Lessons learned from Ted Haggard

Before I dig into some lessons we can learn from Ted Haggard, I must mention a couple of things. First, this post assumes you know about Ted Haggard, his fall, and his starting another church. Second, this post will not address “the scandal” or whether or not he should be pastoring a church. The latter should be discussed because it is important. However, that is not the focus of this post.

The Ted Haggard story serves as a warning to all pastors and leaders in the church. Everyone is only one choice–one sin–away from being in a similar situation to Haggard. I would contend that every Christian struggles with some sin; maybe not on such a large scale as Haggard, but a sin nonetheless. So I withhold my judgement, understanding my own heart and the capabilities I have to be evil. All pastors and church leaders should be as cautious.

The Ted Haggard story focuses on grace and redemption. So many, including myself, can be quick to judge a pastor who has fallen. We tend to only want to offer grace and redemption to those who haven’t accepted Christ yet. It’s not your choice! God has offered grace and redemption to all, including Christians who have sinned. Should we sin more so that we will have more grace? No chance! But that grace is still available when we do sin.

The Ted Haggard story serves as a warning to churchgoers. I was watching the TLC special on Haggard and his new church. One woman who came to the new church said, “I’ve always followed Pastor Ted, and I always will.” Red flag! We’re not supposed to be following the pastor. We’re supposed to be following Jesus! While it’s commendable to put your trust in a person, it’s not that smart. People, including pastors, can and will fail you at some point. Putting your trust in Jesus is the only way to salvation and the only way to ensure that you won’t be let down.

Have any more lessons we can learn from this tragic story?