Thanks for writing this. It’s a shame your common sense isn’t more common. Just last month, an OPC session stated to me that God won’t forgive my sins if I don’t forgive and reconcile with a remorseless, unrepentant, unreflective abuser who is a member in good standing, despite multiple adverse court orders and rulings pertaining to mistreatment of children and dependents. Months ago, the police advised me otherwise (stay away!); it’s just common sense. In fact, forgiving and reconciling with unrepentant, remorseless abusers may be a violation of the 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th commandments.
That's terrible advice, and such an objectively awful interpretation of Jesus's words. I'm so sorry. Stick to your guns. If they put you under church discipline, let me know.
I had a glimmer of hope reading this thinking, wow! maybe Matthew 19 also applies to leaving a church out of conviction for God's word. It's a grief I mostly can't find words to describe, and I'm still struggling 7 years out! So hard. Thanks for your article!
Just came across your account. Thank you for these words. It’s nice to see more people speaking up in this space of abuse, forgiveness and leaving situations and relationships that are harmful. Much needed.
Thanks for writing this. It’s a shame your common sense isn’t more common. Just last month, an OPC session stated to me that God won’t forgive my sins if I don’t forgive and reconcile with a remorseless, unrepentant, unreflective abuser who is a member in good standing, despite multiple adverse court orders and rulings pertaining to mistreatment of children and dependents. Months ago, the police advised me otherwise (stay away!); it’s just common sense. In fact, forgiving and reconciling with unrepentant, remorseless abusers may be a violation of the 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th commandments.
That's terrible advice, and such an objectively awful interpretation of Jesus's words. I'm so sorry. Stick to your guns. If they put you under church discipline, let me know.
I had a glimmer of hope reading this thinking, wow! maybe Matthew 19 also applies to leaving a church out of conviction for God's word. It's a grief I mostly can't find words to describe, and I'm still struggling 7 years out! So hard. Thanks for your article!
Just came across your account. Thank you for these words. It’s nice to see more people speaking up in this space of abuse, forgiveness and leaving situations and relationships that are harmful. Much needed.
So well said. And heartfelt.