INTRODUCTION
Sadly most articles being posted about this (even by pastors in defense of their fellow leaders) are based on the personalities of the spiritual leaders and not on the Bible. This is a reflection of the eternal infanthood of the church that believers are currently living in due to poor or no delivery of sound doctrine from the pulpit!
I understand that discovering bad news about your spiritual leader can be deeply troubling, especially when viewed through a biblical lense; yet there is need for a balanced biblical approach to handling scandals in the church. There is a danger with messages that focus on the personalities of ministers and not on what the scriptures say.
While there are some nice things in such articles, they are not entirely faithful to the teachings of Jesus Christ and of the apostles. When faced with the exposure of a false prophet or a cult, Christians should respond in accordance with the teachings of the Bible, not according to their feelings and sentimental opinions.
Indeed, the Word of God reminds us to have compassion and love for one another, even when someone has fallen or made mistakes.
Galatians 6:1-2 says, "Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ."
As followers of Christ, we are called to extend grace and forgiveness, even in the face of another person's failure. Mature Christians do not rejoice in the falling of others, even of their enemies.
The moment you start to rejoice over the judgment of your enemies in your heart, the Lord will lift His judgment from them.
Proverbs 24:17-18 says, "Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice, or the Lord will see and disapprove and turn his wrath away from them."
We are not to take pleasure in the downfall of others, but rather, we should show compassion and seek their restoration.
Jesus even instructs us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us.
Matthew 5:43-44 (LITV) says, "You have heard that it was said, "You shall love your neighbor" and hate your enemy; but I say to you, Love your enemies; bless those cursing you, do well to those hating you; and pray for those abusing and persecuting you."
It is important to remember that none of us are immune to the temptations of the enemy.
1 Corinthians 10:12 says, "So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!"
So, our response should be one of humility, understanding, and a genuine desire to see healing and restoration in the lives of our brothers and sisters in Christ. But, it is also crucial to hold leaders accountable for their actions, as they have a greater responsibility due to their positions.
Paul advises Timothy to publicly rebuke and correct pastoral leaders (elders) who have committed sin.
1 Timothy 5:20 says, "But those elders who are sinning you are to reprove before everyone, so that the others may take warning."
Discipline and restoration should be carried out in accordance with biblical principles and under the guidance of spiritual leaders. Regardless of your position towards the news, the one thing I want to encourage you NOT to do is to write public comments about the personalities of ministers named in the scandalous reports.
You may find out that the situation is not what you had believed it to be, and it will damage your reputation. If you defend someone and later find out that it was true, your reputation will be dragged down in the mud along with them.
A wise man once said that when there is a storm, women are encouraged to close and hold tight to theirs skirts. Likewise I encourage the church to close and hold tight to their lips when a scandal is breaking out. Someone once said that silence can not be misquoted.
WHAT EXACTLY IS GOING ON? IS THE SCANDAL TRUE?
1 Timothy 4:1-2 (NIV) says, "The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron."
2 Timothy 4:3-4 (NIV) says, "For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths."
Matthew 24:10-13 (NIV) says, "At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved."
These verses highlight the warnings of a time when people will depart from the faith, follow false teachings, and reject the truth. They underscore the importance of staying steadfast and discerning in the true faith, even amidst the challenges and deceptions of the last days.
OH, NO IT'S TRUE! THE ACCEPTANCE PROCESS
Shock and Denial
Initially, upon hearing the news, followers may experience shock and disbelief. It can be challenging to accept that someone they admire and trust could be involved in a scandal.
Denial may manifest as a defense mechanism to protect oneself from the pain and cognitive dissonance caused by the conflicting information.
Cognitive dissonance refers to the mental discomfort that arises when there is a conflict or inconsistency between a person's beliefs, attitudes, or values.
It is the feeling of being mentally uneasy when we hold conflicting thoughts or when our actions don't align with our beliefs.
Most Christians in shock and denial will say things like, "I don't want to hear the story, the only truth I need to know is Jesus Christ!" Or "Our job as Christians is to pray for each other, not to fight one another."
Anger and Betrayal
As the shock wears off, followers may feel a sense of anger and betrayal. They may feel deceived, hurt, and let down by their leader's actions.
This stage can be emotionally intense, with followers expressing their anger towards the leader, the situation, or even themselves for placing their trust in someone who has disappointed them.
