A Different Perspective on the Steve Lawson controversy
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- Опубликовано: 14 ноя 2024
- Pastor David gives a unique perspective on the Steve Lawson controversy, focusing on a specific misconception that may have significantly contributed to a "blindspot" concerning the matter: The ability and willingness of God to chose and use those who are living in scandalous, serious, and even flagrant sin to His glory.
The Joe Kirby (@Off The Kirb) video referenced:
"Pastor Steve Lawson on Men, Lust and Holiness"
• Pastor Steve Lawson on...
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Being used by God is a sign of His goodness, not ours!
Amen
very true!
@@meredithsdg Actually not His goodness but His purpose … who does all things according to His counsel
Isaiah 10 a good example in God using the king of a Assyria to punish Israel, even though the king of the Assyria intent was not to do so, and at the end of it all had the king of the Assyria killed
In Romans, 9!He used Pharoah for His purpose
And even Judas, as he fulfilled his predestination to do what he did John 17:12
God does all things for His purpose and glory.
He has patience with vessels made for dishonor.
@@lynettecardinale8098 My point is that we tend to think we must be good because God used us. It’s not our goodness, but His. And yes, His purposes are good. Case in point, He used Judas.
I have been thinking about this, the bible speak about a vessel of many use, I asked my self which type of vessel do I want to be? Just As the Lord use Pharoah Genesis 9 for his glory.
Lord please give Mrs. Lawson love, strength, and healing.
@@randallburke 🙏
Prayer for Steve, his wife, kids, grandkids, and so many more.
@@randallburke And true repentance.
She must have known. 5 years??
@@rosemaryhill8804 not necessarily. A lot of spouses don’t find out until much later.
Wow, my admiration for this ministry just went to a zenith level. The grace and biblical accuracy you just addressed this issue is better than anything I’ve heard all week. Thank God for you 🙏🏽✝️
What a wonderful message to receive, thank you for your kind words and support. Blessings to you, God be with you friend!
Could not agree more. On target and nuanced in a way no one else seems to be teaching. Thank you.
Lawson is a heretic teaching a false gospel!
God uses flawed people because flawed people are all He has!
wetlandweasel,
I agree that human condition has many flaws but what are we to make of this verse in Job?
“ And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that [there is] none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?”
Keep in mind that this was long before the advent of Christ.
@phillipaj.5588 If we are chosen (or elect) it is for the sake of the other not instead of the other.
Ultimately God will reconcile all to himself and none will be lost. Scripture is clear about this.
All judgement and punishment
are restorative not retributive
Romans 11v32-36
@@stephengorman1025 It's a nice thought that all are saved, however, even a cursory read of all of Romans 11..eg v 14 indicates that not all will be saved. The Bible warns in many places that the path is narrow and only a few will enter. If you/we are elected then that suggests that some are not elected, otherwise why use "elected"? The Bible warns against Hell more than it mentions Heaven.
What an excellent observation. We are after all sinful by nature - it's why there is no perfect church. Nevertheless, there are churches that do more closely follow biblical truths.
@stevemills1481 Firstly we are elected for the sake of others not instead of others.
Secondly Hell is not a word found in the Bible but a catch all for a range of concepts (Sheol/Hades, Gehenna, Tartarus & Lake of Fire) - they are not the same thing.
Many of the Early Church Fathers who were Greek speaking proclaimed Apokatasrasis (Reconciliation of all things). Of 17 sermons in Acts not one mentions what we loosely call Hell.
The term aionias kolasis (eternal punishment) found in Matthew 25 is another pure translation and should read The chastisement (restorative punishment) of that age.
I could go on, but suffice it to sayI do not lightly or unthinkingly take a position of ultimate reconciliation of all things.
Grace and Peace.
How wonderful to take a situation like this and turn it into a powerful teaching of God’s truth.
I’m so glad you explained about those teachers who have fallen into sin and God may have used them in our lives.
The verse from Isaiah 55:11 came to my mind, “So shall my word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.”
Thank you Pastor David 😊
@teacher13531 HI, I have to say, I agree with you. Not only because you referenced one of my key verses in my journey. IT IS ABOUT GOD'S WORD that will make manifest HIS will & purpose. We have the blessing to be vessels that carry HIS WORD-SEED, and YES, be sanctified by it, for who knew?! ... Rom. 3:23 ❤️
We cant sanctify ourselves, but we can respond to temptation by fleeing..and that is a choice. I really love your clear and balanced analysis...lets pray for all concerned..amen
@cathiewatson-n8t
That’s the part that really FROSTS me. He didn’t FLEE it - he worked at committing a long term, entrenched, sin. While enjoying a great reputation, and earning a great salary plus perks. And on top of that, he was surrounded by fine, moral co-workers, any number of whom could and would have helped him OUT of his mess if he had confessed to them that he was in trouble and wanted out - - but he didn’t want out… he wanted the position, the honor, the pay grade, his FAMILY, and his Jezebel also!
