Coward
I hate cowards.
People that stand behind the wall of anonymity and accuse, trying to humiliate or shame someone into their false doctrine of little c-Christianity.
So to you “Standing for Truth” (scroll to the comments section) I have a message.
I stand by what I say Mr. or Mrs. “Standing For Truth” – Because I stand behind the Scripture that supports it.
Apparently Mr/Mrs. SFT was upset that my diligence in prayer and writing contributed to the memorial service for Lynn Messer was cancelled. (Although honored, I must say there were many, many people who fought for this disgraceful attempt to once again put Kerry Messer in the lime-light).
He also accused me of not being factual – SFT, I assure you – I had conversations with most all of those you mentioned in your response – so, I suggest YOU get your facts straight…
However, I will also add – that I did not need to talk to a single soul – The fact remains you have a wolf in your midst and in the name of justice for abuse victims everywhere- I will indeed fight for justice!
The Bible is very clear. We are not to harbor an unrepentant, adulterous, accused of murder, thieving, lying wolves in the midst of our flock!
Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore, do not become partners with them; for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light (Eph. 5:6-14).
SFT was also upset that I called Pastor McClain out for being the coward that he is. But might I remind the church – A church without discipline is a church without Christ.
Such a church is really hindering the Lord’s work and the advance of the gospel. The church without discipline is a church without purity (Eph. 5:25-27) and power (cf. Josh. 7:11-12a). By neglecting church discipline a church endangers not only its spiritual effectiveness but also its very existence. God snuffed out the candle of the church at Thyatira because of moral compromise (Rev. 2:20-24). Churches today are in danger of following this first-century precedent. (Laney, 1986).[1]
The Reformers reiterated this fact, stating that there were three essential elements for the effective, true church: 1. The preaching of Scripture; 2. The observance of baptism and the Lord’s Table; 3. The faithful practice of church discipline. Further, if any church refuses to practice church discipline, it is to be considered a church without power, pathetic, and a “non-church.”
Jesus Christ enlisted and anointed His church to guard the Gospel (Matt. 16:17-18) and his people (Heb. 13:17). By not casting out the abuser, the church is not protecting the flock from harm and corruption (1 Cor. 5: 9-13). Theologian John Dagg stated that “when discipline leaves a church, Christ goes with it.”[2]
Not only do I believe that by allowing Kerry Messer – or any other abuser to sit in the pew among the sheep is sinful – I hold the pastor completely responsible – but then again, so does God. But let me be clear – the congregation itself must stand up or not call themselves Christians – because that would be taking the name of the Lord in vain.
But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one. For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Is it not those inside the church whom you are to judge? God judges those outside. “Purge the evil person from among you.” (1 Cor. 5:11-13)
SFT blasted Kerry Messer as “a liar” – yet contended that “there was a distinct difference between welcoming someone and simply putting up with them and allowing them to sit in the pew during service.”
I contend that there is no such Biblical doctrine.
“Do not give what is holy to dogs, and do not throw your pearls before swine, or they will trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces” (Matt. 7:6).
Throughout the SFT rant – what was so amazing to me was how he/she was not protecting the wolf in their midst – but rather, justifying his presence. Here is what God says to abusive, adulterous, lying, murders like Kerry Messer:
“But to the wicked God says: ‘What right have you to recite my statutes or take my covenant on your lips? For you hate discipline and you cast my words behind you’” (Ps. 50:16-17).
So why have a memorial service at the church anyway? Why not just go to the grave site?
Oh… that’s right, because Kerry Messer took the body – unbeknownst of his own sons – Lynn Messer’s beloved boys – and buried her across state lines – where many of Lynn’s beloved friends cannot go to mourn her loss…
Having a memorial service for a woman like Lynn Messer would be honorable – But to do it at a church where the offender is attending? That is nothing but a disgrace and I am sincerely glad that God allowed me the honor of being a part of stopping it.
Therefore, SFT – Until men, abusers, offenders, domestic violence terrorists, are cast out of the church and de-funded by Christian organizations – and the church leads the charge, I will, under the leadership and direction of my husband – stand firm, immovable, unshaken, and faithful in rebuking those leaders such as Dr. McClain and the Missouri Baptist Convention, and you too – As a matter of fact, anyone who stands by as evil torments their flock.
I stake my eternal life on it.
[1] Laney, C. (1986). The biblical practice of church discipline. Bib Sac: (10) 354.
[2] John Dagg, A Treatise on Church Order, p. 274.
Holly T. Ashley is the founder of: Redemption. Restoration. Recovery. (R3) Under the direction and leadership of husband, David Ashley, R3 has been created as a domestic violence training program written by David Ashley, MAA, MDiv., Holly T. Ashley BS Psy., This training includes a Christ-centered teaching manual, class curriculum, and counseling guide for the church and ministries who wish to become domestic violence service providers. There is also an option to join a national network of Christian service providers including resources and referrals.
For more information on obtaining training for your church, please email Holly directly at: Holly@Redemption3.com or visit our website at www.Redemption3.com for information on our other workshops and educational opportunities.
R3 is a division of Cross Strength Ministries, A Christ-centered, non-profit 501c3 organization. You can donate to this ministry by clicking this link.
Please note that the views on this site are the sole opinions based on in depth study of the biblical texts by David and Holly T. Ashley.
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