Anger itself isn’t fundamentally a sin; it’s a normal human emotion. However, as many of you know, I experienced spiritual abuse through ACBC Biblical counseling, also known as Nouthetic Counseling. This form of counseling, frequently used by the high-control religion I was part of, often employs various tactics to manipulate individuals into suppressing their anger.
High control religions often manipulate individuals against feeling anger by employing several tactics: 1. **Guilt and Shame**: They teach that anger is sinful or a sign of personal weakness, inducing guilt and shame in individuals who feel it.
2. **Doctrine and Indoctrination**: They emphasize doctrines that label anger as negative or spiritually harmful, encouraging followers to suppress it.
3. **Surveillance and Confession**: Constant surveillance and confession practices make individuals self-police their emotions, including anger.
4. **Isolation**: Isolating individuals from outside influences that might validate their feelings, keeping them within an echo chamber that reinforces the group’s views.
5. **Emotional Suppression**: Promoting emotional suppression as a virtue, advocating for calmness and forgiveness in all situations, often to the detriment of the individual’s mental health.
These methods can deeply impact personal autonomy and emotional well-being, making it difficult for individuals to express or even recognize their anger.
In many religious and philosophical traditions, it’s acknowledged that feeling anger is a normal part of human experience. What can make anger sinful or morally problematic is how one responds to it and the actions it provokes.
The philosopher Aristotle described anger as a passion that, when experienced and expressed appropriately, can be virtuous.
The key is to be angry for the right reasons and in the right way.
Anger is understood as a normal emotional response to perceived threats or injustices. It’s part of the body’s natural fight-or-flight response and can be constructive when it motivates problem-solving and assertiveness.
Yet, High control religions often manipulate feelings of anger by framing them as sinful or spiritually harmful. They may discourage members from expressing anger or dissent, promoting instead the idea of forgiveness and submission to authority. Additionally, they may use guilt or shame to suppress anger, portraying it as a sign of weakness or lack of faith.
In extreme cases, anger may be labeled as a tool of the devil or a hindrance to spiritual growth, further reinforcing control over members’ emotions.
Suppressing anger can lead to negative health effects and mental distress, while constructive expression of anger can lead to positive change and resolution of conflicts.
Gender Roles & Expectations
Boys: Anger is often viewed as a more acceptable and natural response. They are frequently socialized to see anger as a sign of strength or assertiveness.
This can lead to a normalization of more aggressive behaviors and a lack of encouragement to explore other emotional responses.
Girls: In contrast, girls are often discouraged from expressing anger and are instead encouraged to use “nicer voices” or to remain calm and composed.
This reinforces traditional gender roles that value submissiveness, agreeableness, and emotional labor from women.
From a young age, girls are socialized to prioritize the needs of others and maintain harmony in relationships. Being assertive or expressing anger can be seen as disruptive to these social expectations.
Boys, on the other hand, might not receive the same level of guidance on emotional regulation, particularly concerning emotions like vulnerability or sadness, which are often socially discouraged in males.
From a young age, girls are socialized to prioritize the needs of others and maintain harmony in relationships. Being assertive or expressing anger can be seen as disruptive to these social expectations.
Boys, on the other hand, might not receive the same level of guidance on emotional regulation, particularly concerning emotions like vulnerability or sadness, which are often socially discouraged in males.
Long-term Consequences:
The reinforcement of these gender roles can perpetuate a cycle where men and women struggle with different aspects of emotional health. Men might face challenges in expressing vulnerability, while women might struggle with assertiveness and setting boundaries.
In professional and personal relationships, these dynamics can lead to power imbalances and communication issues, affecting everything from career advancement to personal satisfaction.
The way anger and other emotions are socially regulated based on gender reinforces traditional gender roles and affects the emotional development of individuals.
Recognizing and addressing these biases can lead to healthier emotional expressions and relationships for both men and women.
Exploring how religion suppresses emotions involves examining religious teachings, cultural practices, and the interpretation of sacred texts. Here are some resources that delve into this topic from various perspectives:
Books:
“The Will to Change: Men, Masculinity, and Love” by bell hooks
This book discusses how cultural norms, often influenced by religious teachings, shape the emotional lives of men, encouraging the suppression of vulnerability and emotional expression.
“Emotion and Religion: A Critical Assessment and Annotated Bibliography” by John Corrigan
This comprehensive work explores the complex relationship between emotion and religion, providing both theoretical discussions and annotated references for further research.
“Holy Tears: Weeping in the Religious Imagination” edited by Kimberley Christine Patton and John Stratton Hawley
This collection of essays examines the role of tears and emotional expression in various religious traditions, offering insights into how certain emotions are both encouraged and suppressed.
“The Varieties of Religious Experience” by William James
Although an older text, James’ exploration of religious experiences includes discussions on how different religions view and handle emotions, including suppression.
Articles:
“Emotion Regulation in Religious Contexts” by Edward R. Canda in the Journal of Religion and Health
This article examines how religious contexts influence emotional regulation, including both the suppression and expression of emotions.
“Religious Influences on Emotion Regulation” by Richard S. Lazarus in the book “Handbook of Emotions”
This chapter discusses how different religious traditions guide the regulation of emotions, often promoting certain emotions while suppressing others.