SMH 🤦🏻♀️
May I pursue God for no other reason than I want to know God.
Wise, wise words. I was very edified by this video and am taking a new look at 2 Timothy 2:20-21. Thank you Pastor Guzik.
We are all broken people. It is always about God's Amazing Grace that we still stand. Thankful for the truth spoken in this video. ❤
@HEisWorthy-4C can't stand without Jesus..amen....
😂😂🤡
Well, this pastor was REALLY broken then. Or was he perhaps enjoying his rebellion and selfishness? People DO, you know. They just decide for themselves that they will have the proverbial cake and eat it too.
I mean, King David had a sordid FLING in a moment of weakness. But this pastor and his Jezebel had a five year affair - while he enjoyed the prestige of being a successful, well paid pastor. In my eyes, he was thieving from his church; besides all the other sins against his family and parishioners… I mean, sheesh. What a bum. This is one of those sins listed in the “Big Ten”. God saw fit to write them in stone.
This is the most thorough and well spoken explanation of this situation that I have heard! Thank you for this wonderful teaching and God bless! ❤️✝️🙌
Thanks soooo much for all you said. When something like this happens it saddens me and sobers me . I realize how easily I could get caught up in self deception and sin,wrecking my testimony, ministry, and relationships. Lord have mercy on Mr. Lawson and mercy on me......
Thank you Pastor Dave! This hit home for me and revealed much in my own heart. You put it in such a digestible perspective. Sometimes I feel like I'm disappointing the Lord too much, yet my heart yearns for Him and to help the lost. I pray for Dr. Lawson and feel blessed to have had an opportunity to hear several of his messages. Much love to you Pastor Dave!!
Very well said - you're welcome, and thank you for your kind words and support. God be with you!
Wow! This is by far the best commentary on this matter. God bless 🙏🏿
Very kind of you, thank you for your support. God be with you!
"I am in complete agreement with you. That was a great explanation. May God bless you, Pastor Guzik, surround you with a hedge of protection, and keep you from stumbling as you continue to minister to us." 🙏
Thank you!
Amen brother. The Lord have mercy on me a sinner. The Lord have mercy on Steve and all those who are involved.
Amen, amen!
Thank-you! When no one is looking but God and I still want to obey Him from my heart is a work of God. God teaches us to hate our own sins and rely completely upon Him.
I appreciated your comments. I remember hearing a well-known Christian talking to Charles Templeton, who was a Canadian evangelist and became an atheist and taught at the University of Toronto. In the comments, the Christian interviewer made the statement. “The message is more powerful than the messenger.”
Leading a double life makes us a hypocrite
Sometimes a double life makes us harsher and more legalistic towards others because we believe that it is the way we get out of our own messed up life
All truth is God‘s truth, even if spoken by fallen people.
Our goal is holiness because that is really the better way to live. We were designed to live holy lives. Holiness is not harshness. It’s winsomeness such as Jesus displayed.
I'm glad you mentioned praying for not just Steve Lawson but also the lady concerned (which most people forget), as well as the church. The situation for all concerned is heartbreaking. Dr Steve Lawson is one of my favourite pastors, I learnt so much from him. Thank you for your take on this Pastor David.
All Ligonier doctors, pastors, and ministers should begin showing true repentance by forsaking their titles and positions of authority among the brethren. Titles like "Pastor" or "Doctor" elevate individuals and create divisions within the body of Christ, contrary to Jesus' teaching that we are all equal under God (Matthew 23:8-12). True repentance means humbling themselves, rejecting worldly status, and embracing the servant-leadership modeled by Christ. It's time for these leaders to abandon titles and restore humility, accountability, and equality within the church. Only then can the body of Christ function as it was intended-without hierarchy or power plays.
@@1Whipperin Pastor is biblical, as mentioned in Ephesians 4:11- And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers.
Pastor is biblical, and if called by God anyone can become one. It just needs to be done properly and honestly.
@@0vercast7 Your claim that "Pastor" is biblical based on Ephesians 4:11 is deeply flawed and reflects a misunderstanding of Scripture. Yes, Ephesians 4:11 does mention "pastors," but this singular use of the term is not evidence of the modern office of "Pastor" that dominates church structures today. The word “pastor” simply means “shepherd,” and nowhere in the New Testament is there any indication of pastors holding the kind of exalted, hierarchical role they do in many churches today.
First, the early church gatherings were not built around one man leading the entire flock as a figurehead. The New Testament describes a community where believers, including elders and teachers, served *together* in mutual submission (1 Corinthians 14:26, Acts 20:28). The pastoral role was never meant to be a title of authority and control, yet modern "Pastors" often treat it as such, turning churches into personality-driven organizations that revolve around their leadership. This is not biblical.
