Church Disrupted

In this episode of the Church Disrupted Podcast, Jeff Cochran and Rebecca Davis (Author of the Untwisting Scripture book series) discuss the misuse and abuse of scriptures in spiritual contexts. They highlight the importance of understanding the true meaning of scriptures and the dangers of twisting them to manipulate and control people. They talk about topics like loyalty, sin leveling, the misuse of the terms 'root of bitterness' and 'spirit of offense', and the idea of tearing down the body of Christ. Rebecca emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing abuse, as well as the need for biblical literacy and listening to the experiences of abuse survivors. The conversation concludes with hope for survivors and a call for church leaders to listen and learn. Want to support SAI financially? https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaign Get Rebecca's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B001K8GE7O?ingress=0&visitId=281658ae-f8e0-4b2a-8ef4-1c0dc64fbd0c&ref_=ap_rdr THANK YOU to our podcast partner, the East TN Mentorship Association! Find out more information about what they do or connect with them at https://earnyoursanctuary.com/ . TELL THEM WE SENT YOU for a special rate that is ONLY for Church Disrupted Podcast listeners. Find out more about the Spiritual Abuse Institute and the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.spiritualabuse.institute/. Join the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6Z Please Subscribe and Share! Chapters 00:00 Introduction: The Misuse of Scriptures and Control 24:41 Loyalty vs. Faithfulness 32:44 The Dynamics of Bullying in the Church 41:12 Silence is Complicity 43:43 Restoration and Accountability 45:08 Recognizing Wickedness and Righteousness 46:05 The Spiritual Abuser's Playbook: Loyalty 47:31 The Misuse of 'Root of Bitterness' and 'Spirit of Offense' 52:30 Understanding the Root of Bitterness 56:18 The Danger of Misinterpreting Hebrews 01:07:02 Exposing Sin vs. Tearing Down the Body of Christ 01:13:50 Rejecting the Notion of Victim Mentality 01:21:15 Words of Hope and Listening

Jeff Cochran, an advocate against celebrity culture in the church, joins Leann Reece, who emphasizes the detrimental effects of the green room mentality, and Vicki May, who discusses volunteer exploitation. They dive into the contradictions of being called to serve while navigating the pressures for status. The conversation exposes how green room culture can lead to isolation and burnout among volunteers, challenging listeners to rethink church dynamics for a healthier community experience.

Discover the unsettling dynamics of spiritual abuse in faith communities. The hosts break down the formula of power plus deception and how it leads to manipulation. They advocate for the Safe Church Pledge to instigate preventive measures. You'll learn about the importance of balanced leadership and the dangers of unchecked authority. Personal stories highlight the emotional toll of coercive practices. The episode emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability within churches to create healthier spiritual environments.

In this episode of the Church Disrupted podcast, Jeff Cochran and Natalie Runion have an honest conversation about nepotism in the Church. They explore what nepotism really is and where it came from, as well as the tension between passing on ministries within families and the potential for unhealthy dynamics and control. The conversation delves into the importance of distinguishing between calling and nepotism, and the need for churches to have clear succession plans and fair processes in place. Overall, the episode aims to shed light on the issue of nepotism in the church and encourage healthy dialogue and reflection. Natalie and Jeff explore the challenges and implications of nepotism in church leadership, particularly in the context of pastors' children taking over their parents' churches. They also examine biblical examples and principles related to succession and leadership in the church, and how churches and pastors can stay above reproach when it comes to even the appearance of nepotism. Want to support SAI financially? https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaign Find out more about Natalie's work here: - https://www.instagram.com/raisedtostay/?hl=en - https://natalierunion.com/ - https://tinyurl.com/526vaaj2 - https://www.amazon.com/Raised-Stay-Persevering-Ministry-Million/dp/0830784608 THANK YOU to our podcast partner, the East TN Mentorship Association! Find out more information about what they do or connect with them at https://earnyoursanctuary.com/ . TELL THEM WE SENT YOU for a special rate that is ONLY for Church Disrupted Podcast listeners. Find out more about the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.disrupted.church/. Join the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6Z Please Subscribe and Share! Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Special Episode 05:28 Collaborative Episode with Natalie Runion 08:13 Discussion Sparked by Previous Conversation 13:20 Defining Nepotism and Personal Experiences 18:47 Importance of Clear Succession Plans 21:19 Different Perspectives on Nepotism 28:22 Exploring the Definitions and Origins of Nepotism 31:14 The Role of Influence and Unfair Advantages 32:35 The Challenges Faced by Pastors' Kids 37:20 Examining Biblical Principles of Succession 53:41 The Importance of Being Above Reproach 55:39 Moving Away from the CEO Model of Leadership 58:30 Encouragement for Pastors' Kids 01:00:46 The Dangers of Promoting Nepotism 01:04:04 Expanding Perspectives through Church Engagement