“Religiosity and Emotion Regulation” by Charlotte van Schie and Michiel van Elk in Frontiers in Psychology
This research article explores how religiosity influences emotional regulation strategies, including suppression.
Academic Papers and Theses:
“Emotion Suppression in Religion: A Study of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim Communities”
This thesis (or dissertation) might be found through university libraries and explores how different religious communities approach emotion suppression.
“The Role of Religion in Emotion Regulation: Insights from a Psychological Perspective” by Kevin L. Ladd and Bernard Spilka in the International Journal for the Psychology of Religion
This paper provides a psychological perspective on how religious beliefs and practices affect emotional regulation, including suppression.
Online Resources:
Pew Research Center: Religion & Public Life
Pew Research often publishes studies and reports on the intersection of religion and various aspects of life, including emotional health and expression.
Psychology Today: Religion and Spirituality
This section of the Psychology Today website features articles on how religion impacts emotional well-being, including the suppression of emotions.
The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: “Emotion in Christian Philosophy”
This entry explores how Christian philosophy has historically viewed emotions and their expression or suppression.
These resources offer a broad overview of how different religious traditions and interpretations can influence the suppression of emotions. They provide insights from psychological, sociological, and theological perspectives.
The idea of biblical womanhood is more about human power structures than the message of Christ. When we examine church history, we can challenge the notion that this belief is inherently biblical.
In the early Christian church, there are several examples of female apostles and leaders:
Mary Magdalene: Mary Magdalene is one of the most prominent figures in the New Testament and is often referred to as the “apostle to the apostles.” She was present at Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection, and she was the first to witness the risen Christ and announce his resurrection to the disciples.
Priscilla: Priscilla, along with her husband Aquila, played a significant role in the early Christian church. They are mentioned several times in the New Testament, often as fellow workers with Paul. Priscilla is commended for her teaching and ministry alongside her husband.
Junia: Junia is mentioned by Paul in his letter to the Romans as being “outstanding among the apostles.” This indicates that she held a significant leadership role in the early church and was recognized by Paul as a fellow apostle.
Phoebe: Phoebe is mentioned by Paul in his letter to the Romans as a deaconess or servant of the church in Cenchreae. She is commended for her service to the church and is likely to have held a leadership role.
These are just a few examples of the many women who played important roles in the early Christian church as apostles, leaders, and ministers. Their contributions highlight the diversity and inclusivity of the early Christian community.
The conservative ⛪️ promotes dangerous ideologies-women submitting to men aka Complementarianism.
This ideology has connections to movements like the Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood (CBMW), which promotes complementarianism and traditional gender roles within conservative Evangelicalism.
This started the rise of New Calvinism, spearheaded by influential figures such as John Piper, John MacArthur, and Mark Driscoll, further reinforcing these gender roles. 🚩
Female gender norms that emphasize tenderness over assertiveness hinder women’s ability to assert themselves and address unfair treatment effectively.
🚨 Women submitting to their husband is a dangerous ideology. 🚨
A major cause of s*xual mistreatment is societal: the structural inequality that gives men power over women.
The IFS report that showed that conservative highly religious men were far more likely to perpetrate intimate partner violence.
🏴☠️A Meta-analysis of 39 studies found hyper-masculinity to be one of the most powerful predictors of men’s likelihood to commit assault. 🏴☠️
Couples where the husband dominated decision-making were 2.6 times more likely to experience lower marital satisfaction compared to those who made decisions collaboratively.
This is why ab*se is so common in the ⛪️.
It’s the theology that’s bad. Not just how it’s interpreted.
As I’ve said before, it was deeply painful, realizing I had been influenced by the dangerous lies behind Nancy Pearcey’s book The Toxic War on Masculinity. Which was heavily promoted by David Wolcott, Alisa Childers, Alexa Clark & Frank Turek, who are often associated with right-wing fundamentalist Christianity. 🚩
She said “There’s no need to debate complementarianism or egalitarianism when it comes to marriage” 𝔸𝕔𝕥𝕦𝕒𝕝𝕝𝕪 ℕ𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕪, 𝕎𝕖 𝔻𝕠! Pearcey pulls findings from Gottman’s work, citing that in both egalitarian & hierarchical marriages “emotionally intelligent husbands have figured out the one big thing: how to convey honor and respect.” Thus, she claims, labels don’t matter.
However, she omits to mention the big finding Gottman uses to frame this entire chapter: Complementarian men only do well when they don’t act out hierarchy and put aside their beliefs. You can’t claim beliefs in complementarianism are irrelevant by quoting someone who found acting out those beliefs is disastrous.
This is only ONE of the major criticisms of the book pointing to the lack of empirical evidence to support the claims made in the book, particularly regarding the alleged “war on masculinity.” For more read this!
🚨 We should consider the consequences of promoting ideological narratives without empirical support. 🚨
The liberation of women from oppression is crucial for fostering a more equitable and just society.
When women are liberated, they can fully contribute their talents, perspectives, and skills to all aspects of life, including politics, economics, and culture. This liberation not only benefits women individually but also lead to societal progress by dismantling systemic barriers and promoting inclusivity.
Moreover, when women are empowered, it creates a ripple effect, positively impacting families, communities, and future generations. Ultimately, achieving gender equality and women’s liberation is essential for building a more prosperous and harmonious world for all.
