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Untwisting Scriptures #1
Untwisting Scriptures: That Were Used to Tie You Up, Gag You, and Tangle Your Mind
BOOK #1 IN THE UNTWISTING SCRIPTURES SERIES ADDRESSING RIGHTS, BITTERNESS, AND TAKING UP OFFENSES
Does the Bible really teach that you're supposed to yield your rights? What's the right way to look at the issue of rights?
Have you ever been accused of being bitter? Maybe you thought you really weren't, but how can you tell?
Is that "root of bitterness" truly as insidious in your heart as some have suggested? How can you use other Scriptures to help you recognize it?
If you "take up offenses" by trying to help someone who is being mistreated, are you really in danger of becoming the most bitter of people? Will you even be in danger of missing out on God's grace?
"Untwisting Scriptures that were used to tie you up, gag you, and tangle your mind" untwists and presents the beautiful truth of God's Word, exposing sin where it needs to be revealed, and offering hope to those who most desperately need it.
Scriptures can be untwisted. You can rise up from spiritual abuse and walk in the freedom of Christ.
Does the Bible really teach that you're supposed to yield your rights? What's the right way to look at the issue of rights?
Have you ever been accused of being bitter? Maybe you thought you really weren't, but how can you tell?
Is that "root of bitterness" truly as insidious in your heart as some have suggested? How can you use other Scriptures to help you recognize it?
If you "take up offenses" by trying to help someone who is being mistreated, are you really in danger of becoming the most bitter of people? Will you even be in danger of missing out on God's grace?
"Untwisting Scriptures that were used to tie you up, gag you, and tangle your mind" untwists and presents the beautiful truth of God's Word, exposing sin where it needs to be revealed, and offering hope to those who most desperately need it.
Scriptures can be untwisted. You can rise up from spiritual abuse and walk in the freedom of Christ.
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Published May 23, 2024
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About the author
Rebecca Davis
107 books46 followersLibrarian Note: There are several authors by this name in the Goodreads database.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 12, 2019
Transformative
I'm not exaggerating when I say that I have lived for so many years questioning the interpretation of these very scriptures, and Rebecca brought life to my thoughts.
I'm not exaggerating when I say that I have lived for so many years questioning the interpretation of these very scriptures, and Rebecca brought life to my thoughts.
May 17, 2022
Rebecca Davis could take a few lessons in English grammar, but the content of the book is very good. For me, if a book is not well written grammatically, my confidence in the author is immediately shaken. However, I believe that Ms. Davis does present these scriptures accurately. Every time I had a question, “well, what about this?” it was answered within a few pages.
I like the distinction she makes between rights and desires, although I would argue that a couple of the examples she labeled as desires are actually rights. I also appreciated the distinction she made between yielding/surrendering our rights and choosing not to exercise them. There are definitely times the Holy Spirit may lead us to refrain from exercising our rights, but that does not mean that they are no longer our rights. She gives examples of both Paul and Jesus standing up for their rights.
Her section on bitterness was very good. I appreciated the way she went back to the Bible to define bitterness biblically. It is not synonymous with unforgiveness. However, unforgiveness is a sin in its own right and can lead to bitter words and actions.
I was blessed to have not been indoctrinated to not “take up an offense” for another. It is unfortunate that so many people have been hurt by a teaching that is based on a twisted half of a verse. One verse that she did not mention of which I thought is “bear ye one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)
As I mentioned above, her grammatical structure was lacking (at one point she says that a man died from a long and happy marriage :) ), and there was at least one instance where she references a verse, that she possibly took out of context. I would want to hear her exegesis of that verse. However, it was an easy read and overall I would recommend it, especially if yielding rights, bitterness, or taking up an offense resonates with you.
I like the distinction she makes between rights and desires, although I would argue that a couple of the examples she labeled as desires are actually rights. I also appreciated the distinction she made between yielding/surrendering our rights and choosing not to exercise them. There are definitely times the Holy Spirit may lead us to refrain from exercising our rights, but that does not mean that they are no longer our rights. She gives examples of both Paul and Jesus standing up for their rights.
Her section on bitterness was very good. I appreciated the way she went back to the Bible to define bitterness biblically. It is not synonymous with unforgiveness. However, unforgiveness is a sin in its own right and can lead to bitter words and actions.
I was blessed to have not been indoctrinated to not “take up an offense” for another. It is unfortunate that so many people have been hurt by a teaching that is based on a twisted half of a verse. One verse that she did not mention of which I thought is “bear ye one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)
As I mentioned above, her grammatical structure was lacking (at one point she says that a man died from a long and happy marriage :) ), and there was at least one instance where she references a verse, that she possibly took out of context. I would want to hear her exegesis of that verse. However, it was an easy read and overall I would recommend it, especially if yielding rights, bitterness, or taking up an offense resonates with you.
