Weekly Journal for Week ______
Your Name
Part I: Learning Journal
1. The difference between trouble-makers and antagonists
Based on the video lecture, I was able to comprehend the difference between those who are
potential antagonists, based on the 21 Red-Flags, and trouble-makers who are unregenerate
members or those called to ministry, but have refused to surrender to the call. In the church I
am serving, our chairman of deacons shared with me that he felt called to the ministry during
college. However, other than doing pulpit supply, he has never pursued or prepared for
ministry. The previous two pastors resigned due to conflicts with this deacon. As a result of
this lecture, I will be prayerfully preparing to talk with him. (104 words)
2. Name of second key concept or insight goes here:
100-120 words for the first two key concepts or insights
3. Matthew 18, A Life or Death Matter
I had never notice the transition in Matthew 18:14 that connects the stumbling block passages
(vs. 7-14) to the confrontation passage in vs. 15-19. If more leaders understood this
significance, along with the fact that God’s Word provides other passages than Matthew 18
to promote unity through disciple, the result would be healthier congregations. I, for one,
have never heard a study on this topic until today. (67 words)
4. Name of concept or insight with 40-70 word summary for each
5. Name of concept or insight with 40-70 word summary for each
Part II: Confessions of a Church Felon Review
1. Describe you feeling when you read os of these true stories? Are you angry, sad,
depressed or HURT. Why? (Page 13)
In 2000, my parents were scammed of their whole retirement by a Ponzi scheme facilitated
by a church member and endorsed by the unsuspecting pastor. Most church leaders seem to
have little awareness how the devil works.
2. What counsel and comfort would you offer to a church of ministry that has just
discovered fraud? (Page 13)
Be honest. Do not overreach the facts, which are often not fully known in the early discovery
phase. At the same time, remind people that action will be taken. I would schedule a “town
hall” type meeting, bringing in the appropriate persons (treasurer, other church leadership,
police…if they are involved, or an insurance company representative). This is also a time for
much prayer. I hope the book will provide additional insights to this question.
3. What would your first sermon be to the congregation the Sunday after the fraud
became public knowledge? Why? (Page 13)
This is a great question. This is one of the rare times I would change my schedule. When
Jesus was betrayed, He modeled several characteristics that apply to the situation. He was
truthful, at times he was silent on matters, and he kept the focus on His ultimate purpose.
Thus, a message from the select passages from the first Lord’s supper to the crucifixion
would help members understand that betrayal happens even when we are in God’s will. The
application points will also help the church know how the leadership is responding to the
crisis.
4. Does the money handling process leave your church vulnerable to fraud? How open is
your church to changes that are needed to safeguard the church? (29)
After talking to the church treasurer, I found that two signatures are required, but when one
of the “signers” is on vacation, the other “pre-signs” several checks. The money counters are
the same that have been doing this for over four years. When I mentioned my class and the
recommended changes, the treasurer responded, “we’ve never had a problem.” Thus, I do not
believe the church is open to this change, but that is not an adequate reason to not raise the
issues and concerns.
