Allen O'Brien's Reviews > The Powers That Be: Theology for a New Millennium

Insightful and powerful, even if some might disagree with his theological conclusions.

A previous review spoke highly of Wink's book, with the caveat that the reviewer wasn't impressed with certain aspects of Wink's theology. I'd agree. Even though I disagree with Wink's uderstanding of the atonement and God's soveriegnty, I recognize that there is something powerful and important coming across in this work. His exploration of the "Powers" behind the plethora of the world's systems and casting these in light of ancient understandings of angels provides a powerful context for Christian prayer and interaction with these "Powers."

Perhaps his greatest contribution in this book is to the concept of Christian, non-violent action. Many of the more popular speakers and authors (like Claiborne, Bell, and others) seem to draw a great deal from what he writes. Wether you agree with his conclusions or not, I believe his is an important piece in the developing scene of popular theology today.