Gospel

Scandals

by Mark Trodd
06/25/22
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We have all been shocked by the revelations of child abuse regularly reported on the news, and by the findings of the Royal Commissions a few years ago.  The betrayal that these children experienced from adults in authority – including teachers, scout leaders, politicians, priests and pastors – was horrendous.  The trauma of their ordeal has been life altering, and no amount of compensation can reverse it – but the exposure of many perpetrators has given closure to some.  Where were the leaders willing to fight for the victims who could not fight for themselves?

Some prominent religious leaders have paid a heavy price for putting their reputation before the welfare of victims – preferring to suppress the truth rather than follow Jesus who declared that it is the truth that sets you free.   The tele-evangelist scandals of the 80’s, and the hypocrisy of some religious leaders more recently, has only added to the scandal, and brought contempt on the name of Jesus, and all that He taught. 

Jesus boldly confronted – and often offended – the religious hypocrites and hucksters of His day; and He consistently defended the people they were exploiting.  But they refused to repent and change their behaviour, preferring to undermine the good work Jesus was doing. They tried to ruin His reputation, and eventually made a deal with corrupt politicians to have Jesus put to death.

Yet Jesus said, “Father forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.”  He knew that His death – and resurrection – could save the worst of sinners, including those who murdered Him.

The infamous serial killer, David Berkowitz (son of Sam), was caught and given multiple life sentences back in 1978.  In prison, Berkowitz faced up to his wickedness and was truly sorry for what he did.  He made peace with God, apologized to his victims, and devoted his life to doing all he could to help prisoners get back on the straight and narrow.  Some rightly questioned his sincerity.  Others said, “So what! He still deserves to go to hell for what he did.” 

Compared to David Berkowitz, most of us look like saints, but being better than Berkowitz does not qualify you for heaven. 

We all need God’s grace – undeserved favour – because we have all sinned and fallen short of God’s standards.   When Jesus died on the cross, He took the sins of the whole world upon Himself – including yours and mine.  He offers forgiveness and hope to anyone who truly repents and follows Him – no matter who you are or what you have done.   This may seem scandalous to some, but none of us can get to heaven on our own merits.  We all need Jesus.

Jesus came to save sinners – including even David Berkowitz – and He wants to save you.   No one who comes to Him in genuine repentance and faith will be turned away. 

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9                                                                                                                         

Mark Trodd
[email protected]
www.writersforjesus.com