At Beyond Betrayal we are blessed to work with Christians of many denominations and we respect that there are subtle differences of emphasis, or even belief, between these denominations.
While we do not press others with regards to their beliefs, our own understanding of the great mysteries God has been trying to reveal to humanity since creation are fairly well summed up in the Apostle’s Creed:
I believe in God,
the Father almighty,
Creator of heaven and earth,
and in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died and was buried;
he descended into hell;
on the third day he rose again from the dead;
he ascended into heaven,
and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty;
from there he will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and life everlasting.
In addition we believe “all [Christian] scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (slight adaptation of 2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Theological Stance on Addiction (and all problematic sexual behaviors)
With regards to addiction: we see this both as a mental health issue and a spiritual health issue (idolatry and a sin trap). The Apostle Paul gives insight in how to gain freedom from addiction and problematic behaviors when he says:
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. – Ephesians 4:22-24
Theological Stance on Betrayal Trauma
Borrowing from Counselling Professor, Darby Strickland
Betrayal trauma occurs when someone we entrusted with our love and safety becomes the source of harm. In marriage—or in any close relationship—we open ourselves to another person with the expectation of faithfulness, protection, and truth.
When that bond is violated through infidelity, secrecy, manipulation, or abandonment, it does more than wound our emotions; it disrupts our sense of safety in the world. The heart becomes disoriented. We may find ourselves anxious, hypervigilant, confused, or ashamed—not because we are weak, but because something sacred has been violated. Our bodies and souls work hard to make sense of a relationship that no longer feels secure.