Furthermore, you say, "if called by God, anyone can become one." Really? If *anyone* can call themselves "Pastor" without any biblical mandate for such a title, you're opening the door to self-appointed leaders who abuse the flock for their own gain. Jesus warned about false shepherds (John 10:12-13) who are more interested in lording it over the people than laying down their lives for them. Many so-called "Pastors" today fall into this category, wielding their title to control and manipulate rather than serve.
The very idea that becoming a "Pastor" is just a matter of doing it "properly and honestly" is misguided. Scripture warns that many will claim to be teachers and leaders but are not (James 3:1). There is a higher standard, and true leaders are humble, servant-hearted, and not seeking titles or positions of authority (Matthew 23:8-12). Calling yourself a "Pastor" today, especially in the self-serving way it is often done, is a grift, plain and simple.
If you truly want to be biblical, stop chasing titles and positions. The early church didn't need "Pastors" lording it over them. They had elders, teachers, and shepherds who worked *together*, without elevating one person above the others. The obsession with the title "Pastor" today reflects more of a desire for power than a desire to serve. True leadership in the church isn't about titles-it's about humble, sacrificial service, and many so-called "Pastors" today fail in this regard.
@@1Whipperin the church will function as it was intended by the grace of God. We may or may not do the things you say, but the church of God is victorious and will overcome because Jesus is the head Shepherd.
@@JBM101 You’re right that the church will ultimately function as God intends-Jesus, the head Shepherd, will always prevail. But that doesn’t absolve us from the responsibility of following the clear teachings of Scripture in how we structure and lead the church. The grace of God doesn’t give us license to ignore or distort His design. Just because "the church will overcome" doesn’t mean we can justify unbiblical practices like the modern pastoral hierarchy.
You acknowledge that Jesus is the head Shepherd, yet the current system elevates "Pastors" into positions that often resemble mini-kings or CEOs of churches. Where in the New Testament do we see this kind of centralized power given to one man? The church is meant to function as a body with Christ as the head, and leadership should be shared among elders, not monopolized by one individual bearing a title that has become synonymous with control.
Yes, the church is victorious because of Christ-not because of "Pastors." This is precisely why it's crucial to return to the biblical model, which emphasizes mutual submission, shared leadership, and the active participation of all believers (1 Corinthians 12:14-26). The early church functioned without the kind of pastor-centric leadership structure we see today, and it thrived because it was Spirit-led, not man-led.
Your rebuttal leans on the promise of Christ’s victory as if that guarantees everything we’re doing is correct. But Paul, Peter, and the apostles constantly warned the church to avoid false teachings and practices, to stay vigilant against corruption (Acts 20:29-30, 2 Peter 2:1). Just because the church will ultimately overcome doesn’t mean it’s immune to straying from the truth. In fact, many of the church’s problems today come from abandoning the New Testament pattern for leadership in favor of institutionalized hierarchies.
So, yes, the church is victorious through Christ. But don’t mistake God’s grace and Christ’s headship as an excuse to continue in practices that deviate from the Bible. It’s time to examine whether the current "Pastor" system reflects the servant-hearted leadership of Jesus-or if it’s a modern invention that fosters control and power in ways the early church never endorsed. We need less of the "Pastor" title and more of the body functioning as it was meant to-with Christ as the true Shepherd, and all members serving one another in humility.
Pastor Guzik,
Thank you for this excellent teaching. Your insight is spot on! Thank you sir! God bless!
THANK YOU for saying all of this. It is so true. We are all saved - and used - by the Grace of God! Praying for Steve Lawson and for you and all pastors and ministry leaders.
@@jamiep.7666 well, all who are saved are saved by the grace of God. ;)
Finally, someone has used the Bible to explain this situation. Thank you.
"Steve LAWson" not "Larsen".
@@markrogers7546 really, dude? Nice nit picking.
Thanks, David. This is such a solid observation.
Our church has been so blessed by your ministry, Pastor! Solid, humble, true and lucid!
Thank you Pastor! These are the perfect words to describe this. Don't let anything come out about you now!!! God Bless!
You're very welcome - There, but for the grace of God, go I!
I am so grateful you have bought this insight David. There is so much sanctimonious thinking and self focus that is just not absolute. Otherwise there would be no place for every believer on the journey of sanctification to know the joy of serving the Lord -
Presented with clarity and love. Thanks. I came to Christ in 1983 through a television program with a popular preacher presenting the gospel. God used this flawed man to reveal Christ's love and sacrifice for me. I am so grateful for the gospel revealed in Christ and revealed by the Holy Spirit, albeit communicated by someone in serious sin.
🤣🤣🤡
Thank God for this. Very well said. Like David sometimes God use undeserving servant to save other people. Praying for Dr Steve Lawson. Looking forward for his restoration and future preaching. To be use by God in a greater capacity.
Very well said, amen!