In a recent conversation with a critical pastor on the Church Disrupted Podcast, things went sideways quick! From the beginning, today's guest exhibited narcissistic responses and behaviors that can be super triggering for those who have experienced church hurt or spiritual abuse. Talk about the opposite of trauma-informed church leadership!Sadly, too many church leaders exhibit behaviors like this in conversations without even realizing the damage they can cause to parishioners. So, in today's episode, Jeff Cochran leans into the skid, breaks down the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) red flags of narcissistic responses, and shows you how to respond to them (and how not to) in a spiritual setting. There has never been a time more important than now for church leaders and staff to become trauma-informed. Narcissism and narcissistic behaviors have no place in the church, and with a little training and intentionality, we can eliminate these behaviors and learn to protect the most vulnerable people in our congregations. We can learn to listen to and love people like Jesus. Want to support SAI financially?https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaignTHANK YOU to our podcast partner, the East TN Mentorship Association! Find out more information about what they do or connect with them at https://earnyoursanctuary.com/ . TELL THEM WE SENT YOU for a special rate that is ONLY for Church Disrupted Podcast listeners.Find out more about the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.disrupted.church/.Join the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6ZPlease Subscribe and Share!Chapters00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning03:16 Recognizing Conversational Red Flags in Churches06:28 The Most Triggering Interview08:52 Using Red Flag Review Editing10:42 Identifying Wrong and Potentially Dangerous Views of the Church25:28 The Importance of Words and How They Are Said28:25 Addressing the Impact of Comments on Small Churches34:50 Identifying Red Flags and Patterns of Behavior37:16 From Small Church to Mega Church: A Personal Journey41:29 The Distinction Between Mega Churches and Giga Churches45:16 Addressing Systemic Issues in All Churches51:53 The Importance of Open Conversations About Small Church Failures01:09:21 Calling Out Narcissistic Behavior01:13:28 Red Flags and Tactics of Narcissistic Leaders01:19:04 The Issue of Plagiarism in the Church01:21:48 The Importance of Transparency in Church Finances01:35:11 The Power of Words and Definitions01:43:40 Understanding the Lack of Transparency in Churches01:45:27 Overcoming Shame and Becoming Financially Transparent01:48:48 The Use of NDAs in Churches01:51:18 The Benefits of Multi-Site Churches02:08:16 Finding Healing and Connection After Church Hurt

Cody Farris, Pastor of Christ Church in Tampa, shares insights on shepherding and healthy church dynamics. He and Jeff Cochran delve into crucial issues like church leadership accountability, the impact of social media disagreements, and the importance of spiritually and morally sound governance. They tackle sensitive topics like handling abuse allegations, NDA ethics, and sermon plagiarism, emphasizing the need for transparent church practices. Farris's perspective on building supportive communities post-church hurt makes for an enlightening and candid discussion.

In this episode of the Church Disrupted Podcast, Jeff Cochran is joined by Chris and Tori Custer, who share their experience of spiritual abuse and cultish behavior. They break down common red flags and warning signs of toxic church environments, emphasize the need for humility and self-reflection in church leadership, and discuss what biblical forgiveness really looks like. They also take a hard look at the dangers of spiritual fathers and other often weaponized spiritual language. Want to support SAI financially? https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaign Learn more about Flame Keepers: - YT CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMFhmr401NHxTyqM2JBbGfQ - INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/flame_keepers_podcast/ THANK YOU to our podcast partner, the East TN Mentorship Association! Find out more information about what they do or connect with them at https://earnyoursanctuary.com/ . TELL THEM WE SENT YOU for a special rate that is ONLY for Church Disrupted Podcast listeners. Find out more about the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.disrupted.church/. Join the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6Z Please Subscribe and Share! Chapters 00:00 Recognizing Red Flags and Warning Signs 09:09 The Paradox of Christianity: Humility and Self-Reflection 32:59 The Power of Prophetic Words and Intimacy with God 37:48 The Awakening: Recognizing Abuse and Manipulation 40:38 Seeking Outside Perspective and Finding Freedom 41:37 Seeking Outside Counsel and Therapy 43:57 Red Flags of an Unsafe Church 46:12 The Dangers of Idolizing Spiritual Fathers and Mothers 50:30 Power Dynamics in Spiritual Relationships 01:23:21 The Role of Spiritual Fathers and Mothers 01:31:51 The Warped View of Discipleship 01:44:00 The Daily Practice of Forgiveness 01:48:46 Navigating Forgiveness After Abuse 01:59:21 Flamekeepers: Purifying and Reforming the Church

