Resources
Theology of Suffering and Authority
- Discussion on imbalance of theology related to suffering and authority
- Magnification of male headship and sacrifice over safety and protection of the oppressed
- Lack of focus on misuse and cautions of authority
Abuse of Authority and Accountability
- Constituted and delegated authority in the church
- Power comes with responsibility and accountability
- The church's duty to hold authority figures accountable for misuse
Jesus' Teachings on Leadership
- Jesus' warnings against the misuse of authority
- Connection to domestic abuse involving various forms of power and control
- The church's slow response to addressing these abuses
Restoration and Consequences of Sin
- Biblical references to power under versus power over
- The role of accountability and honesty in theological commitments
- Expectation of servant leadership and its importance
Hope for Marriages Affected by Domestic Abuse
- Finding hope and change through the gospel
- The focus on individual safety and sanity over marital restoration
- Importance of setting boundaries and personal growth for both partners
Domestic Abuse: Definitions and Dynamics
- Misuse of power and patterns of coercive behavior
- The importance of recognizing power dynamics in abuse
- Differentiating between isolated acts and ongoing patterns of control
Can Women Be Abusive?
- Acknowledgment of women's potential for abusive behavior
- Differences in power dynamics and impact between men and women
- Examples of women abusing power in certain contexts
Nonviolent Resistance and Personal Agency
- Encouraging nonviolent forms of resistance
- The significance of maintaining dignity and agency
- Practical advice on resisting control without escalating violence
