“Second Chance”

Saturday, November 10, 2012

Should someone who was formerly an elder (and stepped down after an adulterous affair came to light) be allowed to lead prayers and do announcements at their new congregation?

Sincerely,
Appalled

Dear Appalled,

If he repented, then yes.  The Bible makes it clear that when God forgives someone, and when they repent, we are to embrace them again as a brother (2 Cor 2:7).  It isn’t the church’s job to impose a punishment on someone greater than what the Lord does.  This man certainly isn’t qualified to be an elder, but he has already stepped down from that position.  However, when it comes to leading prayers, there are no verses that would prohibit him from doing that.  If God forgives, we must do the same (Lk 17:3).

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