Hypermasculinity is a psychological term describing the exaggeration of male stereotypical behavior, emphasizing traits such as physical strength, aggression, and sexuality.
It involves an overemphasis on traditional masculine traits and behaviors, often to the exclusion of traits considered less traditionally masculine, such as empathy and emotional expression.
Hypermasculinity can lead to harmful behaviors and attitudes, including misogyny, homophobia, and violence, and is often perpetuated by cultural norms and media representations.
🏴☠️A Meta-analysis of 39 studies found hyper masculinity to be one of the most powerful predictors of men’s likelihood to commit assault. 🏴☠️
Pastors like Mark Driscoll, John Piper, John MacArthur, Steven Furtick, Robert Jeffress (to name a few) emphasize traditional masculine characteristics while downplaying traits that they perceive as “soft” or non-conforming to traditional gender norms.
Hyper masculinity within the church can take various forms including:
1. **Emphasis on Aggression**: Promoting the idea that men should be aggressive, assertive, and dominant, which can lead to conflict and hostility rather than fostering understanding and compassion.
2. **Rigid Gender Roles**: Enforcing strict gender roles where men are expected to be the leaders and decision-makers while women are relegated to supporting roles, limiting both men and women’s potential within the church.
3. **Resistance to Vulnerability**: Discouraging men from showing vulnerability or seeking help, leading to emotional repression and isolation, which contradicts the Christian values of empathy and support.
4. **Denigration of Feminine Traits**: Devaluing traits traditionally associated with femininity, such as sensitivity or nurturing, and promoting a narrow view of masculinity that excludes these qualities.
5. **Preoccupation with Power and Control**: Focusing excessively on maintaining power and control within the church hierarchy, rather than promoting humility, servanthood, and cooperation.
6. **Misuse of Scripture**: Misinterpreting or selectively using biblical passages to justify patriarchal structures and behaviors, rather than interpreting them in a way that promotes equality and mutual respect.
Conservative churches EVERYWHERE may perpetuate hypermasculinity through various means, including:
Gender Role Expectations: Conservative churches often promote traditional gender roles where men are expected to be strong, assertive leaders while women are expected to be nurturing and submissive. This reinforcement of rigid gender norms can contribute to the perpetuation of hypermasculine ideals.
Preaching and Teaching: Sermons and teachings in conservative churches may emphasize masculine traits such as dominance, power, and control, while downplaying or devaluing traits traditionally associated with femininity. This messaging can reinforce hypermasculine behaviors and attitudes.
Leadership Structure: Conservative churches may have hierarchical leadership structures where men hold positions of authority and power, while women are excluded from leadership roles or relegated to supporting roles. This reinforces the idea that leadership and authority are inherently masculine qualities.
Socialization of Boys: Conservative churches may socialize boys from a young age to conform to hypermasculine ideals through youth groups, boys’ clubs, and other activities that emphasize competitiveness, toughness, and aggression.
Response to Change: Conservative churches may resist societal changes that challenge traditional gender roles and masculinity, leading to a reinforcement of hypermasculine attitudes in response to perceived threats to traditional values.
Overall, conservative churches can contribute to the perpetuation of hypermasculinity through their teachings, practices, and socialization processes, which can have harmful effects on individuals and communities.
I hope by providing these examples it helps to illustrate how hyper masculinity within the church can distort Christian teachings and harm both individuals and the community as a whole.
To learn more about hypermasculinity and its societal impact, you can explore various academic journals, books, and online resources. Here are some recommendations:
Academic Journals:
“Psychology of Men & Masculinities”
“Men and Masculinities”
“Journal of Gender Studies”
“Feminism & Psychology”
Books:
“The Will to Change: Men, Masculinity, and Love” by bell hooks
“Guyland: The Perilous World Where Boys Become Men” by Michael Kimmel
“Angry White Men: American Masculinity at the End of an Era” by Michael Kimmel
“The Macho Paradox: Why Some Men Hurt Women and How All Men Can Help” by Jackson Katz
“Raising Cain: Protecting the Emotional Life of Boys” by Dan Kindlon and Michael Thompson
Online Resources:
Websites of organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA) or the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) often have articles and resources related to masculinity and mental health.
TED Talks and YouTube channels featuring talks by psychologists, sociologists, and activists discussing masculinity and its impact on society.
Online forums and communities where individuals share personal experiences and insights about masculinity and gender roles.
These resources provide a range of perspectives and insights into hypermasculinity and its effects on individuals and society.
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
Exploring the Intersection of Gender Roles, Christianity, and Dominion Theology: A Critical Look at Contemporary Teachings
Exploring the Intersection of Gender Roles, Christianity, & Dominion Theology: A Critical Look at Contemporary Teachings 🤔
Delving into history, we explore the nuanced connections between nursery rhymes, biblical teachings on women’s roles, and contemporary controversies.
