189: When Leaders Fall with Dr. Josh Zeichik

This week on Real Talk with Rachael, I’m speaking with Dr. Josh Zeichik. Josh is the Director of Church Engagement for Focus on The Family. With experience in youth ministry and church planting, he oversees their pastoral ministry, The Focused Pastor. He holds a DMin in Biblical Counseling from Midwestern Baptist Theology Seminary. Key Points from Our Conversation: Although media coverage of prominent church leader failures affects trust in clergy, not all pastors are leading double lives. Most pastors are sincere in their service to God. The early church faced similar challenges, with warnings of false teachers and leaders who exploited people. Today, it's not necessarily a rise in such issues but increased awareness. Every pastor sins, but not every sin is the same. The way the church responds should depend on the severity of the issue, with criminal actions treated differently than personal failings. When church members experience hurt from pastoral leadership, it can lead to doubt, mistrust, and even cynicism. Doubt is natural, but the Bible encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to show mercy to those struggling. The term "spiritual abuse" is frequently used, but "sinful pastoral leadership" may be a more accurate term to describe a spectrum of behaviors where pastors either exploit their position for personal gain or fail to live morally according to their teachings. Just like identifying counterfeit money, we must understand the biblical qualifications for pastors to discern unhealthy leadership. Most qualifications are based on character, not just skills. we often prioritize charismatic speakers, but Scripture highlights the importance of a pastor’s integrity, relationships, and spiritual life. Pastors must have a structure of accountability, like elders or deacons, who regularly check in on their personal and spiritual lives. Isolated pastors without accountability are in dangerous positions. It’s important to differentiate between personal preferences and clear sin when dealing with church leaders. Not every disagreement is a sign of sin. If a pastor refuses to repent privately, there is a biblical precedent for public confrontation. This isn’t gossip but a necessary step when sin is unaddressed. Congregants need to be in the Word to recognize false teaching. Knowing Scripture personally helps you validate what is taught in the church. We all have a role to play in studying the Bible. Don’t rely solely on Sunday sermons; engage with Scripture personally to grow in faith and discernment. Even when hurt by leadership, we are called to forgive. Holding onto bitterness can hinder spiritual growth, even if the pastor never seeks reconciliation. When dealing with victims of pastoral abuse, it's important to start with compassion, just as Jesus showed in Matthew 9. Even if a victim’s reaction may not be Christlike, their hurt is valid and should be acknowledged and heard with patience. The book of Jude offers vital guidance on addressing false leaders who misuse their authority. We must protect other victims while maintaining a spirit of mercy, and avoiding bitterness or vindictiveness. Even when justice feels delayed, God remains faithful. Trust that He will bring justice in His timing. Let’s Get Real Practical: Don't be afraid to ask good questions Share the resources at TheFocusedPastor.org Pray for your pastors Connect with Josh: website | Instagram | Facebook Connect with Rachael: website | Instagram | Facebook