Spiritual abuse involves religious authority using spiritual language, power, and influence to manipulate and control another, exploiting their vulnerability and trust for selfish gain.
Spiritual abuse often occurs within the context of elaborate systems which include many players who either willfully or even naively perpetuate the abuse by lending it credibility or justification.
Note: Although each of the following resources provide solid education and encouragement for those seeking to understand or heal from spiritual abuse, inclusion in this list does not represent a full endorsement of all views expressed by authors, speakers, or ministries.
Books:
Redeeming Power: Understanding Authority and Abuse in the Church by Dr. Diane Langberg
Bully Pulpit: Confronting the Problem of Spiritual Abuse in the Church by Michael Kruger
When Narcissism Comes to Church by Chuck DeGroat
Dangerous Personalities by Joe Navarro
The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse by David Johnson & Jeff Van Vonderen
Healing From Hidden Abuse by Shannon Thomas
Let us Prey: the Plague of Narcissist Pastors and What we Can Do About it by Darrell Puls
Bold Love by Dr. Dan B. Allender & Dr. Tremper Longman III
Something’s Not Right: Decoding the Hidden Tactics of Abuse and Freeing Yourself from Its Power by Wade Mullen
Untwisting Scriptures: that were used to tie you up, gag you, and tangle your mind by Rebecca Davis
Ministries, Websites & Videos:
beEmboldened - resources, podcast, group support, mentoring services
Dr. Diane Langberg - videos, blogs, books, and podcasts
Not in Our Church - awareness, prevention, and healing related to abuses of power in the church
Narcissism and the System it breeds - video
The Barnabas Ministry - Uncovering and Facing Spiritual Abuse
Spiritual Abuse Recovery Resources
The Roys Report - podcasts, news