June 20, 2022
Wow. What an important book. It made me realize how truly pervasive certain ideologies have become, ideologies that are completely unbiblical but presented in many religious circles as gospel truth. Davis does an amazing job of going to the source (the Bible) and showing how Scripture has been twisted to fit a false narrative. I was impressed with her boldness in calling false doctrine out, even to the point of naming names. Every Christian should read this at some point. I stayed up late to finish it.
My only complaint is that I wish it was longer and more fleshed out. It reads like a long blog post, and provides more of an introductory look at some of these issues. But as an introduction - it's phenomenal. I'm incredibly excited to dive into the next book.
My only complaint is that I wish it was longer and more fleshed out. It reads like a long blog post, and provides more of an introductory look at some of these issues. But as an introduction - it's phenomenal. I'm incredibly excited to dive into the next book.
June 29, 2018
Excellent read. Addresses some crucial passages that have been twisted to evil ends. Highly recommended.
August 14, 2018
This is a pretty short book, but unfortunately because of the structure and formatting wasn't an easy read. It's too bad, because there were some good bits of truth that, even after years being away from the wrong teachings described, made me think differently about some points. Also, two teachers it references (and contradicts) often are Bill Gothard and Nancy Leigh DeMoss (now Wolgemuth). Even though I personally came into contact with the teaching of both, I found myself wondering if it was unlikely that many others had also. Gothard and DeMoss seemed to circulate in very different circles, so many of the references may resonate with only half of readers.
It doesn't cover the twisting of Scripture exhaustively -- the main points are in regard to:
- yielding rights
- bitterness
- taking up offenses
If those things have been used against you, this book might be helpful. Otherwise, a more comprehensive book for unpacking Scripture being used as a weapon would be The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse.
It doesn't cover the twisting of Scripture exhaustively -- the main points are in regard to:
- yielding rights
- bitterness
- taking up offenses
If those things have been used against you, this book might be helpful. Otherwise, a more comprehensive book for unpacking Scripture being used as a weapon would be The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse.
August 17, 2018
Undo the knots
Rebecca successfully identifies and corrects many misquoted Scriptures in the Bible. She accurately and in depth describes how these verses are taken out of context or are just plain incorrect and backs up her case with other scripture often referring to Jesus' very own examples.
Rebecca successfully identifies and corrects many misquoted Scriptures in the Bible. She accurately and in depth describes how these verses are taken out of context or are just plain incorrect and backs up her case with other scripture often referring to Jesus' very own examples.
October 29, 2025
Very helpful, encouraging, eye opening and while I might not have been ready I wish I’d found this ages ago. But only now I’m I ready to understand and sadly, I find my story played out in her examples. We must do better and keep doing something about the evil effects of twisted scripture that leads to abuse and shaming.
March 22, 2024
A good read for someone who is confused by the religious upbringing they had. Things might have been taken out of context to teach to someone what the teacher wanted. It’s a good look at what the scriptures actually teach. There are sequel books to this that I will be reading.
March 28, 2021
I highly recommend this book, especially for those who grew up in Gothardism, as I did.
The first two chapters of "Untwisting Scriptures", on the subject of whether "yielding rights" is biblical or not, contained some of the most healing things I've ever read. I was raised in Bill Gothard's homeschool program, and his influence was constantly felt in our day-to-day lives. Due to a teaching of Gothard's, my parents told me when I was a teen that it was my fault that I would grind my teeth in my sleep, because this was a sign of not having yielded my rights (to what, I wasn't sure). And that is just one small example. I didn't have the right to be accepted for who I was as God had created me - instead, my parents tried to fit me into a certain mold they had in mind, and in Gothard's world, this was the parents' right. I was also not allowed to express my own opinions without backlash in my parents' house, even as a young adult, so I learned to keep my mouth shut when I disagreed with something. (I did not leave home until age 22, due to Gothard teachings).
Over the years, I unpacked many of the false teachings I grew up with, but until reading those 2 chapters I didn't realize how much the "yielding rights/no rights" teaching still impacted me. It is so freeing to read that I do have rights, human and civil, because it is right to have them (never made that connection before, but it makes so much sense! and is so simple!) Also, to read of our rights in Christ as Christians was also very healing.
