Some Christians are more concerned about the rules and regulations of the Bible than they are about the people who are trying to follow Jesus. They act as spiritual police officers looking to cite anyone who commits a minor infraction. These people were around during Jesus’ time, as well. They were called the Pharisees, and Jesus asked them, “Whose side are you on?”
Matthew 12:30
“He who is not with Me is against Me; and he who does not gather with Me scatters.”
Looking Any Violation
It didn’t matter what Jesus did; the Pharisees had a problem with it. If He cast out a demon, He did it by Beelzebul. If He healed a man’s withered hand, He violated the Sabbath. They were looking for any violation to disqualify Jesus’ ministry because they thought they were the real authority. Jesus made it very clear, “If you’re not with Me, you’re against Me.” You need to be discerning of those in leadership you sit under.
Gather or Scatter
How do you tell if a leader is on Jesus’ side? There are a couple of indicators. First, do they exhibit the love of Jesus? The Bible tells us that we will be known by our love. If the leader is more about themselves and their position, than they are the people they minister to, that is a warning sign. Second, do they gather the people or scatter? By this, I mean, is there always division swirling around them, or are they working to unify the body.
Whose Side Are You On?
If you are in a church or ministry where things are not right, I encourage you to find a Bible-teaching church where loving people welcome you. Look for humility in the leadership and a servant’s mentality in the people. Those who are for Christ want to see Him glorified, and the lost come to know Him.