One thing is certain: Leaders need to be more forthright and admit their sin. People would respect them a lot more and it would set a good example. Leaders not only lead by example with integrity but also with repentance. We must provide a safe haven for those with issues, and instill an open-door policy where members can go to any of the elders if they have concerns with leadership.

Over the years, we’ve seen many failures and fallings in the evangelical church. And it begs the question: WHAT IS GOING ON?

In my article, Why Do Leaders Fall? I wrote: “They fall for the same reason that all Christians fall. Each of us is drawn away by our own evil desires and enticed. When these desires are acted upon, they lead to sin (cf. James 1:14-15). Sin has a life cycle — it either grows or withers depending on whether we feed or starve it. John Owen, the prolific Puritan author wrote, ‘Be killing sin, or sin will be killing you’.”

A quick word to those whose faith is faltering because of fallen leaders: Never look to man, they will let you down — look to God, He never will.

Guilty Until Proven Innocent

Because of the Internet’s ability to spread massive amounts of information, it’s not surprising that so much is coming out. With this HUGE tidal wave of information being shared on countless social media outlets, it’s easier than ever before to expose sin.

On the one hand, exposure is sorely needed and long overdue, but on the other hand, it becomes very destructive when it is used as a weapon by arrogant and judgemental people. To truly change lives, truth must be seasoned with grace and watered with hope. 

Instead of pointing people to hope and restoration, we often rush to premature judgment: “Guilty Until Proven Innocent.” Many outlets that profit from clickbait are eager to drag someone through the mud again, and again, and again.

Priority #1: We Must Listen

I’m assuming that the reader understands that I’m not lumping everything into the same category. A leader who abuses children is handled much differently than a leader who stepped down due to anger and a controlling attitude.

When there are victims involved, we must listen carefully and prioritize their issues. That’s obvious, but what might not be so obvious is that we often become cold, callous, and overly critical in our zeal for justice.

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