Brenda J. and Karen B. welcome Steve Tracy back to the show to discuss his powerful new book, To Heal or Harm: Scripture's Use as Poison or Medicine for Abuse Survivors.

Steve is an author, theologian, and former pastor, as well as president and international director of Mending the Soul Ministries. He and his wife, Celestia, co-founded and co-lead this global nonprofit, which equips churches and communities to respond compassionately to abuse through Christ-centered, psychologically informed care. Steve is also a retired professor of theology and ethics at Phoenix Seminary. Together, their work—shaped by over 40 years of pastoral, academic, and clinical experience—has led to sustainable trauma care models now being used around the world.

In this episode, Steve begins by sharing a foundational truth: God hates abuse. He walks through multiple examples in Scripture that reveal God's heart for the oppressed and His deep concern for those who have been harmed.

Together, we explore how Scripture can be used either as poison or as medicine—depending on how it's applied. Steve shares insight into how verses are often taken out of context, along with practical examples and guidance on how to approach Scripture in a way that brings true healing and protection for survivors.

This is an important, eye-opening conversation you don't want to miss.

To purchase Steve's book, click the link below.

https://www.amazon.com/Heal-Harm-Scriptures-Medicine-Survivors-ebook/dp/B0FHCWVSVR

https://www.mendingthesoul.org

https://hangingontohope.org