Author: jwpestell

Safeguarding can sometimes make Christians nervous. For some, it could be yet another example of secular culture imposing itself on the Church. For others, it is associated with bureaucracy,  policies, training courses and DBS checks. But safeguarding shouldn’t begin with government legislation or church policy. It should begin with the character of God and teaching of His all-sufficient Word.

The impact of an increasingly post-Christian society and greater awareness seems to be leading to more safeguarding issues being identified or even an overall increase in cases to deal with. 

Safeguarding is not a lack of faith in our God

I have recently heard it said that a church which has a safeguarding policy clearly does not believe in a God that keeps and protects His people, by His omnipotent power. But this is not what we read in God’s Word. We are not to go into battle only with faith, but with the whole armour of God. We pray, we trust and we take practical steps to avoid unnecessary risks and use God-given wisdom. We do not leave a fire unguarded knowing its danger and power.

God cares for the vulnerable

Throughout God’s Word, The Lord is concerned for those who are vulnerable and easily exploited. The Old Testament speaks of the widow, the orphan and stranger. The Lord is described as the One who “executeth judgment for the oppressed” Psalm 146:7, while Proverbs warns against moving ancient landmarks and oppressing the vulnerable.

God’s character is always to be righteous, just and compassionate. The Church therefore cannot claim to reflect the character of God while being indifferent to the safety and welfare of people within its fellowship.

James gives us a searching definition of “pure religion”: “to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction” James 1:27. True religion is not merely about what we believe, but about how our beliefs shape the way we build relationships and treat the needy. Safeguarding belongs in that framework.

Shepherds are called to protect

The Pastoral language of the Bible makes this even clearer. Peter exhorts elders to “feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof”. A shepherd does not merely feed sheep; he watches over them. He recognises danger. He protects the vulnerable. He does not deliberately place them in situations where they are likely to be harmed.

Paul similarly warns the Ephesian elders that they must take heed both to themselves and to the flock Acts 20:28. His concern was not simply that the church should have correct doctrine, but that the people of God should be protected from those who might seek to exploit them. That has profound implications for pastoral ministry today. Church leaders who take safeguarding seriously are not becoming less trusting of God’s people. They may be seeking, however imperfectly, to honour God-given responsibilities to watch over the flock. 

Love requires wisdom

There is sometimes a false choice between being a loving church and being a careful church. We should not accept the idea that Christian love means assuming that everyone is safe simply because they profess to be Christians. 

At the same time, we should remember that many people who serve faithfully in churches do so with sincere motives and a genuine desire to care for others. Wise safeguarding is not about casting suspicion on everyone, but about creating conditions in which trust can be exercised responsibly.

Scripture itself warns us to be discerning. Jesus told His disciples to be “wise as serpents, and harmless as doves” Matthew 10:16. Paul warned the Ephesian elders that “grievous wolves” could arise even from among those associated with the church Acts 20:29–30. Biblical love therefore includes discernment.

We do not safeguard because we believe everyone is dangerous. We do so because we recognise that people are sinners, power can be abused and vulnerable people deserve protection. We also recognise that abuse can leave deep and lasting wounds. Those who have suffered may find it difficult to speak, may fear not being believed, or carry shame that does not belong to them. They need patience, respect and compassionate support, not pressure to tell their story before they are ready.

Neither should safeguarding become an excuse for suspicion, gossip or treating people as guilty without evidence. Justice requires fairness as well as protection. Allegations must be handled carefully, confidentially and appropriately. A person raising a concern should be listened to with seriousness and kindness, while the person accused should also be treated fairly and not subjected to rumour or premature judgment. Where there may be a risk of harm or a potential criminal matter, churches should seek appropriate professional advice and contact relevant authorities rather than attempting to investigate beyond their competence.

Legitimate concerns must never be dismissed because the person involved is respected or influential. Nor should survivors be made to feel that protecting the church’s reputation matters more than caring for them. The Church’s first response should be truth, humility and concern for those who have been harmed.