Sources: Sheila Wray Gregoire and Joanna Sawatsky
For more ℹ️ •The Bible vs Biblical womanhood by Philip Payne critically examines the concept of “biblical womanhood” and challenges traditional interpretations of scripture that restrict the roles and authority of women in the church. Payne argues that many teachings on gender roles are based on cultural assumptions rather than biblical principles. He examines key passages in the Bible that are often used to support the subjugation of women and offers alternative interpretations that affirm the equality and dignity of women. Payne’s work is a scholarly exploration of the biblical texts related to gender and offers a fresh perspective on the role of women in the church and society. •Man and Woman, One in Christ: An Exegetical and Theological Study of Paul’s Letters by Philip Barton Payne Philip Barton Payne is a comprehensive exploration of the biblical teachings regarding gender equality and roles within the Christian community. Payne examines Paul’s letters with a focus on understanding the true meaning behind passages often used to support hierarchical gender relationships. He argues that Paul’s writings affirm the equality of men and women in Christ and that traditional interpretations promoting male authority over women are based on misunderstandings or misinterpretations. Payne provides exegetical analysis and theological insights to support his argument, offering a scholarly perspective on gender equality within the church. Overall, the book challenges traditional views on gender roles and provides a compelling case for the equality of men and women in Christ. •Terran Williams’-How God Sees Women-explores the biblical perspective on the role and value of women in Christianity. Through a careful examination of scripture, Williams challenges traditional interpretations that have marginalized women and restricted their participation in religious life. He argues that God views women as equal partners with men in his divine plan and emphasizes the importance of empowering women within the church. Williams’ work offers a refreshing and inclusive perspective on gender equality within Christianity, inviting readers to reconsider their understanding of women’s roles in faith and society •The Making of Biblical Womanhood How the Subjugation of Women became Gospel Truth by Beth Allison Barr This book explores the historical development of gender roles within Christianity. Barr delves into the roots of traditional teachings on gender roles, revealing how they evolved over time and became ingrained as gospel truth. Drawing on historical research, Barr challenges the notion that traditional gender roles are biblical, arguing that they are instead products of cultural and theological developments. She examines key historical figures and events that shaped these teachings, shedding light on the ways in which women’s roles have been subjugated within the church. Ultimately, Barr advocates for a more egalitarian interpretation of scripture and a reevaluation of traditional teachings on gender within Christianity. Her book offers a thought-provoking critique of gender hierarchy in the church and calls for a reexamination of biblical womanhood. •Marg Mowczko’s work focuses on biblical studies and gender equality within Christianity. Through her writing and research, she explores various passages of scripture to challenge traditional interpretations that have limited the roles of women in the church. Mowczko argues for a more inclusive understanding of women’s participation in ministry, leadership, and theological scholarship. She highlights the presence of female leaders, apostles, and prophets in the early Christian church, advocating for their recognition and empowerment in contemporary religious communities. Mowczko’s work contributes to ongoing discussions about gender equality and biblical interpretation, inspiring readers to reevaluate their understanding of women’s roles in faith and spirituality.
MORE SOURCES: The IFS report that showed that conservative highly religious men were far more likely to perpetrate intimate partner violence (p. 36): -https://ifstudies.org/ifs-admin/resources/reports/worldfamilymap-2019-051819.pdf -https://baptistnews.com/article/do-complementarian-men-do-better-a-response-to-nancy-pearcey/ -https://leo-cruz.medium.com/nancy-pearcey-pt1-44f98c2a3602
“Another wave of rejection surfaced when people either shamed us for not being in church or stopped talking to us all together. It left me wondering whether I was truly accepted by God–his people surely weren’t making me feel that way, except when I did what they wanted me to do” -Karl Forehand Out into the Desert
The Deconstruction of Christianity is something I’ve heard of since stepping into the world of theology, but I never thought I’d find myself smack dab in the middle of the movement. #deconstructioncommunity
Disentangling or #deconstruction is a phenomenon where individuals, often within the Christian faith, critically reevaluate their beliefs, doctrines, and practices. This process involves questioning and challenging long-held assumptions, teachings, and traditions within Christianity, with the goal of arriving at a more authentic and personally meaningful understanding of #faith.
The 𝑓𝑒𝑎𝑟 of rejection from God, from others, and actual rejection from others can feel suffocating as negative emotions become all consuming.
The feeling of loneliness when working through one’s doubts, questions and the decision to move away from harmful religious teachings can feel unbearable.
#Religioustrauma refers to psychological, emotional, or social harm caused by religious beliefs, practices, or communities.
Here are some quick facts:
1. **Definition**: It encompasses experiences of guilt, shame, fear, and anxiety resulting from religious teachings, practices, or communities.
2. **Causes**: It can stem from rigid dogma, abusive religious leaders, or pressure to conform to specific beliefs.
3. **Symptoms**: Symptoms may include anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and difficulty trusting others.
4. **Triggers**: Certain events or experiences may trigger religious trauma, such as leaving a religious community, questioning beliefs, or encountering religious lingo.
5. **Treatment**: Treatment often involves therapy, support groups, and finding new sources of meaning and community.
6. **Impact**: Religious trauma can have long-lasting effects on individuals’ mental health, relationships, and sense of identity.