In this episode of the Church Disrupted Podcast, Jeff Cochran, Leann Reece, and Corey Laster explore the question of when it's time to leave a church environment, especially when there are signs of spiritual abuse or toxicity. The hosts discuss their personal experiences and offer insights on recognizing red flags and setting boundaries. They emphasize the importance of healing and finding safe people to talk to. In this conversation, Jeff and the crew discuss the process of deciding whether it's time to leave a church. They provide guidance on how to navigate this decision, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, seeking counsel, and setting boundaries. They also discuss the different scenarios that may arise, such as staying too long, needing to leave immediately, or trying to make a change within the church. Want to support SAI financially? https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaign THANK YOU to our podcast partner, the East TN Mentorship Association! Find out more information about what they do or connect with them at https://earnyoursanctuary.com/ . TELL THEM WE SENT YOU for a special rate that is ONLY for Church Disrupted Podcast listeners. Find out more about the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.disrupted.church/. Join the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6Z Please Subscribe and Share! Chapters 00:00 Introduction: When is it time to leave a church? 02:18 Recognizing Red Flags and Setting Boundaries 11:55 Leaving a Church without Villainizing 16:30 Healing and Verbalizing the Truth 31:09 Seeking Input and Making the Decision 34:58 Importance of Healing in the Decision 35:26 Trusting Your Gut: Knowing When to Leave a Church 37:50 Having Civil, Helpful, and Loving Conversations 41:01 Assessing Your Feelings: A Key Indicator for Leaving 46:46 Leaving in a Healthy and Honoring Way 57:33 Acknowledging Hurt and Finding a Safe Place to Land 01:10:29 Deciding to Leave for a New Season 01:11:57 Setting a Firm End Date 01:13:23 Having the Conversation and Leaving 01:14:20 Setting a Date and Making Arrangements 01:17:43 Protecting the Most Vulnerable Person 01:19:38 Empathy and Healing in the Body 01:21:02 Empathy and Healing in Relationships 01:27:14 Healing Faster and Helping Others 01:30:36 Empathy as a Sign of Healing 01:34:02 Prioritizing Safety and Leaving

Casanova Green, a dedicated lead pastor and overseer of the Vision House, dives into the pressing issues facing today’s churches. He discusses the dangers of narcissistic leadership and performance-driven preaching, urging a return to community and supportive ministry. The conversation highlights the need for accountability amidst scandals, advocating for transparency in church governance. Green passionately stresses the importance of genuine pastoral care and the healing impact of addressing spiritual abuse, making the case for a church built on love and service.

In this episode of the Church Disrupted Podcast, Jeff Cochran interviews Natalie Runion, the author of 'Raised to Stay' and the upcoming book 'The House that Jesus Built.' They discuss staying in a relationship with Jesus in the face of things like church hurt and spiritual abuse, and the importance of balance in addressing hard church issues. Natalie shares her personal experience of church hurt and how it led her to create a safe space for others to wrestle with their faith. They also touch on the topic of forgiveness and how it can be weaponized, the process of healing from church hurt, and the need for churches to create safe environments and address unhealthy systems. They offer advice for individuals who are hesitant to re-engage with the church and encourage pastors and church leaders to be a safe haven for those who have been hurt. Want to support SAI financially? https://donorbox.org/sai-initial-funding-campaign Find out more about Natali e'swork here: - https://www.instagram.com/raisedtostay/?hl=en - https://natalierunion.com/ - https://tinyurl.com/526vaaj2 - https://www.amazon.com/Raised-Stay-Persevering-Ministry-Million/dp/0830784608 THANK YOU to our podcast partner, the East TN Mentorship Association! Find out more information about what they do or connect with them at https://earnyoursanctuary.com/ . TELL THEM WE SENT YOU for a special rate that is ONLY for Church Disrupted Podcast listeners. Find out more about the Church Disrupted Podcast at https://www.disrupted.church/. Join the church disrupted COMMUNITY here: https://discord.gg/nbWwg8Sz6Z Please Subscribe and Share! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Natalie Runion and the Topic of Church Hurt 03:04 Healing from Church Hurt and Spiritual Abuse 07:41 Creating Safe Environments in Churches 13:41 Staying Connected to Jesus in Difficult Seasons 28:28 Navigating Church Relationships with Discernment 40:41 Supporting Church Staff Members in Abusive Situations 43:07 The Importance of Forgiveness and Healing 45:01 The Power of Empathy 49:39 Revival: A Heart Transformation 54:16 Addressing Issues in Church Systems