These ideas find support in movements like the Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood (CBMW), which advocate for complementarianism and traditional gender norms 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.
Moreover, dominion theology, which seeks to establish a Christian-led government based on biblical law, is closely associated with these movements.
We uncover how interpretations of women’s roles in the church have been shaped by power dynamics rather than the teachings of Christ.
Nancy Pearcey’s recent controversial claim that women’s suffrage was a net loss highlights the connection between such ideologies and dominionism or Christian nationalism.
In the podcast episode, we delve into the connections between dominion theology, far-right fundamentalism, Pearcey’s controversial assertions, and more.
Join us as we unravel the complexities of gender, religion, and power in contemporary Christianity.🎙️
Tune in! 🎧
Sources: •‘Sugar and spice’ versus ‘Frogs and snails’ – Not Only Pink and Blue •WAITING FOR HER KNIGHT: GENDER STEREOTYPES IN FAIRYTALES – Jaipur Literature Festival •Nursery Rhymes: A Perfect Example of the Perpetuation of Sexism in Society – Dr. Bethany Cook (doctorbethanycook.com) •https://ifstudies.org/ifs-admin/resources/reports/worldfamilymap-2019-051819.pdf pg 36 •https://baptistnews.com/article/do-complementarian-men-do-better-a-response-to-nancy-pearcey/ •https://leo-cruz.medium.com/nancy-pearcey-pt1-44f98c2a3602 When apologetics debases historical memory | Medium •Gottman Institute •The Bible vs Biblical womanhood by Philip Payne •Man and Woman, One in Christ: An Exegetical and Theological Study of Paul’s Letters by Philip Barton Payne •The Making of Biblical womanhood How the subjugation of women became gospel truth by Beth Allison Barr
“Complementarian men only do well when they don’t act out hierarchy and put aside their beliefs.” John Gottman of the world-renowned Gottman Institute.
A big part of my deconstruction process was realizing 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. 🚩It was such a disappointment to find out that this book, touted as a high quality, scholarly work, was clearly just an opinion piece full of logical fallacies, misrepresentation of research data, and poor quality (non-peer reviewed) sources.
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.”
🚨 We should consider the consequences of promoting ideological narratives without empirical support. 🚨
Other concerns but not limited to:
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.
Nancy claimed in the book and on a podcast interview that women’s suffrage was a net loss!!!! This is dominionism aka Christian Nationalism.
This is a whole ‘nother rabbit hole, connected to the TRAD wife movement/conservative resurgence… let’s get into it a bit….
Beginning in 1979, the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) experienced an intense struggle for control of the organization. Its initiators called it the conservative resurgence while its detractors labeled it the fundamentalist takeover. It was launched with the charge that the seminaries and denominational agencies were dominated by liberals. The movement was primarily aimed at reorienting the denomination away from a liberal trajectory.
This led to the Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood (CBMW) At a 1986 meeting of the Evangelical Theological Society (ETS), Wayne Grudem gave a speech on “Manhood and Womanhood in Biblical and Theological Perspectives” in which he invited delegates to join “a new organization dedicated to upholding both equality and differences between men and women in marriage and the church.”[11] This was followed by a meeting in Dallas with Grudem, John Piper etc.
A subsequent meeting was held in Danvers, Massachusetts; at this meeting, the Danvers Statement on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood was finalized. coining the term “complementarianism” in 1988.
This is connected to New Calvinism, also known as the Young, Restless, and Reformed Movement, is a movement within conservative Evangelicalism that reinterprets 16th century Calvinism under contemporary US values and ideologies.
The New Calvinism movement started in the 1980s, with the founding of the Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood in 1987 in the United States, which stresses the complementarianism between men and women (in contrast to egalitarianism, and as opposed to feminism). The teaching of covenant theology (as opposed to Wesleyanism, or Arminian theology), a rejection of dispensationalism, and a church governance by male elders are also hallmarks of the movement.
The movement gained wider publicity with a conference held in Louisville, Kentucky, in 2006, Together for the Gospel by American pastors John Piper, Mark Driscoll, John MacArthur, Matt Chandler, Al Mohler, Mark Dever and CJ Mahaney. In March 2009, Time magazine ranked it as one of the “10 Ideas Changing the World Right Now”, while questioning if “more Christians searching for security will submit their wills to the austerely demanding God of their country’s infancy”.
Dominion theology, also known as dominionism, is a group of Christian political ideologies that seek to institute a nation governed by Christians and based on their understandings of biblical law. Extents of rule and ways of acquiring governing authority are varied. For example, dominion theology can include theonomy but does not necessarily involve advocacy of adherence to the Mosaic Law as the basis of government. The label is primarily applied to groups of Christians in the United States.
