Blame Game

"Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: "The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat. So you must obey them and do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach." Matthew 23:1-3 (NIV)

This is a very powerful scripture where Jesus Christ was speaking. While reading Matthew 23, the first three verses struck me. They describe what is happening today. Most of our pastors and elders in the Church are like what is described here. They have a place of authority, and they teach the Word of God - but they do not practice any of the teachings they teach. Some have even gone further and given wrong teachings! But what does Jesus say to address this issue?
He says that we MUST obey them. As Paul writes severally in scripture, that we should submit to authority - and even go ahead and pray for them. One may argue and say, "But what if their teaching is false?" Well, if it is false according to scripture, then follow God's Word on the matter/teaching. Do your research and ask God to show you the right way. And He will.
Jesus Christ also says that we should do what they say and not what they do. Many Christians have fallen because they blame their pastors for misleading them by example. Well, each individual will give an account of himself before the Lord. One cannot say, because my pastor committed adultery (for example), then I just did as he did. NO! The scripture is clear on what God expects of us and we cannot blame our church leaders for our mistakes.
This is an encouragement to us. That we follow the Lord, and if the church and its leadership is sinful, we have an opportunity to make the difference for ourselves - obeying the Lord and following His instructions to us.

Every day make a point of meeting with the Lord, that He may show you the right way. For these are evil days.

Be encouraged!