But all the heroes of the bible who fell paid an awful price in the consequences of the sin they committed. Of course they got forgiven by a merciful God because of His promises in The Lord Jesus Christ. The hurt, pain shame brought upon love ones is so deep and sometimes long lasting. The narratives in the bible are not there to excuse us but to warn us. This Pastor’s fall causes us to think …….can we trust any man who preaches teaches and who even talk about purity a lot, can we even trust you you on this podcast, that you don’t have a bad secret. Yes we all need the grace and mercy of God. I know I need it every day to avoid jealously, gossip, being judgemental attitude, etc. I find I so need the Holy Spirit to lead me and enable me to walk in the Victory of The Lord against these things. I could add pride, envy etc. this knowledge humbles me and causes me to guard my spirit.
@@irisbristow2977
Very nicely said and I agree wholeheartedly with you 😊
I think he is an arrogant, selfish, 73 yr. old fool. And a hypocrite for years. And this other woman is in her 20’s??? 🤨 The devil sure made a plaything out of him.
I became a pastor at 51 years old. As an unbeliever for much of my life. It's amazing how much I understood about sin, our sinful nature, and our lack of perfection after I was ordained with a title.
@@abubaca2683 beware of titles
Love the sarcasm
@@Franklin-ww6ncit’s not sarcasm. He’s obviously thankful that God allowed him to go through that journey so that he can empathize with his congregation and love them Gods way because God had so much mercy upon him 🤍
I came to a true understanding of Christ in my 30’s after being a hippie and coming of age through the swinging seventies.
I feel those past experiences really did help the “breaking” in preparation for the remaking. I know a soul must be truly, deeply, repentant in order for the light of the world to shine in those deep recesses. I understood that better than Miss Goody-Two-Shoes who accepted Christ in the
3rd grade and led an exemplary life for the next 80 years. At the same time I always envied people like her, too. Their prudence and integrity saved them a heap of emotional and physical damage.
II’ve often wondered how many of my fellow church goers really got ‘repentance’.
Furthermore, I get that Satan puts extra pressure on the Church-goers (he’s already GOT the loaded schmucks at the bars, concerts, and casinos… they’re no fun to toy with!)
It’s those followers of Christ that the devil wants to trip-up.
SL(y) was pictured on site and had the title "Lead Preacher/Pastor"? on Trinity's site. And Trinity Bible Church organization/leadership gave permisssion/the ok to have that photo and heading on site AND were also giving the ok for SL to come in every Sun and allowed SL to dictate how he would or would nOT interact with Trinity Bible members weekly.
I too listened to the Bible teachings of SL and now I have to rethink who/what was I really listening to....for me it could be right out of 2 Corn 11:15 "Therefore is is NO great thing if his (Satan's) ministers also be changed" into ministers/preachers of righteousness.
Ministers of righteousness stand in pulpits, before the public and preach things out of the Bible and we have 2 Corn 11.14-15 warning and telling us it is possible for Satan's ministers to be changed into ministers of righteousness. Five years ago when supposedly all this started was that girl even 18 or 21?? We were drinking from a glass of the water of the Word and it was poisoned water we were drinking, NO MATTER how great it tasted and refreshed.
Well said brother. God alone is faithful, and by His grace alone we excel. God be merciful to brother Steve Lawson. Amen.
Frankly, I hope God gives this liar and hypocrite a thorough spanking… He did so much wrong, in so many ways, to so many people - but most importantly - to his WIFE.
I know, I know, “let those who are without sin cast the first stone”.
But I sure would never even consider the mega-Sin he committed. I took my marriage vows to heart 50 years ago. Hard stop.
You did a great job in categorizing and rightly deviding the situation. Much wisdom and balance. Thank you for your ministry!
Thank you, Pastor Guzik for this commentary. If we disregarded the works of flawed men, we would likely have to throw away the works of Luther, Calvin, Edwards, and so many more. I, for one will not discard any of the books I have that Mr. Lawson wrote. May all affected by this sin be recovered, restored, and renewed in Christ Jesus.
That pain those two caused SO MANY PEOPLE ….. just smh. What monumental SELFISHNESS.
What a comfort and grace to know that God is so gracious in his dealings with us. A good reminder to follow after Christ and crucify the flesh daily. Lord have mercy on all of us and help us stay close to you.
Lord be graceful to us, and give us peace
“Because Iam a disciple of Jesus Christ I need to crucify my life daily.” Thank you Pastor Guzik for your advice. I use your commentary for my Bible studies
I use his as well😊
I understand your sincerity but we can not crucify ourselves ( think about the implications) rather “I am crucified with Christ”, once forever( see Rom. 6 and Col. 2, Gal. 2:20). Blessngs
❤ I love your disposition and perspective in this matter, right on… I am now following your RUclips channel… I love Steve Lawson, following him for years. Not much shocks me anymore, but I was truly shocked and greatly grieved to to hear this terrible news…❤
Thank you, Pastor Guzik. Your message is so timely. As the American culture continues to faulter and promote ungodly attitudes and behaviors, no one is totally immune. I have personally been blessed through your ministry, through Dr. Tony Evans, and many other human beings. I grieve when one faulters. More importantly for me, now, is to pray earnestly for all men and women called by God (for a season) to teach, preach and prepare other disciple makers. Blessings to you and yours. 🙏🤲📖🤗
So very kind of you, Donald. Thank you for your encouragement and these kind messages. Your support and prayers and much appreciated. God is good! Blessings to you, brother.