Safeguarding is more than paperwork

Good safeguarding certainly includes appropriate policies, safer recruitment, training and clear procedures for responding to concerns. These things matter. But they are a means, not the ultimate goal.

A church can possess a clear safeguarding policy and yet still have an unhealthy culture. The real question is: What happens when something goes wrong? Do people feel able to speak? Are concerns listened to? Are vulnerable people believed and supported? Are allegations taken seriously? Are appropriate authorities contacted when necessary? Are those in positions of responsibility willing to be accountable?

Previous articles in ET have rightly challenged churches to move beyond merely “box ticking” towards a genuine safeguarding culture.  When abuse has occurred, people may need time to grieve, ask difficult questions and rebuild trust. Churches should not rush to forgiveness, reconciliation or a renewed involvement in ministry. Christian hope is not served by minimising pain. It is served by bringing the truth into the light and offering patient, practical care.

Christ-like Care

Safeguarding should be understood through the person of the Lord Jesus Christ. He always demonstrated deep tenderness towards those who were vulnerable. He welcomed children, noticed those who society overlooked, defended the oppressed and confronted religious leaders who used their position to burden others. His words regarding children are especially solemn: “Whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me…” Matthew 18:6.

The Church should ask not just “What does the law require?” but, “What does Divine love and wisdom require of us?”. It requires us to think carefully, act wisely, establish appropriate boundaries, listen to concerns, exercise proper accountability and put the welfare of the vulnerable before church reputation. That is not capitulation to the spirit of the age. It is the application of biblical wisdom to the realities of life in a fallen world.

A Pastoral Responsibility

Safeguarding must be embraced as part of faithful pastoral ministry. We recognising that every person is made in the image of God. We are to love our neighbour, and protect those who may be vulnerable. Authority must be exercised responsibly, by “doing justice, loving mercy and walking humbly with our God” Micah 6:8. Our goal surely is to create a culture of trust, openness, accountability and care.

A healthy church should be a place where children are safe in Sunday School, deaf or vulnerable adults are respected, those who have suffered abuse are heard and supported, and those entrusted with spiritual leadership open to accountability. It should also be a place where leaders can acknowledge our faults, weaknesses and mistakes, receive help and respond to concerns with humility rather than defensiveness. 

The Church does not safeguard because it has lost confidence in Scripture and abandoned a living faith in the unseen “Sovereign Protector”. We safeguard because we believe Scripture—and because we desire our churches to reflect the character of the God whom Scripture reveals?

Safeguarding is not “Wokeism” it is wisdom

At its heart, safeguarding is about protecting the Lord’s name and His honour. It protects people from harm, takes seriously the vulnerability of others and ensures that those entrusted to our care are treated with dignity, compassion and justice. These are not secular values the Church has reluctantly adopted. They are thoroughly biblical concerns.

Do you have “Mere Religion” or “A Relationship With God”?

“Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this…” James 1:27

When we visit Bedford Prison to conduct weekly Bible Studies, we are often amazed how many of the prisoners ask us for necklaces or crosses for them to wear. It seems in prison because of their plight, many men suddenly “become religious”. They then perceive some usefulness, value and comfort from physical symbols of religion. We gently point out that all our spiritual needs can be met in Jesus Christ and we have no need of physical icons.

What do you think of when you hear the word religion? Perhaps you think of attending church, saying prayers, reading the Bible, being baptised, keeping certain traditions or trying to live a good life. But is Christianity simply a religion? Or is it something more—a genuine and personal relationship with God, that cannot remain private?

The Bible gives us a searching answer. It teaches that there can be religion without a true relationship with God. But it also teaches that a genuine relationship with God will produce true religion in our lives. A true religion that is seen, has beliefs and transforms.

Are you religious?
Maybe you think a religious person is someone who considers they are better than most others. But the reality of Christianity is that we have accepted God’s statements about our hearts and lives, that we are not better than others. We all fall short and are sinners.

Religion can be outward but empty
The word “religion” in the Bible refers to outward religious practices and observance. It is not a bad word as such, but it can be. Paul used it when describing his former life as a strict Jew. He says that he had “profited (advanced) in the Jews’ religion” Galatians 1:14. He was zealous, sincere and deeply committed to his religious beliefs. Yet he did not know Christ.

The Pharisees provide another sobering example. They were extremely religious. They prayed, fasted, gave to the poor and knew the Scriptures. Yet Jesus said: “This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me” Matthew 15:8.

Their religion was outwardly impressive, but inwardly their hearts were far from God. This is a warning to us all. It is possible to attend church regularly and never truly know Christ. It is possible to know the words of the Bible without knowing the God of the Bible. It is possible to practise Christianity outwardly while remaining unchanged inwardly.

Religion cannot save us
Religious activity cannot remove our sin or secure a place in heaven for us personally. Paul had an impressive religious background, yet after coming to Christ he considered his former religious credentials as loss “for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus” Philippians 3:7–8. Salvation is not earned by our religious works. Titus 3:5: “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us.” The Gospel does not call us to become more religious. It calls us to repent of our sin and trust in Jesus Christ. Our greatest need is not to become or improve our religion but to be reconciled to God.

Christianity is knowing Christ
Jesus did not come to destroy organised religion. He described eternal life in terms of knowing God: “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent” John 17:3. Paul’s great desire: “That I may know him (Christ)” Philippians 3:10. This is far more than knowing facts about Jesus. It is to know Him as Saviour and Lord, trusting Him, loving Him, belonging to Him and walking with Him. A Christian says, not merely, “I believe Christianity is true,” but, “I am a sinner, yet I have trusted Christ. He has forgiven me. I belong to Him.”

True religion starts with reconciliation to God through Christ on His terms
But how can sinful people have a relationship with a holy God? The answer is by Christ. Our sin has separated us from God, but Christ came into the world to save sinners. Through His death and resurrection, He accomplished the work necessary to reconcile sinners to God. Romans 5:1 declares: “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” The Christian relationship with God does not begin with our efforts to climb up to God. It begins with God’s grace reaching down to us in Christ, causing us to desire Him and come to Him and the cross in repentance and faith.

“Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it.”
1 Corinthians 3:12,13

Intro: In the US originally, and more recently in the UK , a new format of church developed in the 1970’s , which was wholly unbiblical. This new kind of church grew rapidly for several decades, but in the last decade , and especially since Covid , seems to be declining .

Definition: Protestant congregations, with average attendance of 2,000 + each week, a focus on a diet of stage performed, man-centred (sometimes outrageous) entertainment.

Our Aim: Explore the historical rise, characteristics, influence, challenges, and more recent decline of megachurches in the United States and the lessons that can be learned

1. Rise of Megachurches

After World War II the religious landscape in the US changed rapidly. Cultural and societal changes led to consumerist churches. To meet the desires of consumers scale was seen to be essential to be taken seriously. New technologies, radio, TV and the internet gave rise to a generation of celebrity Pastors and performers who could be exalted more easily.

2. Key Features of Megachurch Growth

Innovation: Use of emerging technologies, contemporary worship styles

Global Reach and Influence: American megachurches influenced global church practices

Cultural Relevance: Methods address societal issues, offer personal development plans

Celebrity Culture: 1 Corinthians 3:3–7

3. Notable Megachurches and their Founders:

i) Willow Creek, Illinois: Founded by Bill Hybels in 1975

Known for “seeker-sensitive” model, with neighbourhood questionnaires used to determine what would make people go to church, then, simply give them what they want. Peak attendance 25k, focussed on creating worship services that were accessible, relevant, and engaging for those unfamiliar with traditional church. This included contemporary music, and a welcoming environment.

ii) Saddleback, California : Founded by Rick Warren in 1980

Noted for “Purpose Driven” books ; as Saddleback grew, it launched multiple campuses. Church known for innovative approach to ministry and large-scale events.

iii) Lakewood, Texas: Led by Joel Osteen, succeeding his father in 1999

Known for TV evangelism, 16k seat stadium; promotes message aligning with “prosperity gospel” teaching faith in God leads to personal success, health, and prosperity. Sermons focus on positive affirmations and practical steps for personal growth and fulfilment.

iv) Mars Hill, Washington St: Founded by Mark Driscoll, rapid growth in 2000’s, multi-site. 