I really appreciated the distinction the author made between rights and desires, and appreciate so many other truths that were shared, and untruths that were exposed (I've completely "marked up" the pages in the kindle book with highlights). I only wish I had read this book a long time ago! But thankful that it has now become a part of my healing journey.
The first two chapters of "Untwisting Scriptures", on the subject of whether "yielding rights" is biblical or not, contained some of the most healing things I've ever read. I was raised in Bill Gothard's homeschool program, and his influence was constantly felt in our day-to-day lives. Due to a teaching of Gothard's, my parents told me when I was a teen that it was my fault that I would grind my teeth in my sleep, because this was a sign of not having yielded my rights (to what, I wasn't sure). And that is just one small example. I didn't have the right to be accepted for who I was as God had created me - instead, my parents tried to fit me into a certain mold they had in mind, and in Gothard's world, this was the parents' right. I was also not allowed to express my own opinions without backlash in my parents' house, even as a young adult, so I learned to keep my mouth shut when I disagreed with something. (I did not leave home until age 22, due to Gothard teachings).
Over the years, I unpacked many of the false teachings I grew up with, but until reading those 2 chapters I didn't realize how much the "yielding rights/no rights" teaching still impacted me. It is so freeing to read that I do have rights, human and civil, because it is right to have them (never made that connection before, but it makes so much sense! and is so simple!) Also, to read of our rights in Christ as Christians was also very healing.
I really appreciated the distinction the author made between rights and desires, and appreciate so many other truths that were shared, and untruths that were exposed (I've completely "marked up" the pages in the kindle book with highlights). I only wish I had read this book a long time ago! But thankful that it has now become a part of my healing journey.
July 12, 2021
Recommended Read
If you have been part of very conservative or controlling or cult like Christian religious group; this book is essential to your well being and getting out of the webs of deceit woven by individuals that wanted power over you. Absolutely essential. Well written; and well scriptural based. Lots of scripture to support or disprove certain beliefs.
If you have been part of very conservative or controlling or cult like Christian religious group; this book is essential to your well being and getting out of the webs of deceit woven by individuals that wanted power over you. Absolutely essential. Well written; and well scriptural based. Lots of scripture to support or disprove certain beliefs.
February 17, 2019
Short, concise. The editing isn’t perfect but I think it’s worth reading especially if you have been involved in the Bill Gothard/ATI/Basic Training Seminars/Quiverfull mombent.
March 25, 2022
This book was absolutely paradigm shifting and healing to read. So many of the verses she brought up that have been used to silence, or burden the hurting and abused, with false guilt and blame is so needed in the Church today. From "taking up offenses" to the "root of bitterness." There is a prevalent false interpretation of these two concepts in the Church today that are quite frankly false. The author is an excellent bible teacher.
When the bible says not many should be teachers, it is so true. It can cause a world of pain, bondage, and confusion when false teaching (even if from well intended people) is perpetuated as gospel..when it's simply BAD teaching... often used to protect the predators and silence the wounded sheep.
For anyone who has been accused of having the root of bitterness after suffering abuse, or when others refuse to listen to you because they don't want to "take up the offense," to "you have no rights," and it all just feels wrong, sounds wrong, tastes wrong- it's because it is. Read this book to get the correct teaching and comfort you really need!
When the bible says not many should be teachers, it is so true. It can cause a world of pain, bondage, and confusion when false teaching (even if from well intended people) is perpetuated as gospel..when it's simply BAD teaching... often used to protect the predators and silence the wounded sheep.
For anyone who has been accused of having the root of bitterness after suffering abuse, or when others refuse to listen to you because they don't want to "take up the offense," to "you have no rights," and it all just feels wrong, sounds wrong, tastes wrong- it's because it is. Read this book to get the correct teaching and comfort you really need!
November 6, 2020
Very readable but rather short. The author works with people who've been sexually and relationally abused within the church, and I would say this book would be most helpful to that audience. She grapples in particular with ideas that originated with Bill Gothard, but that have filtered through the US evangelical churches in general, and even pop up sometimes in the more mainstream (or more liturgical, perhaps I should say) churches as well, through authors like Nancy Leigh DeMoss. Davis does a good job challenging the misreading of specific passages and concepts.
Anyone who has turned to the church for help and support while dealing with abuse, only to be shut down with accusations of "being bitter," ought to read this book, as should anyone who thinks that a reasonable and Christian response to the abused.
Anyone who has turned to the church for help and support while dealing with abuse, only to be shut down with accusations of "being bitter," ought to read this book, as should anyone who thinks that a reasonable and Christian response to the abused.
