Addressing Abuse: A Theological and Practical Guide PCA Paper on Domestic Abuse Sexual Assault

“As much as we might choose to think that abuse issues are only the concerns of Roman Catholic or Southern Baptist churches, that would not be realistic. The effects of the Fall touch us all, and we must be well-informed and prepared to defend God’s people by the precautions we take and the disciplinary procedures we employ.” —Dr. Bryan Chapell in his Stated Clerk’s report on the 49th General Assembly

In 2019, nine Presbyteries sent overtures to the 47th General Assembly to form an ad interim committee (AIC) to address matters related to domestic abuse, domestic oppression, and sexual assault. The AIC Report was presented to the 49th General Assembly in 2022. This report provides biblical and Confessional foundations for understanding abuse, as well as practical and pastoral applications for handling cases as they arise. It is an excellent resource for elders and other leaders who desire to serve God’s people well in difficult and confusing pastoral situations.