Perhaps you had never heard of Pastor Ted Haggard until this week. I would not be surprised if for most of us that were the case, seeing as his ministry has little prominence here in the UK.
I would be equally surprised, however, if the media blitz surrounding him in both the secular and Christian press has not brought his name to your attention. Scandal has a terrible way of thrusting the names of failed Christian leaders into the public domain.
We must never make light of Christian leaders who fall. The task with which we are entrusted is sacred and of profound seriousness. Warnings in God's Word to those who hold positions of spiritual influence are very strong and severe, as bringing the Name of Christ into disrepute has incalculable ripples.
Whatever your perspective on the events surrounding Ted Haggard, please take great encouragement in the gracious way he has been handled, and the apparently very clear terms in which his repentance has been expressed. Even the children of his church have been pastored faithfully by those charged with their care.
Focus on grace not sin. Pray for a hurting church, for this devastated family, and for the reputation of Christ in the weeks and months ahead.
Posted by Danny at November 9, 2006 3:34 PM | TrackBack