Whatever Christian: Different Standard, Still Human

Whatever Christian

Monday, November 17, 2008

Different Standard, Still Human

As Christians, the Lord holds us to a different standard than those of the world. (John 17:16, 2 Corinthians 10:2-3, Philippians 1:27; 2:1-5; 3:17). The church often holds leaders and missionaries to an even higher standard. We must have confidence that our pastors, elders, heads of committees, Bible study leaders, mission coordinators, worship team, etc are living Biblically and are earnest in their faith. We have to be discerning when it comes to choosing those in leadership positions.

With that said, God calls and works through broken people (David, Saul, Hannah, Job, Ruth, the Israelites). Though we have been made new, we are still human. Those in exalted positions are tempted. Pastors struggle with addiction. Missionaries struggle with lust. Elders struggle with pride. Committee leaders struggle with anger. Why are we so shocked when we find out our leaders fail? We trust them and put our confidence in them. But shouldn't we be putting our confidence in the One who called them?
And since we know that these people deal with the same things as the rest of us, why are we so harsh and so quick to judge? And isn't Christ the only one who can truly judge the heart (Romans 14:10, James 4:12)? Why do we tear down with accusations, turn up our noses, and shake our heads? Is this an example of love?

We should be saddened by sin (Romans 12:9). We should hurt when others hurt (1 Corinthians 12:26). We should be praying for our leaders without any personal motive (1 Timothy 2:8). We should encourage one another (2 Chronicles 35:2, Hebrews 3:13).

"Therefore let us stop passing judgement on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way." Romans 14:13

(This blog is a place for me to share thoughts and express ideas. I'd love to hear what you think. I have much to learn and look forward to good conversations, whether you agree or disagree.)

posted by Carsen @ 8:29 AM

2 Comments:

At November 17, 2008 at 11:28 PM, angela said…

thank you , Jesus, for using sinners like david, paul, rahab and i!! You truly do work all things together for good for those who love You and are called according to Your purposes!
At November 20, 2008 at 7:53 AM, Todd said…

Hello my amazing friend and "niece" - I am very excited about your new blog - this first entry was brilliant and I praise God for your amazing heart and willingness to share it. I look forward to more and hearing about all God is doing in and through you.