Journal: Journal of Ministry and Theology
Volume: JMAT 11:2 (Fall 2007)
Article: Responding To True And False Accusations In The Church
Author: Jimmy Stallard

JMAT 11:2 (Fall 2007) p. 119

Responding To True And False Accusations In The Church

Jimmy Stallard

Director of Treasures of Truth Ministries1

The political climate of America is filled with a rancor that certainly does not harmonize well with peaceful living. Accusations abound about personal matters, not just policy decisions. Many times the accusations of one politician against another are unfounded and are part of the politics of destruction. Other times they are well founded, but perhaps expressed by the accuser in a way that makes it difficult to bring holistic resolution. Consequently, accusations and counter-claims appear to be nothing more than a contest to see who can yell the loudest. The result is a paralyzed and dysfunctional government.

Unfortunately, what is common on the political front can easily be discovered in Bible-believing churches, who in principle affirm the need to be different. It is true that we live on a cursed earth where sin is ever present, even in the house of God. Christians, however, should not capitulate to the world spirit in the matter of dealing with accusations. The Bible should be our guide whether responding to accusations that are true or ones that are false and meant to hurt. The following devotional comments are given to encourage pastors and laymen alike to approach the issue of accusations in a godly manner.2

JMAT 11:2 (Fall 2007) p. 120

When Accusations Are True

The day was moving along as an ordinary day. I was busy putting the finishing touches on a message for the Wednesday night Bible study. The phone rang and changed my day completely and gave me an opportunity of ministry in the midst of adversity for about two weeks. A man in the church had done something considered wrong, and I was placed in a position of having to deal with the problem.

His initial reaction to my involvement was anger and denial. He was upset I was even involved (I was upset I was even involved!). But as time went by pressures mounted from the chastening hand of the Lord that brought the man to a place of repentance. In this situation nothing required that it be dealt with publicly. But in the man’s own admission of guilt to me, out of a heart of repentance, I saw the only correct biblical way to deal with sin.

Proper confession constitutes the right way to deal with accusations against us that are true. Many accusations will come against us throughout our lifetime which are not true. Some accusations will come against us that are partly true and partly false. In any event, we must deal openly and honestly with anything t...