I ask this because of the following statement on another thread...
The requirements are clear from 1 Timothy on the role of an Elder. Are there any requirements banning someone from ever performing the role of Elder again if they are truly repentant? If a pastor gets drunk...are they never allowed to pastor again? Gluttony? Children getting in trouble with the law? Divorced?
I know the argument for divorce has been made before on both sides, but in Ted Haggard's case, if he were truly repentant and his life reflected this, should he be banned from the pulpit forever? Just curious...
Ted Haggard - should he ever be allowed to pastor again?
Discussion in 'Baptist Theology & Bible Study' started by webdog, Nov 7, 2006.
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Not a baptist?
Since Haggard is (at least to my understanding) not a Baptist, shouldn't this be posted in the 'other religions' thread? -
It can be started there if you so wish, but regardless if he's a baptist or not, the requirements for an elder do not change with denomination.
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I really don't think that judgement call is up to us.
It is up to God and him. And a local body of Christ.
I also feel it is too soon to even think of this. -
Because we have a God of second chances, I think he could. It's possible that a local church would trust him enough to vote him in as pastor. However, I really think his days of being a pastor are over.
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The purpose of this thread is geared more to what was quoted in the OP...that he should never be allowed to preach (pastor, I assume) again.
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pinoybaptist Active MemberSite Supporter
In the secular justice system, the evidence has been examined, and he is found guilty.
The above Scripture deals with individuals like this pastor.
He IS effeminate. No man can bear to kiss another man, make love to another man, or have another man make love to him, and not be effeminate, or homosexual. He IS homosexual. He IS a sodomite.
And because of him, the name of the LORD is despised among the Gentiles. -
That had nothing to do with the OP.
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Common sense does have its purpose and do you think He would ever have the confidence of the people ever again that they would want or take advice from him. Also, he is not blameless and never will be in the eyes of the people.
Jut look at Swaggart and his following of today. They are but a handful. He will never be a leader in the church again and neither will Jim Baker. There is a price to pay Web. -
It's way too early to ask, I think.
Check this out. http://www.challies.com/archives/002181.php -
A must read by all
Thanks whatever -
What do you think about the suggestions on this site:
http://theresurgence.com/md_blog_2006-11-03_evangelical_leader_quits
I think he's got some solid ideas for pastors...... -
I think He is right on the mark!
In conclusion, I say none of this as moralism. Indeed, this is a deeply rooted gospel issue. How can we proclaim that our God is a faithful Trinitarian community if we are not faithful to our marriage covenant and family? How can we say that the same power that raised Christ from the dead lives in us if we have no holiness in our life? How can we proclaim that we are new creations in Christ if we continually return to lap up the vomit of our old way of life? How can we preach that sin is to be repented of if we fail to model that ongoing repentance? How can we say that God is our highest treasure and greatest joy when we trade Him for sin that defiles our hands and defames His name? -
It seems the exhortation and requirement for an elder to be the husband of one wife has many applications. One is that the husband/wife relationship ought to demonstrate the church/Christ relationship.
Haggard has destroyed that, he is guilty of homosexuality, deception, hyporcrisy and a serious habitual sin. Calling in the other requirements for a leader in the church we would also find other counts against him.
Under those circumstances it would appear he has disqualified himself from spiritual leadership. Of course he can repent and be a member of a local church, but I believe his leadership days are Scripturally over.
Now wanting to sound harsh or judgmental, but it's just the way I see it.
Truly it is sad to see as this is bringing so much reproach on the name of Christ. -
Ann -
What he said.
I agree. We can discuss what we think would be appropriate in our OWN congregations but this matter is up to his church and God.
He would be excluded in my church until he got right with God, and I don't believe his position of leadership would be restored, but upon repentance he would be restored to fellowship. God is a God of restoration and redemption. We should be also. -
You're right. There is a huge difference between restoration to fellowship and return to leadership.
The ministry is a position of trust. I feel for all involved, but this was an ongoing long standing sinful relationship, not a one time sinful act. While both justify a removal from ministry, there will be a difference in how counseling and any possible return to public ministry will be handled. -
He most certainly would be excluded from our church until he repented and got right with God then he would be received back but never to a position of preaching or any leadership.
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