Churches and ministry leaders are often worried about threats that come from outside of the church. They read books and blogs and lead discussion groups about the imminent threats that culture is presenting. These are real and pressing issues that face the church but in recent days the threat seems to come from within. This makes Paul’s admonitions to understand that the message is more important than the messenger even more relevant for today.
Paul says in verse eight “But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed (emphasis added).” Paul, who often emphasized his apostolic authority throughout his ministry, states that if he were to preach a false gospel then the church at Galatia should consider him accursed.
In recent times, we have seen the fall of many church leaders or other leaders deconstructing from the faith. Those leaders who have fallen have included those who were domineering and used their leadership to abuse others. Intentionally or not, they have stated with their actions that they matter more than the message of the Gospel. Leaders who have deconstructed and led many away from the faith have said that their feelings and opinions about the message matter more than the message itself.
This means that ministry leaders must guard themselves and what they believe. It means that they should be aware of the pressing cultural issues but not follow them. Healthy church leaders must always be watching to see where the threats may be coming from inside the church.
Consider the devotion above and post your response to the questions below.
- Where do you think the church is most susceptible to threats that come from within the church itself?
- How can ministry leaders make sure the message of the Gospel stays the main message in the church?
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