Collateral Damage

[Nahum]

We have often discussed the misnomer that a pastor will anwer for all of the parishoners in his church at judgement day. From what I have read on AFF, most of us are in agreement that each individual will stand before God alone. The pastor will not be there to mediate, nor will he be held responsible for those who refused obedience to the Word. His only obligation is to preach the whole counsel of God.

But what if leadership unknowingly causes someone to stumble and fall? What if leadership adds an unnecessary burden that a Christian cannot bear? What if a leader's politics builds his own kingdom instead of God's?

What will happen to those who kill innocents through "friendly fire"? Is a certain amount of collateral damage necessary to win this spiritual war?

[ILG]

Originally Posted by Pastor Poster

We have often discussed the misnomer that a pastor will anwer for all of the parishoners in his church at judgement day. From what I have read on AFF, most of us are in agreement that each individual will stand before God alone. The pastor will not be there to mediate, nor will he be held responsible for those who refused obedience to the Word. His only obligation is to preach the whole counsel of God.

But what if leadership unknowingly causes someone to stumble and fall? What if leadership adds an unnecessary burden that a Christian cannot bear? What if a leader's politics builds his own kingdom instead of God's?

What will happen to those who kill innocents through "friendly fire"? Is a certain amount of collateral damage necessary to win this spiritual war?

I think if someone kills innocents unknowingly that is one thing. But if a person has rejected certain elements of truth...he will be held accountable.

[Ron]

First of all, we are "All" Saints first with differing leadership responsibilities.
We will all have to answer for what we teach and speak, and the Bible does caution us in James I believe where it says,
"Be not many masters knowing we shall receive the greater condemnation."
I am trying to quote from memory.

We all will answer, and leadership will answer for more than anyone.

Collateral damage? Never justified if it is us, can not be helped if it is the word of God, and his Spirit.

JMHO

[Nahum]

For instance, I know of a man who could never get his license because the District Superintendent had a tumultuous history with his extended family. Did the DS hinder the work of God? If so, how will God handle that?

[Ron]

Originally Posted by Pastor Poster

For instance, I know of a man who could never get his license because the District Superintendent had a tumultuous history with his extended family. Did the DS hinder the work of God? If so, how will God handle that?

We don't know everything. We know in part Corinthians says.
God will do what is Right & Just, but also hopefully in mercy.

[tbpew]

PP, I think I love you man,
*punches PP's arm in an extreme show of affection*

IMO,
God's wisdom is so perfect that it lets every individual have a "place of decision" where they will either follow a man's teachings or be taught by the Holy Ghost.

His mercy and providential design are perfect at revealing our hearts to our own self!

Do I choose to follow a man (and thus out-source my responsibility) despite the constant speaking of the small voice in my spirit?
or
Do I journey up God's holy mountain because of his invitation for the WHOLE CONGREGATION to do so?

Our hearts are revealed TO OURSELVES by our own choices.

[Nahum]

Posted by Ron:
We all will answer, and leadership will answer for more than anyone.

Where do you get that idea from?

[Nahum]

Originally Posted by tbpew

PP, I think I love you man,
*punches PP's arm in an extreme show of affection*

IMO,
God's wisdom is so perfect that it lets every individual have a "place of decision" where they will either follow a man's teachings or be taught by the Holy Ghost.

His mercy and providential design are perfect at revealing our hearts to our own self!

Do I choose to follow a man (and thus out-source my responsibility) despite the constant speaking of the small voice in my spirit?
or
Do I journey up God's holy mountain because of his invitation for the WHOLE CONGREGATION to do so?

Our hearts are revealed TO OURSELVES by our own choices.

Look, I love everyone who attends the aseembly I pastor. I try very hard to divulge the truth in an untainted way. But I am flesh. There is the possibility that I may make a mistake in my application. There is the possibility that someone may be offended and never even tell me about it. They may choose to walk away because of my ignorance.

Will God judge me (punish me) for that?

BTW, you are very kind tbpew.

[Ron]

Originally Posted by Pastor Poster

Where do you get that idea from?

To whom much is given, much is required!

[Nahum]

Originally Posted by Ron

To whom much is given, much is required!

I don't see the correlation.

Is that scripture specifically speaking to leadership? What is the context?