a Holy and Just God?
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” – Matthew 7:15
This question shakes the hearts of many. People are wounded not by God, but by those who claim to represent Him. The contradiction is painful: how can someone preach humility, honesty, and holiness—yet live in greed, dishonor, and indulgence?
Let’s dig in, honestly and spiritually.
🔥 1. God Does Not Approve of Corruption, Even from Religious Leaders
From the days of Eli’s sons (1 Samuel 2:12–17) to the Pharisees in Jesus’ time (Matthew 23), Scripture shows us that not all who wear the robe are righteous. God rebukes spiritual leaders who misuse their position.
God is not silent. He judges corruption—even if the judgment is delayed.
Judgment delayed is not judgment denied.
🧠 2. Free Will Includes Preachers Too
Just like everyone else, pastors, priests, and prophets have the freedom to choose between right and wrong. God doesn’t force them to walk righteously. Many begin well but fall into pride or greed.
“Let the one who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.” – 1 Corinthians 10:12
God doesn’t override their will. He gives warnings, sends convictions, even raises voices against them—but some choose power over purity.
📜 3. People Often Follow Charisma Over Character
In 2 Timothy 4:3, Paul warns:
“For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.”
People sometimes elevate leaders based on gifts (preaching, healing, etc.) rather than fruit (love, humility, justice). The crowd may support corruption by blindly following without discernment.
📖 4. Jesus Already Warned Us This Would Happen
“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom… I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” – Matthew 7:21–23
Many false ministers will preach in His name, but their hearts are far from Him. We are not to be shocked, but to be watchful, discerning, and grounded in the Word.
✍️ Three Realistic Stories (Inspired and Reflective)
🧍♂️1. The Famous Prophet
He filled stadiums, prophesied accurately, and performed miracles. But he also abused his followers, demanded money for blessings, and lived in luxury while his congregation starved. Years later, hidden affairs and money scandals were exposed. Many left the faith—not because God failed—but because their faith was in the man, not the Master.
👩⚖️2. The Simple Woman
She lived in a poor village, quietly serving God, helping widows, and teaching children. A nearby preacher mocked her for not “sowing seeds” to his church. But her life bore fruits of love, joy, and peace. She died unknown—but heaven rejoiced. The true servants are often unseen by men but honored by God.
🧑🎓3. The Young Seeker
A university student saw pastors driving luxury cars, while church members were told to “give sacrificially.” Disillusioned, he turned to atheism. But later, a mentor challenged him to read the Gospels. There, he saw Jesus—humble, poor, yet powerful. He realized: Jesus is not defined by those who misuse His name.
🙏 Final Reflection:
God will judge all injustice—including that which happens in His name. Don’t let the counterfeit keep you from the real Christ. The Church has failures, yes, but Jesus remains pure.
Test the spirit. Follow the fruit. Worship the Lord—not the man with the microphone.