Apostasy…Now that is strong word.  I mean, it is basically being a false teacher, leading people away from God instead of to Him.  As a pastor/teacher I am held to a higher responsibility than most.  That concerns me a lot.  No one wants to be accused of leading others astray.  And no one wants to have to face a God that is going to hold you responsible and accountable for it.

When I first became a pastor I was coming out of an age of self-discovery and of redefining who I am.  The greatest experience I had during this time, besides marrying my awesome wife, was getting a degree in Mental Health Counseling.  At that time I thought this was my way of helping people and I was good at it.  I actually had an act for it but now at the other end of the road I think it was as much for me as it was for others.  It helped me take a good look at myself and know who I am.

I am a sinner.  I am out for myself.  I like pleasing me.  I am just like everyone else…

Because of being able to see this more clearly I now can watch out for it all the more.  Which brings me back to that Apostasy word.

Everything I do now in ministry is tainted with questions; “What does it do for me?”, “How does it make me feel?”  “Who is this for?”

When I ask these questions it helps me weigh my motives and sets the path for decision making.  It also helps in talking with others because I am wondering about their motives as well.

If you are one of the cool people I work with let’s always be aware of our motives. If you are a leader be especially careful because we are also responsible for others.  Because at Oak Leaf you know what our call is; “Leading people from where they are to where God wants them to be.”  God wants them closer to Him and if we get in the way there will be consequences.