• Colossians 1:20-22
• Romans 12:9-16

There must be reconciliation worked by God in the sinner's heart, so that he becomes changed in his attitude toward God, and so that he is persuaded to receive the reconciliation accomplished at the cross. (Romans 5:11). Christians have a part in this, bearing the word of reconciliation committed to them (II Corinthians 5:19) and beseeching men "Be ye reconciled to God" (II Corinthians 5:20).

The batterer must have a support system for this stage. This does not mean he makes excuses for violent behavior. If an alcoholic wishes to be delivered, do we encourage him to "stop a little at a time"? Of course not! He must learn to recognize in himself that this is a "besetting sin", and treat it accordingly. He must recognize what triggers this behavior in himself, and learn to control and change his reactions to situations. Never let down your guard against something that has controlled you, and will eventually destroy you. (Hebrews 12:1) God's chastening is painful, but it must be endured or we are not God's children.

Finally, not only must the batterer be willing to ask God's forgiveness and be reconciled unto Him; he must be willing to ask for his wife and families' forgiveness, so that he can be reconciled to them. However, this does not mean that he can return to the way he was before. The Pastor may request or require that since this is not only sinful behavior, but dangerous and criminal behavior, that the victim and the abuser stay away from each other as necessary, until the bulk of the problem be resolved, and it can be determined whether the husband has control of his sinful battering behavior.

• Genesis 27:43-45
• Proverbs 22:24-25
• James 2:10-11 - We must not differentiate between sins
• James 1:12 - Remember there is a blessing for the man who is able to resist temptation.