When we dial 911, we expect help to come in a timely manner. We place a great deal of trust in those who serve and protect us. It’s devastating when that trust is violated. Quick, efficient responses save lives. Delay can result in death. Officers routinely perform heroic acts, putting their own lives on the line, serving above and beyond the call of duty.

Yet individual instances of poor judgment, communication breakdowns, mistakes, and misconduct have plagued almost every level of law enforcement. Police officers are accountable for their actions. Ineptitude and negligence cannot be overlooked. Too much is at stake! When officers prove themselves unwilling or unable to perform their sworn duties, they lose their badges.

Those who serve and protect are accountable

God’s people place a great deal of trust in their called workers. God’s people expect their shepherds to give them spiritual nourishment, free of Satan’s deadly toxins. God’s people expect their called workers to serve with competence and to live lives worthy of the calling they have received. Yet, because called workers are sinners living in a sinful world, problems can and do arise as they serve and protect God’s people.

Problems in ministry dare not be ignored. Some require swift action. High profile cases of sexual abuse by clergy or marital unfaithfulness horrify church members and the general public alike. Fragile lives are demolished by the very ones charged to serve and protect God’s people. A called worker who violates the trust of his office with grievous, public sins has destroyed his reputation and is no longer qualified to serve in the public ministry, even if repentance follows.

Why do these things arise within Christ’s church? Answers don’t come easily. We do know that the same Lord who gave some to be pastors and teachers has promised that he will make all things work for our good and that nothing would separate us from his love (see Romans 8). It should be noted that unfounded allegations of abuse can also destroy the lives and reputations of faithful called workers.