First, I am almost certain that the Word went forth in the worship service and many people were abundantly blessed. So often we are quick to focus on one (unfortunate) negative occurrence vs the many souls that came to church and received what they needed from God. The Bible admonishes us to focus on the positive and not the negative:
Philippians 4:8. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.
Second, even though there is an extensive video clip, we do not know the entire story. We do not know the context, nor the before and after. I would venture to say, of the millions of people who have viewed "the video," probably 99% of the viewers do not know anyone on the video. If we do not know the individuals nor the context; it is hard to develop an opinion:
Proverbs 18:13. Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish.
Third, I can almost guarantee that 99% of the individuals commenting on "the video" have not prayed for all of the individuals involved. Will you STOP RIGHT NOW AND PRAY for the Bishop, the pastor, the church and all the staff involved in this incident? As the Bible commands for us to pray.
Philippians 4:6. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Third, we must allow "the law" (IF they are involved) to do their job and handle the judicial process. This is why we have a judicial system; to handle cases where people feel like they have suffered an injustice. And vice versa, if an organization feels like they have suffered wrong.
Romans 13:1. Everyone must obey state authorities, because no authority exists without God's permission, and the existing authorities have been put here by God.
Fourth, this CANNOT be used as an excuse to leave the Church. Already, I have heard the tired, worn out cliché, "see this is why I don't go to church." There are unfortunate instances that happen everywhere (movie theaters, restaurants, sporting events, etc.); but people yet go. This is not an alibi for not attending Church. And, many times we can speak about being hurt in the church; but have we also hurt other people in life? Instead of fighting one another and making excuses; we should ask God to help us all.
Romans 2:1. You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things.
Matthew 12:36. But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.
Haven't seen "The Video" but this sounds like sound counsel.
ReplyDeleteBless you sir!
DeleteThis was very troubling and disturbing to watch. As we don’t know the full story, I guess my question would be...Why was she handcuffed and detained? She was absolutely right. She broke no laws and was requesting to leave the church/Ministry. Why would you as a church official think it’s ok to put your hands on anyone unless they are bringing potential harm to others physically. It really puts the church in a bad light. Praying that the outcome would be for resolution to take place and peace would abide.
ReplyDelete@Ty Berry Those are the questions that many people have. It is very intriguing to say the least. The law will have to sort that out.
DeleteBishop the video was distributing to watch but what sadness me the most is all the other videos with people commenting on the situation not really knowing the whole story.
ReplyDelete@Dwight Reed. Yes, definitely. That's one of my main points. We comment on things; where we do not have the entire story.
DeleteBishop I was not aware of this incident before watching your video about the right way to leave a church. When I viewed this video I saw a person that was informally apart of an organization, that did not want to be submissive to the leadership of the house; only to Pastor or First Lady. She did not want to listen to the security person nor her then supervisor\administrator. Those individuals have jobs they are expected to do; to take loads off the pastor. Because she was unwilling to calm down and listen to those in authority; she appears to be the source of escalation. There are too many potential threats that can happen in our churches and gathering places today and you can not simply allow an irate individual to just leave your presence and possible become disruptive to the service or go off and create greater problems. There is a responsiblity for the safety of all those that come onto our property. You must be willing and able to stop potential violence before it blows up. Personalities aside, the Church Administrator had a right to do her job. The security person is expected and has a right to do his job. I do not believe there will be any negative impact that should or will affect these individuals after the investigation is conclude. People don't want to respect authority and have a mistaken belief that their rights allow them to do anything! I'm praying for the leaders and ALL INVOLVED.
ReplyDelete@Elder Samuel Lee Parker Jr Wow! You have brought up a totally different perspective on this; from any other comment that I have heard. And, you make a ton of very valid points. Your perspective on this matter is very well stated.
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