Confusion and Doubt
Followers may experience confusion and doubt as they grapple with the conflicting feelings and information.
They may question their own judgments, beliefs, and the authenticity of their spiritual experiences with the leader.
This stage involves a reevaluation of their beliefs and the impact of the leader's actions on their faith.
Grief and Loss
Followers may go through a grieving process as they mourn the loss of their idealized perception of the leader.
They may mourn the loss of trust, the loss of a spiritual role model, and the loss of the community or sense of belonging associated with their faith community.
Acceptance and Rebuilding
Over time, followers may gradually move towards acceptance. This stage involves coming to terms with the reality of the situation and acknowledging that their leader is fallible.
They may begin to rebuild their trust in God, themselves, and other leaders within their faith community. This stage may also involve seeking healing and restoration through prayer, counseling, or support from a trusted community.
Personal Growth and Discernment
Through the process of navigating the scandal, followers may experience personal growth and spiritual maturity. They may develop a deeper understanding of their own faith, reliance on God rather than human leaders, and a sharpened ability to discern truth and integrity.
This stage can lead to a more resilient and authentic faith journey. It's important to note that these stages are not linear, and individuals may move back and forth between them or experience them in different sequences.
The healing and recovery process will vary for each person, and it's crucial to seek support from trusted spiritual mentors, counselors, or support groups during this challenging time.
RESPONDING TO THE UNFOLDING SCANDAL
Pray for guidance and wisdom
Seek the truth and verify
Investigate the facts and gather reliable information about the situation. Do not seek support for your desired outcome. It is better to be hurt by an uncomfortable truth than to be comforted by a sweet lie.
It's essential to base your response on verified information rather than rumors or hearsay. Look for credible sources and reliable witnesses who can provide insights into the matter.
Try to gather more information about the situation from reliable sources. Understand the facts before jumping to conclusions or making judgments. Investigate multiple perspectives and listen to different viewpoints to get a broader understanding of the situation.
Before drawing conclusions, it is crucial to gather accurate information and verify the facts. The Bible encourages us to be diligent in seeking the truth. We must not judge hastily before watching the full reports and/ or documentaries or conclude based on rumors.
Proverbs 18:13 (LITV) says, "If one rejects a matter before he hears, it is folly and shame to him."
Only consider an accusation against a spiritual leader when there are at least two or three witnesses. Once there are witnesses there is no need to argue against the testimony of what happened in your absence.
1 Timothy 5:19 (LITV) says, "Do not receive an accusation against an elder unless on "the testimony of" "two or three witnesses."
Take time to process
It's important to give yourself space and time to process your emotions. Allow yourself to feel whatever you're feeling, whether it's disappointment, anger, confusion, or sadness. It's natural to have a range of emotions when something like this happens.
Allow yourself some space to process the news and your emotions. It's natural to feel shocked, disappointed, or even betrayed. Take a step back and give yourself time to pray, meditate, and seek guidance.
Seek spiritual discernment
The Bible encourages believers to be discerning and test everything against the truth of God's Word.
1 John 4:1 says, "Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God because many false prophets have gone out into the world."
It is important to prayerfully examine the teachings and actions of those involved to discern if they align with biblical truth.
Examine the Fruit
Evaluate the actions and character of your spiritual leader in light of biblical teachings. Consider whether the scandalous behavior aligns with the teachings and example of Christ.
It's not everyone who is called a man of God who is a brother in Christ. Before you rush to defend a prophet, you need to be sure that you are not defending a wolf in sheep hides against the true sheep.
Jesus taught that a tree is known by its fruit.
Matthew 7:15-23 (LITV) says, "But beware of the false prophets who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inside they are plundering wolves. From their fruits you shall know them. Do they gather grapes from thorns, or figs from thistles? So every good tree produces good fruits, but the corrupt tree produces evil fruits. A good tree cannot produce evil fruits, nor a corrupt tree produce good fruits. Every tree not producing good fruit is cut down and is thrown into fire. Then surely from their fruits you shall know them. Not everyone who says to Me, Lord, Lord, will enter into the kingdom of Heaven, but the ones who do the will of My Father in Heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name do many works of power? And then I will declare to them, I never knew you; "depart from Me, those working lawlessness!"