7. **Awareness**: Awareness of religious trauma is growing, leading to more resources and support for those affected.
“Religious trauma is the emotional and psychological damage caused by harmful religious experiences or teachings. It can result from authoritarianism, legalism, fear-based theology, and other forms of spiritual abuse.”
“Deconstruction often involves revisiting and reevaluating one’s religious upbringing, which can bring to light past trauma and contribute to healing.”
“The deconstruction movement recognizes the importance of addressing religious trauma and creating safe spaces for individuals to explore their beliefs without fear of judgment or retribution.”
“For many, deconstruction is not just about questioning beliefs, but also about processing and healing from religious trauma.”
“Navigating the deconstruction journey can be challenging, especially for those who have experienced religious trauma. It requires courage, self-compassion, and support from others who understand.”
The book When Religion Hurts you has served as a beacon of support and empowerment for those of us who are navigating the complexities of disentanglement from restrictive religious beliefs. It offers validation, guidance, and solidarity to individuals who are embarking on this journey.
As y’all know, the deconstruction of Christianity is something I’ve heard of since stepping into the world of theology, but I never thought I’d find myself smack dab in the middle of the movement. There were numerous aspects that led me to begin unraveling, the real smack upside the head, realizing I was within a spiritual abusive biblical counseling relationship and program, that led me to notice the brutal similarities of abuse within IHOPKC, the scandals within the Grace Community Church & ACBC Biblical/Nouthetic counseling. Cover-ups of abuse within the church are deeply troubling & have been documented in various contexts & denominations.
Cover-ups within the institution of the church refer to the deliberate efforts by religious leaders or authorities to conceal or downplay instances of misconduct, abuse, or wrongdoing within the church community. These cover-ups often involve minimizing or denying allegations, protecting perpetrators, silencing victims, and avoiding accountability or legal repercussions.
In many cases, church leaders may prioritize protecting the reputation and image of the institution over addressing the harm caused to individuals who have experienced abuse or misconduct. This can perpetuate a culture of secrecy, mistrust, and impunity within the church, allowing harmful behavior to continue unchecked and undermining the safety and well-being of congregants.
Cover-ups within the church can take various forms, including:
Concealing allegations of abuse or misconduct by clergy or church staff.
Transferring accused individuals to other congregations or positions within the church rather than reporting them to authorities.
Discrediting or intimidating victims who come forward with allegations.
Failing to implement proper protocols for preventing and responding to abuse, such as background checks or training programs.
Withholding information or misleading congregants and the public about the extent of abuse or misconduct within the church.
Key points to consider:
1️⃣Institutional Protection: In some cases, church leaders or institutions have been accused of prioritizing the protection of their reputation or the reputation of the church over addressing allegations of abuse. This can lead to efforts to conceal or minimize reports of abuse, rather than taking appropriate steps to investigate and address them.
2️⃣Failure to Report: In jurisdictions where clergy are mandated reporters of abuse, failure to report allegations of abuse to law enforcement authorities can constitute a form of cover-up. Church leaders who fail to report abuse may face legal consequences and can contribute to ongoing harm to victims and survivors.
3️⃣Impact on Victims: Cover-ups of abuse can have devastating consequences for victims and survivors, who may feel betrayed by trusted religious leaders and institutions. Failure to address abuse allegations can perpetuate cycles of harm and contribute to ongoing trauma and suffering.
4️⃣Lack of Transparency: Cover-ups of abuse often involve a lack of transparency and accountability within the church hierarchy. Victims and survivors may be discouraged or silenced from speaking out, and internal investigations may be conducted without appropriate oversight or impartiality.
Please 🎧 into this week’s podcast, where we explore my journey of disentangling from restrictive religious beliefs and rediscovering personal faith and autonomy!
Listen here! 🎧
These cover-ups can have devastating consequences for victims, perpetuating cycles of abuse, trauma, and disillusionment. They also erode trust in church leadership and contribute to broader societal concerns about institutional integrity and accountability.
Addressing cover-ups of abuse within the church requires a commitment to transparency, accountability, and justice. Church leaders and institutions must prioritize the safety and well-being of all members of their community and take decisive action to prevent and address abuse in all its forms.
🎙️ In this week’s podcast episode, we explore my journey of disentangling from restrictive religious beliefs and rediscovering personal faith and autonomy.
Listen here! 🎧
I want to emphasize the importance of critical thinking and personal agency in shaping one’s spiritual journey.
I believe by embracing curiosity, authenticity, and openness to new perspectives, I am inviting listeners to cultivate a deeper, more nuanced understanding of faith that is grounded in personal conviction and integrity.
This book has been truly incredible for me on my deconstruction journey. I mentioned it multiple times in this week’s episode. I cannot recommend it enough!
It serves as a beacon of support and empowerment for those of us who are navigating the complexities of disentanglement from restrictive religious beliefs. It offers validation, guidance, and solidarity to individuals who are embarking on this journey.
Deconstruction is a scary world, but it doesn’t have to be. Deconstruction does not have to mean deconverting. (But it might and that’s okay too! 😉)
The deconstruction of Christianity is something I’ve heard of since stepping into the world of theology, but I never thought I’d find myself smack dab in the middle of the movement.
