This is the true story of a church in America's Bible Belt, the First Christian Church in Florissant, Missouri--a church with a meager beginning and record of steady growth for forty-nine years until the weight of sexual abuse charges against a youth minister left it, and its congregation, broken. This is a case history and analysis of those events.
This is for the victims. —Joy S. Taylor, Author
Come along with me through discussion of characteristics of churches and pastors that tend to operate this way under the threat of misconduct exposure. Let’s look at common techniques of leadership during the cover-up process.
Lord Jesus, hated, despised by men and nations, crucified for your perfection, buried in a borrowed tomb, and arisen to your appointed throne. You paid our ransom to free us from sin and death. You rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. You return as King of Kings and Lord of lords. That day draws nearer…
Today is a beautiful day, because God indicates man will hate Jesus, yet a time comes when He will be recognized and honored as God’s chosen One, “Thus says the LORD, the Redeemer of Israel and his Holy One, to one deeply despised, abhorred by the nation, the servant of rulers: ‘Kings shall see and…
Father, I have anchors in the upheaval of current events that keep me focused and sane. Your Word is trustworthy and true. Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life. I stand on this rock that is higher than I. I lean on Jesus as a firm foundation. Thank you in His name and…
Today is a beautiful day, because God declares, “For thus says the Lord, who created the heavens (he is God!), who formed the earth and made it (he established it; he did not create it empty, he formed it to be inhabited!): ‘I am the Lord, and there is no other. I did not speak…
Creator God, You are so lovingly patient to hear my prayers and answer my questions. This verse reminds me of your sovereignty and that my prayers are requests and petitions. I don’t want them to become ‘to do’ or ‘don’t do’ lists, demands on your performance. I come with a humble spirit to request your…
Today is a beautiful day, because God extols His position as Creator, “Thus says the Lord, the Holy One of Israel, and the one who formed him: ‘Ask me of things to come; will you command me concerning my children and the work of my hands?’” (Isaiah 45: 11 ESV) Thus says the LORD #joyinverse…
Father, You claim a number of your titles in this one verse. You are the LORD. You are the King of Israel. You are the Redeemer of Israel. You are the Lord of Hosts. You are the first. You are the Last. You are the One True God. There is no other god. You are…
Today is a beautiful day, because God declares, “Thus says the Lord, the King of Israel and his Redeemer, the Lord of hosts: ‘I am the first and I am the last; besides me there is no god.’” (Isaiah 44: 6 ESV) Thus says the LORD #joyinverse #blessedthisdayandeveryday
Father, I always want to be in the circle of your will. Allow me to perceive your great works. Let me remember those from the past that keep me on the right path. Open my eyes to see the new You are working on now. I pray in the name and authority of Jesus, according…
Today is a beautiful day, because “Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, who brings forth chariot and horse, army and warrior; they lie down, they cannot rise, they are extinguished, quenched like a wick: ‘Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of…
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