What is everybody's take on spiritual abuse. The abuse inflicted upon each other "in the name of God" !
Is it a severe problem in our churches today ?
Spiritual Abuse
Discussion in '2000-02 Archive' started by dan53, Dec 9, 2002.
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Severe? Probably not. A problem nonetheless? Yes.
[ December 09, 2002, 11:52 AM: Message edited by: Johnv ] -
I believe it is, but I have a hard time getting anybody to even agree that such a thing exists! Most have told me that nobody can effect another person spiritually, but mental abuse in the name of religion IS spiritual abuse, IMO.
Gina -
Many ifb churches are spiritual abusive. I say that to my shame. </font>
- Pastors who think they are god.</font>
- Churches steeped in legalistic rules that demand conformity.</font>
- Boards that seek control of the congregation.</font>
- "Spiritual" members who lord over newbies.</font>
- Denominations (like SBC, ABC) seek control of buildings and property</font>
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Would you call it Spiritual abuse if a pastor is really dry, and then a new person in Christ who is so alive in studying the Word, shares with the Pastor, and the Pastor is feeding off the new christian. And then acting like he has taken him under his wing.
And no this did not happen to me...but sometimes I have seen this in another church I attended.
Sherrie -
Sounds like it could be a good thing Sherrie! We tend to be drawn to people who help fill a need we have, emotionally, spiritually, or otherwise. Maybe I'm misunderstanding your post, but new Christians are usually the best people to be around spiritually, especially when you're feeling dry.
Gina -
Spiritual Abuse is a huge problem. An excellent book is "The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse" by David Johnson and Jeff Vanvonderen.
Jeff has a great ministry with the Church of the Open Door in Crystal, Minnesota.
http://www.thedoor.org/ -
I've never seen it in church...I've only ever seen it on the internet.