Robert Morris: Our Thoughts & Concerns

The team at Remnant Radio is currently taking a short break for summer, and you will see pre-recorded content during this time. However, the recent scandal involving Robert Morris demands our immediate attention. Regrettably, we are unable to produce a timely video response from the studio. However, we feel it is crucial to address the situation and reflect on the serious lessons that the church must learn from these tragic events.

First, we want to express our compassion and empathy for the victim and praise her for her bravery in coming forward. Her bravery gives a voice to not only herself, but also to other victims of abuse. We must listen, hear, and take seriously the allegations of abuse.

Second, we want to completely reject Robert Morris's actions. His abuse of a 12-year-old girl, continuing until she was 16, is abhorrent and indefensible. The ruse by former Shady Grove leadership to restore Robert due to his pride issue, instead of handing him over to the police, is disgraceful and disgusting. We also are concerned at hearing that some at Gateway Church attempted to soften the blow by referring to the victim as a "young woman" instead of a 12-year-old child and that the church did not immediately terminate Robert Morris after his confession. We are relieved to see that Robert has resigned.

As discussions about restoration arise, it is crucial to remember that pedophiles would not be allowed to lead in the children's ministry of any of our churches. Why, then, would we permit a man who molested a child to lead an entire church? This kind of behavior must be unilaterally condemned. Sexual misconduct is wrong. Sexual misconduct with a minor is a criminal offense that should place perpetrators in jail.

As the church, we must not only be reactive but proactive. The Spirit is speaking to the churches. Are we listening? The time is now to put policies in place for whistle-blowers and for how we can safely and honestly take accusations without gaslighting victims. Now is the time to ensure that church elders are ‘above reproach’ (1 Tim. 3:2) and accountable to the church—not just themselves (1 Tim 5:19-20). We must ensure we are handling criminal activity, accusations against elders, and systemic abuse appropriately. Paul warned the elders of Ephesus that from among them (the elders) wolves would arise and prey on the sheep (Acts 20:29-30). The Spirit of the Lord is speaking to the churches that are listening.

Finally, we must lead in prayer. Pray for the victims of abuse to be able to tell their stories and be heard, and pray for their spiritual, physical and emotional healing. Pray for all church members who feel betrayed by the actions of once-trusted church leaders. Pray for church leaders to walk in the fear of God and take seriously the charge of being shepherds like Jesus. Pray that God's light shine into the dark areas of the church to expose abuse where it has festered.

Blessings,
Joshua Lewis
Michael Miller
Michael Rowntree
The Remnant Radio