March 21, 2025
This is an interesting read. I had no idea that so many in church leadership twisted these scriptures. I mean, I have heard statements like what are mentioned in this book used to control people, but I did not realize where they came from. Davis’ book has opened my eyes to begin to understand the destructive pretense that so many have lived and still live under. Thank you, Mrs. Davis, for calling out these falsehoods and helping those of us who have not experienced this warped perspective begin to see the hurts and horrors that has been placed on those who have/do from those whom they should be able to trust.
July 7, 2025
My heart has needed to read this book for so many years. I’ve been unlearning so much and healing so many broken places. This book will be one I have to read again and again. But it was so full of freedom and healing.
“As you weep bitter tears, I pray you'll have a good friend to mourn with you. You can also remember as you look to the gentle Shepherd, Rescuer, and Healer, Jesus Christ, that He will heal wounds and wipe away tears and give new beauty where there lay only ashes. The days of this bitterness will pass.”
“As you weep bitter tears, I pray you'll have a good friend to mourn with you. You can also remember as you look to the gentle Shepherd, Rescuer, and Healer, Jesus Christ, that He will heal wounds and wipe away tears and give new beauty where there lay only ashes. The days of this bitterness will pass.”
March 31, 2021
Excellent resource book. It’s not super polished and it’s hard to read based on how it’s formatted and presented - so 3 stars for that. But 5 stars for the resource it provides in giving people a way to process what has been taught to them in a twisted way. Hence the 4 star rating overall. Definitely helps untwist some of the incorrect teachings on personal rights (especially as a female), anger, and bitterness.
February 14, 2022
outstanding book
This book is a must read for anyone who was unduly influenced by Bill Gothard and the Institute for basic conflicts. Rebecca lovingly and painstakingly untwists the misunderstandings and mistruths to give a person a clear understanding of the true teaching of scripture. We are encouraged to become people of love and compassion standing for the afflicted seeking justice for them. Simply to be like Jesus in the apostles and love as God has left us.
This book is a must read for anyone who was unduly influenced by Bill Gothard and the Institute for basic conflicts. Rebecca lovingly and painstakingly untwists the misunderstandings and mistruths to give a person a clear understanding of the true teaching of scripture. We are encouraged to become people of love and compassion standing for the afflicted seeking justice for them. Simply to be like Jesus in the apostles and love as God has left us.
December 17, 2023
Many of the points made are biblical, but the Bible citations are used poorly. Also, seems to use certain words and if they’re supposed to mean the same thing such as grief and bitterness. The book seems to be written for people who have been part of a cult, which is not my case, so it didn’t really speak to me. The book cites Bill Gothard as if he’s the standard on Christian Doctrine. Most Christians I know don’t even know who he is and don’t believe in his teachings.
April 7, 2023
I read all of Rebecca’s books, and she hits the nails on the head in the realm of spiritual abuse. While I found the format/font/layout of her book difficult to read, nevertheless the message of her books is well communicated rightly dividing the word of Truth and helping you to see and understand how you became entangled. Life changing.
July 7, 2025
Well done
A must read for anyone who had suffered spiritual abuse. It's time for healing in The Church body and the only way to do that is to expose all the manipulative and downright false ways scripture has been used to keep abuse victims from finding that healing. This book is a great place to begin.
A must read for anyone who had suffered spiritual abuse. It's time for healing in The Church body and the only way to do that is to expose all the manipulative and downright false ways scripture has been used to keep abuse victims from finding that healing. This book is a great place to begin.
August 14, 2023
This series of books has been very eye-opening and helpful for me. I appreciate the author’s deep respect for the Word and her dedication to bringing false teachings to light. This is easy to read, both due to the clear writing style and the fact that it is concise and not too long.
March 31, 2021
Brief review of the book found in my Amazon review
September 26, 2021
Great read for those who have been, are being spiritually abused or want to learn about spiritual abuse!
April 5, 2023
I liked it overall, she just drags on a bit. But worth the read, especially if you’ve been wounded by church teachings.
March 29, 2024
Every Christian in our world today should read Rebecca Davis' books. If not for yourself, so you can understand a friend or family member struggling with old, caustic beliefs.
January 11, 2024
The first in the series by Rebecca H. Davis, Untwisting Scriptures That Were Used to Tie You Up, Gag You, and Tangle Your Mind, explores commonly accepted teachings by famous Bible writers and speakers. But while many of those teachers take verses out of context, Davis takes her readers back into entire passages to help the reader determine what is actually being said and to whom. Word studies, historical background, and in-depth looks into the practice of misinterpreting Scripture make this book an eye-opening study.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews