BOOK REVIEW: Is this Robert Morris’ version of “deliverance theology”?

Robert Morris, senior pastor of one of the largest churches in America, has waded into the subject of “deliverance theology” with his latest book, “Truly Free” (published by W Publishing Group).

Charismatics in the church will likely think he hasn’t gone nearly far enough, and those of a more conservative theological bent might feel a little nervous about his broaching the subject. But there is a valuable contribution Morris brings to the church by taking on this topic.

He approaches his subject by stating he believes Christians need both discipleship and deliverance. Certainly we need to be discipled to learn how to walk in the footsteps of Jesus and to mature as a follower of Christ. But have you noticed that sometimes genuine Christians (not those just professing to be Christians) seem to face very real spiritual struggles? Morris explains this by reminding us that the lives we live are full of spiritual warfare — there really is an enemy warring against us! — and that we often provide Satan with openings into our lives from which he can oppress us. Because of that spiritual oppression, Morris writes, we not only need discipleship, but we need deliverance as well.

Now that wasn’t so scary or painful, was it?

That’s about as deep as Morris goes into a “deliverance theology,” which is why I think many Charismatics will be howling that Morris hasn’t gone far enough; and the more conservative Christians can likely appreciate Morris bringing back into our focus that we are spiritual beings living in spiritual warfare, and there are ways we often allow a foothold for the enemy.

The non-Charismatic portion of the church doesn’t talk or teach much about spiritual warfare, or any “deliverance” concept, but perhaps we should! As Morris leads his readers through this discussion, you will likely find more than one place of theological disagreement on this subject, but as a whole, you will probably appreciate being challenged to consider how Satan works without rest to oppress Christians, how that can impact our lives, and what we can do about it.

One more comment about this book. First, let me say I’ve watched several of Morris’ sermons on video, and one in particular was one of the best sermons I’ve ever heard on the topic of giving. I can really appreciate some of his preaching. With regard to his writing, this is only the second book of his that I’ve read, and both times I found his writing to be rather bland. I’m going to blame that on me, it must just be how I respond to his writing. This book contains some interesting stories, and some solid biblical perspectives, but it still fell rather blandly on my mind. Of course, a solid book on a biblical subject doesn’t have to (and shouldn’t have to) entertain us, and that’s not what I’m wanting from this author’s writing. I find his writing like a turkey that’s been cooked slightly too long; turkey is a healthy meal, but can be dry if overcooked. That’s the taste left with me after reading Morris’ writing. You, on the other hand, may find his style to be delightful.

This is not a “must read,” but if you’d like to delve into the concept of “deliverance” without going too deep, this book might be helpful for you.

Scotty

I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”