Purpose Statement:
The purpose of the Fit to Lead BIP is to identify and replace distorted thoughts and beliefs, such as self-aggrandizing authoritarianism (Luke 22:26), that lead to controlling attitudes that drive behaviors that demean, demoralize, condescend, patronize, dishonor, disrespect, defile, and cause Spiritual, physical, psychological, emotional, financial, and sexual harm to victims of domestic violence.
Utilizing the most effective psychological theory: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and the sufficiency of Scripture. These distortions are exposed, rebuked, and replaced through the truth of biblical masculinity, which is an attitude of benevolent responsibility to lead, provide for, and protect women through Jesus’ example of servanthood. Research has consistently shown that increased religiosity promotes marital satisfaction and commitment. Studies have also clearly demonstrated that religious programming is more effective in program completion and reducing recidivism.
Program Philosophy:
Our philosophy is predicated on the fact that Domestic violence is nothing short of domestic terrorism. It is the act of holding a victim hostage to the power and control of the terrorist by any means necessary: financial, sexual, emotional, physical, and Spiritual. Domestic violence is not a marriage problem, it is not a physical problem, and it is not a mental health issue or psychological problem, but a willful and deliberate act by the abuser to gain power and/or control over a person.
Domestic violence is rooted in the spiritual problem caused by a sinner’s absolute refusal to deny himself and die to his sinful desires of the “lust of the eyes, lust of the flesh, and the pride of life” (1 Jn. 2:16).
It is a fallacy to think that Domestic violence belongs solely to the field of psychology or counseling. The fact is that when you study abuse, you are studying the very psychology of sin. We read in 1 John 3:4 that all sin is lawlessness. And lawlessness is rebellion against the only One who is entitled to power and control, God Himself, for He alone is sovereign.
Since no person, program, or psychological theory has been developed or is capable of changing a person’s heart, it is only through the power of the Holy Spirit that even empirical data demonstrates a greater level of success in Christian offender programming. We believe that offenders do not need more “education,” they need transformation. Because “the gospel is the power unto salvation,” which causes the transformation, and the Holy Spirit is the only power capable of changing a heart, we declare God’s Word, in that it is only through the blood of Jesus Christ that a person can become “a new creation.”
Biblical men are called to be leaders. However, the misconception via misinterpretation of twisting Scripture – God’s leadership role for men is often distorted and misunderstood to mean that men have some “Male privilege.” – But the Bible is clear: There is no such thing. Quite the contrary, Biblical Men are called to serve, not be served.
• Biblical masculinity expresses itself not in the demand to be served but in the strength to serve and to sacrifice for the good of woman.
• Biblical masculinity does not assume the authority of Christ over a woman but advocates for it.
• Biblical masculinity does not presume superiority but mobilizes the strength of others.
Biblical men – Real men do not abuse (terrorize) the ones they love. They lead in the same manner as Christ leads the church: “… and “gave Himself up for her.” Biblical men – Real men can find their only “privilege” in that they alone must demonstrate sacrificial love by being first to the cross.
This class has been certified by the state of Tennessee and is on a 26-week continuum (Intake, assessment, and orientation will add an additional 2 weeks, bringing the total to 28). Intake and assessment are prerequisites to being admitted into the class.
THINGS TO KNOW:
Program duration (but not the substance) can be reduced to meet the court’s requirements if so ordered.
** PLEASE NOTE: If fewer weeks are required, the cost remains unchanged. Participants can enter into the program at any time. Please contact us for more details.
info@CrossStrengthMinistries.org
Christ-centered ministry based in Tennessee but offering biblical manhood discipleship, batterer intervention, sexual assault support, parenting programs, and leadership training nation-wide. With Pastor David Ashley, MAA, MDiv.
Cross Strength Ministries 