I was recently talking to a friend about this very topic. Pastors in general only tell of their sins and struggles after they've "gotten the victory." Then they can tell you all about it, but not in the midst of the struggle. It's so sad. It keeps them isolated in a fierce and sick way. I know, hubby and I used to be there, and we had pretty strict instructions from the leadership "above" us about this very thing. It is so sick, it really is, and it's also so sad.
I love my freedom now, to just be able to be a mess whenever and wherever I want to, need to! It was exhausting always having to look like we had it all together :). I thank God those days are over for me.
Peggy
· 1 year ago
The Abbess says a hearty "amen, brother" -- knowing how central the idea of confession and restoration is to your Thrive groups. It is also central to Neil Cole's LTGs (life transformation groups) ... which is the model for my WordClusters.
Jonathan Brink
· 1 year ago
Thanks ladies. Just trying to stir the pot a little about what is really crippling us.
Daniel
· 1 year ago
One of the things I cannot complain about my pastor on is his transparency in his brokenness. (does that sentence make any sense? I cannot figure out how to say it better) He regularly confesses that he has done something the he should not have and he has even repented to me personally at one time. One sunday morning he broke down after a sermon he was more preaching to himself than the congregation, I will remember that and try my best to emulate that.
Robert
· 1 year ago
This is truly incredible timing for me to read your post here!!! I am a former pastor who had to resign from a youth ministry position due to an area of sin i had been involved in. You are so right about the pedestal of being a pastor and feeling the need to have the * got my act together perfectly* in place in order to be effective. I did feel very lonely around my fellow seinarians,church friends and seminary professors after my fall. It seemed they didn't know how to respond to me in a natural way as before, as though I had been tainted and they were unsure what to do. I love the idea of the people actively embracing their pastor when he repents,whatever it migt be. I have just recently come to a place where my shame and guilt over what happened have been touched by Gods grace enough to where I can actively be involved in serving in ministry again, as a lay leader. So glad I was given your post by my wonderful friend!!!
Tracy Simmons
· 1 year ago
Jonathan, I had a lot more to say on this than I originally thought! I've done so here: http://tinyurl.com/5g23ez
I appreciate the thoughts your words often stimulate within my own heart.
All Comments
I love my freedom now, to just be able to be a mess whenever and wherever I want to, need to! It was exhausting always having to look like we had it all together :). I thank God those days are over for me.
I appreciate the thoughts your words often stimulate within my own heart.