IPV Awareness Month 1: Is Intimate Partner Violence a Biblical Issue

October is Domestic Violence Awareness month, or IPV (Intimate Partner Violence). In our work with local, state, and government agencies we have often heard that faith communities not only contribute to the problem of addressing and confronting abuse, but leaders are often ill equipped to help those oppressed by controlling and abusive behavior. Even more we hear many, many stories of faith leaders using the Sacred texts to keep women from leaving or finding safety from their abusive partners.  Do the Sacred texts teach that individuals have the right to use violence to oppress their partners? Does God stand on the side of the abusers or offenders? Does Jesus call leaders to protect the vulnerable and confront oppressors? In this 4 part series we will explore the Biblical text and it's application to those struggling to be free from intimate partner violence, oppression, and manipulation.