For further reading: •The Bible vs Biblical womanhood by Philip Payne •Man and Woman, One in Christ: An Exegetical and Theological Study of Paul’s Letters by Philip Barton Payne •Terran Williams’ Book How God Sees Women •The Making of Biblical Womanhood How the Subjugation of Women became Gospel Truth by Beth Allison Barr •Marg Mowczko’s work
👇🏻Sources: Sheila Wray Gregoire and Joanna Sawatsky 👇🏻 👇🏻
The IFS report that showed that conservative highly religious men were far more likely to perpetrate intimate partner violence (p. 36):
MORE Resources: – Susan Ware, Why They Marched: Untold Stories of the Women Who Fought for the Right to Vote (Cambridge, MA: The Belknap Press of Harvard University Press) – Anita Anand, Sophia: Princess, Suffragette, Revolutionary (New York: Bloomsbury) – Manuela Thurner, “’Better Citizens without the Ballot’: American AntiSuffrage Women and Their Rationale During the Progressive Era,” Journal of Women’s History 5:1 (Spring 1993), 33-60 – Hallie Rubenhold, The Five: The Untold Lives of the Women Killed by Jack the Ripper (New York: Mariner Books An Imprint of HarperCollins) – Martha S. Jones, Vanguard: How Black Women Broke Barriers, Won the Vote, and Insisted on Equality for All (New York: Basic Books)
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.
The distinction between cults and high-control groups can be somewhat nuanced, as both share many characteristics related to manipulation, authoritarianism, and the exertion of control over members.
Exploring the gray area between cults and high-control environments can be challenging due to several factors.
Firstly, defining what constitutes a cult or a high-control environment can be subjective and complex, as there is no universally agreed-upon definition. This ambiguity can make it difficult to draw clear boundaries between the two.
Secondly, both cults and high-control environments often use subtle tactics of manipulation and influence, making it challenging to recognize when individuals are being subjected to undue influence or coercion.
Additionally, individuals within these environments may be deeply invested emotionally, financially, or socially, which can cloud their perception and make it challenging to acknowledge the extent of control exerted over them.
Furthermore, there may be societal stigma or shame associated with admitting involvement in a cult or high-control environment, which can deter individuals from seeking help or speaking out about their experiences.
Here are some key signs of a high control group to look out for:
Navigating the gray area between cults and high-control environments requires careful consideration, empathy, and an understanding of the nuanced dynamics at play. Here is a side-by-side graphic to help demonstrate the similarities and differences:
Understanding high-control environments and the differences between cults is important for several reasons:
Protecting Individuals: High-control environments can exert significant influence over individuals, potentially leading to exploitation, abuse, and manipulation. By understanding the characteristics of these environments, individuals can recognize warning signs and protect themselves and others from harm.
Promoting Awareness: Many people may not realize when they are in a high-control environment or may be hesitant to label their experiences as cult-like. Educating the public about the traits and tactics used in these environments can increase awareness and empower individuals to identify and address problematic situations.
Supporting Recovery: For those who have been involved in high-control environments or cults, understanding the dynamics at play can be crucial for recovery and healing. Recognizing that their experiences were part of a larger pattern of manipulation can validate survivors’ experiences and provide a framework for processing their trauma.
Preventing Recruitment: By raising awareness about the tactics used in high-control environments and cults, communities can work to prevent vulnerable individuals from being recruited or radicalized. This includes providing education and support to those at risk and promoting critical thinking skills to resist manipulation tactics.
Protecting Democratic Values: High-control environments and cults can pose a threat to democratic values such as individual autonomy, freedom of thought, and diversity of belief. Understanding these dynamics is essential for safeguarding democratic principles and promoting social cohesion.
Overall, understanding high-control environments and the differences between cults is essential for protecting individuals, promoting awareness, supporting recovery, preventing recruitment, and safeguarding democratic values.
🎙️ On this week’s podcast with @chewsfoodwisely, we explore the common question: Is your metabolism broken or adapted? An interesting study that showcases BOTH metabolic adaptation & metabolic efficiency is The Biggest Loser study!
👉🏻SWIPE👉🏻 Our guest, Nicole, a renowned nutrition expert, helps us navigate through the complexities of metabolism and offers insights into understanding how our bodies respond to various factors such as diet, exercise, and lifestyle.
We discuss the differences between a “broken” metabolism and one that has adapted to environmental influences, as well as practical tips for optimizing metabolic health.
Tune in to our latest podcast episode where we’ll be sharing expert insights, tips, and strategies to revitalize your metabolism and get back on track.
Let’s reclaim your health and crush those goals together! 💪🔥
Taste0ftruth Tuesdays 