Disentangling or Deconstruction is a phenomenon where individuals, often within the Christian faith, critically reevaluate their beliefs, doctrines, and practices. This process involves questioning and challenging long-held assumptions, teachings, and traditions within Christianity, with the goal of arriving at a more authentic and personally meaningful understanding of faith.
Apologetics like Alisha Childers, Mama bear Apologetics or pasters like John Mark Comer are doing piss-poor jobs articulating “why” we are deconstructing and it’s truly offensive and only adding more fuel for the fire.
There were numerous aspects that led me to begin unraveling, the real smack upside the head, realizing I was within a spiritual abusive biblical counseling relationship and program, that led me to notice the brutal similarities of abuse within IHOPKC, the scandals within the Grace Community Church & ACBC Biblical/Nouthetic counseling….
Unveiling the Shadows: Exploring Abuse and Ideology in Religious Communities
Introduction:
Introduction to the podcast episode’s theme of uncovering abuse and harmful ideologies within religious communities.
Brief overview of my entire faith journey to provide context on where we started, where we were, and how we got here.
END TIMES OBSESSION–Prophecy Belief in modern American culture concludes that while Christian fascination with the end of the world has existed for a very long time, but only recently have evangelicals label contemporary events with great self-confidence as the fulfillment of biblical prophecies heralding the End of Time has been particularly intense. Since the publication of C.I. Scofield’s edition of the King James Version in 1909, premillennial dispensationalism came to dominate evangelical thought. Also known as Dispensationalism, which can be hard to define, but one of the telltale signs is the date setting historicism of those like Hal Lindsey which I mentioned on my testimony podcast, episode who identify current events as the fulfillment of biblical prophecies.
The rise of the Holiness movement, Pentecostalism and fundamentalism marked a monumental development in American Evangelicalism. While these three movements were never entirely aligned in view theology, very different, they share a stress on the dangers of the world, the comforts of separated piety, the centrality of evangelism, and an expectation of the End.
As I was isolated during 2020-2022, I believe the process of radicalization and conversion to religion often intertwines with the allure of conspiracies. As individuals seek answers to complex questions and meaning in their lives, they may become drawn to radical ideologies and conspiratorial narratives that promise a sense of belonging, purpose, and empowerment. These ideologies may offer a simplistic worldview where the believer is part of an exclusive group that possesses hidden knowledge and is tasked with a righteous mission.
Conspiracies can provide a framework for interpreting the world and understanding perceived injustices or challenges. They often exploit feelings of fear, uncertainty, and distrust, portraying religious or ideological adversaries as sinister forces working against the believer’s values and identity. In this context, religion may offer a sense of community, moral guidance, and a framework for understanding the world that resonates with the believer’s conspiratorial worldview. (However, it’s important to recognize that not all individuals who embrace radical conspiracies end up converting to religion, and vice versa. Each person’s journey is unique and influenced by a combination of personal experiences, psychological factors, social influences, and external circumstances. Additionally, the relationship between radicalization, conspiracies, and religion is complex and multifaceted, with many variables at play.)
The doctrine of inerrancy is an innovation of the nineteenth century. Rogers and McKim argued that the Princeton theologians of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, most notably B.B. Warfield, created the doctrine of inerrancy, which teaches that the Bible is entirely without error in all that it affirms. I bet you didn’t know the FACT that the inerrancy of the Bible–the belief that the Bible is without error–is a contentious topic among mainstream Christianity! Check out this book Five Views on Biblical Inerrancy (Counterpoints: Bible and Theology)
Discuss the implications of John MacArthur’s involvement, ACBC and the potential harm caused by authoritarian leadership within religious organizations.
Discuss MacArthur’s dismissive response to Wendy’s accusations, the confrontation and revelation of Paul Guay’s abuse, GCC’s inadequate response to the abuse, MacArthur’s involvement and contradictory statements, MacArthur’s public shaming of Eileen Gray, the elders’ dismissal of Gray’s abuse allegations, David Gray’s conviction and MacArthur’s support, Alistair Begg’s controversial advice and MacArthur’s response, and the lack of accountability for MacArthur’s actions.
Explore various forms of abuse, including emotional, psychological, and spiritual, and the LACK OF ACCOUNTABILITY OR REFORM happening within churches and religious institutions.
I was enrolled in Change that Sticks, an abusive ACBC biblical counseling program that stripped me of autonomy and treated any mental health condition as SIN that needed to be repented of, and not a real condition. Biblical counseling is dangerous, unethical and immoral.
Identification of manipulation and control tactics used in biblical counseling settings to exert emotional and psychological control over individuals.
We should consider the potential harms of relying solely on biblical counseling methods without considering professional mental health resources.
Call to action for religious leaders and communities to prioritize the safety and well-being of their members and address instances of abuse with transparency and accountability.
The key here for me to understand was that gravitating to fundamentalism after experiencing hyper-charismatic or the new age movement can make sense. Particularly during times of stress and uncertainty, we can gravitate towards the need for a sense of control & structure. The strict rules and structure create a perceived sense of safety, which is also another form of the prosperity gospel. Do these spiritual disciplines read the bible, pray, repent, etc for God’s blessing.
Overview of the rise and fall of Mark Driscoll, a controversial figure within evangelical Christianity.
Exploration of the allegations of abuse, authoritarian leadership, and ethical misconduct associated with Driscoll and his former church, Mars Hill Church.
