Making Sense of the Failures of Godly Leaders, Past and Present

I'm currently reading Tim Cooper's (PhD, University of Canterbury) shorter - and more attainable for those of us without a lot of time - book "When Christians Disagree." It explores the amazingly tepid, unbiblical, and (quite frankly) sinful feud between two great theologians in Great Britain.

John Owen (1616 - 1683) and Richard Baxter (1615 - 1691) were fellow countrymen, were prolific writers, and their contributions to the Christian faith live on today. They both ministered in England during a time of great upheaval. The country went from being ruled by their king - Charles I, who had to call Parlaiment into session (after dismissing them for several years), resulting in a civil war, followed by the toppling of the monarchy and rule by Parlaiment/Oliver Cromwell, followed by a violent return to the monarchy (Charles II). If someone had taken a side in any of these tense political maneuvers, he would likely die or be imprisoned when the tides turned. 

But as gigantic as these two were in preaching and building the faith during chaotic times, and as well as their writings have persisted, they had a problem with pride, ego, and brittleness. Tim Cooper's short article on the sin of these leaders can be accessed by clicking --> here <--, and the video of the same article is accessible by the You Tube link below. 

It is a stark reminder that the giants in the faith that we admire today are still sinful broken people. Do not be dismayed when their humanity is exposed. Instead, let it remind us that we have the same weaknesses, besetting sins, and blind spots. We should press farther into the Word, prayer, and a reflection on God's grace to overcome the same faults stare us in the face when we look into the mirror!

Soli Deo Gloria!

Bonus Book Giveaway Below!!

I will purchase and send copies of Tim Cooper's book to the first ten people who respond to this post by clicking the "Contact" button on the website, and sending me your name and mailing address. This offer is only available from April 30 - May 10.  I will delete this portion of the post after ten people have responded :-)

- Pastor Dave