__'Authority and rigour ... great generosity and gentleness. The authors diagnose a critical problem in the church and offer practical advice on how to fix it.' Andrew Graystone, theologian, broadcaster and communications consultant__

'Every time he wanted me to do something, he would quote scripture... I couldn't argue with scripture, it was like arguing with God.'

The term 'spiritual abuse' is widely used across the Christian community. But what is it?

Sometimes spiritual abuse involves leaders misusing their position, but ministers can also be the victims. Common factors include control through misuse of scripture, claims to divine authority, pressure to conform, and enforced accountability. Individuals may be isolated, and compelled to secrecy and silence.

Drawing on a combination of extensive research, individual testimonies, and years of hands-on experience, Lisa Oakley and Justin Humphreys describe clearly the nature of spiritual abuse, and the best ways of countering it. Recovery is possible.

But – how do we prevent spiritual abuse in the first place? What can leaders do to create safer places? Is there a link between theological ideas and harmful behaviours? How can leaders create opportunities for spiritual and emotional flourishing?

Dr Lisa Oakley has researched spiritual abuse in the Christian faith in the UK since 2003. Justin Humphreys is chief executive of the safeguarding charity thirtyone: eight.

Lisa Oakley;Justin Humphreys

Escaping the Maze of Spiritual Abuse: Creating Healthy Christian Cultures

Title

Copyright

Dedication

Foreword by Mark Stibbe

Preface

Acknowledgements

1. The emerging picture of spiritual abuse

2. The definitional challenge – what are we talking about?

3. What are the key features of spiritual abuse?

4. How does it make you feel? Exploring the impact of spiritual abuse

5. Responding well to disclosures of spiritual abuse

6. The challenge of authentic leadership

7. Creating safer cultures and healthier environments

8. Where do we go from here?

Appendix: about thirtyone:eight

Notes

References

‘Every time he wanted me to do something, he would quote scripture... I couldn’t argue with scripture, it was like arguing with God.’  
  
The term ‘spiritual abuse’ is widely used across the Christian community. But what is it?   
  
Sometimes spiritual abuse involves leaders misusing their position, but ministers can also be the victims. Common factors include control through misuse of scripture, claims to divine authority, pressure to conform, and enforced accountability. Individuals may be isolated, and compelled to secrecy and silence.   
  
Drawing on a combination of extensive research, individual testimonies, and years of hands-on experience, Lisa Oakley and Justin Humphreys describe clearly the nature of spiritual abuse, and the best ways of countering it. Recovery is possible.  
  
But – how do we prevent spiritual abuse in the first place? What can leaders do to create safer places? Is there a link between theological ideas and harmful behaviours? How can leaders create opportunities for spiritual and emotional flourishing?  
  
Dr Lisa Oakley has researched spiritual abuse in the Christian faith in the UK since 2003. Justin Humphreys is chief executive of the safeguarding charity thirtyone: eight.

\["For Church Leaders","This essential guide explores how to prevent spiritual abuse in the first place","You'll establish a safe culture within your Church"\]

> If you are a survivor of spiritual abuse, you will recognize your pain in these pages and find help toward healing. If you are a leader, or anyone who wants to walk alongside those who are wounded in this way, here is an invaluable, practical resource for learning how to prevent, identify and respond to spiritual abuse and restore a safe Christian culture.
> 
> - Dr Wess Stafford, President Emeritus, Compassion International

> Authority and rigour ... great generosity and gentleness. The authors diagnose a critical problem in the church and offer practical advice on how to fix it.
> 
> - Andrew Graystone, theologian, broadcaster and communications consultant

> Timely and important. Lisa and Justin navigate a difficult and sensitive topic with grace, humility and strength. If you are serious about creating safer, healthier leadership cultures then read this book.
> 
> - Simon Barrington, founder and director, Forge Leadership Consultancy

> Lisa Oakley and Justin Humphreys have created a vital resource in this unique, timely, accessible book. It exposes the culture created by bullying leaders with clarity and compassion, and calls us towards health and freedom. Highly recommended.
> 
> - Jeff Lucas, author, speaker, broadcaster

> A great gift to the church, and beyond.
> 
> - Rt Revd Paul Butler, Bishop of Durham

Helping leaders recognise and foster a safe and healthy environment within their Church to escape the maze of spiritual abuse

John Steley

I found this book extremely helpful. It addresses a difficult subject realistically yet with compassion. I hope it is widely read. Highly recommended.

Realistic and extremely helpful

Escaping the Maze of Spiritual Abuse

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