Leave Room for Human Fallibility
Recognize that spiritual leaders, like all humans, are capable of making mistakes. Remember that leaders are fallible. All human beings, including spiritual leaders, are imperfect and prone to mistakes.
The man of God is still a "man" of God, and is not the God of the man. The Bible itself portrays numerous examples of leaders who made errors, from David to Peter. Remember that our ultimate focus should be on God rather than any individual.
But, serious misconduct or ethical violations such as rape, homosexuality and murder should be taken seriously and addressed according to biblical principles.
Hold Leaders Accountable
If the allegations against your spiritual leader involve serious wrongdoing, it is important to hold them accountable. Seek justice and truth in a manner that aligns with biblical principles.
This may involve reporting the matter to appropriate authorities within your church organization or seeking counsel from trusted spiritual advisors.
The Bible emphasizes the importance of holding leaders accountable for their actions. If the allegations are severe and confirmed, it is appropriate for the Church leadership to confront the leader privately, following the guidelines outlined by Jesus.
Matthew 18:15-17 (NET) says, “If your brother sins, go and show him his fault when the two of you are alone. If he listens to you, you have regained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others with you, so that at the testimony of two or three witnesses every matter may be established. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. If he refuses to listen to the church, treat him like a Gentile or a tax collector."
Seek resolution, repentance, and restoration, if possible. Scripture reminds us that leaders in the church are held to a higher standard of conduct.
James 3:1 (NET) says, "Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers and sisters, because you know that we will be judged more strictly."
If the allegations are substantiated, it is necessary to hold the spiritual leader accountable according to the guidelines outlined in the Bible.
1 Corinthians 5:1-5 (NET) says, "It is actually reported that sexual immorality exists among you, the kind of immorality that is not permitted even among the Gentiles, so that someone is cohabiting with his father’s wife. And you are proud! Shouldn’t you have been deeply sorrowful instead and removed the one who did this from among you? For even though I am absent physically, I am present in spirit. And I have already judged the one who did this, just as though I were present. When you gather together in the name of our Lord Jesus, and I am with you in spirit, along with the power of our Lord Jesus, turn this man over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord."
1 Timothy 5:19-20 (NET) says, "Do not accept an accusation against an elder unless it can be confirmed by two or three witnesses. Those guilty of sin must be rebuked before all, as a warning to the rest."
Warn and protect others
The Bible instructs us to protect and warn fellow believers about false teachings and false prophets.
In Acts 20:29-31, the apostle Paul warned the Ephesian elders, saying, "I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock... Therefore be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears."
Many false teachers will react angrily towards those who are warning God's flock by calling the teachings as attacks. But we have the responsibility to lovingly and truthfully inform others about the dangers of false teachings to prevent them from being led astray.
Exposure of error and correction is not an attack. Otherwise Jesus and His apostles throughout the New Testament would be guilty of attacking the likes of the Pharisees, Simon the sorcerer (who was considered as a major prophet by all the people - Acts 8:10), and Bar Jesus (Acts 13:6-12).
Pray for those involved
As Christians, we are called to pray for all people, including false prophets and those caught up in cults. In Matthew 5:44, Jesus teaches us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us.
Pray for their repentance, for the truth to be revealed, and for the restoration of those who have been deceived. If you are confused about the situation and don't know what to say, pray in the Spirit by speaking in other tongues.
Romans 8:26 (NET) says, "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness, for we do not know how we should pray, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with inexpressible groanings."
1 Corinthians 14:14-15 (NET) says, "If I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unproductive. What should I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind. I will sing praises with my spirit, but I will also sing praises with my mind."
Reflect on your beliefs
Take this opportunity to reflect on your own beliefs, convictions and values. Consider whether the actions or behavior of your spiritual leader align with what you understand as right and ethical from the bible.
Is the spiritual leader taking responsibility for his wrongdoing especially for the things that are proven with public evidence? Is he ignoring the scandal or defensive? This can be a valuable process of personal growth and self-discovery.
Focus on the truth of God's Word
It is important to anchor ourselves in the truth of Scripture and rely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
In Ephesians 6:14, Paul encourages believers to "stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist." This truth is vital for discernment between right and wrong, between true and false.
Hebrews 5:13-14 (NET) says, "For everyone who lives on milk is inexperienced in the message of righteousness, because he is an infant. But solid food is for the mature, whose perceptions are trained by practice to discern both good and evil."
