Eyes Wide Open

“But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” (1 Corinthians 9:27 ESV)

In recent months, we have witnessed several pastors stepping away from their pulpits, some temporarily, some permanently, having been disqualified due to sinful actions. For instance, Steven Lawson was disqualified due to an improper relationship with a woman, a violation of the sanctity of marriage and the trust of his congregation. Similarly, Matt Chandler was on a three-month hiatus due to improper emails and texts with a woman, a breach of professional conduct, and a misuse of his pastoral authority. However, it is heartening to note that he was restored to the pastorate after demonstrating genuine repentance and a commitment to change, inspiring hope in us all.

This is heartbreaking because these men have placed themselves in a position where they have damaged the view of Christianity and rebelled against the Lord. This has happened at a time when the church cannot afford to lose those who preach so well. As leaders and individuals with strong faith, it is our responsibility to support and hold each other accountable, to prevent such disqualifications, and to uphold the integrity of our faith.

Paul wrote about this very thing, which we all need to remember. We are all susceptible to sin, regardless of our role in the church.

Whether you are a pastor leading a flock, an evangelist minister, or a well-respected deacon, we all face temptation. The closer we come to Christ, the more the enemy will tempt us. But remember, God never casts us away when we fall. He picks us up, brushes us off, and walks with us. God may not use us as He did in the past, but He will continue to use us as long as we have truly repented of our sins.

As Paul wrote, we must strive to live as we preach and teach. We must shun that one sin that penetrates the armor of God. We must pray to the Spirit to strengthen us and lead us. It is not easy. We live in a time where sin is used as a joke or an advertisement on television. But we must follow God's will and live under Jesus' Lordship, led by the Spirit, without hypocrisy and with deep, devoted faithfulness. Those of us who speak out most openly about our faith in Jesus must strive to hold ourselves accountable to the same standard we call others to follow. 

No one is perfect. No one is infallible. That is the challenge. The challenge is to live a Christ-like life in a sinful world with an enemy who knows your every weakness and will use it against you. But remember, we cannot do it alone. Without Christ, we are doomed to failure; in Christ, we are bound through grace and mercy in a love that will not end, no matter what we have done or may do.

Just do yourself a favor and acknowledge to God that you are weak, and He is strong, and that you know you are a sinner. Ask for His strength and His guidance. Without Christ, you have no chance. But with Him, you have everything.

Grace and Peace!