Do Ministers Really Do This?

[deacon blues]

Originally Posted by KeptByTheWord

It would be wonderful if there were more pastors like yourself!

Obviously there would be cases where info should be shared, if the person posed certain risks and dangers, e.g. Pedophiles, people who have a track record of sowing discord in churches, etc. But those should be the exception to the rule. Pastors should err on the side of confidentiality, allowing people to not let their past follow them, and forgiveness.

As shepherds of the flock of God, we shouldn't treat people like personal property or get offended when they leave (easier said than done). They are God's property, not ours. He purchased them with His blood. It's either God's will or it isn't if they leave our church. If it isn't God's will, loving them and being kind will compel them to come back should they recognize the mistake. If it is God's will, God forbid I hinder what God is doing in their lives.

Unfortunately, some preachers NEVER believe it's God's will for folks to leave their church. That's usually to the detriment of the pastor than anyone.