The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction

The Impossible Prize is a lantern in the darkness, casting light on the theological underpinnings of addiction and recovery. In this book, the reader will confront the raw truth, that the struggle against addiction is not merely a battle of willpower or a psychological chess match; it's a spiritual warfare, a clash between the forces of hopelessness and the redemptive grace of a higher power. The Impossible Prize, therefore, invites readers into a profound dialogue with their own vulnerabilities, urging them to relinquish the futile pursuit of self-made solutions and instead turn their gaze toward the divine.

Donavon Riley is a Lutheran pastor, conference speaker, author, and co-host of The Banned Books and Warrior Priest podcasts. He authored the book, Crucifying Religion about his conversion from atheist to believer. He is also a Muay Thai and BJJ practitioner and operates the Warrior Priest Gym MMA.

Chad Bird is a Scholar in Residence at 1517. He holds master’s degrees from Concordia Theological Seminary and Hebrew Union College. He has served as a pastor, professor, and guest lecturer in Old Testament and Hebrew. Chad has authored several books, speaks regularly at conferences and congregations, and cohosts the popular podcast, “40 Minutes in the Old Testament.” Chad and his wife Stacy make their home in Texas, where they have been blessed with four children and three grandchildren.