They dress the wound of my people as though it were not serious, 'Peace, peace,' they say, when there is no peace. - Jeremiah 6:14
In this verse God was expressing to the prophet Jeremiah His extreme displeasure with the religious leaders of that day. These shepherds preached a sugar-coated message - light on sin. Instead of leading the people with the black & white mandates of God, they instead followed the people and preached only the ear-tickling and non-offensive version. As Israel's great Shepherd, it burdened God that His undershepherds were not communicating and policing His holy standards. Therefore, His flock was lost, scattered and sick - and their leaders were to blame.
As a modern-day undershepherd, I'm appalled by colleagues who preach only 'Peace, peace,' when our churches and society are under spiritual assault and in turmoil. I see more preachers trying to be hip than holy; riding the wave of every evangelical fad ripping their way. And just like in Jeremiah's day, the sheep suffer and the Great Shepherd seethes.
Friends, whether it's 'cool' or not, there is still a heaven to gain and a hell to shun. There is good news to be shared; however, what makes the good news good news is its contrast with bad news. Jesus preached on the subject of sin - shouldnt we?
As church leaders in a seeker-friendly craze, let's refuse to forget that God has spoken - and He didnt stutter! Its not about the number on your attendance chart; its instead about courageous leadership sharing and living the truth consistently in love.
Remember, leaders who follow sheep stink. Just look at their shoes! Let's instead strive for 'beautiful feet' (Romans 10:15).
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