“Domestic violence is one type of suffering in which there is nothing to be gained by being submissive or obedient.”
Greg DoverThese are the words of Greg Dover, associate pastor of Earle Street Baptist Church, Greenville, from a sermon through which he addressed the issue of domestic violence. In January, Dover was selected by Safe Harbor as the winner of its first “Working Together for Peace” sermon-writing challenge.
Safe Harbor, a nonprofit organization serving victims of domestic violence and their children, encouraged faith leaders across the Upstate to address the issue of domestic violence with their congregations.
In his message, Dover spoke about the danger of using certain words or language in scripture to justify violence or abuse. “Gracious submission is not about submitting to violence, but about submitting to God’s grace, trusting in God’s goodness,” said Dover.
He addressed the issue of human suffering and the language of “submission” and “obedience” found in Hebrews 4:14-5:10. He explained the Christian understanding that, because Christ has endured the same pain and hardships that all human beings do, individuals ought to remain “obedient” to God during times of suffering. However, Dover emphasized that this “obedience” language should not be misinterpreted to make Christians think that they must submit to violence or endure abuse from another person.
“Domestic abuse is about control and violence – and that’s it. There is nothing redemptive about it,” he said.
A Safe Harbor spokesperson said she hopes the annual sermon-writing challenge will encourage more ministers and faith leaders to discuss the issue of domestic violence with their congregations. “Domestic violence affects people of all ages, races, religions and income levels,” said Julie Meredith, director of volunteers and communication at Safe Harbor.
Safe Harbor provides shelter, counseling, advocacy and other services for victims of domestic violence and their children, and domestic violence prevention and education for the Upstate community. Safe Harbor also operates a domestic violence crisis line and two secure safe homes, serving Greenville, Pickens, Oconee and Anderson counties. For more information, visit www.safeharborsc.org.