Sexual Misconduct: It’s time for Christian men to change the conversation
By Chris Goldman
Lead Pastor, Northwest Church
Sexual misconduct is one of the hottest topics of our time. Let’s face it, most men grow up in a world where sexual aggression has been a bragging point more than basis for a lawsuit. And now, over the past decade, we’ve seen a radical shift in this topic. Sexual misconduct doesn’t even require what used to be considered aggression and many men are confused and lost in the discussion.
During 2016, this discussion hit a pinnacle with new organizations and movements dominating the news cycle. Athletes we applauded found themselves in jail. Business leaders who were successful were being sued. Hollywood moguls were going down in flames. And then, in 2018, one of the most revered faces of Christian leadership was brought down in shame.
Over and over I hear men reflect this thought: “I don’t know what to say because, inevitably, whatever I say next is wrong.”
The topic is so volatile, getting a handle on it is almost impossible. Women’s groups — both liberal and conservative — disagree with each other over core convictions. Certainly men’s groups aren’t giving many helpful hints…after all, it’s not their place! Right?
Well, in the spirit of many scriptures where men are challenged to sharpen and challenge one another, I want to dive into this topic headfirst and admit right up front, “Whatever I say next won’t be right!”
But perhaps by not tiptoeing around with political correctness in mind, we can cut to the chase and speak boldly about living and leading in a Godly fashion.
So why am I interested in this topic?
I’m not only a pastor who works with women on a consistent basic, I’m the father of a bright, beautiful, powerful female – an 8 on the Enneagram map. Her “category” supposedly makes her one of the most difficult people to deal with in America. If she were male, she’d supposedly be sought after, promoted and listened to. Why the difference? Because she’s a woman.
Truth is, half of the world’s population are women and God’s people should set a standard on treatment of women. Another truth is, I believe many scriptures have been misused to allow for — if not encourage — unGodly treatment of women.
Sexual misconduct isn’t something unique to men, but we might say, “It’s certainly been male-dominated!” (Pun Intended)
Let’s start turning this conversation in a direction we can all be proud of, can communicate to others, and know this, “What I say next is not only going to be right, it’s going to be Godly!”
Chris Goldman will lead a special breakout session at the 2019 Higher Ground Men’s Conference “What I Say Next Won’t Be Right: Navigating the World of Sexual Misconduct”. The March 23 conference at Westminster Chapel in Bellevue, WA will feature keynote speakers Dr. Dan Allender and ESPN’s Brock Huard.
