Peter's words for those struggling with abusive or controlling tendencies emphasize the need for inner transformation and repentance.
Abuse in the Bible: But Does it Even Use That Word?
The Bible may not include the term "abuse" in every translation, but it uses various words that convey the concept, emphasizing the seriousness and destructive nature of abuse.
Isolation: You Are Not Alone
It is bad enough when men (and women) do not believe our story of abuse in the home or workplace. But, when you feel that God is not even answering your cries for help. That is isolation.
Zechariah and Toxic Christian Leadership
Zechariah warns of punishment for wicked leaders, calling them to repentance. Priests and kings and counselors thought they knew better than the LORD when Zechariah spoke around 500 B.C.
The Sin of [Bystander] Complicity: Toxic Followership in the Workplace
It is a sin to fail to act against abuse. Unfortunately, it is all too common for bystanders in the workplace to stand by the abuser. Standing up for victims is essential, despite fears and pressures.
Grace Through Criticism: Uzziah – When He Became Strong
Sixteen-year old Uzziah ascended to the leadership of Judah after his father’s demise and reigned righteously for much of his 52 year rule. However, his arrogance led to his ruin.
The Gods Have Come Down: The Temptations of Praise
What happens down, deep within you when your subordinates, or even friends, begin to praise your holy name? Does your heart rise up and meet their praises with praises of its own? Does your heart congratulate itself and take on new proportions?
What’s In a Title?
The dangers of ego and hypocrisy often come into play when titles are a means of image control. It takes the self-examination of motives to avoid toxic leadership and maintain genuine integrity and character within all our spheres of influence.
Lazarus Must Die: When Image Control Takes No Prisoners
Jesus, after performing the miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead, gained followers, threatening the authority of the chief priests and Pharisees. These abusive leaders plotted to both kill Lazarus and defame Jesus to maintain their control. They, like other abusive leaders, used a variety of tactics to suppress the truth and protect their image.
Your Guilt Remains: Repentance Means Seeing
John 9 narrates the story of Jesus healing a man born blind on a Sabbath, challenging the rules of the Pharisees. The Pharisees' refuse to acknowledge their sin and Jesus makes clear their guilt remains as long as they think they see but don't.
Do Not Cover Their Guilt: Imprecatory Praying
Imprecatory Praying: It is a hard topic for Christians to wrap their heads around. When I normally speak of "imprecatory praying" I give qualifications. But Nehemiah, in a display of raw emotion, simply asks the Lord to destroy this enemy.