Church
I've been hurt by church. Why should I go back?
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If you're thinking about hurting yourself, you don't feel safe, or someone is hurting you, please talk to a real person now.
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Suicide Crisis Helpline 0508 828 865
If you're thinking about suicide, or worried about someone. 7am to midnight.
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Rat auf Draht 147
For children and young people, free and anonymous. Also if someone threatens to share your pictures. Any time.
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Pro Juventute 147
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Somewhere else? Call your local emergency number, or find a free helpline for your country at findahelpline.com.
Short answer
Your pain is real, and Jesus is against those who harm His people. But a bad church doesn't make God bad, or every church.
Some people have been judged, ignored, controlled or abused in a church. If that's you, it was wrong, and it was never God's heart for you. Jesus' sharpest words were for religious leaders who loaded burdens on people and harmed the weak.
It's okay to take time to heal, and to leave a church that is controlling or unsafe. If you were abused, please talk to someone you trust and report it. That protects others.
But don't give up on God's family. Every church is full of forgiven people still being fixed, and will let you down a little. Healthy ones admit mistakes, point you to Jesus and leave room for questions.
When you're ready, take one small step: coffee with a Christian you trust, or a visit to another church. Jesus' yoke is easy and His burden is light.
My verses
They tie up heavy, burdensome loads and lay them on men’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them.
Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel. Prophesy and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Woe to the shepherds of Israel, who only feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed their flock? You eat the fat, wear the wool, and butcher the fattened sheep, but you do not feed the flock. You have not strengthened the weak, healed the sick, bound up the injured, brought back the strays, or searched for the lost. Instead, you have ruled them with violence and cruelty.
Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.
The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit.