Well-Intentioned Dragons

 ARTICLE TOOLS

Find similar articles
E-mail this page
Toggle highlighting

Dragons are best known for what comes out of their mouths. At times their mouths are flame throwers; other times the heat and smoke are not apparent, but the noxious gas does the damage. Their tongues may be smooth, but they are usually forked.

The tongues of church dragons also wreak destruction. James compares the tongue to the small spark that sets a great forest ablaze. Pastors also know the dangers of verbal sparks in a tinder-dry congregation. In most cases, the fire eventually singes the pastor in some sort of personal attack.

These personal attacks, however, rarely start with a direct clash. The would-be attacker usually begins a covert warfare, going to others in the congregation, seeking those of like mind, those who deal in dissent.

Then, like the serpent in Genesis 3, the strategy is one of planting questions in people's minds, at first seemingly innocent questions, but with the result of raising doubts about the pastor's competence, credibility, ministry, or motives. One pastor's experience illustrates the complexities of dragon warfare and the damage these personal attacks can bring.

Gordon Landis first became aware of the undercurrents of dissension during the building program. He knew any building program puts stress on a congregation and produces criticism, but in this case, one of his decisions, made with good intentions, was coming back to haunt him.

In the six years since Gordon and his wife, Sarah, had planted Pebble Mountain Baptist, the church had grown to 250 members, and everyone recognized the need for a new facility. That wasn't the problem. Neither ...

Already a member? Login here:
E-mail  Password

---

Like the preview? To read this complete article
and 18,013 more in the archive—JOIN NOW!

Easily find high-quality, well-researched materials that provide a Christian perspective on topics ranging from headlines to history.

Start using this invaluable tool TODAY for preparing your Bible studies, presentations, class lectures, sermons, meetings, and more.

It's easy and quick to join:

2-for-1 Deal. Two powerful resources for 1 great price!
A 1-Year Membership to CTLibrary & a 1-year print subscription to the magazine of your choice! Enjoy your
first 7days online FREE!
Only $49.95

1-Year Membership
Plus your first 7 days are FREE! You won't be charged until after your free trial.
Only $49.95

1-Month Membership
Includes automatic renewal each month.
Only $9.95

1-Year for Print Subscribers
Special offer if you are currently a print subscriber to Christianity Today, Leadership journal, Books & Culture or Christian History & Biography.
Only $29.95 first year

Brought to You by Christianity Today Int'l

 FREE e-Newsletter!

Even if you're not a member you can take advantage of the free "Christian News & Research" twice monthly e-newsletter!

Sign up today for the FREE e-newsletter!
 

Note: Members also automatically receive this free e-newsletter.

Subscribe!

Risk-free trial issue

Give a gift subscription

Shopping

ChristianBook.com
  Books|Music|Videos|Gifts

Bible Studies
Christian History
Leadership Training
Small Group Resources
Libreréa Cristiana

Featured Items

Free Newsletter

Sign up for the Leadership Weekly newsletter today! Each week, you'll receive illustrations, resources, practical advice, and a devotional for the leader's soul.