“For it is time for judgment to begin in the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?” 1 Peter 4:17 (ESV)
Those are such strong words, but because God’s hand has been delayed, we tend to believe what we have been doing is acceptable to Him. Our compromise, our control, our rebellion, our little lies, little lusts, our little outbursts of anger, must not be that bad, after all, if God was concerned He would have already done something! Wrong answer! Our God is very patient because He doesn’t want any to perish (2 Peter 3:9)! Just because He has delayed, doesn’t mean He approves! His judgment and discipline upon His own house is now being released. Whether you have heard about it or not, sin within the church is being uncovered. Pastors are being exposed for hidden, even heinous sins. Our pastors need prayer! They need a prayer covering. They need committed warriors who will fight for them, and be willing to speak into their lives as necessary!
Jesus told us that those who have been given much, much is required (Luke 12:48). Jesus’ half-brother warned that teachers, those who influence others, will be judged more strictly (James 3:1). God us uncovering sin in the church, starting with those who lead! Hidden sin of pornography, of immorality, of greed, of fraud, of addiction, of hypocrisy, of anger, of unforgiveness, of control, of quenching the Holy Spirit, and more are coming into the light. Leaders are held to a higher standard because when they fail, or their sin is finally exposed, it impacts more people. In fact, many people have turned away from Jesus because of spiritual leader’s hypocrisy and sin! That’s why you need to pray for your pastor!
Pray for your pastor to allow the Holy Spirit to search his heart for anything that offends Him (Psalm 139:23-24). Ask God to raise up intercessors called to surround your pastor, like Aaron and Hur did for Moses raising his arms in the day of battle (Exodus 17:10-13). Ask God if you’re to be one of them. Ask God to release the fear of the Lord over the leadership of your church. Ask Him to heighten the conviction and sensitivity to sin in our lives and those around us. Ask God for grace and mercy in this day that He is releasing discipline and judgment in His house!!!
