Bully Pulpit: Confronting the Problem of Spiritual Abuse in the Church

Review
'Spiritual abuse is one of the greatest stains on the bride of Christ today. Too few with pulpits and platforms are willing to recognize the basic truths that Michael Kruger addresses clearly, convincingly, and biblically. I thought Bully Pulpit would be a book every pastor and Christian leader ought to read. But I changed my mind: every Christian from pulpit to pew needs to read this wise and timely work--for the sake of the church and her people.' -- Karen Swallow Prior, research professor of English and Christianity & Culture at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and author of On Reading Well
'Who would ever have thought we would reach a point in the life of the church where the adjective bully would modify the noun pulpit? Yet, sadly, we have arrived. This book is both urgent and timely, as the presence of domineering and abusive church leaders continues to make headlines. This book is not only for pastors and elders but should be read by all Christians who care about the life and health of the body of Christ. I highly recommend it.' -- Sam Storms, lead pastor for preaching and vision at Bridgeway Church and author of Understanding Spiritual Gifts
'With prophetic courage and pastoral compassion, Mike Kruger has written an important book on a difficult subject. No one likes to think or talk about spiritual abuse, especially in the church, but if we neglect and ignore this very real problem and don't find the right ways to confront it, woe to us. So if you're a church leader who wants to shepherd the precious flock of God in the paradigm, pattern, and posture of the Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ, pick up this must-read book, then listen and learn.' -- Julius J. Kim, PhD, president of the Gospel Coalition
'The apostle Paul tells us the overseer of God's people is not to be a bully, but gentle (1 Tim. 3:3, CSB), and yet we too often overlook significant character issues or actions that should be disqualifying for ministry because of how God seems to be using an individual or growing a church. Bully Pulpit provides wise and measured reflections on the reality of shepherds who reject Christ's vision of leadership and leave spiritual destruction in the wake of their sin. I hope this important book prompts serious discussion among God's people.' -- Trevin Wax, vice president of research and resource development at the North American Mission Board and visiting professor at Cedarville University, author of The Thrill of Orthodoxy
'Learned and wise, urgent and timely, biblical and hopeful--this book deals with a sensitive topic with enormous skill and care. I can think of no better book on the subject and hope it will be read widely.' -- Sam Allberry, pastor and author of Why Bother with Church?
'This book is not a reaction but a response. Reactions to spiritual abuse are understandably passionate, but often without constructive insight. Dr. Kruger responds with both passion and constructive insight into both how leadership dynamics often deny the character of our Lord Jesus and how building new dynamics will put that very character on vibrant display.' -- Jeremy Pierre, Lawrence & Charlotte Hoover Professor of Biblical Counseling Chair, Department of Biblical Counseling and Family Ministry at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and author of When Home Hurts
'The topic of spiritual abuse needs careful attention and sober reflection, so I'm thankful for this thoughtful, wise, and biblical book. Dr. Kruger provides helpful clarity on a controversial subject while courageously cautioning ministry leaders about the kind of leadership that doesn't reflect the heart of Christ. Anyone who serves the spiritual needs of people should read this timely book.' -- Mark Vroegop, lead pastor of College Park Church and author of Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy
'I have been waiting for a book like this that I can assign for my seminary courses on abuse. Michael has brought much needed clarity and wisdom to the devastating reality o