CONTROLLERS

Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, received us not… prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church.” —3 John 9-10

I’m sure you have met those in the church like Diotrephes who seek to control everything that goes on and everyone who is involved. Everything must revolve around them. They are like “miniature Popes” who love to “lord it over” others in the body of Christ. One might expect this of leaders in a cult, but not among Christians.  Jesus told His disciples that “princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over” others, but it should “not be so among you” (Mt. 20:25-26).

Martin Luther once wrote, “I am not as concerned with the Pope that resides at Rome as the one that lives within me.”

Beware of becoming like Martha and try to control every aspect of the lives of others. The Bible is clear on this matter—No believer, including a pastor, is to have supremacy over another person’s faith. The Apostle Paul writes, “Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand” (2 Cor. 1:24). Amen!