When famous Christians & preachers denounce their faith, doubt can creep in. Why I didn’t follow their lead and walk away from my faith, and I continue believing in Jesus.
Dear Sister,
When a high-profile church leader recently announced he was divorcing his wife and he no longer considered himself a Christian on social media, I was shocked. When I was a teenager, his popular books shaped Christian dating culture, he pastored a mega-church, and he was a dynamic preacher. The parable of sowing seed in different ground came to mind.
“The seed is the word of God. The ones along the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy. But these have no root; they believe for a while, and in time of testing fall away. And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience.” Luke 8: 11b – 15 ESV
It’s incredibly sad when someone walks away from their family and faith. I hope you pray for healing and reconciliation when you hear about a brother or sister falling away. I also hope you pray that you are that last type of soil, that you hold the word in your heart and let it bear fruit.
After the initial shock wore off, I started to think about his former congregation who had been pastored by him. Do they feel conflicted? Do they question? And then rumblings began. Other believers were worried. If someone like that can walk away, what about me? And if he’s walked away, should I?
I get the confusion. I do. But I don’t doubt. If my pastor, past or present, walks away, I will trust in Jesus. If more and more famous evangelical preachers give it up, I will trust in Jesus.
The Bible is clear.
“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6
Who are you putting your trust in? In a popular evangelical? In your local pastor? In a family member? You can only be saved through Jesus. A good pastor is a blessing, but don’t put your faith in them. They cannot save you. Only Jesus does that.
When I was a teenager, I remember examining myself. Do I believe what the Bible says? Or is it just something my parents want me to believe? I asked myself if my parents were out of the picture, would I bother with it all? Would I read my Bible, pray, and find other believers? What if they walked away from their faith? Would I walk away from my faith?
I considered the tough questions, and I came out on the other side, knowing that Jesus saved me from my sin and He is real. Perhaps if you’re struggling from someone else walking away from their beliefs, it’s because you haven’t gone through this process yet. I’m praying for you as you’re hurting.
Wherever you are in your walk, I hope this encourages you to move towards Jesus.
Your big sister,
Mallary
XOXO