“When someone tells me yet another horror story about the church, I respond, ‘Oh, it’s even worse than that. Let me tell you my story. I’ve spent most of my life in recovery from the church.’” Philip Yancey “The church is equal parts mystery and mess.” Eugene Peterson I posted the following … Continue reading Why Don’t People Like to Go to Church?
Church Abuse
The Danger of Good Leaders Becoming Proud When They Are Older And Successful
Below is a warning from scripture that should be heeded by all church leadership. Written by professor/author (he was my Youth Pastor when I was in high school), Jim Hardwicke, this warning should be memorized by all of us in vocational ministry. I want you to see one thing, in particular: every leader listed here … Continue reading The Danger of Good Leaders Becoming Proud When They Are Older And Successful
How to Respond to Pastoral/Church Abuse
Recently, I read an article in USA Today regarding pastoral abuse and felt strongly convicted to write about it. Over the years, I've heard painful stories told by those who've been bullied by church leaders. I hope my words here help bring clarity, as well as hope, to the bruised and hurting. My personal commentary … Continue reading How to Respond to Pastoral/Church Abuse
The Problem with “Church, Submit to Your Pastor”
I'll never forget it. A pastor I was served with (more like "worked for") was in a meeting with about two dozen very upset church members. They weren't just upset, they were angry. And for good reason. He had made, in just a couple of months, more foolish decisions than most of us make in … Continue reading The Problem with “Church, Submit to Your Pastor”