By 2013, Mars Hill was one of largest churches in the US, with about 15 locations.

v) Hillsong: Founded by Brian Houston in 1983 in Australia in S Africa, UK, US

Network of churches, also onitially known as Sydney Christian Life Centre, the church was renamed Hillsong in 1999. Gained popularity for its worship music style, sold globally.

4. Challenges

High-Profile Scandals (Moral, Abuse, Financial) involving key pastors : Bill Hybels (Willow Creek), Ted Haggard (New Life Church), Carl Lentz (Hillsong), Mark Driscoll (Mars Hill), Robert Tilton (TV Evangelist), Jimmy Swaggart (TV)

Other Challenges: The celebrity leader model led to difficult transitions when the leader fell and a business model requir ing growth to sustain ministry and production teams .

5. Decline of Some Megachurches 2020+

Whilst cracks began to emerge following various scandals, amongst the well -known founders and leaders of these churches, in hindsight the Covid -19 pandemic was a turning point. Since the pandemic, there seems to have been an accelerating decline in the US megachurch model. Many previous attendees have not returned to worship, with congregations and income falling. Were the majority of attendees ever truly converted?

6. Reasons for Megachurch Decline ~ 1 Corinthians 3:12-15

i) Many who attended these megachurches had only a superficial hold on God’s truth

ii) Diet of entertainment, music and performance does not satisfy – only Word of God

iii) Cultural and Generational Shifts – changed and better priorities among Gen-Z

iv) Erosion of trust – large churches lack personal accountability and personal connection

v) Digital Fatigue – Covid gave rise to “easy worship” from sofas by internet surfers

7. Lessons Learned

1. Authentic Preaching & Prayer: The New Testament church pattern has only two principle methods:- i) preaching the Word of God, to young and old, and ii) fervent prayer

2. Life -changing Gospel: The Gospel changes lives, enabling believers to take our chief delights from God and His word. We no longer need or want to be merely entertained .

3. Scale: The New Testament pattern was to plant many churches, where the providence of God (e.g. persecution, circumstances) permitted, not to build megachurches.

4. Churches are Not Businesses: The Local church is pictured as a flock, and a family, and should never be so big that individuals are easily lost and uncared for.

5. God-given Governance: Churches & individuals need Biblical governance & membership, which provide God-given checks and balances. No Pastor should be a law to himself. We are subject to i) one another EpHesians 5:21 ii) those with the rule over us Hebrews 13:17

6. Celebrity Pastors: Elevating Pastors to be worthy of personal praise and adulation is idolatry. Pastors are but “humble servants”, who must not practice self-adulation. John 3:30

7. New or Old: New is rarely better, and innovation needs careful consideration as to its real motive, its true impact and whether the purpose is pleasing to God

Conclusion: We take no joy in plotting this development; many have unwittingly been caught up by it, and many harmed. We look to our Sovereign God to overrule. God’s Word describes and prescribes the pattern for the Local Church. We are to follow His ways and not deviate.

Human beings are all religious. Whether we admit it or not. Religion is defined as “the belief in and worship of a supreme power or person”. Our world has an estimated 10,000 distinct religions. The sheer variety and number of religions is bewildering and confusing.

The question we must ask is whether we our religion is true, real, and transformative of our lives or false, powerless and damaging. 

This is a question Christians are often asked. Those who claim not to believe in God ask it and blame Him. Without any other credible explanation they leave this troubling problem at the door of God, the One they claim not to believe in. Yet the answer is clear. The Bible tells us that this is a fallen world. All of us are sinners. The world is therefore under a curse which shows itself by “man’s terrible inhumanity to man”.

Why so much war and suffering?

