What is abuse?

Theologist Response

Marilyn went to her pastor to disclose that she was suffering severe physical and mental abuse. When the pastor and elders reprimanded the husband, he agreed to refrain from violence and verbal abuse. He simply moved into a separate room and did not speak to his wife at all. He no longer ate meals with the family nor participated in other aspects of family life. The pastor was satisfied because everyone was still living under the same roof and did not understand that Marilyn’s husband had simply switched from one form to another of inflicting misery on his wife. Neither he nor the elders appeared to recollect that the Bible calls men to love and cherish their wives (Eph. 5:25-30) and to live with them respectfully, as heirs together of the grace of life.: (1 Peter 3::7) Marilyn grows increasingly distraught as her beloved church insists that she remain in an impossible situation. In this case, the church too has become an abuser.

Dr. Catherine Clark Kroeger, President, Peace and Safety in the Christian Home (PASCH)