Reflection on the lessons learned from the Mark Driscoll saga and the importance of holding religious leaders accountable for their actions.
Learning more about Dominion theology & Christian nationalism. They are related but distinct movements within Christianity, both of which emphasize the idea of Christians playing a prominent role in shaping society and culture according to their religious beliefs. Prominent adherents of those ideologies include Calvinist Christian reconstructionism (Doug Wilson, Costi Hinn, John MacArthur, John Piper, Charlie Kirk) Charismatic and Pentecostal Kingdom Now theology, (7 Mountain Mandate) and the New Apostolic Reformation. How insane is it that this conservative group THRIVES on calling out “false Christians” and making a mockery of Pentecostals, while they are part of the very same theology, if not WORSE, because Council of Biblical Manhood and Womanhood/complementarianism is patriarchal and misogynistic at heart, and all of this is connected to the Lordship Salvation controversary (a rabbit hole you need to go down) and to my next point:
8. Critique of Nancy Pearcey’s book “Toxic War on Masculinity” and its assertions about masculinity and culture.:
Absence of evidence: The lack of empirical evidence to support the claims made in Pearcey’s book, particularly regarding the alleged “war on masculinity.” We should consider the potential consequences of promoting ideological narratives without empirical support.
Oversimplification of Gender Issues: Critics argue that Pearcey’s book oversimplifies complex gender issues by framing them as a “war on masculinity.” They suggest that this framing perpetuates a binary view of gender and fails to adequately address the diverse experiences and identities of individuals across the gender spectrum.
Perpetuating Gender Stereotypes: Critics contend that Pearcey’s characterization of masculinity as under attack reinforces traditional gender stereotypes and norms, which may contribute to harmful social expectations and restricts the freedom of individuals to express their gender identity authentically.
Lack of Intersectionality: Some critics argue that Pearcey’s analysis lacks intersectionality, as it fails to consider how factors such as race, class, sexuality, and disability intersect with gender to shape individuals’ experiences and social realities. This omission may result in a limited understanding of the complexity of gender dynamics.
Ideological Bias: Some critics suggest that Pearcey’s perspective reflects a conservative or right-wing ideological bias, as she tends to frame gender issues within a traditional Christian worldview. This ideological framing may alienate readers with different religious or philosophical beliefs and limit the book’s appeal to a narrow audience.
•Literalism: Fundamentalists often interpret Scripture texts in a literal or strict manner
•Inerrancy: Fundamentalists typically uphold the belief in the inerrancy or infallibility of the Bible, viewing them as the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice. Aka Biblicists
•Separatism: Fundamentalist movements may advocate for the separation of believers from secular society or from other religious groups deemed to be impure or heretical.
•Moral Conservatism: Fundamentalists often promote traditional moral values and social norms, opposing practices or lifestyles they perceive as contrary to their religious beliefs.
•Resistance to Change: Fundamentalists are often resistant to change and innovation within religious doctrine or practice, viewing such developments as departures from true faith.
•Intolerance: Fundamentalist groups may exhibit intolerance towards individuals or groups who hold different beliefs or lifestyles, leading to discrimination, ostracism, or even violence towards perceived “outsiders” or “heretics.”
•Dogmatism: Fundamentalist ideology tends to promote rigid, inflexible interpretations of religious or ideological principles, discouraging questioning or exploration of alternative viewpoints.
•Anti-intellectualism: Critics argue that fundamentalism can foster distrust or rejection of scientific knowledge, critical thinking, and scholarly inquiry, leading to a rejection of evidence-based reasoning and a preference for simplistic, black-and-white thinking
The concept of scriptural inerrancy is often associated with conservative or evangelical Christian theology, although it has been debated and interpreted in various ways within different theological traditions. Some theologians interpret inerrancy to apply only to matters of faith and salvation, while others extend it to include historical, scientific, and other factual claims made in the Bible.
Critics of scriptural inerrancy argue that it imposes an unrealistic and untenable standard on the Bible, ignoring the complexities of its historical and cultural context and the presence of apparent contradictions or discrepancies within its texts. They suggest that a more nuanced understanding of the Bible’s inspiration and authority is needed, one that acknowledges the human element in its composition and transmission.
Literary Criticism: Critics may approach the Bible as a collection of literary texts rather than divinely inspired scripture. They may analyze its narratives, poetry, and teachings from a literary perspective, examining themes, motifs, and rhetorical techniques without presupposing divine authorship or inspiration.
The authorship of 1 Timothy, along with 2 Timothy and Titus, is a subject of debate among scholars. While traditional Christian belief attributes these letters to the Apostle Paul, some scholars raise questions about their authorship based on linguistic, stylistic, and theological differences compared to Paul’s undisputed letters. These scholars suggest that these letters may have been written by a disciple of Paul or someone writing in Paul’s name.
-Linguistic and Stylistic Differences: Some scholars note that the vocabulary, grammar, and writing style of 1 Timothy differ from Paul’s undisputed letters. They argue that these differences suggest a different authorship or a later date of composition.
-Theological and Ecclesiastical Developments: Critics point out that 1 Timothy contains instructions regarding church organization, leadership qualifications, and pastoral duties that reflect a more developed ecclesiastical structure than was present in Paul’s time. They suggest that these developments may indicate a later date of composition.
