You are a parent to five young children. You’ve noticed that they’ve been acting a bit strange around you (especially #4). But they’re just kids, you reason; kids are weird sometimes. One day, after the younger two are in bed, the older three approach you. They look solemn and hesitant. “What’s up?” you ask with…
Tag: abuse
Ministerial Sexual Abuse: High Treason in the Kingdom of God
This week, another story broke about a pastor who sexually abused a church member. That sentence seems accurate almost every week. Ministerial sexual abuse in an unfortunate constant in 2019’s headlines. As each story that breaks, the same responses multiply. Some, understandably, see such abuse as permanently disqualifying. A man who has used the office…
“My Wife Became My Hero” — A Model of Biblical Manhood
“We like to think of ourselves as the main character — the heroes — of our own stories. However, in the decade we’ve been married, I have had a growing realization that finally dawned in a Michigan courtroom in January 2018. I married the hero. At the end of the day, I’m Rachael’s sidekick —…
The Gospel-Centered Abuser
My dear Foolsgold, I read your last report with great interest and not a little pride. Your great-uncle Screwtape will be delighted to hear of your success. (He will, no doubt, claim responsibility for your accomplishments—though these, we know, should be credited to my account.) A decade ago, when your patient entered “the ministry,” I…
Recommended: “Becoming a Church That Cares Well for the Abused”
Over the past two weeks, I completed the “Becoming a Church That Cares Well for the Abused” curriculum (and other free abuse training material available through Ministry Grid). I recommend that every church leader, ministry worker, and church member complete it. Having everyone in the church view this material and understand the basics of how…