Bott '14

[Roxanne Murphy]

Originally Posted by n david

The story of King Saul and David is oft-quoted in circumstances like these. People who fall back on this story and say, "you shouldn't touch the Lord's anointed," need to read the scriptures again.

David did not touch Saul, that is to physically harm him, but he did speak out publicly against Saul. When David went into the cave and found Saul sleeping there, he refused to "touch" or physically harm him. Instead, David takes Saul's spear and jug of water and leaves Saul whole. The next morning, David embarrasses Saul and Abner for not having protection for the king. David goes on to question and criticize Saul.

Fast forward to the early church and ministry of Paul. Paul was a learned man. He knew the scriptures. He knew the story of David and King Saul. Yet, you will not find him anywhere write to "touch not the Lord's anointed." You think Paul wasn't condemned when he first started his ministry? You think everyone in the early church loved Paul and not one person questioned or criticized him? Yet he never writes, in any of his epistles, for people to leave him alone because he's God's anointed.

It's incorrect to try and apply this story and say no one should ever question, rebuke or criticize a Pastor. It's mostly used to silence critics and try to scare them with hell-fire if they dare question a minister who has done wrong. It's not right. It's adding to the word and claiming something that isn't there.

All valid points!