“How to Guard Against Sexism and Abuse in Christian Communities” with Dr. Andrew J. Bauman

What happens when a woman names harm in her church community—and
instead of support, she’s met with silence, suspicion, or even
exile? 


Too often, the church’s response to abuse and inequity reveals a
painful truth: that protecting systems has taken precedence over
protecting people.


In this powerful and layered conversation, Dr. Andrew J. Bauman
joins Dr. Dan Allender and Rachael Clinton Chen to confront the
realities explored in Andrew’s new book Safe Church: How to Guard
Against Sexism and Abuse in Christian Communities. 


Together, they discuss:




The cost many women pay for speaking up: isolation, lost
community, and spiritual disillusionment





How even “progressive” churches can harbor subtle patterns of
power and control





The stark data that exposes ongoing gender inequity in
ministry





The personal stories that bring this reality to life—and why
representation matters





What a truly safe and equitable church could look like




This is not just a conversation about what’s broken—it’s a call
to build something better. A church where truth is welcomed, not
silenced. Where policies protect the vulnerable. Where power is
shared, not hoarded. And where the sacred image of God in women
is honored, nurtured, and empowered.


Whether you’re a survivor, a leader, or someone wrestling with
disillusionment, this episode offers a brave and hopeful vision
of what the church can become—if we have the courage to tell the
truth and move toward change.
Related Resources:

Order your copy of Dr. Andrew J. Bauman’s SAFE
CHURCH: How to Guard Against Sexism & Abuse in Christian
Communities.

Listen to the Allender Center Podcast
episode: “Connections Between Spiritual and Sexual Abuse”

Continue to learn with these self-paced online courses from
the Allender Center: Spiritual Abuse & Healing Online
Course and the Healing the Wounded Heart Online Course