Spiritual Manipulation: Recognizing and Overcoming Control in Christian Relationships

This powerful message examines spiritual manipulation as the misuse of God’s name and religious authority to control others. Pastor Shelley addresses how “God told me” language can shut down dialogue, how spiritual gifts can be weaponized, and how mutual submission should operate in marriages and families. Drawing from Romans 12:16 and Ephesians 5:21-25, he emphasizes that authentic spiritual authority serves through love and humility rather than control, calling believers to prayer instead of manipulation.