Jesus said to his disciples: “Things that cause people to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come. Luke 17:1 NIV
Jesus masterfully taught the disciples how to navigate church life. He taught them to be servers to the weak and poor. Children are the best example of how good shepherds ought regard the church folk. The contrast to worldly leadership is very stark. However, it is not because Jesus is some touchy feely impotent philosopher. No. Jesus is sure to avenge and rightly judge anyone who mishandles or speaks ill of His Church.
People malign the church because of church hurt and church inadequacies. However, we (the church), ought not let the flippant mouth of the world go without a warning. I confess I have stood by and listened to people say like Mahatma Ghandi’s quote, “I like your Christ , I do not like your Christians.” I can relate to this perspective but I must defer to what Jesus desires. Jesus calls us to be merciful and gracious to His church. He claims all His children no matter how much they may stray. Talking about church ought be reverently brought to Jesus. He is intimately involved with the church. The weakness and dysfunction can be addressed and even discussed, but none believers are not welcomed to malign the King’s subjects. God is not playing when he says he will repay all who attack the church verbally or physically. He is true to His word He will repay for every offense of those who are unrepented. “They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living and they heap abuse on you. But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 1 Peter 4:4-5 NIV
Many people have claimed they are not a part of the church because they are not willing to subject themselves to the flawed leadership and congregations. This is a flawed perspective because the sheep are not the Shepherd. The sheep know and believe their very life is in the Good Shepherds hands. The Good Shepherd is more than capable of dealing with those who pose threats and traps for His sheep. You who are not part of His flock watch how you treat His sheep because He is watching. “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” 1 Peter 4:18
Constance 