The Church's Role in Combating Domestic Violence

Relationship Truth: Unfiltered

Resources

• Leslie's Quick Start Guide: www.leslievernick.com/start
• Chris Moles' Website & Resources: https://www.chrismoles.org/

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