PART 3 “MINISTRY AI AND I” FIRST CHURCH AND SR MINISTRY GENUINE SCANDAL

This topic brings to light the critical balance between raising valid concerns and slipping into harmful gossip or slander, especially in the age of media-driven Christianity.

Let’s explore this from the perspective of the First Church, Jesus, Paul, and biblical principles, focusing on how they handled scandal and accusations—and how modern Christians can align with their example.

1. The Biblical Fine Line: Warning vs. Maligning

A. Raising Valid Concerns

• Ephesians 5:11: “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.”
• • This scripture is often used to justify exposing sin. However, its intent is not to broadcast every suspicion but to ensure holiness within the body of Christ, focusing on truth and restoration.
  • It assumes clear, verified evidence of sin, not speculation or alleged accusations.
• Acts 20:28-31: Paul warns the elders of Ephesus about false teachers who will arise. He names specific dangers but does so from a position of authority and with a focus on protecting the flock, not defaming others.

B. Maligning and Slander

• Proverbs 6:16-19 lists “a false witness who pours out lies” and “one who stirs up conflict in the community” as abominations to God.
• James 4:11-12: “Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another…There is only one Lawgiver and Judge.”
  • Slander often stems from pride, vengeance, or the desire to appear righteous, not from a heart of humility.

2. The Example of Jesus

Jesus exemplified a restrained and wise approach to dealing with accusations and scandals:

• John 8:3-11: The woman caught in adultery was publicly shamed, yet Jesus refused to condemn her without evidence, instead exposing the hypocrisy of her accusers.
• • Jesus did not condone sin, but He also avoided joining the accusatory mob. He modeled grace and truth.
• Matthew 26:59-60: When Jesus Himself was falsely accused, He remained silent against baseless charges, showing that He placed His trust in God’s justice, not in human courts of opinion.

3. The Approach of Paul

Paul navigated accusations and conflicts with integrity:

• 2 Corinthians 10:10: Paul was mocked for his unimpressive appearance and speech, yet he did not retaliate or accuse his detractors publicly.
• 1 Corinthians 4:3-5: Paul refuses to judge prematurely:
• “I care very little if I am judged by you…My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me.”
• • Paul understood that ultimate accountability lies with God.
• Galatians 2:11-14: Paul openly rebukes Peter for hypocrisy but does so directly and constructively, aiming for clarity and restoration rather than public spectacle.

4. The Danger of “Allegations” Culture

A. Legalistic Loopholes

• Modern media often abuses terms like “alleged” to skirt legal consequences while still damaging reputations.
• While this may be acceptable in secular journalism, Christians are held to a higher standard:
  • Matthew 12:36-37: “You will give an account for every empty word you have spoken.”
  • Using “alleged” to shield slander violates the spirit of truth and love.

B. Profiteering from Scandal

• Monetized videos and podcasts attacking Christian leaders create a paradox: accusers profit from the very scandals they condemn.
• • 1 Timothy 6:5: Paul condemns those who see godliness as a means to financial gain.
  • Jude 1:11: “Woe to them! They have taken the way of Cain…and have been destroyed in Korah’s rebellion.”
  • • Like Korah, such individuals elevate themselves at the expense of God’s anointed leaders, often out of pride or greed.

5. Biblical Protocol for Addressing Scandal

A. Follow Matthew 18:15-17

1. Confront privately.
3. Bring witnesses if necessary
4. .
5. Escalate only when all other options are exhausted.

This process ensures that correction is carried out with respect, humility, and a focus on restoration.

B. Be Mindful of Elder Protocol

• 1 Timothy 5:19-20: Accusations against elders require multiple credible witnesses. Even when rebuke is necessary, it is done with gravity and respect for their office.

C. Avoid Gossip and Speculation

• Proverbs 26:20: “Without wood a fire goes out; without a gossip a quarrel dies down.”
• Speculating publicly without evidence damages not only the accused but also the accuser’s credibility and the witness of the Church.

D. Leave Room for God’s Justice

• Romans 12:19: “Do not take revenge, but leave room for God’s wrath.”
• In cases where no concrete proof exists, it is better to wait on God’s timing than to act on suspicions.

6. Modern-Day Applications

A. Avoid the “Juicy Beans” Mentality

• The allure of scandal can distract Christians from their primary mission: spreading the Gospel.
• Christians must discern whether their interest in a “scandal” stems from a genuine desire for justice or from fleshly curiosity.

B. Discern Between Fact and Assumption

• Do not base accusations on incomplete evidence. Wait for concrete proof before taking a stance.
• If proof never materializes, refrain from participating in gossip or speculation.

C. Avoid Profiteering from Division

• Monetizing scandal for personal gain undermines the credibility of the accuser and the Gospel.
• If correction is necessary, it should be done with a pure heart, not for fame or fortune.

7. The First Church’s Warning

The First Church consistently warned against behaviors that resemble modern scandal culture:

• 2 Timothy 3:1-5: “In the last days, people will be…boastful, proud, abusive…without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.”
• Those who exploit scandals often reflect these traits more than the Spirit of Christ.

8. Conclusion

In the First Church, addressing sin was handled with humility, caution, and reverence for God’s justice. Modern-day Christians must resist the temptation to exploit scandals for personal or financial gain and instead uphold biblical principles. The standard is clear: approach accusations with truth, love, and a focus on restoration—not with suspicion, gossip, or selfish ambition.