@@donalddodson7365 falter
Well said, Pastor!
Thank you so much Pastor
I needed to hear this 🙏🏻
I am so very grateful for your teaching, Pastor Guzik!!
Thank you Pastor David for speaking on this. I used to believe that the "anointing" was God’s seal of approval but now I realize that's not necessarily the case.
@@Dmase316 There is no special ‘anointing’ beyond the anointing of the Holy Spirit that every born again believer has.
@@georgekavanagh8220There is no special ‘anointing’. Every born again believer has the same anointing of the Holy Spirit.
Your appeal at the end is so profound. I am encouraged.
Wonderful, thank you for your kind words and support. God be with you!
He is Steven Lawson, not Steven Larson 😅
He started off saying Lawson at beginning of Video, later on said Larson. Very easy to mix up, I think most ppl I know do the same thing.
Steve Larcen(y) ..... the Y is silent.......... cuz he stole something that wasn't his.
@@miahmendoza7403 Yes! This was my same comment. I couldn’t even listen to the video or take anything he said seriously when he didn’t even take the time to find out the man’s name who he’s making a a whole video about. 🙈🙈
He’s a no-good cheat who loved his sin more than anyone or anything else.
@@nicklennox5369 vous n’etes pas très charitable. Il a juste fait une erreur de prononciation. C’est si grave pour vous ? Alors le péché de Steve Lawson c’est une énorme montagne à côté 😉
The wisdom of God is clearly displayed in your teaching. Thank you. Please,continue since few commentators are worthy of listening to.
As always you rightly divide the word of truth with such precision and clarity. Thank you and God bless you brother!
Such a great reminder! Thanks for putting this together.
Pastor David, always truthful and encouraging at the same time. Thank you for this video!
Very well said and very needed. I have been saved nearly 45 years and have been in full-time ministry for some of those years. Your discernment is accurate and your biblical interpretation is also accurate I believe.
Spot on. Thank you for this fair treatment. I would say the only thing you missed is that God also allows the sort of thing to remind all of us to trust in him, and never in man….along the lines of who is Paul, and who is Apollos…
. Never put men on pedestals, for even the best of men are fallen men at best. Steve Lawson has helped me and I was shocked to hear this. I am praying for him and his family and the church at large, this local church, and whoever this inappropriate relationship was with.
Thank you David, I also found your comments very helpful on this sad situation. - Joe
There is a serious amount of wisdom in all this. Probably the most balanced I’ve seen so far in regard to our brother Dr Lawson.
Thank you brother
Thank you for this teaching! God bless you!😊
It’s a hard thing to see these that we learn from and highly esteem fall into sin. I keep going back to David and his great sin with Bathsheba, and how we see God’s mercy to him. We, indeed, need to be in prayer for these people involved. It’s a consequence that goes on for a life time but God’s forgiveness is what sees each one through. God loved David and used him mightily but he did suffer a lifetime of hurt due to his sin with Bathsheba. Thank you for your comments. We do need to keep all involved in our prayers.
What a wonderful and encouraging comment, thank you for writing this.
David never stopped with the womanizing. He died with a young girl in bed with him. Not one of his wives. Solomon was 100 times worse. Very sad end to their lives. Everyone seems to miss that part. They died disconnected from God due to their lust for women.
@@roniverson9282I'm not disagreeing with you at all. Can you tell me the Scripture that says David died in bed with a young woman not his wife? Thank you.
May God bless David Guzik for your words towards another brother in Christ. May the spirit of our Lord and God Jesus Christ be upon you brother. Ameeeeeeeeeeen.
As Christians, we often fall off the wagon. The struggle is real. What I sometimes do is listen to or read the Book of Revelation to remind myself of the evaluation of the seven churches.
You are showing discernment and truth. Thank you, God bless
I appreciate that, thank you for your support. Blessings in Jesus' name.
David, this was perhaps the best response to this issue on RUclips. Thank you for blessing us with this perspective as well as teaching between the differences of the general and absolute truths. I love Steve Lawson and I know this wasn’t a good thing in the news considering the sin problem and his congregation but this man changed my life and taught me a lot after I was saved.
