There are a lot of quizzes out there in social media land. Here’s one that’s a bit different.
The Adultery Test For Preachers
Eight questions to help you see if you’re headed for the demon-filled, barren land of adultery.
1. Do you roll your eyes with disgust when you hear of a preacher who was caught in adultery?
2. Do you believe you are so strong in the Lord you can ignore certain bright red flags, or a suggestion from your spouse that a certain person seems a bit too friendly?
3. Do you think you can enjoy the special attention of a parishioner, maybe a few extra long glances, possibly a little innocent flirting, without the tentacles of emotional adultery dropping you to the ground?
4. Do you like to feel so important and indispensable to God’s Kingdom, you live loosely and recklessly, in spite of the warnings of the scriptures?
5. Do you try and look your best in front of everyone; everyone but the ones who care for you the most? In other words, who are you REALLY trying to impress?
6. Do you study all the sermons of the late, great preachers, but ignore the lessons to be learned from someone who’s failed?
7. Do you put all your resources into targeting certain demographic groups, while ignoring the target the devil has placed on your own heart?
8. Are you able to ignore the words of Jesus, “Watch out! You’re getting too far from Me”?
Well, how did you do? Even one “yes” answer puts you in a dangerous position.
It happened again. Another preacher chose to ignore the word, the Spirit, and the marriage vows and crossed the line. The line from victory to defeat.
And it keeps happening! Why? Because people like you and I feel we are untouchable. And the person who thinks they are beyond the reach of the evil one will not be prepared for the evil one’s arrows. Therefore, he who doesn’t do all to stand, won’t.
I have a suggestion. How about each one of us who preach the bible act like it’s true?
“We know that whoever is born of God does not sin; but he who has been born of God keeps himself, and the wicked one does not touch him.” (1 John 5:18 NKJV)
Yes, God is the God of restoration and hope. But too many families, too many lives become ripped apart each time a man or woman of God bites the dust.
I am saddened and weary of helping people pick up the pieces; yet I’ll continue to do it as long as necessary. But I believe it would be best if the church, and especially the church leadership, would invest in some kind of preventive action. It just makes sense.
As someone who thought they were invincible, and was smashed anyway, I’ve learned a few things regarding temptation and leadership. I’d love to share it with church staff, deacons, elders, individuals; anyone and everyone.
It’s much easier to prepare a battle plan BEFORE the battle, than afterwards.
Let’s partner together to build a strong, protective shield around ourselves and ministry leadership. Let’s learn how to “keep” ourselves and watch out for one another.
Let’s be ready for any quiz, any test.
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.” (1 Peter 5:8 – 5:9 NKJV)
If you would like to hear more, please connect via email.
Jan Grace 