On Accountability

I just made sure the leader of my presbytery (group of churches) has the email and phone numbers of the newly ordained elders on our church leadership board (Session).

I’m making sure those elders have his contact info, too.

This is very important to me. When an elder left us last year, with complaints against me, it was good that he talked with our elders and deacons, and with our presbytery leader, apart from me, and about me. A multitude of counselors can better ferret out the truth of things.

People should not be subject to the whims of one pastor, or charismatic or historical leader. Neither should they be at the whim of the majority. Presbyterian (in the church) and republican (in the state) accountability is best.

Have several levels and branches of authority that check each other. Include yourself in that system – you are not above it. Encourage your wife or older children to talk directly to your pastor or elders – even about you! Be eager to receive counsel from in-person, local authority figures you trust. If you don’t trust any, work to find some! Seek out their advice in your life.

Don’t go it alone, and don’t just rely on online voices. You need someone who knows you, who will listen to you, and who will give you specific advice on your situation. An online pastor or guru is good, but is NOT sufficient. Covid taught us this. Online relationships and church are not enough. Get involved with real people. Be part of a real community, where you aren’t the center of everything. Serve others.

This is the resurrection life spoken of in Acts 2:42-47.