Shooting The Wounded, Shooting our own wounded

[Nova Scotian]

This is a topic that I think Christians really need to to be aware of. Since I've been a Christian, Ive seen Christians so many times get kicked to the curb when they stumble or fall. I'll give you an example. When Jimmy Baker went to jail, did you know that only Billy Grahm went to visit him at first? Even thought he really messed up, he was still a Christian and I know there was many who had said before that they would always stand by but when he fell, most just walked away. It really bothers me. Reciently my pastor went through a very trying time. His wife left him and not because he was having an affair but she was. Now there is blame to lay on both sides. He's to blame for quite a few things. Plus I know him personally and I do know he is very human. Well when my wife and me stepped up to help him I couldn't believe how many people got angry. I mean pastors who use to teach under him. People who said I'll always stand by you. Like I said he is to blamfor quite a few things and even now he does thing in church operations that I don't agree with but as an anointed man of God there are very few like him. I have gotten more anointed teaching from him then anyone else. The point I'm trying to make is Christians need to STOP shooting their wounded NOW! The same thing happened to King David. He commited some serious adultry but he is reviered now. These same Christians would look up to and revier King David and then go kick a christian brother to the curb for slipping up on an addiction or having an affair on their spouse.

[celticfire]

I agree--some try to follow the Bible so far that in the end they are actually going against it. We all need to look out for each other more and not point fingers so much.

[haynes9]

Can't disagree with much you said, NS. I think we should be in the business of restoration. As a preacher myself, I know that I am held by some to a higher standard. That's not a bad thing, actually. If I can't handle that, I need to go into another line of work other than the ministry. But there are those who are ready to pounce on those that stumble, that's for sure.

If the Biblical admonitions of Matthew 18 are followed, restoration is the ultimate goal. Even when a person is dismissed from the assembly, it is not to be permanent. It is a time for the church to mourn and pray over the offending brother and lovingly restore him to fellowship. I know there are qualifications for ministry and sometimes, people can cross the line and be unable to return to a previous position. But that does not mean they are garbage and of no use. They have value to our Lord and believe me, there is a whole lot more they CAN do than they cannot do.

Great post, NS!