Paul's Passing Thoughts

The target audience of this post is those familiar with the ministry circles of John MacArthur Jr., G3, and Ligonier. Hence, this post will not include a lot of background about the close relationship that “Lead Teacher” Steve Lawson had with those ministries. Suffice to say this circle of ministry is a substantial representation of the evangelical church. The internet is fraught with digital placards displaying profound unction by those who represent these ministries.

A lot could be said about the depths of this latest church scandal, but I want to focus on their rules for thee, but not for me mentality. This is because the church is an authoritative institution that has placed itself as an additional mediator between God’s children and God himself. Additionally, the church is not even a sanctified hierarchy, but obviously, a caste system where moral theological principles are not evenly applied on each level.

In this circle of “ministry,” which could also include TGC, G4, and many others, there is a very strong emphasis on the church commoners being willing to “place themselves under the authority of godly men” via the local church. The likes of John Piper and John MacArthur continually call into question those unwilling to be active members of a local church. John Piper has even stated that a willingness to be a member of a church and under its authority is synonymous with loving Jesus. This blog has posted the receipts for over 10 years and will not belabor the point here.

So, now, what do we find out? We find Trinity Bible Church, Ligonier, Master’s seminary, Grace Community Church, G3, et al, accepted a special designation for Lawson referred to as “Lead Preacher,” which excluded him from being a member of a church (and he wasn’t) or an elder. It is unclear how many leaders of these ministries knew about his 5-year relationship with a very young lady, but for certain they all knew that he wasn’t a member of a church, while demanding church membership for the church commoners. Furthermore, the only reason we know any of this is because the girl’s father threatened Steve Lawson with public discloser. Meanwhile, remember that the Reformed church has ruined thousands of lives via church discipline, and Mark Dever became a hero for placing 256 church members under church discipline for nonattendance.

So, how many parishioners will begin to rethink church in leu of this stunning hypocrisy? Few, because parishioners are getting what they want. For all practical purposes, Lawson was a hired entertainer at Trinity and everyone was fine with that. Furthermore, there is a human tendency to find assurance of salvation through expertism rather than Christ. Lawson was an expert theologian and proficient entertainer, that’s all that mattered.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, apparently, Lawson is living in Tennessee and is estranged from his wife. But, the beat goes on. This is business as usual in the church. Some could demand that leaders like Voddie Baucham confess about what they knew and when, but that’s what church discipline is for…

…those who ask relevant questions.

paul.