Sheep in Wolves' Clothing: How Unseen Need Destroys Friendship and Community and What to Do about It

By Valerie J. McIntyre

Book Overview

Looks at the harmful effect of the phenomenon of transference on churches and lives, and explains how to identify and overcome it.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 080105883X
• ISBN13: 9780801058837
• Release Date: January 1999
• Publisher: Baker Books
• Length: 158 Pages
• Weight: 0.62 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 6.0" x 9.1"
• Age Range: 18 years and up
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher

Customer Reviews

Must read for all involved in ministry!

Many times in marriage, ministry and with relationships in general, "things can go south for unexpected reasons" and the more one does to correct the problem seems to only make it worse. There could be a relational transference occuring. This book does a great job in identifying such and provides steps to take for healthy resolution. Ron Hobelman integritydotmen

Insightful for a broad audience

McIntyre's book is an incredible testimony of personal experience in emotional enmeshment and the underlying spiritual and psychological issues that accompany it. It is also an incredible explication of how this common emotional condition is connected to christian concepts of idolatry. For those who have been caught up in the emotional turmoil and conflict that is common in these kinds of experiences, especially when they come out in a church, counseling or ministry context as well as interpersonal relationships, this book can bring insight and clarity to the spiritual and emotional underpinnings of this common condition. Contrary to some interpretations, this book does not label "transference" as "sin", but rather points out from a testimonial and pastoral perspective how the dynamics of transference play an integral part in emotional enmeshment, emotional dependence and emotional idolatry in present relationships. It also covers well how to deal with it outside the therapy office in the contexts in which it can occurr. It is not a substitute for more in-depth psychological understanding of the concepts presented, or for therapy where it is needed. It is a great book for gaining insight and initial understanding on a pastoral level about issues that are tumultuous and confusing in nature.

Protective Armor for the Flock

McIntyre's book is an absolute MUST read for the lay or professional pastoral worker/counselor. Her insights regarding the dynamic of transference are penetrating and relevant to a proper understanding of the subject. Whether you are being transferred onto, or have engaged in this behavior yourself, McIntyre's book illimunates the subject in such a way as to enlighten the reader to the harmful effects of pressing transferences, the appropriate measures and precautions to take when we're the object of transference, as well as what to do if we're the one in transference. A much needed and useful tool in spiritual and emotional warfare.