Episode 299:  What Does the Bible Say about Divorce for Abuse? Feat. Helen Paynter
09 October 2025

Episode 299: What Does the Bible Say about Divorce for Abuse? Feat. Helen Paynter

Bare Marriage

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Does God really tell women they need to submit to abuse and stay in marriages where they're being raped and harmed? Today's interview with Dr. Helen Painter is one you need to hear—whether you're stuck in an abusive marriage getting horrible advice from your pastor, or you know someone who is. We're diving deep into what the Bible actually says about abuse and divorce, and spoiler alert: God does NOT require women to stay in abusive marriages. Please share this episode with anyone who needs to hear this life-saving truth.

CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains detailed discussion of marital rape, sexual abuse, and domestic violence

HELEN PAYNTER'S BOOK:

"The Bible Doesn't Tell Me So", from Helen's organization or from Amazon 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

October 25th: Join Keith and Sheila marriage conference in Oshawa, Ontario (near Toronto!)

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LINKS MENTIONED:

    Naghmeh Panahi's Facebook PostThe original recording of the Calvary Chapel pastor (at around 59:35)The Center for the Study of Bible and Violence: Mentioned Scholar: David Instone-Brewer (rabbinical thought on divorce)

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