When a leader uses faith to control instead of shepherd, that's spiritual abuse — and the wound goes deep precisely because it came wrapped in God's name. Christian coaching to recognize it and heal. Virtual, nationwide.
There's a particular kind of confusion that comes from being hurt inside the church. The same words that should bring life — submission, forgiveness, unity, "touch not God's anointed" — get turned into tools to keep you quiet and compliant. You start to wonder if doubting the leader means doubting God. It doesn't.
Spiritual abuse is the use of faith, Scripture, or spiritual authority to control, shame, or silence rather than to shepherd. It can come from a pastor, an elder, a ministry, or a family that runs on religious control. And because it looks holy, it's one of the hardest patterns to name — which is exactly why naming it matters.
Dr. Johnathan Hines is a Christian coach who takes both faith and harm seriously. Naming spiritual abuse isn't an attack on the church — it's how the church gets to be safe again.
The tactics are the same ones every narcissistic system uses — just dressed in Scripture. Put names to them:
A private self-check that helps you separate ordinary church imperfection from a system that's actually harming you. Results on screen immediately.
The full Stronghold Assessment and a 50-minute session with Dr. Hines, plus a written Clarity Plan — what happened, and your next faithful steps. Intake by phone.
Faith-grounded coaching to heal the wound, rebuild trust at your own pace, and hold onto God without holding onto what harmed you.
What is spiritual abuse?
Using faith, Scripture, or spiritual authority to control, shame, or silence someone rather than to shepherd them. It often looks holy, which is part of what makes it so disorienting.
What are signs of a narcissistic church leader?
Image over people, criticism treated as rebellion, loyalty demanded over honesty, public charm with private control, and "forgiveness" used to bypass accountability.
How should a Christian respond?
Name the pattern, refuse to relitigate it on their terms, seek wise outside counsel, document, and protect yourself and others. Healthy authority welcomes accountability; abusive authority punishes it.
Should I leave my church?
That's weighty and personal — coaching won't decide it for you. The work helps you get clear and prayerful so you choose from wisdom, not fear or guilt.
Start with the free assessment. Get clear. Heal without losing God.
Take the Free Dark Room Assessment