Steve Backlund’s The Culture of Empowerment: How to Champion People is a heartfelt guide to lifting others into their God-given identity and purpose. As a pastor and leader at Bethel Church, Backlund writes with warmth and practicality, drawing from years of equipping people to live out the Father’s heart. His core message is clear: by believing in others and speaking life into their souls, we reflect Jesus’ example and plant seeds of hope that transform lives.
Backlund grounds his message in biblical truth, pointing to 2 Corinthians 10:4-5, which calls us to take every thought captive to Christ. He shares a story of a young leader who overcame self-doubt when a mentor consistently spoke truth over her, affirming her calling. This act of empowerment, Backlund explains, mirrors the Father’s heart, which sees potential where others see brokenness. His words show how simple encouragement can uproot lies and help someone step into their true identity.
The book’s strength is its practical tools for championing others. Backlund offers steps like speaking positive beliefs, creating safe spaces for growth, and modeling Jesus’ example of empowerment. He tells of a man who, mentored in a small group, found courage to lead others after years of feeling unworthy. These stories make the message tangible, showing how the Father’s heart moves through intentional acts to bring life and freedom.
Some chapters revisit similar ideas, which can feel slightly redundant in a short book. However, Backlund’s conversational tone keeps it engaging, like a trusted friend sharing wisdom. His focus remains on hope, urging readers to see others through the Father’s eyes and act on that vision.
The Culture of Empowerment is a concise, powerful call to reflect the Father’s heart by lifting others up. Backlund’s stories and biblical insights equip readers to plant seeds of hope and help others embrace their identity in Christ. This is an impactful read that inspires a life of speaking truth and fostering growth in those around us.
Author: Steve Backlund
Release Date: October 8, 2016
Pages: 196
Publisher: Steve Backlund
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About the Author
Steve Backlund is an author, revivalist, teacher, and church strategist with nearly forty years of experience in various church leadership roles. Known for his unique anointing to inspire hope and joy, he possesses a revelatory teaching gift that helps individuals and communities embrace greater dimensions of faith and empowerment. Alongside his brother, Dr. Phil Backlund, a college professor with over forty years of experience and a PhD in communication, and editor Melissa Amato, who brings wisdom from overseeing intern teams at Bethel Church in Redding, California, Steve combines biblical insights and practical tools to champion people and foster empowering beliefs.