Thanks for this, Ben, helpful discussion of a common form of spiritual abuse. As I think Dr. Langberg has said, the words “spiritual” and “abuse” should never go together. Same with theology and abuse. I’m also reminded of the leaders’ question in John 9:34: “You were born entirely in sin," they replied, "and are you trying to teach us?" Then they threw him out.” I’ve been both perp and victim of such unteachability, but it’s the power differential here that creates the dynamic of abuse.
Thanks for engaging, Aaron. Yes, these words should never go together. Unfortunately, any kind of knowledge can easily become a way to exaggerate ourselves and cut others down, including theology. Even more unfortunate is the way this can be true in Reformed circles. This afternoon, I've been studying the law man and the Good Samaritan parable. He was so proud of his knowledge but didn't use it to serve others. He tried to determine who he would not have to serve instead. We are often like that. Theological knowledge becomes a justification for who we are better than, who we do not need to extend ourselves to, or who we do not need to consider worthy of our time.
Having been too many times on both sides of encounters you describe I wept some reading this: much at my own regrets for how I’ve in the past abused the vulnerable. This is a good summary of an issue that is too often ignored and calling back to the juxtaposition of the Bacon quote “knowledge is power” and the call to use whatever power or privilege or provision we have for good is central. We are to be stewards of all gifts, and no less that gift of relative power over others for service. Thank you.
James - humbled by your comment here. I, too, have been on both sides of this. I have been known to be someone who dominates conversations. I hope that isn't the case anymore. I try to be the last to speak now, not to have the last word, but to really hear everyone else and discern whether I need to say anything at all. I've also been someone who enjoyed using knowledge as a way to show off and make others feel small. Lord, forgive me for my arrogance. Thank you for your grace. Help us to steward what you give us - whatever power at all - for the sake of others.
Grateful that the Lord carried you through this dark time and how he is doing a mighty work through you. Thankful to know you, Ben. God bless!
Amen, brother. Thank you for your friendship.
Thanks for this, Ben, helpful discussion of a common form of spiritual abuse. As I think Dr. Langberg has said, the words “spiritual” and “abuse” should never go together. Same with theology and abuse. I’m also reminded of the leaders’ question in John 9:34: “You were born entirely in sin," they replied, "and are you trying to teach us?" Then they threw him out.” I’ve been both perp and victim of such unteachability, but it’s the power differential here that creates the dynamic of abuse.
Thanks for engaging, Aaron. Yes, these words should never go together. Unfortunately, any kind of knowledge can easily become a way to exaggerate ourselves and cut others down, including theology. Even more unfortunate is the way this can be true in Reformed circles. This afternoon, I've been studying the law man and the Good Samaritan parable. He was so proud of his knowledge but didn't use it to serve others. He tried to determine who he would not have to serve instead. We are often like that. Theological knowledge becomes a justification for who we are better than, who we do not need to extend ourselves to, or who we do not need to consider worthy of our time.
Having been too many times on both sides of encounters you describe I wept some reading this: much at my own regrets for how I’ve in the past abused the vulnerable. This is a good summary of an issue that is too often ignored and calling back to the juxtaposition of the Bacon quote “knowledge is power” and the call to use whatever power or privilege or provision we have for good is central. We are to be stewards of all gifts, and no less that gift of relative power over others for service. Thank you.
James - humbled by your comment here. I, too, have been on both sides of this. I have been known to be someone who dominates conversations. I hope that isn't the case anymore. I try to be the last to speak now, not to have the last word, but to really hear everyone else and discern whether I need to say anything at all. I've also been someone who enjoyed using knowledge as a way to show off and make others feel small. Lord, forgive me for my arrogance. Thank you for your grace. Help us to steward what you give us - whatever power at all - for the sake of others.
Amén