Thankyou so much brother for sharing your perspective! It helped me so much to have a better discernment concerning this very sad situation. It’s the best I’ve heard regarding this issue, biblical, humble, loving and graceful! Thank God for your words! Btw, my husband and I have greatly benefited from your Bible commentary, it’s been a true blessing in our lives, thankyou for making it available as a free resource in English as well as in Spanish. Thank you for
all your hard work for the Lord that greatly blesses His body. God bless you! Greetings from Mexico 🇲🇽 city! ❤
This was an excellent response and spot on. I don't believe people and ministries should be removing his past sermons and his books. It's throwing the baby out with the bath water. It's a poignant reminder to put our full trust in Jesus and not man. I pray for Steve Lawson and all those affected by this. The pain and trauma, especially when it's so public, is hard to imagine.
I agree with you. What he taught remains relevant. God still draws straight lines with crooked stick.
So well presented. Thank you for this explanation. It makes so much sense. I LOVE and use your online Bible commentary in my Bible studies. Currently studying the Book of Isaiah. Thank you and am thanking God for your ministry. God's blessings!
Thank you, for clarifying this principle, pastor David. Praying for Mr. Lawson, he like any believer took Satan bait. Praying for him 🙏🏾
juliapegula4169,
I’m not sure “any believer“ would take Satan‘s bait.
The apostle John said,
“Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.”
@IvanEck-h8u I pray for you.
For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, *not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly,* according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. Romans 12:3
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
1 Peter 5:8
I believe that's a clear warning to believers
Excellent! I really admire and respect the way this was presented. 💖 Thank you!
Wow, this Sunday that is a passage in my sermon! Thanks for the input !
Good luck brother!
Amen and Amen. Well said. May the LORD bless you Pas. David.
Thanks! Thanks for this Video Pastor Guzik! You addressed some issues I Have been Struggling with..... especially with the Church in a Seemingly Free Fall, with the Proliferation of Scandals, especially Lately 😢😮 Oh....the Church History series with Pastor Ralston is Soo good! As a Retired guy I Finally have the time to Genuinely Study Church History, while being just an Armchair Church Historian, Theologian and Apologist at Best 😊😊🙌 Us Calvary Chapel Folk ain't Perfect, but Teachers Like You, Skip Heitzig, Chuck Missler, Ken Johnson, Joe Fosct, Mike Winger and our Pastor Gary in So. Jersey Bless me and fill my day with the Grace of God!! 👍👏🙌🙏 Oh....I'm donating a Collection of Pastor Chuck Smith Book to our Church. Would Love to see them Particularly in the Hands of those Beautiful Young People in our Christian Academy! Please Lift that up in Prayer? Thank You!
You're most welcome - very thoughtful of you - Thank you for your kind words and your generous support, from all of us at Enduring Word. God be with you!
Thank you for the biblical wisdom Pastor Guzik.
Great message, Pastor Guzik. We have this treasure in earthen vessels that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.
Very well said... a very important lesson for saints going through it right now over Steven Lawson's fall. Thank you.
I have found David Guzik's commentary and teaching to be helpful, powerful, and stimulating of the Lord's spirit in me. Glad I found this perspective on Steve Lawson.
Deep insight David! This is what we observe in life! Every blessing.
My theological principal used to tell us that if God used only perfect people he would be still waiting to find them.
Fair point. But what this pastor DID, the stupidity of it - at his age! With some obvious Jezabel…
He was OBLIGED, when he was first tempted by that woman, to fall on his brother’s and get help from them.
RARELY does a man have such a group of high moral quality people working around him that he can confess his problem to - and get the caliber of help he needed…
But NO… he plotted and deceived for a number of years trying to pretend he was a young man.
@@k.hendrickson8735 I totally agree. We are all being bombarded daily with immoral images and the problem, I feel, is that we are getting used to them. The church by and large are not preparing their people properly against the exposure of this toxic world we live in. I heard it being said recently that on the very same device you read your Bible you can access all sorts of pornographic material - get back to the book and not the device.
The lesson for ALL of us is guard yourself with every fibre of your being and cry out to God daily for His protection - this is going to get worse. In many cultures the believers enemy’s are anti God regimes, but for us in the west our enemy can be much more subtle and accessible which in some ways is more dangerous. God, save us from ourselves!
@@k.hendrickson8735you are a BIG PART OF THE PROBLEM!!! How dare you speak in such a manner!! Steve’s sin is no worse than the one you commit regularly!! Yes you are still a SINFUL human being, and commit sin regularly!!
@@k.hendrickson8735YOU’RE A BIG PART OF THE PROBLEM!! keep pointing fingers!! 😐😶
your perspective is spot on. thank you God for your riches of grace that we see in the scandal, even the worst of sins will not hinder you although it may temporally hinder us. may we become unhindered from this and move forward in your grace and truth 🙏
Amen, amen! Beautifully said, thank you for this.
God may be using this as a message to all of us not to focus on man.
Focus on on Him.
Amen!
