What Critiques of Alistair Begg Are Missing

In this video Gavin Ortlund reflects on how disagreement in the church is happening right now, stemming from responses to Alistair Begg's recent comments about attending a gay wedding ceremony.
Truth Unites (www.truthunites.org) exists to promote gospel assurance through theological depth.
Gavin Ortlund (PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary) is President of Truth Unites and Theologian-in-Residence at Immanuel Church.
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00:00 - Why I'm Addressing This
01:20 - Where I Differ With Begg
03:39 - Disagreement in the Body of Christ
10:10 - Taking a Sabbath Break From Controversy
10:49 - Seeking to Honor Our Leaders
14:10 - The Importance of Love
16:36 - A Final Appeal

[@arnor811]

From a Gospel Coalition article of when Martin Llyod Jones confronted a negative pastor: “Well,” he queried, “what about this: you remember Paul in Galatians 2? He had to withstand Peter to the face. He did not want to do it. Peter was an older apostle, a leader and so on. Paul did it very reluctantly, but he had to do it for the sake of the truth. I am in exactly that position. What do you say to that?” “I would say this,” I responded, “that the effect of what Paul did was to win Peter round to his position and make him call him ‘our beloved brother Paul.’ Can you say the same about the people whom you attack?”

[@conservativemama3437]

That’s exactly what these men did. He would not repent.

[@JonJaeden]

I missed the part where Peter said, "Paul wants me to recant and to repent ... To repent??? I-I-I repent daily, but the fact of the matter is I'm not ready to repent over this. I don't have to!!!"

[@bobleroe3859]

Thanks, a very helpful response.

[@mikekayanderson408]

not sure I get the point Should no one call AB out on his error?

[@bobleroe3859]

@@mikekayanderson408 I taught a course for Army NCOs on performance counseling. When correcting someone, we need to convey a desire to help, and if we're doing it right, the person we're correcting will thank us. So yes, "call him out" but with loving concern.

[@commanderchair]

Gavin you are making a difference in bringing humility and gentleness into the conversation without losing conviction. Keep bringing faithful Spirit filled voices into the hot topics, even if it's hard. Appreciative of you brother.

[@pauliberg3492]

I agree .

[@brendaduncan4347]

Amen to that!

[@user-ze1zn2hg9k]

Thank you Gavin for saying so well what I’ve thought. A lot goes into a pastor’s answer and that answer will vary based on each individual situation. Looking at the arc of Alister Begg’s ministry, I have great respect for him. A friend of mine reached out to Begg’s ministry about his own battle with cancer. Alister personally called my friend, talked with him, and prayed for him. No one does that without a pastor’s heart. This issues is at the knife’s edge of difficult choices that we as followers of Jesus have to navigate.

[@mrs.t7351]

You're the only person I've heard expressing this view. The world is too much with us, and the American church is imploding. Thank God that the gates of hell will not prevail against Christ's church.

[@dailytheology1689]

Alistair is right kzbin.info/www/bejne/rKumc5ytiKeFfsksi=HCpmCrXlXdXbFASg

[@vikawinters]

Mike Winger (I think his channel is called Bible Thinker) and Nate Sala (Wise Disciple channel) also posted in similar tones.

[@AChristianGuy]

The disposition of being quick to listen and slow to speak is what we need a desperate return to in the conversations we have between believers. I have disagreements with Alistair on his comments also, but so many of the knee-jerk reactions to him (as well as a plethora of other issues) are causing harm and hurt on their own. May Christ bring us all back to a posture of broken unity in our words and actions. Thanks Gavin.

[@wendydeckman558]

Thank you for being a voice of reason in this mess.

[@motorTranz]

"Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them.". Ephesians 5: 11 "Stay away from every kind of evil.". I Thessalonians 5: 22

[@babycakesweetiepie77]

If invited i would go to the wedding and expose them by bringing Gods word and His love to people he is trying to save . I really believe God loves sinners that much. How can a God forgive you and me for our horrendous sins but be too offended by a lbgtq wedding to let anyone that felt called to go and bring a bible ? You don't have to do anything against your conscience but If a brother or sister wants that mission who are you to say no.? 🤔 you really think Gods more offended by someone going to wedding that is not even really a wedding than he with thousands of Christians looking down on people that need the Good News .