By immersing ourselves in God's Word and seeking His wisdom, we can discern falsehood and remain steadfast in our faith.
Guard Against Bitterness
It's important to guard your heart against bitterness and resentment against your spiritual leader due to a sense of great betrayal.
Do not take the role of the Holy Spirit to be angry over the mishandling of the church by the spiritual leader. It will spoil you and stain your heart.
Ephesians 4:31-32 (NET) says, "You must put away every kind of bitterness, anger, wrath, quarreling, and evil, slanderous talk. Instead, be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ also forgave you.."
While it may be challenging, strive to maintain a heart of grace and extend forgiveness when appropriate. While it is important to address wrongdoing, it is equally important to guard against bitterness, resentment, and division within the body of believers.
We are encouraged to pursue peace and unity among believers and to restore one another in a spirit of gentleness.
Ephesians 4:3 (LITV) says, "Being eager to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."
Galatians 6:1 (LITV) says, "Brothers, if a man is overtaken in some deviation, you, the spiritual ones, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness, considering yourself, that you not also be tempted."
Extend grace and forgiveness
As followers of Christ, we are called to extend grace and forgiveness to others. While it can be difficult, try to cultivate a heart of forgiveness, even if the actions of your spiritual leader have caused pain. Pray for them and entrust the situation to God's justice and mercy.
Seek Support and Wise Counsel
Surround yourself with a community of believers who can provide support, guidance, and prayer during this challenging time. Don't waste time with sharing your struggles with unbelievers or fans of the prophet who are not yet the sons of God.
Share your concerns with trusted individuals who can offer wise counsel and help you navigate through the situation. It can be helpful to discuss your feelings and concerns with trusted friends, family members, or fellow members of your church.
Engage in discussions with fellow believers, pastors, or trusted mentors who can provide biblical wisdom and guidance.
Proverbs 15:22 says, "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed."
If you feel comfortable and safe doing so, engage in open and respectful dialogue with other believers who are also affected by this news. Share your thoughts, listen to their perspectives, and collectively explore how to navigate this situation as a community.
Sharing your thoughts and emotions with others who may be going through a similar experience can provide support and perspective. Don't struggle alone. Seek input from those who are knowledgeable and have a strong grounding in biblical principles.
Consider your options
Consider your continued involvement with the spiritual leader or the community. Depending on the nature of the scandal and the response of the leader, you may need to reassess your level of trust and participation.
Seek God's guidance and make decisions that align with your convictions and biblical principles. Depending on the severity of the scandal and your personal convictions, you may need to make decisions about your continued involvement with the spiritual leader or the community.
People who drown don't die because they fell in water, they die because they stayed there. Take the time to reflect on your values and what feels right for you moving forward, when to sink or to swim.
Focus on personal growth
Remember that your faith is ultimately rooted in your personal relationship with God, not solely dependent on any leader. Strengthen your connection with God through prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers.
Regardless of the outcome, use this experience as an opportunity for personal growth and learning. Reflect on the lessons you can take away from the situation and how you can become a more discerning and resilient individual.
Focus on Christ, not on individuals
Finally, our faith should be grounded in Christ and not solely dependent on any human leader.
1 Corinthians 3:3-7 (NET) says, "For you are still influenced by the flesh. For since there is still jealousy and dissension among you, are you not influenced by the flesh and behaving like unregenerate people? For whenever someone says, “I am with Paul,” or “I am with Apollos,” are you not merely human? What is Apollos, really? Or what is Paul? Servants through whom you came to believe, and each of us in the ministry the Lord gave us. I planted, Apollos watered, but God caused it to grow. So neither the one who plants counts for anything, nor the one who waters, but God who causes the growth."
While we are to love the man of God, it does not mean that we should trust in him. And that includes me. I am not worthy of your trust because I did not die for you on the cross. Remember that our hope and trust should be in God alone, who is perfect and unchanging.
Psalms 118:8 (NET) says, "It is better to take shelter in the Lord than to trust in people."
Remember that these steps are general guidelines, and your specific response will depend on the details of the situation. It's crucial to seek counsel from trusted spiritual mentors or leaders within your church or faith community who can provide personalized guidance based on their knowledge of the situation and of your spiritual state.
