Ted Haggard goes down. This very influential, high profile Christian leader has stepped down from two very prestigious positions. One, his church of a million people --okay not a million, but in the many thousands. Two, his leadership of a prominant evangelical association.
What went wrong? Simple: sin is always crouching at the door, seeking whom it may devour. All of us are subject to one sin or another.
What went right? Church discipline is on display. Unlike that messy Swaggart thing several years ago, Haggard lived within systems of accountability that worked. The elder team of his chruch as well as the accountability board he submitted to protected the church from further scandal than necessary.
What might go well beyond this? The homosexual political machine was no doubt looking forward to playing this card. Perhaps they will now see a LACK of hatred and vitriol back at them. Christians are not vindictive people. To show Jesus, often you need to be struck. Ted left himself open, by his sins. Those who wanted to see him fall took advantage of that in a very public way. This is a chance to show grace to both Ted and his accusers.
That's all for now.
1 comment:
What a terrific post! Thanks for the good words. This may be the best post I have ever read. I might nominate it for the posting hall of fame. it has changed my life. Mike, you rock!
Post a Comment