
Power with Purpose is a timely and needed contribution to conversations about marriage, authority, and influence for Christians. It will serve your marriage as you learn Christlike love and humility.
I received a media copy of Power with Purpose (Amazon, 5% off your entire purchase at Westminster Bookstore with code DIVEINDIGDEEP) and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.