What you share is so excellent! It's the understanding of how God can and does use imperfect vessels. It doesn't mean we excuse sin, but that God's grace is powerful.
If Steve walked by the Spirit he wouldn’t have gratified the lust of the flesh. Fear God and flee sexual sin, we are given the power to do it
Amen. Amen.
Spectacular and timely teaching. Pastor David is putting the axe on the root of the "doctrine of merit", using Lawson's ministry tragedy to illuminate the people of God on the ways of God and knowing him more. Thank you
Thank you for your kind words and support, God be with you!
Amen. Great perspective. So sad about Steve for him and his family. Prayers for all involved. God bless great message.
Thank you! I have deliberately avoided the plethora of opinions re Steve Lawson since the news came out. Thank you also for showing Joe Kirby and Steve Lawson clip. I watched Joe yesterday and he has really been shaken by these events……he didn’t mention names, but I knew to whom he was referring. Joe Kirby has a wonderful ministry, a lovely humility and passion for his Lord……please pray for him as well
I'm not minimizing Lawson's fall at all. But remember that David not only committed adultery but also murder to cover it up. God punished him severely, but continued to use him. One pastor said that he could no longer use Lawson's books, and that's fine, but then using the same logic the pastor should be prepared to reject the psalms that David wrote.
@@loompadavis951 David was a king- not a pastor. Need to acknowledge the difference.
@@SusanScholl Why?
Thank you for this video. This is by far the best response to the scandal that I have seen.
Thank you Pastor David for your wisdom on this, I found it very helpful 🕊
You are very welcome, glad you found it helpful. God be with you!
Great stuff. Loved the whole thing. The statement of living a holy life “not for ministry success” toward the end of the video was fire 🔥. Blessings.
Galatians 6:1 - 2 -
Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.
Yes. This refers to "Brother". Communion and fellowship. And for a pastor we have Titus 1. There are higher standards. Not that people can't be restored. But the requirements for pastors are higher
@@Dilley_G45 You're 100% right. I hope he does repent.
If no one else needed to hear this, I did! A very wise and timely teaching! Thank you, Pastor David!
Why delete Lawsons sermons when David murdered his friend and slept with his wife and wrote Psalm 51? Did God delete Psalm 51?
@@Psalm119-50 Psalm 51 only makes sense because of his fall. That doesn’t change NT teaching on pastoral qualifications.
@@dano7189 exactly!
@@JesusIsESSENTIALin repentance SJL can demonstrate that he is a man after God’s own heart. That is what is said of David. May it be so.
@@Psalm119-50 when Lawson’s sermons and scribblings make it in to the Bible that could have some (little) value as an argument 🙄
It's my first time watching your channel, and I just wanted to let you know I'm so encouraged. The balanced view of the Scripture you shared on this video is just right on. I'll be dropping more often. Thank you. God bless you more 🙏
Thank you for addressing this. Im praying for Dr Lawson and this situation. GOD will use this for his glory
Amen!!
@David Guzik -I've never heard of Lawson until all of the latest. Thanks for the clear,straight forward commentary and wisdom sans the gossip.
Thank you for your kind words and support, God bless.
The trend of pastors engaging in inappropriate relationships mirrors the behavior of pagan elites who flaunt their wealth and status, believing they are above the rules. Just as the rich and powerful in secular society often act as though the law doesn't apply to them, many pastors abuse their spiritual authority in similar ways. This behavior reflects a corrupt heart, more interested in personal power and indulgence than in serving God or upholding biblical principles. Such actions reveal a deep disconnect from the humility and moral integrity that spiritual leadership demands, and they disgrace the very calling they claim to represent.
And disqualify themselves from further pastorates. Repentance doesn’t negate this fact.
@@WhoGitDaBiscuit I want to be very careful to be respectful to you, but I need to ask you this question, "where do you find that in the Bible"? If your reply is 1 Tim. 3:2, "therefore, an overseer must be above reproach" then let me ask another question; "Are you certain that your "forever disqualified" position is the correct way to apply that. Remembering that the church is not organized today as it was in Paul's time and that the bible was not written with 20th century American English in mind, could it be that you are applying this too harshly and not with the restorative nature of the gospel in mind? I'm not going to write a book here but just want to suggest that living "above reproach" could also mean that a person has repented of their earlier sin and has demonstrated that their prior sin has been dealt with and overcome. If we try to interpret the phrase above reproach in a legalistic manner we will have to fire all pastors everywhere tomorrow. As Paul also says in Romans 3:10 "None is righteous, no, not one; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; No one does good, not even one." I realize Paul is not speaking about pastor's directly in that passage but he is speaking about people in general and, last I knew, pastors are still people.
Im not saying I am completely right about all of this and Im not saying that you are completely wrong. Im just saying I think we should be careful to apply the text correctly and make sure we don't add things to the Bible that it really doesn't say.
"God uses broken people, because all of us are broken people."
