Scripture: Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. Acts 20:30
Observation: Paul is warning the church leaders from Ephesus not that non-believers will challenge the church, but that THEY - the leaders - will corrupt the church. Not all will do this, and it can be overcome, but some of the leaders will draw disciples after them.
This isn't a warning that they will teach the wrong doctrine. Instead, it is that they will pursue a path in which the leaders want followers to follow THEM ... not Jesus.
Application: This is a huge stumbling block for pastors, and one Satan uses ALL them time ... to work the pride of the pastor so they end up with a church that follows them. They then use that power for their own ends. Sometimes they might believe their pursuits are God's pursuits, however it is a slippery slope.
I was reminded of this today when an employee told me about an issue in their past church life ... the story of a pastor who grew so powerful that he ultimately wielded that power in very harmful ways, leading many astray and away from Jesus, even hurting some to the point of turning away entirely from Jesus.
It is SO critical that church leaders establish accountability networks, keep their egos in check, and ensure their work always leads others to Jesus, not to them.
Prayer: Lord, I pray for all the pastors at Evergreen - Phil, Odyn, Laurie, Caleb, Jaziel, Betty. It is easy for any person in a position of authority to fall victim to the temptation of self-worship. For most, the harm is non-spiritual and limited, however for pastors the harm can be wide-spread and eternal. Please protect these men and women from temptation, and keep them all focused on you as the center and head of the church.
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