War has been a constant feature of history. It has caused loss and suffering on a huge scale. Some 60-70 million died in the 1st and 2nd world wars.  Even in the 21st century, with amazing science, all the incredible technology available and our collective wisdom, we have been unable to prevent war.  The United Nations and other valiant efforts have mostly failed. Some 2,000 years ago, The Lord Jesus Christ powerfully and accurately predicted this. 

Deep down, all of us know that we are sinners. Some try to deny the fact of their own sin, hide it, or pretend to be good. But the Bible tells us, that there is none righteous, no, not one. Sin is the breaking of God’s laws, and it leaves a stain upon us which we call guilt. The question is not whether we are sinners, but can God forgive me and how can I be forgiven?

We all break God’s laws

Why do we need God’s forgiveness? Because we do bad things. Why is that a problem? Because our thoughts, words and actions all have consequences. They determine what kind of people we are. What’s the worst thing you’ve ever done? Have you lied or cheated in a relationship or even worse? God is never deceived. He sees us. He knows all our actions and motives. One day we will be held to account for everything we have done and what we are as a person.

“If I receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater. This is the witness of God which he hath testified of His Son. He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself.” 1 John 5: 9,10

How can I be sure I am a Christian?

A question often asked. One we must answer clearly and objectively to encourage those who are unsure or those who have doubts about their personal salvation.

• It’s relevant for those who believe but have no evidence of salvation => a false convert
• It’s also relevant for those who believe but have no assurance => a true believer

How can I be sure that I am a true believer? Is it even possible to know with clarity? Perhaps I am just one of those who will go through life never really knowing?

Assurance => confidence based on clear evidence for my personal salvation through the work of Jesus Christ; the Apostle in 1 John writes 16 times “we know”  about salvation.

However, in the Bible’s order of the steps of salvation ~ assurance does not come first:

1. We are first Awakened to feel our need of a Saviour and salvation from sin.
2. We then come under personal Conviction of our sin and feel our guilt before God.
3. We come to Christ in Repentance and Faith by prayer; we turn away from our sin, and trust in Christ’s shed blood and His substitutionary righteousness, offered on the cross.
4. We will be given by the Lord a measure of Assurance and peace when we are converted; but as we grow more like Christ so we will experience a growing assurance of our faith.
5. We will be Glorified when Christ returns; then we will be made gloriously like Christ.

We must encourage all true believers; but some who may be struggling to know where they stand; until now they may not have any real assurance. You may already have been awakened by the Holy Spirit, come under conviction of sin, repented of sin and exercised faith in Christ, yet not experienced real joy and peace.

7 Objective Tests: To be used to establish where we stand before Christ and if we are saved:

1. ATTITUDE TO SIN: Do I hate my personal sin? Do I have a love for God and want to pursue life as He commands? (1 John 2:15, 29; 3:18, 19, Acts 2:37,38)
2. UNDERSTANDING THE BIBLE: Do I love God’s word? Does it give me understanding and growing light? (1 John 5:11-13, Acts 2:42)
3. A FAMILY BOND: Do I desire to be with God’s people in fellowship? Do I seek a covenant relationship with them? (1 John 3:13, 14, Acts 2)
4. PRAYER: Do I pray and know answers to prayer? Do I know God’s blessing when I ask in child-like faith in accordance with His will? (1 John 3:22, Acts 2, Galatians 4:6)
5. TELLING OTHERS: Do I want to confess Christ as Lord and Saviour to others? Do I walk with the Lord in obedience to Him? (1 John 4:15)
6. A NEW HEART: Do I have a new heart which seeks to live a pure life bearing real fruits of Godly character? Do I hate the world and its ways? (1 John 3:3, Acts 2:46-47)
7. ATTACKS: Do I experience doubts sometimes? Do I also believe that Christ has overcome Satan and the world and so will I, if I  trust in Him and pray for His help? (1 John 4:4)

If we can answer yes to these questions, it will give us assurance that Christ does indeed already live within our hearts. We can be sure we are saved = the witness of God within.