Written by: Dr Pearl Kupe
Article Source: JOY! Magazine
Over the past few years, especially in recent months, many ministers of the Gospel have stepped down from ministry for various reasons. For some, it was due to fatigue, but in many cases, it was due to sin, particularly sexual sin and immorality. Lately, there have been increasing cases of sexual abuse and misconduct in the Church.
The mandate of the Shepherd
A stern warning is issued to pastors in Jeremiah 23:1, “‘Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture!’ saith the Lord.” Ministers are entrusted with the responsibility to care for, nurture, and feed the sheep that belong to Yeshua Himself. According to Ephesians 4:11-16, the sheep are gathered to be taught, trained, equipped, and activated for ministry, not to be taken advantage of. While many ministers fulfil their mandate with commitment, integrity, and honour, there are also those who do the opposite. Ignoring their existence harms the Body of Christ and damages the Church’s image. Those misrepresenting the Body of Yeshua must be identified, lovingly restored, and brought back with dignity. Those who are unrepentant and have a contrary agenda to the Kingdom of God must be exposed, and the flock must be warned for their protection.
What is grooming?
We are seeing increased cases of grooming in the Church. Sexual grooming happens when a child or someone with a mental disability is educated, introduced, or prepared to perform or witness any sexual act or become sexually active. Children are usually unaware they are being groomed because those grooming them seem kind. The person grooming the child may threaten or blackmail them into silence. Children are often too scared to report for fear of backlash or disbelief. Most grooming incidents take place over a long period. The Church must recognise this as a crime and report it. The Bible sets out a clear path for discipline, with restoration as the end goal. Corrective measures must be rehabilitative and restorative. Each case must be dealt with individually. A minister may be asked to step down and take a sabbatical while being restored.
How should ministers respond when found in sin?
1. Confess
Confession is the first step to recovery and restoration. Proverbs 28:13 (NLT) says, “People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.” 1 John 1:9 (NLT) says, “But if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.” Ministers must also confess to those they are accountable to and those they have wronged, seeking their forgiveness.
2. Be responsible and take accountability
Some ministers deny or minimise their sin when confronted, which ultimately leads to greater harm. Addressing issues promptly can prevent escalation. Ministers who refuse correction and discipline often face exposure, sometimes even posthumously, tarnishing their legacy. Shifting blame and refusing responsibility damages the trust placed in them.
3. Apologise to those you have abused
Ministers must apologise to those they have abused or taken advantage of and to their families. Apologies can trigger forgiveness, a key to healing.
4. Repent
Repentance means a change of mind and behaviour. Acts 26:20 (NLT) says, “…all must repent of their sins and turn to God and prove they have changed by the good things they do.”
5. Receive correction and discipline
Many in the body of Christ resist correction and discipline, failing to see it as a sign of love. Hebrews 12:6 says, “For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.” Proverbs 13:24 says, “Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.” Lack of discipline signifies a lack of concern.
The role of pastoral forums
Every profession is guided by rules and guidelines to ensure integrity and credibility. Pastoral forums must provide oversight and guidance to errant ministers. Systems must be in place to address pastoral misbehaviour to ensure order and decency in the Body of Yeshua. Without such bodies, the Church becomes susceptible and answerable to state institutions.
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Date published: 11/08/2024
Feature image: Image for illustrative purposes only.
DR Pearl Kupe is an attorney and an international consultant to world leaders and international organisations. She is the international president of the Global Forum for Women Entrepreneurs. Email pearl.kupe@gmail.com or visit pearlkupe.co.za or follow her Facebook page, Kingdom Transformer Pearl Kupe.
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