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Bible Question: We
had the misfortune the other day of having to speak to our pastor
about some of our concerns in the church. She just wouldn't listen.
To everything we brought up, she countered with "I believe
that I am led by the Holy Spirit and every decision I take is led
by the Holy Spirit." It was very difficult to get a break
through. My question is, "Do people intentionally set out
to deceive people or does a spirit of deception control them so
that they are totally unaware that what they are doing is unscriptural.
Is this how cults are formed?"
Bible Answer: No,
most pastors do not set to intentionally deceive the church congregation.
The vast majority of pastors care for their people - some more than
others. But there are some who like Diotrephes care more about themselves
than others. Listen to the description of this church leader.
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I
wrote something to the church; but Diotrephes, who loves
to be first among them, does not accept what we say. For
this reason, if I come, I will call attention to his deeds
which he does, unjustly accusing us with wicked words; and
not satisfied with this, neither does he himself receive
the brethren, and he forbids those who desire to do so, and
puts them out of the church. Beloved, do not imitate what
is evil, but what is good. The one who does good is of God;
the one who does evil has not seen God. (NASB) 3 John 9-11 |
Diotrephes
was self-centered and apparently used his position as a pastor to
control the people. It is no different today in some churches.
Deception. Some pastors and leaders deceive
others because they are deceived. Some do this intentionally and others do it
unintentionally. 2 Timothy says that in the last days,
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.
. . evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse,
deceiving and being deceived. (NASB) 2 Timothy 3:13 |
Things will get worse, including the church. But the more usual pattern
is described by Paul.
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I
know that after my departure savage wolves will come in among
you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves
men will arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away the
disciples after them. (NASB) Acts 20:29-30 |
Notice he says they are seeking a following. Some pastors are more
interested in seeking a following than in anything else. They will
do what they must in order to accomplish their goal. When this occurs,
a cult is starting.
Conclusion: Here
is the heart God wants in a pastor.
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We
urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted,
help the weak, be patient with everyone. See that no one
repays another with evil for evil, but always (b)seek after
that which is good for one another and for all people. Rejoice
always; pray without ceasing; in everything a)give thanks;
for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. (NASB) 1
Thessalonians 5:14-18 |
We will ask God to give you guidance! |
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