Rooting for Rivals: How Collaboration and Generosity Increase the Impact of Leaders, Charities, and Churches

by Peter Greer, Chris Horst, Jill Heisey (With)

Reject Pride of Ownership in Pursuit of a Higher Mission

Christian organizations have come to be known mostly for what we're against. And all too often, that includes being against each other. But amid growing distrust of religious institutions, Christ-centered nonprofits have a unique opportunity to link arms and collectively pursue a calling higher than any one organization's agenda.

Rooting for Rivals reveals how your ministry can multiply its impact by cooperating rather than competing with others, modeling Christlike love and generosity in the process. Peter Greer and Chris Horst explore case studies illustrating the power of collaborative ministry. Writing with vulnerability, they also share their own failures and successes in moving toward a kingdom mindset.

In Rooting for Rivals you'll discover the key to revitalizing your ministry and making an enduring difference in the world.

Genres: Leadership, Nonfiction, Faith, Christian, Christian Living, Church, Business

240 pages, Hardcover

Published July 3, 2018

About the author

Peter Greer is an author, speaker, and president and CEO of HOPE International, a global faith-based economic development organization serving throughout Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. Peter received a B.S. in international business from Messiah University and an MPP in political and economic development from Harvard's Kennedy School.
As an advocate for the Church’s role in missions and alleviating extreme poverty, Peter has co-authored over 14 books, including The Gift of Disillusionment, Mission Drift (selected as a 2015 Book Award Winner from Christianity Today), Rooting for Rivals (selected as a 2019 Leadership Resource of the Year in Outreach magazine), The Spiritual Danger of Doing Good (selected as one of the top 40 books on poverty by WORLD magazine) and Created to Flourish. More important than his role at HOPE is his role as husband to Laurel and dad to Keith, Liliana, Myles, and London. While his sports loyalties remain in New England, Peter and his family live in Lancaster, PA.

Blog: peterkgreer.com. Twitter: @peterkgreer. Facebook: @PeterKGreer

Reviews

[Andrew Wolgemuth · Rating 5 out of 5]

As they did in Mission Drift: The Unspoken Crisis Facing Leaders, Charities, and Churches, Chris and Peter have a timely, critically important message for leaders. The title shares their aim: they want you and me to root for our rivals because the resulting collaboration and generosity increase the impact of leaders, charities, and churches. That is, they want us to live and think with a Kingdom (big "K") mindset rather than thinking primarily about our small "k" kingdoms or organizations.

They make the case for this mindset in the early chapters and then explore the primary challenges to doing so in the final seven chapters. These final chapters are organized by the traditional "seven deadly sins" and answering virtues. The dangers and effects of these sins are highlighted while the need for and the steps towards the virtues are described. It's an effective approach that left me both challenged and encouraged.

If we take to heart their message, the Kingdom and our work will be the better for it.

(full disclosure: the agency I work for represents these authors and this book; I read an early draft of the book)

[Dan Wolgemuth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fresh and convicting content. Thought provoking and insightful from start to finish. Easy to recommend this book.

[Matt Mancinelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I just finished this book this morning, and am working on thinking through several applications to my life and work. I started a little skeptical about using the grid of the Seven Deadly Sins as a model for organizational collaboration, but was won over fairly quickly. Each of these longtime sins (plus pride, which is perhaps the root of the other seven), has an unfortunate place in the way I lead, and now I'm committed to dealing with these areas. Several times I got to a chapter and thought "This one is going to be less relevant to me than the others," and then before I knew it I was highlighting points that were applicable to my life and leadership.

One immediate take away for my organization is to open-source more of what we've created. Another takeaway is to promote "competitor" organizations to funders more often, as a way of practicing my belief in a God of abundance and further focusing on the Kingdom instead of just my own organization. I think this book is going to impact the way organizations work together in my city, and am excited to see the Kingdom grow because of that!

[Yvonne Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's change the world by working together! Are you a leader of a Christian non-profit? This is a must read for you! God has called us to love Him and love others. When we do these two things, we can work together to make Him known throughout the world. This book challenges Christian non-profits to work together and celebrate successes. "Our organizations are small players in a much more significant story." By working alongside others, imagine our world without poverty, without human trafficking, with clean water for all.

[Kenneth Garrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an important book because it leads the reader to explore an area that is often neglected in Christian leadership: the relationship that a leader or organization has with other leaders and organizations that share the same, general, mission. The conclusion is that it is grace and generosity that not only builds the healthiest relationships between like-minded groups, but also is most consistent with the values and spirit of Christianity itself. Great read.

[Jim Tyson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peter Greer and Chris Horst have done a thorough job in addressing a critical “We know it’s there but let’s ignore it” issue in the Christian community, shedding light on what has, for too long, been a crippling blind spot, the failure to collaborate and truly function as those who have the same mind and “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves” (Phil. 2:1-4 ESV). The issue finds its origin in a problem that is as old as time, in fact, as the authors point out, it is the root of all of humanity’s troubles: Pride! They define pride as “being consumed with yourself” and none of us are strangers to this. With a quote from C.S. Lewis in Mere Christianity they expose what is often a leader’s, yes even a pastor’s, dirty little secret: “If I am a proud man, then, as long as there is one man in the whole world more powerful, or richer, or cleverer than I, he is my rival and my enemy.”

Rooting For Rivals: How Collaboration and Generosity Increase the Impact of Leaders, Charities, and Churches serves not simply as an apologetic for collaboration, for playing nice together, but a clarion call to remember whose we are and whose Kingdom we are building! In its essence this book points us to these words of Jesus: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:34-35 ESV).

[Jeremy Gardiner · Rating 4 out of 5]

After finishing their first book, Mission Drift giving it a perfect review, I was excited to read their follow-up book. The topic is one near to my heart—unity and collaboration. The goal is to get Christian churches and charities to not view other organizations in their same field as rivals, but as co-laborers working towards the same mission.

The authors state that there are two main issues that cause organizations to not root for rivals. The first is being clan focused (rather than mission focused) which means they think about their organization’s success rather than the success of all who contribute to the same mission. The second is having a scarcity mentality (rather than one of abundance) which thinks of things in a zero-sum fashion where resources are fixed and scarce so they fight for a bigger piece of the pie rather than trying to grow the size of the pie.

I had zero problems with the content of this book but didn’t feel it was quite as engaging as Mission Drift. I didn’t care for how they structured the book in which each chapter contrasted each of the seven deadly sins with its corresponding virtue and how that relates to rooting for rivals. That’s why I knocked off a star. With that being said, it is a must read for church leaders, non-profit leaders, and those who feel more territorial rather than generous and collaborative with those who share the same mission of expanding the Kingdom of God.

[JD Punch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is full of heartbreak and hope. The heartbreak is found in the countless stories of Christian nonprofits who speak and act like they're in competition with each other. The hope is found in stories of Christian nonprofits who speak and act the opposite. Hope is found in personal stories from Greer and Horst who share encouraging stories of where they have gotten it and right and convicting stories of where they got it wrong. The stories in the latter category are surprisingly honest and especially convicting. There is much to learn in this book for Christian nonprofits, for church leaders, and for every follower of Jesus who wonders if the grass is greener somewhere else. God is at work among his people. He is building his Kingdom. Let's celebrate his work wherever we see it...and if you're like me-that is, you sometimes struggle to celebrate God's work elsewhere, you sometimes wonder if the grass is greener elsewhere-this book might be a helpful-an encouraging and convicting help.

[Randall Hartman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The authors call us to live in a way consistent with what unifies us, putting our broader mission over individual achievement and sharing God’s abundant resources with others rather than hoarding them ourselves. They help us diagnose whether and how we are living this way (or not) through discussion and application of seven time-tested vices and corresponding virtues.

The primary target for this book is Christian nonprofit organizations which, above all others, should recognize the God-given charge to live and work this way to advance His kingdom. The authors note that, sadly, many do not, and they honestly recount their own failures, repentance, and ongoing commitment to what they’re advocating for.

Notwithstanding the target audience, I also found it directly applicable to churches, non faith-based organizations, and even myself personally. The fundamental principles they explain and apply are worth using to examine how we’re living and how we can both achieve more of our calling in life and do so with joy by rooting for rivals.

[Scott Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book challenged the paradigm that we can’t help/cooperate with our rivals. With many case studies, the key attitudes are illustrated. Each chapter ends with questions that help you and your organization examine your values. Though written with non-profit organizations in mind, the concepts also work in for-profit organizations. For example, in the contrast between envy of their success and contentment of your own, you might find you’re quite pleased with a new $1M contract till you find out that a rival got a $1.5M contract.

For followers of Christ, this book takes our walk to a new level even encouraging a search for common ground with those you disagree with or dislike. We are called to bless our enemies. And Proverbs 24.17-18 says, “Don’t rejoice when your enemy stumbles...or the Lord will be displeased with you and stop being angry with them.”

[Ben · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do we serve a God of scarcity or of abundance? Do we regularly choose Kingdom over clan? Rooting For Rivals does an excellent job laying out how collaboration and generosity will increase the impact of leaders, charities, and churches. Why do we so quickly become tight fisted and competitive with each other when we should be focused on our common goal?

Greer & Horst (authors of Mission Drift) outline how we can effectively root for rivals by taking a closer look at the Seven Deadly Sins/Vices and their positive counterpart.

1. Pride versus Humility
2. Greed versus Generosity
3. Gluttony versus Temperance
4. Lust versus Love
5. Envy versus Contentment
6. Vengeance versus Grace
7. Sloth versus Steadfastness

I highly recommend this book - especially if you help lead a nonprofit or church.

[Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rooting For Rivals is a great challenge and encouragement for how to view the world of Christian non-profits with a mindset that God is a God of abundance and not scarcity. God wants to use us all to further His kingdom and we are blessed to be used in that effort. Seeking ways to support and cooperate with others called to that same effort while also carrying out the vision and mission for the organization of which you're a part surely leads to greater impact on the world than competing.

Utilizing a simple 2x2, the authors articulate the impact of operating with focus on Kingdom vs. Clan and Scarcity vs. Abundance.

[Hayley · Rating 5 out of 5]

At a time where it seems like competition is ruthless and cut-throat at every corner- this book's timing is perfect! The transparency of the authors also helps to prove to the readers the truth about what they are saying and teaching.

Leaders in the church, non-profits, even business leaders, coaches, and so many other areas where competition is apparent would benefit from this book.

Well written and well worth the reader's time to check this book out!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read a lot of books this year, and I have to say that this one was my favorite. I just love the message of finding common ground, and with grace, working together with people we may not agree with. I love the stories of the different organizations that have partnered to make a difference. I have so many people in my life that I want to share this book with and so many ideas swirling through my mind of how some of these ideas can be implemented.

[Naomi Fata · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rooting for Rivals opened my eyes to the competition within the Christian nonprofit world. I have seen this type of competition amongst churches but was naively unaware of how it similarly affects nonprofit organizations.
Many of the concepts in this book are applicable to other things as well, like running a business. The author’s encourage others to focus on doing one thing well, and rather than emphasizing growth of an organization, to focus on the growth of the kingdom of God.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a message every leader needs to hear. Peter and Chris share countless stories highlighting the value of adopting an openhanded, generous and selfless posture to advance the Kingdom. Their perspective is radical and entirely biblical. It is also a timely call to leaders in every sphere (business, ministry, church, nonprofit). This book will undoubtedly challenge those reading it in the best of ways; it truly invites its audience to a higher ground.

[Kim Schell · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a must-read for Faith-based nonprofits and churches. The emphasis on big-picture and Kingdom building is still and sorely needed five+ years later. The stories are inspiring and reflection questions, helpful. A little academic overall for me. Still I'd appreciate an update and how the authors view things now. Seems like we are gravitating to the opposite of fruit of the Spirit as we deal with any other believer not to mention unbelievers.

[Brandon Stiver · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good book, easy read and a critical theme/concept for nonprofits (especially faith based nonprofits) to understand and put to practice. Fundamentally, the needs that our organizations are designed to go after are inherently too big for just a single organization so collaboration is essential. We do have to put aside our egos and realize that we don’t own the missions anyway. This is a good book for leaders to dive into.

[Milan Homola · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an important read and a more important practice. It speaks of countless ideas that are common sense Kingdom ideas and yet so uncommon and lost. This is a book for all leaders, business owners, and anyone else who is wondering “why so much cold shouldering and competition in the Christian world?” I’m excited to write an official review for a journal early 2019

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great examples of organizations collaborating together for the greater good of the Kingdom rather than focusing on our own brand and organization. This definitely challenges our natural human tendencies, even as Christians, and has made me rethink what it means to partner and cheer for each other's successes!

[Scott Wozniak · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sadly, this is an important book for leaders of non-profits to read. I wish it wasn't needed, but I have seen firsthand the many people who lose sight of the larger mission and get competitive when they should be collaborative. It covers both why and how (though I would have liked even more collaboration technique).

[Emery · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is IMHO a mandatory read. I listened to it through Audible. I wish I had a physical copy to make notes and mark up!
There is so much wisdom in a variety of cultural applications, both personal and corporate to apply. The principles are supported by case studies that show how others have applied them in their lives.

[Lisa P Clement · Rating 5 out of 5]

We aren’t in competition though we act like we are. God calls us to do his work. If this is true then will he not provide what he wants for each one of us. Why not come together, support each other, and watch God move mountains.
Love the concept of this book.
Let’s do this!

[Parker Samelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peter and Chris practice what they preach in this book by giving shoutouts to leaders of other nonprofits that seek the same donors as Hope. I personally support Hope, because I trust these guys to deliver the most possible good for the Kingdom.

[Clare · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading it with a book club of like-minded nonprofit leaders really helped the content come alive! The integration of the seven deadly sins was a stretch for me, but the overall framework proposed made so much sense in our scarcity minded world.

[Todd DeKruyter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my word fantastic!! Great focus for ministry leaders to think kingdom focused. Practical, inspirational and thought provokingly raw. Great read! May this tribe increase.

[Jeremy Pitman · Rating 5 out of 5]

An essential read if you work with nonprofits

[Doug Kohl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent premise. Encouraging the business community to not feel threatened by others but to build collective impact.

[Lauren Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book !

[Melissa Shelder · Rating 5 out of 5]

AMAZING read for all my “way too competitive” friends out there!