Analysis of prominent figures in evangelical Christianity, including David Wolcott, Alisha Childers, and Frank Turek, who are associated with right-wing fundamentalism.
Exploration of the ideological positions and beliefs espoused by these individuals and their impact on religious communities.
Consideration of the broader societal implications of right-wing fundamentalism and its intersection with politics and religion.
10. Conclusion:
Summary of emphasizing the importance of addressing abuse and harmful ideologies within religious communities.
Call to action for listeners to advocate for accountability and transparency within religious institutions and to support survivors of abuse.
Invitation for further exploration of these topics in future episodes of the podcast.
“The Bible Tells Me So: Why Defending Scripture Has Made Us Unable to Read It” by Peter Enns – Enns explores how the Bible’s messy and diverse nature challenges the notion of inerrancy and offers a fresh perspective on understanding its authority.
“Inspiration and Incarnation: Evangelicals and the Problem of the Old Testament” by Peter Enns – In this book, Enns examines the challenges of reconciling modern scholarship with traditional views of biblical inerrancy, particularly in relation to the Old Testament.
“The Evolution of Adam: What the Bible Does and Doesn’t Say about Human Origins” by Peter Enns – Enns explores the theological implications of accepting scientific understandings of human origins while still affirming the authority of scripture.
“Misquoting Jesus: The Story Behind Who Changed the Bible and Why” by Bart D. Ehrman – Ehrman explores the history of textual transmission and the ways in which scribes, translators, and interpreters have shaped the biblical text over time, challenging the notion of a perfectly preserved and inerrant scripture.
“The Human Faces of God: What Scripture Reveals When It Gets God Wrong (and Why Inerrancy Tries to Hide It)” by Thom Stark – Stark examines instances in the Bible where God’s character and actions appear contradictory or morally problematic, challenging the idea of a completely consistent and inerrant scripture.
The Invention of the Inspired Text: Philological Windows on the Theopneustia of Scripture by John C. Poirier
The Creationist–The evolution of Scientific Creationism by Ronald L. Numbers
Deconstruction is a scary world, but it doesn’t have to be. Deconstruction does not have to mean deconverting.
The deconstruction of Christianity is something I’ve heard of since stepping into the world of theology, but I never thought I’d find myself smack dab in the middle of the movement.
Disentangling or Deconstruction is a phenomenon where individuals, often within the Christian faith, critically reevaluate their beliefs, doctrines, and practices. This process involves questioning and challenging long-held assumptions, teachings, and traditions within Christianity, with the goal of arriving at a more authentic and personally meaningful understanding of faith.
There were numerous aspects that led me to begin unraveling, the real smack upside the head, realizing I was within a spiritual abusive biblical counseling relationship and program, that led me to notice the brutal similarities of abuse within IHOPKC, the scandals within the Grace Community Church & ACBC Biblical/Nouthetic counseling….
Here are some brief insights into the podcast that’ll be dropping on April 30th that’ll convey much more!
Discuss the implications of John MacArthur’s involvement, ACBC and the potential harm caused by authoritarian leadership within religious organizations.
Discuss MacArthur’s dismissive response to Wendy’s accusations, the confrontation and revelation of Paul Guay’s abuse, GCC’s inadequate response to the abuse, MacArthur’s involvement and contradictory statements, MacArthur’s public shaming of Eileen Gray, the elders’ dismissal of Gray’s abuse allegations, David Gray’s conviction and MacArthur’s support, Alistair Begg’s controversial advice and MacArthur’s response, and the lack of accountability for MacArthur’s actions.
Explore various forms of abuse, including emotional, psychological, and spiritual, and the LACK OF ACCOUNTABILITY OR REFORM happening within churches and religious institutions.
MacArthur’s views on slavery are HORRIFIC.
WHY IS IT protocol for the Church to Put a Marital Rape Victim under Church Discipline?
I was enrolled in Change that Sticks an abusive ACBC biblical counseling program that stripped me away of autonomy and treated any mental health condition as SIN that needed to be repented of, and not a real condition. Biblical counseling is dangerous, unethical and immoral.
Analyze the rise and fall of Mars Hill Church and its founder, Mark Driscoll, as documented in the podcast series “The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill.”
Examine the leadership style and behavior of Mark Driscoll, including allegations of authoritarianism, bullying, and spiritual abuse.
Discuss the lessons learned from the Mars Hill saga and the broader implications for accountability and ethical leadership within religious organizations.
Learning more about Dominion theology & Christian nationalism. They are related but distinct movements within Christianity, both of which emphasize the idea of Christians playing a prominent role in shaping society and culture according to their religious beliefs. Prominent adherents of those ideologies include Calvinist Christian reconstructionism (Doug Wilson, Costi Hinn, John MacArthur, John Piper, Charlie Kirk) Charismatic and Pentecostal Kingdom Now theology, (7 Mountain Mandate) and the New Apostolic Reformation. How insane is it that this conservative group THRIVES on calling out “false Christians” and making a mockery of Pentecostals, while they are part of the very same theology, if not WORSE, because Council of Biblical Manhood and Womanhood/complementarianism is patriarchal and misogynistic at heart, and all of this is connected to the Lordship Salvation controversary (a rabbit hole you need to go down) and my next point:
Nancy’s Pearcy’s book-Toxic War on Masculinity Being Mostly a Lie:
Oversimplification of Gender Issues: Critics argue that Pearcey’s book oversimplifies complex gender issues by framing them as a “war on masculinity.” They suggest that this framing perpetuates a binary view of gender and fails to adequately address the diverse experiences and identities of individuals across the gender spectrum.
