Steve Lawson Resigns from OnePassion Ministries Unanswered Questions and Church Accountability
Details of the Resignation
The board of OnePassion Ministries released a statement confirming Lawson’s resignation from all duties as president, describing his actions as a “sin that has disqualified him from ministry.” They expressed sorrow for the damage caused to his family, the church, and the broader ministry, emphasizing the impact on the reputation of Jesus Christ. In light of the scandal, all upcoming ministry events and engagements have been canceled, leaving supporters to reevaluate their financial commitments.
The statement served as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by spiritual leadership, highlighting the “craftiness of the enemy” that can lead even prominent figures astray.
Reactions from the Community
Lawson’s resignation has left many in shock, including Nathan Busenitz, executive vice president and provost at John MacArthur’s The Master’s Seminary, where Lawson served as Dean of D.Min. studies. In an internal email, Busenitz noted the disqualification as shocking, affirming that Lawson is no longer “above reproach” and thus cannot retain any faculty or ministry affiliations.
Despite the serious nature of these allegations, neither OnePassion Ministries nor Trinity Bible Church has clarified whether the woman involved was under Lawson’s spiritual authority. This lack of transparency raises pressing questions about accountability within church leadership.
Legal Considerations
Texas, where these events transpired, has laws criminalizing clergy sexual misconduct against adults. Under Texas law, a clergyman can be held accountable if he exploits the emotional dependency of someone under his spiritual guidance. This legal framework adds another layer of complexity to the unfolding situation and underscores the need for churches to have clear policies regarding conduct and accountability.
Church Leadership’s Response
During a recent service at Trinity Bible Church, Elder Mark Becker addressed the congregation, acknowledging the emotional toll of the scandal while emphasizing the importance of focusing on Christ and the mission of the church. However, he also stated that the church would not be answering specific questions about the situation, which may leave many congregants feeling unsettled.
A Call for Accountability and Transparency
As the evangelical community grapples with the implications of Lawson’s resignation, it becomes increasingly clear that accountability and transparency are essential for restoring trust within church leadership. With numerous scandals emerging in recent months, the need for robust policies and practices to address misconduct is urgent.
As of now, Lawson is no longer listed as a teaching fellow on the Ligonier Ministries website, though his messages remain accessible. This indicates a significant shift in his public presence and influence within the evangelical landscape.
Conclusion
The resignation of Steve Lawson from OnePassion Ministries is not just a personal downfall; it serves as a wake-up call for the church as a whole. As leaders step down amid scandal, it’s crucial for congregations to engage in open dialogue about accountability and the ethical standards expected of spiritual leaders. Only through transparency can the church hope to heal and move forward, upholding the integrity of its mission.
