Weekend Snapshot - December 21

This week, someone asked about using quotes from pastors or other sources in messages. I thought it would be helpful to address this topic here. You may or may not agree with my perspective, but I hope this gives you insight into where I’m coming from.

When I use a quote from someone, I’m endorsing the quote—not everything they’ve ever said or believed. For example, I’ve quoted Pastor Benjamin Cremer many times regarding how Christ-followers should approach politics. I find him to be one of the most insightful and wise voices on that subject. However, I don’t agree with him on everything, and I wouldn’t endorse every word he’s ever said. Honestly, I wouldn’t even endorse everything I’ve said over the years! I’ve been right, and I’ve been wrong. I’d caution against dismissing everything someone says just because you disagree with them on one issue. Proverbs 2:6 reminds us, “All wisdom comes from the LORD, and so do common sense and understanding” (CEV).

For instance, I often reference the Psalms in my messages. Many were written by David, a man who committed heinous sins, including rape. Yet I continue to share the wisdom of his words, separating the truths he spoke from the actions I don’t condone in his life. If a flawed person shares something wise and useful, should it be invalidated because of their flaws? Doesn’t that contradict what Proverbs says about wisdom coming from God?

It’s true that many pastors, unfortunately, have fallen into sin, including abuse and adultery. Bill Hybels, for example, was a ministry hero of mine and had a significant impact on my journey to becoming a pastor. He shared incredible wisdom and insight during his ministry, but we later learned about his abuse of power and mistreatment of women. Do we dismiss everything he said because of his failures? Some might, but I choose not to. When I use a quote of his, it’s not an endorsement of his entire life or ministry—it’s an endorsement of the specific idea or insight that aligns with God’s truth.

The alternative—refusing to cite the source—is even more problematic. I want to give credit where it’s due, even if it’s to someone with whom I have disagreements. So, my encouragement to you, as people tasked with listening and wisely discerning, is this: Let’s not discard all of someone’s contributions because of one area of disagreement or failure. I believe God can still use flawed people to speak wisdom to us, just as He can use their words to convey truth.

If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out. I’m easy to find and always happy to respond.

See you this weekend!

Pastor John