2 Timothy 1:7
God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
A subject of a critical nature has come up for deliberation.
It concerns the connection often made between religious trauma and Biblical
Christianity. It is essential, as followers of Christ, to address these claims
not with hostility, but with the love and understanding that our faith
encourages.
Religious trauma, a term coined to describe the symptoms of
psychological harm experienced by individuals who have a history of damaging
experiences with faith, is a real and painful experience. Yet, it is imprecise
and erroneous to attribute this trauma to Biblical Christianity.
Firstly, it is crucial to understand that Christianity, in
its purest form, is a faith of love, kindness, and forgiveness, centred around
the teachings of Jesus Christ. Christ himself preached love above all, urging
us to 'Love each other as I have loved you’ (John 15:12). Christianity,
therefore, is not a faith that encourages trauma or harm, but one that seeks to
heal, mend, and restore.
However, we must also acknowledge that, like any institution
involving humans, churches are not immune to misuse and misinterpretation of
its teachings. When religious doctrines are manipulated or used as a tool for
control, harm, or abuse, it can lead to instances of religious trauma. But this
is not an intrinsic facet of Biblical Christianity; instead, it is a result of
human failing and misuse of religious teachings.
We must remember that the message of the Bible is one of
love, respect, and understanding. As in Ephesians 4:2: "Be completely
humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." The
Bible does not teach us to inflict pain, create fear, or use religion as a tool
for manipulation or control.
Moreover, it is crucial to understand that religious trauma
is not exclusive to Christianity. It can occur in any religious context where
doctrines are misused or misrepresented, causing psychological distress to
individuals. By blaming Biblical Christianity exclusively, we risk
oversimplifying a complex issue that spans across all religious and spiritual
practices.
In addressing religious trauma, our primary focus should be
on fostering a safe, loving, and inclusive environment in our places of
worship. We should offer support, understanding, and counselling to those who
have experienced such trauma, helping them to heal and rebuild their
relationship with God.
As we explore this subject of religious trauma, let us be
guided by the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ. Let us strive, not to
condemn, but to understand. Let us, not assign blame, but seek reconciliation.
Let us, not incite division, but encourage unity in Christ's love.
In conclusion, it is erroneous and unfair to attribute
religious trauma to Biblical Christianity. We must be careful not to confuse
the actions of individuals, or individual institutions, with the teachings of a
faith that, at its core, preaches love, compassion, and understanding. Let us
continue to strive for a church that reflects these values, offering healing
and support to those who need it most.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.
Amen.