Theres Always Two Sides On A Coin by Pastor Kevin

I write this after just getting done with a very fruitful meeting with the prospective elders. Somehow we got onto discussing a recent trend of prominent church leaders who have failed morally, even at the height of their powers.

When I say “fail morally” you might assume it was sexual failure. It wasn’t. It was the failure of using intimidation and manipulation to further the “success” of their ministries. Thus, the sin of lust is real, whether it be a lust for the female body and for sex or lust for power, influence and control.

Small church pastors can make themselves feel better by looking down on them. Yet it is possible for many pastors in small churches to be guilty of the same sin. Let me explain.

The core desire to become the biggest church in America is likely a lust for power and influence. This thirst for success drove pastors and their fellow leaders to utilize fear to push the church forward. It was this same thirst for success that other church leaders justified looking the other way. It is easy to forget that a coin has two sides. While I might never be in a position to grow the largest church in America I will likely be in a position, perhaps the people as well, to despair the insignificance of a tiny church that rents space.

God’s wisdom invites us to consider this despair as sin. If manipulation is “heads” on a coin then despair is, you guessed it. Both are opposite and unfortunate results of bowing down to the idol of “worldly success,” both reveal opposite consequences of a misplaced identity.

Elders are called to prayer and ministry of the Word. I am arguing that what happened in this discussion fulfills this calling and serves the church. The godly insight of four men who pray to God and rightly apply his word protects the church from veering into the ditch of worldly attitudes on success and preserved the church to live joyfully in God's design for this particular congregation. Consider this role and call of a pastor. A meeting that might seem insignificant actually isn't, it is the fulfillment of a calling to pray and minister the Word that produces the fruit of joy the entire congregation can savor together.

For our joy and His glory,

Pastor Kevin

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