
Can Theology Be Used to Justify Abuse? | Grace Ji-Sun Kim
Can theology meant to point us toward God actually be used to justify abuse? In this deeply personal episode, host Lauren Ranzino shares how theology was used to justify abuse within her own family, and why that experience has left her asking hard questions about the beliefs we hold and the ways they shape our churches. Lauren and Chris are joined by theologian, professor, and author Grace Ji-Sun Kim to explore how harmful theology and our understandings of God can contribute to environments where abuse is excused, overlooked, or allowed to continue. Together, they talk about teachings around authority, submission, and forgiveness, why reading Scripture in context matters, and how the language and metaphors we use for God can shape the way we treat one another. Grace also introduces a challenging and potentially healing understanding of Jesus as someone who experienced sexual violence and identifies with survivors in their suffering. If you’ve ever wondered how the church can better protect those who are vulnerable - or how our theology might need to change in order to do so - this conversation offers an important place to begin. Continue to learn from Grace Ji-Sun Kim: Grace’s Website Instagram: @gracejisunkim Grace’s Substack Madang Podcast, Grace’s podcast Read Grace’s Books: Surviving God: A New Vision of God Through the Eyes of Sexual Abuse Survivors When God Became White: Dismantling Whiteness for a More Just Christianity And More This episode includes direct discussion of sexual assault and abuse. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault or abuse and needs support, RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline offers free, confidential support 24 hours a day. Call 800-656-HOPE (4673), text HOPE to 64673, or visit RAINN.org. Have a question or topic you want us to explore? Email us: questions@holyuncertain.com Holy Uncertain is a Blue Elevator production.
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