Some people walk away from religions because of bad experiences, emotional pain, or even severe abuse. This occurs in every faith on earth, including cults, polytheistic religions, and the Abrahamic religions. The Christian Church is certainly not immune from inflicting negative experience on people.
While some bad encounters with faith can be shaken off, some are so severe it creates a trauma that can have lasting impacts that are disturbing to a person’s life. While people who know the healing power of the love of Jesus want someone to just accept Him, people who experienced religious trauma – both in and out of the church – may be reluctant to see the appeal.
Christians, and the church at large, should be cautious in how they approach someone coming from religious trauma. We must respect their experience. Jesus is the great Healer, and His example provides guidance for how to respond to religious trauma.
Photo credit: ©Getty Images/max-kegfire
