Another Scandal

God Is Who He Is

1 Corinthians 12:26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.

I woke up this morning to the news of another alleged megachurch leadership scandal. It happens so regularly anymore we have become accustomed to the nauseating pattern. Accusations are made and corresponding dismissals issued. Public relations maneuvers and spin take over. Is it true is it a fallacy? We hope it’s not but then with so many previous perpetrators traveling this road it’s hard not to believe there isn’t some truth to the claims.

Regardless of what I believe about whether it’s true or not, there is a truth in the matter and God knows what it is. But what are we to think of this as Christians, how are we to proceed? Should these failures which have recently plagued Christ’s bride change the way we respond and act?

First, we have to acknowledge that pastors of small churches fall into sin as well as those who lead megachurches. Sin knows no single tax bracket or level of popularity; it visits all of our hearts. So regardless of whether we serve in a high profile position or in obscurity there is a need to guard our hearts. God has given you a calling and it’s his desire that you live it out as faithfully as you can.

As we continue witnessing the beating our faith is taking in the public square, and as we bemoan the ill effects brought on by high profile failures, we will do well to remember our own propensity for sin and failure. I have enough sin in my own heart to worry about; enough potential for hatred, lust and jealousy to take before the Lord.

Can we agree that power and influence must be held in check? Always! No one leader should ever be given large swaths of unchecked power and control. It’s simply a recipe for disaster. Right minded leaders, even those with great influence, surround themselves with praying, attentive partners and share leadership and authority.

Regardless of the size and scope of your ministry, no matter if you’re the founding leader or the sweeper of floors; all of us need to be held in check. Wise leaders will remember there is not one body part mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 that can function apart from the other parts.

Proverbs 4:23 Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.

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