The Danger Of Inaction

Church leaders face temptations almost daily. These temptations push us away from biblical faithfulness every day. The ease and simplicity of using worldly tactics and weapons entice us. Satan attacks church leaders so that the sheep may be scattered. The pressures of our ministry and lives cause us to push away situations that we know need to be addressed. This is a particularly dangerous temptation. 

The Scriptures teach us to avoid the weapons of the world and to keep a careful watch over our lives, knowing that the devil is prowling like a roaring lion wanting to devour us. Procrastination does not always evoke the same sense of threat or danger associated with other temptations; yet, in some ways, it is one of the most perilous temptations that church leaders face. Why is this? When problems are not addressed, they fester and become more serious over time. To quote Deputy Barney Fife from the Andy Griffith Show, it is crucial that we “Nip it in the bud!” 

One Summer night, I was at a fire scene as the City Fire Department Chaplain. Lightning had struck a store in a strip mall. I noticed the firefighters were all extra concerned and focused. Later, I asked about why they had been so serious. One of our officers told me, “Kyle, these fires kill firefighters; it is why we were so focused on containing it before it became a major incident.” I wish our pastors and sessions would have this attitude when dealing with potentially major issues within the church. 

There are times when discretion is the better part of valor. Church leaders cannot and should not jump at every single issue that comes across their path. However, some issues should never be ignored or put off. Here are a few areas that rise to the level of must-be-dealt-with situations:

Sins of Leaders - It is paramount that leaders be held accountable for their actions. The church can never be a good ole boys club where we cover for each other. There needs to be regular informal accountability among friends and brothers in love. However, when serious charges and problems arise, they must be addressed fully, openly, and biblically. These cannot be ignored or hidden. The results of inaction can be disastrous. Leaders who are in sin cannot lead well, and many may show themselves not to even be in the faith. The result of this leadership can cripple the church. 

Sins of the Members - I am not advocating for an inquisition; however, when members persistently or seriously sin, the leadership should address the issue promptly. This should be done for the sake of their souls and the good and health of the congregation. This can be challenging due to the member’s relationships within the church body, but it must be done. 

Public Sins - Any sin that is known within the church and/or the community should be dealt with quickly in love, both for the sinner and the church. It should be evident that these situations must be addressed; however, numerous factors often give us pause. Personalities, friendships, family connections, deep pockets, difficult personalities - the list of reasons is long. Dealing with sin in the church is challenging under the best of circumstances; adding layers of complexity makes finding an easy way out very desirable.  

A Nest of Sinners - Sometimes it is not just a single sinner who needs to be addressed, but an entire group of sinners. Dr. Morton Smith told us a story in seminary where a whole session had gotten involved with sexual sin. Sometimes alliances are formed so that leaders overlook each other's sins or excuse them. The leadership of a session, board, committee, or even a presbytery can give cover to sin. This is where being in a connectional church is helpful, as there are layers of accountability. 

These sins, if unaddressed, act like a sea anchor to the work of the church at every level. It slows and eventually halts the church's work, pulling it off course. It causes distrust and brings division. If these sins are not addressed, they will become an incubator for more sin. John Owen is correct when he wrote, “Be killing sin or sin will be killing you!” This is true not only for the individual Christian but for the church at every level. 

The flip side of this challenge is that when the church addresses sins and issues with biblical faithfulness and love, there is a great blessing. The church becomes an incubator for greater devotion to the Lord. Unity that comes from trust and obedience to the Lord leads the church to greater peace, purity, and prosperity. 

Church leaders - do not ignore sins and issues that require action. Love the church and love your brothers and sisters enough to address the problems in their lives early. If you do, then it will be a blessing to them and for the church.