Looking Shame in the Eye

Simon Cozens addresses a feature of human experience that is universal but is so often hidden away. He demonstrates that the experience of shame was no less real for the great Augustine of Hippo as it was for the author himself as a 16-year-old who was witnessing the breakup of his parents’ marriage. And herein lies the great value of this book: first, it reassures the reader that each individual’s inevitable experience of shame places them in community. Second, the answer lies in the model of Jesus, who lived to take away guilt and shame "because he blew up shame itself" (Simon's words). Every Christian should read this eminently readable book and should then share its wisdom with their non-Christian friends. -- Professor Peter G Riddell, Melbourne School of Theology, and SOAS University of London
As a clinical psychologist, I meet a lot of shame in the therapy room. Shame about body image, internet use or addictions. People who have been shamed for leaving a cult. And deep shame about who we are. This book reveals biblical insights, including how Jesus dealt with shame. Cozens also describes how communities of Christians can help to get rid of shame, and minister to the shamed. I feel no shame in highly recommending this very helpful book. -- Dr Debbie Hawker, Clinical Psychologist
Shame is universally debilitating and has crippled humanity since the fall. Simon Cozens' brilliant and timely book is theologically rich, culturally relevant, missionally focused and pastorally liberating. Here is hope and help for a crisis of our times. -- Revd Simon Ponsonby, Pastor of Theology at St Aldate's Church, Oxford
This is honestly one of the most thought-stirring and very possibly game-changing books that I have read recently, and I'm a prolific reader. Shame is a significant part of our lives, and Simon's book is a much-needed catalyst to bring it more openly 'to the table' for discussion, not only in the church or in how we present the gospel, but also in our own lives. You'll want to read this book several times; first to dive into the well-developed, biblically rooted truths that Simon presents, but then again, and probably again, to allow the Holy Spirit use these truths for his transforming work in your own life. -- Susan Sutton, International WEC Director and author
Shame is everywhere, a powerfully emotional and painfully confusing experience that has the power to eat away at communities, our personal character and our confidence. In this powerfully liberating book, Simon Cozen not only helps us understand shame, but points us to the One who heals and restores. Well-written and timely, this book is Simon speaking from experience into a culture and context where shame is too often hidden or misunderstood. I commend it to all, including all those involved in prayer ministry, helping to bring freedom to others. -- Mitch, Co-Founder of Crown Jesus Ministries / Evangelist
This book is a landmark and original contribution for understanding how shame affects all of us. Drawing richly on his own experience, Simon Cozens weaves stories, biblical insights and thoughtful questions, to force Western readers, time and again, to have another look at the misconception that shame only affect Asian societies. Highly recommended for leaders and cross-cultural workers open to new correlations between our personal and communities’ shame and the claims of Jesus and the gospel. -- Kang-San Tan, Director, Baptist Missionary Society World Mission