1 Timothy 5:19–20 (ESV) — 19 Do not admit a charge against an elder except on the
evidence of two or three witnesses. 20 As for those who
persist in sin, rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand
in fear.
NOTE: Leaders face a
two-edged sword. On the positive side, they are to be protected from spurious
accusations. A single charge without 2-3 witnesses and evidence is to be
rejected. On the negative side (to the individual), a certified charge where
the individual refuses to repent is to be rebuked in front of the entire
congregation. I don't know how that fits with our legal system, but leaders in
the church have responsibilities and requirements that are placed higher than
the normal believer. I like to say that a Pastor is spiritually no different
than any other member of the body of Christ, but in this case, they are held to
a higher standard. And not just Pastors, but any spiritual leader (to include
teachers) in the church.
PRAYER: Father,
protect our Pastors from spurious accusations and the Devil's trap. Put your
hedge around them. Give them grace and mercy. Honor them for their service to
the body and the gospel. I also pray that we would understand that we are the
ones who are supposed to take the gospel to the world -- their job is to
prepare us.
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