Faith as a Weapon, or a Lifeline
When theology is misused, it doesn’t just confuse people—it can trap them.
Too many survivors are told their pain is spiritual failure. That submission is godliness. That silence is strength. Michael Neely believes it’s time to reclaim the Word.
Often Misused Scripture
“Wives, submit to your husbands."
This verse has been weaponized to justify control, silence, and even abuse. But biblical submission was never meant to erase a woman’s agency or safety. Michael reframes it through the lens of mutual respect, love, and protection.
“Turn the other cheek.”
Often used to discourage survivors from speaking up or leaving dangerous situations, this verse is misapplied. Michael explains that turning the other cheek is about dignity in the face of oppression—not enduring harm in silence.
“God hates divorce.”
This verse is often used to guilt survivors into staying in harmful marriages. But the heart of God is justice and protection for the vulnerable—not preserving appearances at the cost of safety.
“Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
Love does not mean enduring abuse. This verse is about love in the context of mutuality and respect—not suffering in silence to prove devotion.
Michael's Approach Using Scripture
Freedom Through Faith
Galatians 5:1: It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.
Faith is not about bondage. It’s about walking in the freedom Christ intended.
Jesus at the Center
Luke 4:18: The Spirit of the Lord is upon me… He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives… to set at liberty those who are oppressed.
This is the foundation of Michael’s gospel—a faith that frees the oppressed.
A Gospel of Healing
Psalm 147:3: He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Healing is holy. Michael centers this truth in every message..
Safety Is Sacred
Psalm 9:9: The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.
God is a protector, not a prison warden.
Michael’s approach doesn’t throw out scripture—it brings it back to life.
He believes survivors shouldn’t have to choose between their faith and their freedom. Instead of avoiding misused verses, he reclaims them—revealing a God who never called anyone to endure abuse.
At the center of his theology is Jesus—not as a weapon, but as a refuge.
Jesus who defended the vulnerable, challenged religious hypocrisy, and stood between the hurting and their accusers.
For Michael, scripture isn’t the problem—misinterpretation is. His message reframes God’s Word as a source of healing, justice, and truth.
Want to Equip Your Church with Truth and Safety?
Bring Michael to Speak or Request a Training
“Faith should never be a prison.”
-Reverend Michael Neely