Hi David

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Provoketive Magazine

You posted the following comment:
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Ray,

Although eloquently said, I disagree with Andrew and I believe his law degree has colored his ministry... guilty or innocent. The guilty pay; the innocent move on with their lives. Of course, that is not at all what the gospel is about. 

Yes, there are verses of Scripture that urge the church to choose pastors strong in faith and character... of course! It would be foolish to put a new believer or someone of questionable character in a position of overseeing the church. But that isn't what we are talking about. Your blog is not about "tips for a pulpit search committee" but about the ministry of a man who has made a tragic mistake. 

Nowhere in Scripture does it say a sinful mistake disqualifies a pastor. That is the conclusion of sinful man. Paul's comment about beating his body so that he wouldn't be disqualified for the prize isn't some legalistic mandate that a sin disqualifies a pastor or anyone else from serving his calling. And that is what it is, a calling from Almighty God. It is neither a "right" NOR a "privilege."

The Bible is filled with flawed characters God used. Did they pay a price for their failures? Sure. Were they disqualified from service? No.

The truth is, a sin does not disqualify a man from ministry in the eyes of God. Only other men do that. (And why stop with adultery? How about a little coveting, or anger, been quarrelsome with the deacons lately?, lover of money, or gluttony...should a man be disqualified from ministry because he leads the flock to get another piece of pie at the picnic? We wouldn't have any pastors left! )  

I do believe, however, it is difficult, if not impossible, for a man who committed adultery to return to the pulpit. There is no scriptural basis for that, but definitely a practical one, or one of "common sense." The trust bond is broken and cannot be completely restored, making pastoral ministry virtually impossible. Plus, there are enough people out there like minded with Andrew that building a viable ministry would be difficult, indeed. I think the few that attempt it would have to focus their ministry on struggling, un-churched people who are not terribly concerned about what does or doesn't "disqualify" someone .... what a concept!

Blessings. Keep the faith.

David