Jeff Vanvonderen

No one should leave church feeling manipulated, controlled, shamed, or condemned. But places of shelter and encouragement can become abusive if spiritual leaders begin to use their authority to meet their needs for importance, power, or spiritual gratification. Here you'll discover how to identify an abusive church and also how to break free from its destructive legalism. Topics covered include: ?How spiritual abuse develops--and why those under its grip often don't see it ?The subtle ways that leaders and systems 'hook' and control believers, robbing them of their joy in Christ ?Scriptural help in recognizing healthy spiritual relationships ?Effective strategies for escaping abusive situations Insightful, practical, and solidly grounded in Scripture, this book has what you need to recover a grace-filled relationship with God and His church.

Now updated with discussion guides for families and small groups, Families Where Grace Is in Place continues to minister to couples and parents nearly twenty years after it was first published. Using his professional and personal experience, VanVonderen shows readers how to nurture God-honoring relationships free of manipulation, legalism, and shame. This book is a practical and insightful discussion on living a graceful life and building a strong and happy home using God's tools.

Written to point the way to freedom for Christians who live under an unwritten religious code of expectations and rules that shame them and drain them of spiritual strength.

"Written for both those who feel abused and those who may be causing it, The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse shows how people get hooked into abusive systems, the impact of controlling leadership on a congregation, and how the abused believer can find rest and recovery"--Provided by publisher.

Millions of people are caught in the vortex of addiction to alcohol, methamphetamines or some other form of prescription or non-prescription drug. The devastation and despair even extend within church walls, often hidden by the victims and those around them. These addictions leave confusion and broken relationships in their wake. Jeff VanVonderen provides answers to the myriad of questions facing those with addictions and those looking to help them. Updated with information on the latest designer drugs, including crystal meth, here is a powerful resource that can help see churches, families, and individuals through their darkest times.