The type of thinking that results in the distorted mindset represented by the Harrises is alive and unwell in some parts of Christian culture. As you write, "legalism is a poison that corrodes faith, emotional health, and relationships, and invariably enables abuse. Tragically, it’s a poison that has pervaded Christianity in recent decades" Our daughter was subject to this kind of abuse when, during college, she joined a church that mirrors the one you describe. Thankfully, she got out in time and went on to attend medical school, which was her dream. Mark Twain said that once a cat has jumped on a hot stove it will never jump on a hot stove again. Or a cold stove. Our daughter has not joined a church since this toxic experience.
The type of thinking that results in the distorted mindset represented by the Harrises is alive and unwell in some parts of Christian culture. As you write, "legalism is a poison that corrodes faith, emotional health, and relationships, and invariably enables abuse. Tragically, it’s a poison that has pervaded Christianity in recent decades" Our daughter was subject to this kind of abuse when, during college, she joined a church that mirrors the one you describe. Thankfully, she got out in time and went on to attend medical school, which was her dream. Mark Twain said that once a cat has jumped on a hot stove it will never jump on a hot stove again. Or a cold stove. Our daughter has not joined a church since this toxic experience.
I'm so sorry to hear your daughter went through that, Tim, and so glad she got out.