When the Label Sticks
So how long do we flagellate someone for sins, mistakes and unmet expectations? Ted Haggard, former pastor of New Life Church, and confessed sinner, has left Colorado Springs. It is part of the price he has agreed to pay for violating his call, dishonoring his Lord, and bringing reproach to the gospel.
All of the major news services, papers, and networks referred to him as "Disgraced Pastor Ted Haggard." He has moved his family to Arizona to sit under the ministry and accountability of Pastor Tommy Barnett in Phoenix. Pastor Barnett has been known to assist other fallen ministry leaders, the most famous being Jim Bakker, in forgiveness, healing and restoration. The question remains, when do you move from "disgraced" to "forgiven?"
It seems that we have a problem separating sinners from sin. God has called us to love even the unrepentant, but how much more should we embrace those who have shown a contrite heart and a broken spirit. The Bible reminds us that "if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
In light of the fact that God sees us through the shed blood of his son as forgiven and redeemed, He calls us to offer forgiveness as often as a person needs it and requests it.
All of the major news services, papers, and networks referred to him as "Disgraced Pastor Ted Haggard." He has moved his family to Arizona to sit under the ministry and accountability of Pastor Tommy Barnett in Phoenix. Pastor Barnett has been known to assist other fallen ministry leaders, the most famous being Jim Bakker, in forgiveness, healing and restoration. The question remains, when do you move from "disgraced" to "forgiven?"
It seems that we have a problem separating sinners from sin. God has called us to love even the unrepentant, but how much more should we embrace those who have shown a contrite heart and a broken spirit. The Bible reminds us that "if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
In light of the fact that God sees us through the shed blood of his son as forgiven and redeemed, He calls us to offer forgiveness as often as a person needs it and requests it.
Labels: fallen clergy, forgiveness
posted by jawbone at
2:12 PM
1 Comments:
Forgiveness needs to given as soon as it is asked for, however a person needs to prove themself to be living their life fully for the Lord. Ministers who have their sins revealed publically have a difficult time regaining the trust of people and would probably not have another high profile ministry again.
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Anonymous, at 5:50 PM
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