Hubris

As much as I truly believe in a God who loves his people (even today), I remain a huge critic of the church overall. Often I'm convinced the most effective churches can be found in individual homes, living rooms, etc. I know this is a presumptuous thing to say but coming from someone with 26 years of experience in the North American church, you can at least rest assured that I'm offering an educated opinion. Do I believe there to be good churches in this country? Yes I do. Do I believe there to be church leaders who abuse their position of authority? Why yes I do. Below is a quote I came across directly from a new T.V. show called True Detective. The detective (played by Matthew McConaughey) has these words to describe his opinion of church authority:

"Transference of fear and self-loathing to an authoritarian vessel is catharsis. He absorbs their dread with his narrative. Because of this, he’s effective in proportion to the amount of certainty he can project." This is an interesting quote and I do hold mixed feelings. Even still, I believe in human nature and its propensity to taint what is pure. I guess my point is that pastors and church leaders (people in general) need to be held accountable for their words and actions. There are many hurting and vulnerable people in this world - no need to cause hurt or mistrust but rather care for the people you are guiding.

I think leaders should be humble, understanding that the church was and always will be about people. Of course we need teaching, but even the earliest Acts church demonstrated such care for each others needs - as one body.  A pastor who loves and takes genuine interest in the lives of his/her congregation has a good thing going on. Love relationship first, then blast the sermon.