Perpetuating Gender Stereotypes: Critics contend that Pearcey’s characterization of masculinity as under attack reinforces traditional gender stereotypes and norms, which may contribute to harmful social expectations and restricts the freedom of individuals to express their gender identity authentically.
Lack of Intersectionality: Some critics argue that Pearcey’s analysis lacks intersectionality, as it fails to consider how factors such as race, class, sexuality, and disability intersect with gender to shape individuals’ experiences and social realities. This omission may result in a limited understanding of the complexity of gender dynamics.
Absence of Empirical Evidence: Critics point out that Pearcey’s arguments often rely on anecdotal evidence or selective examples, rather than rigorous empirical research, to support her claims about masculinity. This approach may undermine the credibility of her analysis and limit its applicability to broader social contexts.
Ideological Bias: Some critics suggest that Pearcey’s perspective reflects a conservative or right-wing ideological bias, as she tends to frame gender issues within a traditional Christian worldview. This ideological framing may alienate readers with different religious or philosophical beliefs and limit the book’s appeal to a narrow audience.
Perspectives shifted of David Wolcott, Alisa Childers, and Frank Turek:
We will examine the perspectives of David Wolcott, Alisa Childers, and Frank Turek, who are often associated with right-wing fundamentalist Christianity.
Critically evaluate their views on theology, culture, and social issues, and explore the implications of their beliefs on religious discourse and public policy.
Consider the diversity of opinions within the Christian community and the need for respectful dialogue and engagement across ideological divides.
and that’s what started this insane rabbit hole I’ve now spent the last 6 weeks researching/reading 5-6 hours day, reading books, watching interviews, studying from biblical scholars outside of my tradition & my mind is truly blown. Pages and pages of notes. Have I settled on anything, NO, I haven’t, but just the fact that I don’t know, is a belief change, and that’s all I can really tell you, right now.
🎙️Episode 10 From Falsehood to Freedom: Lessons from a former False Prophetess
This week on the podcast we had Dawn Hill with us who discussed that a HUGE issue with the prophetic prayers and prophetic word movement is the potential for manipulation, deception, and spiritual harm.
I can’t help but to notice the brutal similarities between the approach IHOPKC is taking which is clearly focused on maintaining control and protecting the institution & the scandals within the Grace Community Church & ACBC Biblical/Nouthetic counseling.
If you or anyone you know has experienced abuse or misconduct within IHOPKC or any other religious organization PLEASE be encouraged to seek support, speak out, and report your experiences to appropriate authorities.
SEEK THEN SPEAK – A tool for sexual assault survivors and support people. Visit seekthenspeak.app to fill out a private survey to gather information and consider your next steps.
MOCSA (Metropolitan Organization to Counter S*xual Assault)
Call the crisis hotline at (816) 531-0233 in Missouri or (913) 642-0233 in Kansas.
DRZ Law Call (913) 400-2033 to request a free case evaluation.
BozLaw PA – Now representing victims of IHOPKC Visit http://www.bozlawpa.com and fill out the form on the website to request a free case evaluation.
This week on the podcast we are talking about your thyroid which is a 🦋-shaped gland that powers every cell in your body. It sets the pace for your body to function and operate.
👉🏻Swipe 👉🏻 to learn how chronic dieting, under-eating, under-nourishing can lead to impaired thyroid function.
Thyroid health can be so confusing, especially because you don’t need to be diagnosed with a thyroid disorder to suffer from thyroid issues. Hypothyroidism or sluggish thyroid is much more common in women than hyperthyroidism—see symptoms on slide 6.
It’s important to understand that the years of stressors (Like: undernourishment, overexercising, lack of rest, sunlight, constant stimulation, trauma, halogen exposure, etc.) will not disappear overnight.
Here are some areas to focus on to bring back balance:
Managing STRESS — Developing positive stress coping mechanisms like: praying, singing, journaling, getting outside, asking for help, breath work, taking a bath, therapy, &hanging with pets. Be sure to prioritize morning and bedtime routines, quality sleep, gentle exercise, and support your circadian rhythm by getting enough natural light (and less blue light exposure).⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ NUTRIENTS — Our thyroid requires specific minerals, like Vit. A, iodine, zinc, copper, selenium, etc. to properly function. Focus on nutrient-dense foods like shrimp, organ meats, bone broth, quality dairy, &fresh fruits.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ DIGESTION — We need to properly break down and absorb our food to get the nutrients our thyroid requires. We also need enough stomach acid for a healthy digestive process. Try adding in digestive bitters if you suffer from digestive issues.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ TOXINS — Specific chemicals called halogens (bromine, chlorine, and fluorine) compete with iodine and bind to thyroid receptors, preventing thyroid hormones from working properly. Filtering fluoride and chloride out of your drinking and bath/shower water helps those with thyroid dysfunction.⠀⠀⠀
Taste0ftruth Tuesdays 