Unfortunately, the term 'unsafe church' is getting used more and more frequent and more identifiable. Whether it's a visitor, attendee, member or church staff/leadership, more people are saying that they've fallen victim to this new phrase - and it's not without merit. I personally know of friends and family members that have experienced this first hand and it's not something that should surprise anyone - it's been going on since God created Adam and Eve in the garden.

Somehow, people got and still have the notion that churches are run by people (who claim the name of Jesus) who don't sin as much or as bad as the average laity or church attendee's, etc. - sort of a 'super-christian' labeling. The fact is, churches are run by broken, sinful people who are in the same need of grace, mercy and forgiveness from Jesus - just as much as everyone else.

There are many groups that were formed to help stop 'spiritual abuse' and one of those is on facebook called, 'Stop Spiritual Abuse' and they printed the following list of characteristics they believe are true concerning an 'unsafe church'. Please know, I am just sharing this for informational purposes so folks can be informed and prayerfully go before the Lord if any of the items in the list fit their particular situation and what next steps He may have them do. I strongly encourage anyone who believes they fall into this camp, to go to the leadership of your church and respectfully bring up your questions and concerns in a god-honoring manner.

Characteristics of An Unsafe Church:

1. Inability to ask questions or raise issues- If an individual raises a problem they become the problem.

2. Lack of accountability - accountability suggested, but not there in reality.

3. Increasing expectation of commitment.

4. Emphasis on external image- even if it is not reality.

5. Manipulation, dominance and control.

6. Social isolation of members from individuals outside of the church.

7. Obedience to authority in all circumstances.

8. Secrecy - over finances, decisions etc.

9. Emphasis on finances.

10. Misuse of scripture and the pulpit.

11. The belief that the minister always knows best.

12. Fear of leaving.

13. Personal slander and subsequent isolation on leaving.

14. Loss of personal identity.

15. Elitism - there is no other church like this.

16. When the church is more focused on the business of the church (money, etc.) than the souls of the people.

17. When the church worships the pastor as much as Jesus.

18. When status is apparent more than worship and humility.

19. When the apostle Paul or any of the disciples are preached more than Jesus.

20. When everyone is putting on the ‘fake smile of Christian happiness’ rather than demonstrating true humility and compassion for others.

21. When pastors are entertainers rather than examples of Jesus.

22. Averse to criticism – the person who dissents becomes the problem, rather than the issue being raised.

23. Image conscious – protecting the reputation of church and/or leaders is more important than truth or justice.

24. Perfectionistic – the individual’s worth is determined by performance – no compassion for weakness or failure.

25. Unbalanced – the church/leadership distinguish themselves from other groups by putting excessive emphasis on some minor point of theology.

I do believe that these things are happening in churches that claim the name and mission of Jesus and if the Lord shows you that you need to leave a church due to any of these circumstances and staff/leadership has not responded in a godly, biblical manner, know that Jesus will hold, keep and guard you, your family, your reputation as long as you remain humble, confess and repent of anything you may have done/said that was not God-honoring, obedient to Him and trusting in Him to guide your path. If you have any additional questions or concerns, you may call or email our church office and we would be more than happy to speak with you.

May God bless you as you continue to walk with Him in humility and servant-hood.

Dav