I understand Matthew 7 is where Jesus tells us that we are not to judge others. I also know that of all the verses in the Bible it seems like these are the verses that everyone wants to quote especially when they are doing things in their personal life that they want no accountability for. Jesus tells me that "by the same measure" I judge, I will be judged also. Fair enough. It would be hypocritical to raise others to a standard that you yourself were unwilling to uphold. It also tends to make a person just a tad bit more merciful when you realize that "there but for the grace of God go I". So, as usual, Jesus was incredibly insightful when He reminds us to be careful how we evaluate other people's lives, challenges, and even sins. How we measure is being measured back to us.

That being said, can I just be honest?

I am frustrated at some level. I don't want to be this loveless, graceless pharisee who throws people under the bus at the first sign of imperfection in their life; but at the same time, when do we "graciously" say that as a movement we need to step up to the plate and live what we preach before a watching world? Is that really judging? Is it really too much to expect from people who say that God "lives in them" and they can "do all things through Christ who strengthens me" to be a little more circumscribed in their walk? I know that every fellowship and denomination has their issues with integrity and character in their ranks. Pentecostal / Charismatic churches are not the only ones who have these issues, but unfortunately it seems like we get more than our fair share of media coverage. Perhaps if we have been entrusted with the message of the "full gospel" and the present moving of the Holy Spirit, then the expectation on our lives is even greater. After all, "to whom much is given, much is required"?

This little therapy session for me was generated by the news that Benny Hinn (his wife more correctly) is getting a divorce. The documents state that there are "irreconcilable differences" and from what the news sources say, this caught Benny by surprise, as they were supposedly working on their issues. I don't know what to make of all of this. I know enough and have enough experience to say that I will wait to hear all the story before any blame is assigned. To be candid, when a marriage breaks down it is never just one person's fault. There is usually a percentage to be assigned to each participant even if it is 95% on one person's part to 5% on the other person's part. I do want to go on record and say this, that just because a well-known minister of the gospel struggles in his relationship that doesn't impugn the truth of what he preaches. I was at a Benny Hinn crusade nearly 20 years ago and I also heard him minister a little over a year ago as well. At the crusade 20 years ago I was able to be back stage and see first hand all the things that went on. I can tell you first hand that people came to that Healing Meeting in ambulances, unable to move from the gurney they were lying on, and I SAW THEM get up and walk out. That wasn't fake or fabricated. It was real. I also saw the power of God move through the room in unprecedented ways even at the meeting a year ago. I can tell you that this man has been used by God in some amazing ways.

That being said, it is sad to hear of the struggle that he and his wife are now facing. It is most certainly sad for them personally and it is sad for the church at large. Like it or not, it diminishes our authority to speak into the culture and only reinforces what many people think about us anyway. I know (and you should too) that the VAST MAJORITY of pastors and ministers are credible and integral. However, when a highly visible one sinks, we all tend to sink a little bit.

As I was listening this week to the Tiger Wood's apology, I heard him speak about how he felt like the "rules didn't apply to him". A part of his therapy was to acknowledge, not only his wrong behavior, but his wrong thinking that somehow he didn't have to walk within the same boundaries as the rest of us. I hope he really gets that lesson. God really is "no respector of persons". After hearing that it reminded me of some things we all need to do to keep ourselves focused and on target so we might be good finishers for the sake of the Gospel.

1. Live transparently. That doesn't mean we need to hear all the details, but your life in public should be real close to your life in private. If we live honestly, there is less to have to cover and hide.

2. Everyone needs a pastor. I hope Benny and his wife have someone they can really look to as a covering and counselor in their life. It reminds me that connection is vital, especially in the storms of life. Sometimes people try to connect in the storm and that can be hard. Connect in the good times, so when the tough times come the bouncing around may be minimal.

3. Pray for those over you in the Lord. Don't be quick to judge, critique, and throw your 2-cents in. Just pray. Weep for those who weep. Practice some compassion. We are still in the redemption business and reconciliation is God's highest desire.

4. Hold fast the truth of God's Word. Messengers will always disappoint us on some occasion. That does not diminish the truth of God's Word or even their insight to it. Messengers should do their part in living well, but we all need to keep our eyes on Jesus who is "the Author and Finisher" of our faith.

We don't take our cues from the enemy, but when he is so easily seen as he has been in recent days it can only mean that God is up to something big.

Still running for the prize...

Pastor