Could there be a bigger disappointment to a church than to see its pastor embroiled in scandal? Could there be a greater hindrance to the gospel than preachers caught in adultery or worse?
God’s judgment awaits those who bring shame to the Name of Christ.
“Take the equipment of a foolish shepherd … Woe to the worthless shepherd who deserts his flock! May a sword strike his arm and his right eye! May his arm wither away and his eye go completely blind!” Zechariah 11:15 and 17.
Yet it seems God tolerates these men much longer than I would. God is merciful, wants them to repent, and thus spare the flock some pain. Because when a preacher falls, the entire church is devastated.
“Strike the shepherd and the sheep will be scattered” Zechariah 13:7.
When a preacher falls, it feels like a betrayal—not only to his family and close friends, but to the entire congregation. And once the shepherd is gone, naturally the sheep will scatter—many to other churches, but some will quit church altogether. Some churches never recover.
But you can make it! If you are facing a scandal involving paid staff, praise God–because He is still on His throne. Thank God for bringing the truth to light. Pray for justice to be done and for nothing to be swept under the rug, but shouted from the housetops, Luke 12:3. (God will survive the bad publicity.) Pray for mercy for those who are hurt, victims and perpetrators alike. Pray for God to restore you.
“I will put them through fire. I will refine them as silver is refined and test them as gold is tested. They will call on My name, and I will answer them. I will say they are My people, and they will say, ‘Yahweh is our God’” Zechariah 13:9.
God, bless your bride. Cleanse Your churches and comfort Your people when they are betrayed by fallen preachers.
ΑΩ
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