Preacher scandals are sadly common. As with any class of claims, a few are groundless. But many are based on misconduct—from abusive leadership to embezzlement, adultery, pedophilia, and more. There are websites and newsletters reporting the alleged misdeeds of America’s pastors. Here are two things to keep in mind:
First, stories of disgraced men of the cloth will always get more publicity than they deserve because everyone, even the skeptic who does not practice a religion, expects pastors to be the most well-behaved among us. After all, when a man becomes a preacher, he holds himself out as one whose life sets the highest standard.
Even a bad preacher ought to be a good role model.
Second, remember that for every disgraced pastor, there are thousands working hard in the trenches, day-in, day-out, serving God’s kingdom and blessing His people.
Most of America’s ministers ARE good role models and do not fail their calling.
I have written elsewhere[1] that Jim Bakker, whose 1987 fall from grace was one of the most famous preacher-scandals in history, explained:
“I always loved Jesus. But I never feared Him.”
We love grace today. If I were to contrast today’s church with the church of generations past, I would argue today’s church is a place of WELCOME and GRACE. Jesus taught us to love the sinner. We finally heard Him. Churches are relaxed. All are welcome. The clothes are casual. The music style is as familiar as anything on the radio. The preaching is as cozy as a bedtime story. The downtrodden who walk in off the street will be embraced with smiles and love and coffee and donuts. Our churches have learned to love “the least of these”—and that is a step forward.
No one should come to church and feel judged or shamed.
But the Savior who taught us to love the least of these also reminded us to fear God:
“I will show you the One to fear: Fear Him who has authority to throw people into hell after death. Yes, I say to you, this is the One to fear! … The hairs of your head are all counted. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows!” Luke 12:5-7.
Fear the Lord, but remember that He loves you. He numbers the hairs on your head. He saves your tears in a bottle, Psalm 56:8. He adores you! Enjoy His grace. But fear Him.
I believe in eternal security: once you are born again, you cannot be un-born. You will not lose your salvation. But there are consequences to sin. It will make your life mediocre. It may destroy your ministry. And it will diminish your rewards in heaven.
A healthy fear of the Lord will keep you and me and our pastors walking in obedience to Jesus.
Read Luke 12.
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[1] https://dadsdailydevotionals.com/2024/03/25/does-todays-christian-fear-the-lord-mark-438-41-2-corinthians-510/
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