Recovering Hope After Spiritual Abuse | ITC12
Welcome to Episode 12 of the In the City Podcast with Dr. Jonathan G. Smith. In this episode, Jonathan discusses the difficult topic of spiritual abuse. Regardless of how “holy” a pastor or ministry leader may seem, they carry with them weaknesses that sometimes hurt others. So in this episode, Jonathan shares his personal journey through recovering from spiritual abuse and offers hope for those still struggling.
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This Episode’s Topic: Spiritual Abuse
To better understand why this topic matters, Jonathan unpacks the confrontation between Jesus and religious leaders of his day. The conflict emerged over how one should respond to a woman caught in adultery?
Ultimately our response is based upon our view of God’s love and grace. When a member of clergy hurts you Remember, Jesus says, “I love you.”
What You’ll Discover
- The grim reality that all Christian leaders are vulnerable of allowing their personal ego get in the way of their ministry
- How Jesus models the love of the Father even for the greatest sinners
- A portrait of grace for those caught up in spiritual abuse
- Important Point: Sin always leads to brokenness.
Read the Notes
Here are two definitions of Spiritual Abuse:
1st Definition
“a kind of abuse which damages the central core of who we are. It leaves us spiritually discouraged and emotionally cut off from the healing love of God.”
The Results of Spiritual Abuse:
“damages the central core of who we are”
“Leaves us spiritual discouraged”
“Emotionally cut off from the healing love of God.”
2nd Definition
“the mistreatment of a person who is in need of help, support or greater spiritual empowerment, with the result of weakening, undermining, or decreasing that person’s spiritual empowerment.”
The Results of Spiritual Abuse
“the weakening, undermining, or decreasing that person’s spiritual empowerment.”
Passage Quoted John 8:1-11
Start a Conversation
The best part about podcasting is joining in a conversation with you. To help kick off a discussion here is a question to consider:
Have you ever been in a situation or know someone who has experienced spiritual abuse? What did you go through? How did you respond?
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