Church Scandals

For several years now the Catholic Church has been rocked by scandals. Literally hundreds of individuals have come forth claiming to have been sexually abused by their priests. Many of them were children at the time the abuse occurred. It seems that the crimes not only happened, but that a deliberate attempt was made to cover them up. Huge financial settlements have been reached with some of the victims, but the problem seems to be so widespread that some dioceses simply lack the financial resources to compensate victims. Compounding the problem is the realization that some of those involved were allow to continue in the priesthood long after their sins were discovered.

The Catholic Church is not the only religious institution to be scarred by the immoral and criminal conduct of its leadership. Protestant institutions have also had their share of scandals. No one claiming allegiance to Christ can take delight in these kinds of things. I know my Catholic friends are just as shocked and saddened by these things as we all are. There is no defense for what has happened, and no defense for those who knew about the problem and failed to take action.

Only the devil and those who side with him can take delight in these kinds of things. I’m sure there are many who see what has unfolded in relationship to these scandals as an indictment of all religion. Those in whom they placed their greatest trust proved untrustworthy. This is not new, nor is it an isolated problem. It is always a mistake to put too much trust in men. Long ago David wrote: “It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in princes” (Psalm 118:8-9). Men sometimes disappoint us, but God never does.

We would all be better served by listening more to God and less to men. From a Scriptural perspective, there is no special virtue in celibacy. Those who argue that there is are in error (1 Timothy 4:1-3). May God help us to put our faith in Him and in His word. He has given us His will in written form. We can read, understand and respond to it.

Salvation:  Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully