Celebrity Preachers

[ReformedDave]

Originally Posted by philjones

Deacon,

A couple of things. Your dad did not have a pastor... what he had I do not know but a true shephard would NEVER do what you have described here. More than likely he didn't make hospital visits or visit the elderly or the orphans either. Sad! I am sorry for your experience and that of your dad, except that I am sure it has made you more aware of your responsibility and the true purpose of your call.

That said, your last line is a bit problematic for me. I know several UC preachers who get sent down the river by MANY for doing exactly as you have asked. They are then accused of doing it on the back of the church because they believe in the principle of the tithe being for the ministry. Further, if their business dealings are discovered, they are excoriated because they are too focused on this life and not busy about heavenly things.

Maybe all preachers should take the Catholic oath of poverty and that would keep everyone happy... of course, they would also have to take the oath of celibacy because ain't no OP woman going to marry a man who has taken a vow guaranteeing she will be poor always.

While I believe that the minister is worthy of his reward I also know that many are receiving what they are not worthy of. This celebrity mentality is ruining the Christian 'scene'.