Deception And Abuse in God’s House

What happens when the place meant to heal the broken becomes the source of their deepest wounds? Renowned psychologist Dr. Diane Langberg challenges the church to confront the often-hidden abuses within its own walls.

In this sobering talk from the Restore Conference, Langberg speaks from her decades of experience counseling trauma survivors. She offers a piercing critique of how Christian institutions often prioritize power and reputation over the wellbeing of the vulnerable.

She recounts many harrowing stories—a pastor’s wife who was battered black and blue, yet the clergyman defended using force as necessary to “to accomplish God’s will in the home.”

Missionaries and church leaders confessed addictions to pornography. A youth pastor who abused a young girl was quietly dismissed by church leaders and sent to a church in another state to “continue his dynamic ministry,” she was told.

Tragically, these are not isolated cases. Langberg, who admits her own struggles with anger and cynicism, reveals how systems meant to reflect God’s character have become corrupted.

Drawing parallels between the church and worldly systems of power, she warns that when the body of Christ becomes more concerned with growth, influence, and self-protection than with Christlikeness, it ceases to be a sanctuary. She critiques the glorification of celebrity pastors, institutions, ministries, and movements—which has only enabled harm.

Instead, Langberg calls for repentance, humility, and a return to the character of Jesus—who never used power to exploit, but always to serve and heal. In a clarion call to recover the heart of God, she urges believers to listen well, believe the wounded, and embody the Gospel.