Pastor Spell and Luke Sherwin Incident

There is Hope Radio co-host Bobby the Seeker did not here about the Pastor Spell and Luke Sherwin incident. PreacherRichD shared the incident in detail and other incidents with Bobby based upon the information available at the time.

They discussed the topic of what is a physical threat and what is not. The issues with the Sherwins, the way Pastor Tony handled the threats. The words of Pastor Spell after the physical incident. The Biblical standard for Christian leaders. How can we as Christians can learn from this incident.

PreacherRichD also discussed the bigger issue is not the incident but how many Christians have formed opinions without all the evidence, many giving Pastor Spell a ‘free pass’ under the guise of protecting his life and the lives of his family. The question is not if any human being has the right to protect themselves and others to the point of having to kill someone. The bigger question is how should Christians handle challenging situation, looking to Scripture.

Elders/Pastors/Christian Leaders/Christians Sin

Even though Christians are called saints, set apart ones, they sin just like sinners. Once we are born again we are justified and sanctified, but that does not mean we no longer sin. In fact, Scripture says we are liars if we say we have not sinned.
1 John 1:8-10
“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us” 

Biblical Standards for Christians

The following are Bible verses of how Christians should act regarding others, including those who act, behave, speak as if they are enemies.

* Matthew 5:38–42 – Turn the other cheek, go the extra mile, give generously.

* Luke 6:29–30 – Offer the other cheek, do not resist with revenge, give freely.

* Matthew 5:43–48 – Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who persecute you.

* Luke 6:27–36 – Love your enemies, do good, bless, pray, lend expecting nothing in return, and be merciful.

* Matthew 7:12; Luke 6:31 – Treat others as you want to be treated (the Golden Rule).

* Matthew 6:14–15 – Forgive others so your Father will forgive you.

* Matthew 18:21–22 – Forgive without limit (“seventy times seven”).

* Luke 6:37 – Do not judge or condemn; forgive, and you will be forgiven.

* Luke 23:34 – On the cross, Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.”

* Matthew 26:52 – “Put your sword back in its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword.”

elders

Biblical Standards for Elders/Pastors

The following are the standards for elders/pastors that Pastor Spell has not honored, lived by in regard to the recent Sherwin Family events. He may have lived by them in the past. Yes, all elders/pastors fall short, but like any Christian they need to confess and repent when they fall short, not brag about their violation of the standards.
Above reproach: Elders must have a blameless character, with no legitimate accusations against their moral or ethical behavior (1 Timothy 3:2)

Temperate and self-controlled: Elders must exhibit discipline over their passions and impulses, showing sobriety and sound judgment (1 Timothy 3:2)

Respectable and hospitable: They should be honorable, welcoming, and kind to others, including strangers (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8)

Not given to drunkenness or violence: They should be gentle, peaceable, and avoid quarrelsome or aggressive behavior (1 Timothy 3:3) 

Mature in faith: Elders should not be recent converts to avoid pride and spiritual immaturity (1 Timothy 3:6)

Good reputation with outsiders: Their conduct should be exemplary even to non-believers, avoiding disgrace or scandal (1 Timothy 3:7)

Sherwin Family

In the midst of this incident, it is clear the Sherwin family has many issues, which may include mental illness. There are things the family has done that are wrong. In fact vey evil. In spite of their behavior and the consequences they should face is there a concern for their souls. Is there a concern for their souls. How many Christians would be willing to not only take a stand for Pastor Spell and his family while being concerned that the Sherwin family comes to Christ.

Series on Pastor Tony Spell and Luke Sherwin Incident Podcasts
Handling Personal Physical Threats Podcast
Missing the Mark-My Story Podcast
Passion for the Lost Podcast
Pastor Spell and Luke Sherwin Incident
Love, Love, Love, or Turning Over Tables, Or

#preacherrichd #physicalthreats #verbalthreats #mocking #harassment #pastortonyspell #lukesherwin
#missingthemark #passionforthelost