Pastors, Politicians, Actors and Sex Scandals
We are living in a moment when many people are coming forward accusing famous individuals of sexual abuse and unwanted sexual advances. My intention is not to name names, to accuse or defend, or to judge on the quality of the evidence.
I will say that it is always wrong to make unwanted advances on anyone, male or female. Even if the activity never makes it to rape, it is still wrong.
In some ways it is sad that this is happening but in another way there is something good about people having the courage to step forward and not let shame stop them from speaking the truth. Victims are put under tremendous pressure to not accuse those who have hurt them. Hopefully these high profile cases will help others who will never be mentioned in the news.
Why do I bring this up?
I bring this up as a pastor, speaking to other pastors, church leaders, teachers and so on. We know that church leaders are not immune from this. Protestants better not spend their time focusing on Roman Catholic priests, because sexual abuse happens across all denominational lines, mainline and evangelical and charismatic.
Again, I want to emphasize that our goal should not be just to prevent rape, although that should be there. Some of the accusations that have been made may have never included any genital contact. In some cases, words were spoken, postures taken, situations arranged where one person used their power to make someone feel sexually intimidated.
Those responsible may have felt that they were innocent because they never intended to force sexual intercourse. That feeling was wrong. Sexual advances short of rape are still wrong.
I say this to emphasize that it is always wrong. But I also say this to say that things will always come to light. These politicians and actors have far more power than pastors and church leaders and events from long ago are being made public.
In everything we say and do, we should always assume that it will be made public to our families, our congregations and our larger community. We should never think that something we are doing, whether online or in person, is completely private and never will be shared. We must always ask if we are comfortable with our words and actions being made public. If we are not, it is a good reason not to do it.
It is unfortunate that accusations are on the rise. But let us as Christian leaders use this as an opportunity to take our stand to live upright lives in private as well as in public.