@@Basmortonhe has no interest in repentance and discontinuation of the relationship. That’s the problem.
@@Basmorton The Bible specifically mentions sexual sin as being particularly at issue here. As for the church being different now, that is of no issue, despite man constantly compromising God’s word. God’s word never changes. He’s the same yesterday, tomorrow & forever. He’s never revised scripture, it stands the test of time. Also, many of these people involved in affairs with pastors were broken vessels seeking help from an Christian authority and instead ended up being prey. That is of absolute particular concern and most certainly would disqualify them. God indeed uses broken vessels, we’re all clay in the potter’s hands. However, not all are called to head a church. Moses murdered a man, God used him. Jonah refused God’s command to preach to Nineveh, God still used him. Paul hated Christianity and persecuted early Christians, God used him. However, I can think of no examples of sexual deviants that were ever used to head a church. Especially those whom were already in a pastoral role and so abused the position. The details to Lawson’s affair aren’t known as of now. But whether this was an incident that occurred over a long period of time, involved a parishioner or employee of the church, or was a person seeking council, all possibilities are exceptionally heinous. Especially considering all of his documented positions concerning adultery. How could he possibly continue in a pastoral position after having been exposed for such hypocrisy? What a mess. I’ve prayed for Lawson, his family and also the person at question involved in the affair with him. This is a horrible situation. I’m a sinner as well. I’m no better than any involved. I also know I could never view the man seriously in a pastoral role again. His past handling of similar situations has been stringent. He should live up to those lofty ideals and not continue in hypocrisy as a leader in the Christian community. His integrity as a pastor has been severely compromised. What is your opinion of priests in the Catholic Church not removed from the priesthood but rather reassigned after such scandalous behavior? Was God using them or man covering for them? Good day & God bless.
@@roniverson9282 I would certainly agree that if a man has no interest in repentance that he is not currently on the path to restoration. I won’t comment about the man specifically since I don’t know him personally and I’m not interested in heading down the path of gossip anyway. I will just stick to the issues. Bless you brother.
Thank you Pastor Guzik, troubled by Ravi's & Steve Lawson I don't how to made sense of it. You had taken pains to systematicaĺly & categorically put handles into the events and also the "deceptive assumption" that a holy living necessitate into a "successful outcome" & the vice versa. Solid thoughts to think through and assimilate. Truly appreciate.
From Singapore.
Thanks for this view. I am so saddened for Steve and am lifting him in prayer.
Thanks Pastor @davidguzik ! This is such a great message. We must constantly crucify the flesh for God’s Glory.
Very very helpful. However I do think it is important to stay aware of the controversies to learn from others mistakes, and to serve to us as a warning to not to do the same.
Amen Amen Amen
I keep telling my friends and family who is next to fall from grace
Especially when you are a public person and a leader for any organisation.
Lord have mercy on us all
Very well said! I believe Pastor David would encourage this application: we're much better off learning from the mistakes of others than our own!
His opinion on "controversy culture" in this video comes from the perspective of content creation; namely, that he wouldn't want to speak on a subject simply to throw another hat into the ring.
Thank you for your comment, God bless!
-Enduring Word Team
@DavidGuzikEnduringWord thanks for helping me understand his perspective, I agree!
@lydiadoumon6781 yes its all God's mercy and grace we need
Thanks pastor Dave for your very helpful commentary in these many challenging times. I love your teaching.
Well stated David. Thank you Holy Spirit for the way you are working in David’s life for the edification of the your people.
God bless you for being the only commentator I've seen, including Trinity Bible Church's official communique, that mentioned praying for the young lady.
Amen! You have nailed it! Chuck Swindoll says the same thing. We are simply the flawed vessel-we bring nothing to the table! It is ALL our Lord and by His grace that we can “do” anything! Thank you for shining light on this! 🙏
Thankyou brother , luv from Perth WA 🇦🇺
Thank you pastor David. Thank you for explaining and clarifying regarding Dr.Steve Lawson and for the bible verse 2 Timothy 2:20-21
Brother Guzik, I so appreciate your perspective related to this matter. I had been listening to Dr. Lawson's teaching for years and God used a sermon he gave, which included John 21:15, to change my life priorities. Needless to say, when I heard the news this past Friday, I was deeply wounded. Your video has helped me heal and begin to restore belief in how God used Dr. Lawsons messages.
Thank you so much for your Bible commentary. I consult it frequently when preparing for my adult Bible study class. May God continue to bless you for your faithful service.
@@knowyourfaith7479 same.
I had no idea who Steve Lawson was until last week. I saw that clip a few days ago and was horrified with his answer. Too many big preachers lose the perspective of who they are vs who God is. Same feeling I had when Ravi had the big fall. Great explanation and clarification I what my spirit was feeling overall.
Thank you Pastor David. Thank for the insights. Im also a sinner and still sinning like Steve Lawson. Praying for him, his family and those around him.