Pastors Calling Out Pastors/Churches

Like many others on social networking platforms, I find myself drawn into watching reels or short form videos. Given my what I do, I come across quite a few church messages from pastors, both nationally (perhaps internationally) known and some that are not. While I find it refreshing to hear other messages, I have recently noticed something disturbing in many of these messages that turns me off to speakers who do this. The first reel I listened to today had the pastor begin his message with, “I believe hell is going to be filled with pastors.” I quickly moved on to the next reel, which featured some adult guys doing silly things, and found it much more enjoyable.

What I'm referring to is pastors speaking out against other pastors, other churches, and even nationally known ones criticizing others by name in their sermons. Other churches make broad generalizations about other churches regarding their messages, etc. This leaves me wondering, what is this really proving?

There's an old saying that holds true: those who point out the perceived flaws and imperfections in others, mock the way they dress, walk, talk, etc., are usually some of the most insecure people you'll ever meet. They're so uncomfortable with themselves that they need to point out the flaws in others and, sadly, many don't realize it because it has become such a part of who they are.

By writing this blog, one might argue, “Aren't you doing the very thing you're criticizing by pointing out others?” Not at all. In fact, I refuse to call out anyone on a state or national level because what would that accomplish? Years ago, a pastor called me out by name during a sermon and it was hurtful and confusing. The silver lining is that we made amends, forgave each other, and moved on.

Here's what I know: stick to the Bible. It doesn't matter what that pastor said or what that church is doing. That is between them and God. I can speak from experience because I fed into that negativity many years ago and it was unhealthy. Now, on most Sundays when church starts and we open in prayer, I pray for other churches, asking God to connect with each one in their own unique way. What good does it do for a pastor to criticize another pastor because they published a book that you don't agree with? What deep-seated issue is that pastor dealing with that they feel the need to draw attention to others? 

In the church world, our competition should never be other churches. Our competition is the world and we should be asking ourselves, what are we doing about it? Are we acting like children, pointing fingers, getting into verbal spats, claiming that our church is better than another's? That doesn't accomplish anything. In fact, it reinforces what many believe: that Christians can be very mean people. 

So, pastors, stop comparing and trying to undermine one church to make yours look good. Don't call out another pastor, just stick to the word of God and preach. Whether it's expository or topical preaching, just preach! Every Bible-believing church in a city and across the world is probably doing its best. Let's pray for each other, rather than casting stones.