[@RevDavidReyes]

James 1:19, ”Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger;“

[@thomasrutledge5941]

What is heard? =) kzbin.infoyE9a2h5ZRqA?si=b_so5TeTAZWwxMVw

[@kgebhardt1187]

Amen

[@davidhemphill3735]

Too late, the fundies cancelled him on radio and have prevented him from attending a conference. Bravo tot eh fundies. Hope they are satisfied with their war on Begg.

[@Spartanthermopylae]

Ephesians 5:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:22.

[@Spartanthermopylae]

@@davidhemphill3735 What's a "fundie." Do you mean a scriptural conservative?

[@user-ey8ls3tq9n]

Thank you, Dr. Ortlund. Your irenic contribution to this "debate'" is a breath of fresh air. Pastor Begg is my absolute favourite preacher to whom I listen daily. I respect his viewpoint as he explained in his message to his own congregation last Sunday (""Compassion versus Condemnation"), and he has clearly opposed same-sex marriage in the past and preached courageously on Romans 1:18ff last year. However, his advice invited criticism that attendance at a same-sex wedding would compromise an evangelical witness (e.g., what if the minister does ask, "Can anyone give reason why this couple should not be married?"!) Sadly, as you note, there are those who are quick to find fault and even "cancel" a faithful preacher through whom God has blessed countless listeners to "Truth for Life". The adversary satan must be thrilled at the prospect of Alistair's voice being silenced. Again, thank you for reminding us of our duty to love one another and not to bite and devour each other (Galatians 5:15).

[@thomasrutledge5941]

"irenic". Reading people's comments improves my vocabulary. ty

[@Over-for-now]

User, when a preacher says heresy we must say something I love Alister but hopefully God will deal with him for misleading people 😢

[@petercollins7848]

He hasn’t been ‘cancelled’, he has been dis-invited to the Shepherds Conference, which is wise, as it would only cause upset and controversy at the Conference which would not be good. Other conservative and faithful leaders in the Church have approached and contacted Alistair Begg with the aim of correcting his mistake - approaches and criticism which sadly he calls ‘Phariseeism’. The other ‘usual subjects’ - the heresy hunters, count for nothing and we ignore them. Alistair Begg must be given time and space to reflect on his very bad advice, and perhaps by God’s grace may repent and take a different view in time. I shall continue to listen to his channel until it becomes apparent that he won’t move. Then there must be a parting of the ways, without acrimony or false self-righteousness. For we are called to follow God not men.

[@PrinceofArfon]

@@Over-for-now He didn't say heresy, and we need to be extremely careful about throwing that word around. Heresy is for those who deny essential truths about God and the gospel and/or who separate themselves from the church at large. Like denying Jesus' truly divine-truly human nature, denying the resurrection, denying God's holiness, etc. Even if you could prove persuasively that Begg's advice was sinful (it isn't, though I disagree with him), it's not within a hundred miles of heresy. And it's sinful to accuse a faithful minister of heresy when they haven't committed it.

[@gareth2736]

@@petercollins7848 it's one of those irregular verbs "they cancel, we disinvite".

[@susanmars797]

Thank you Gavin! You not only talk the talk, but walk the walk! I enjoy your well-balanced assessment and appreciate your kind heart.

[@echppll]

Gavin, PCA pastor here in Southern California. Found you a few months ago and very much love your content. Thank you for all your labors.

[@nathanaelvking]

Well said. My comment on this situation was "I disagree with Begg, but I disagree more with critics that are calling him a heretic and discrediting his ministry."

[@AfricanSheep]

Fair enough. What do you think of his sermon calling those who disagree with him as Pharisees who want to commit the sins they call out? And the American evangelicals who don’t understand nuance? I don’t for one moment believe Begg is lost or too far gone. We of course must have grace. But the brother has clearly hardened his heart to the cries for repentance from his fellow pastors who have been in ministry for similar periods.

[@Spartanthermopylae]

Begg has had ample opportunities to repent; he hasn't and refuses to do so. He has manipulated his message. He slanders those, who challenge him but plays the victim when they critique his unbiblical advice. He uses the cover of "nuanced" to promote compromise. He reduces his message to the Fallacy of the False Dilemma/Dichotomy, claiming that the REAL message is is about Compassion versus Condemnation, which is deceptive and dishonest. It's about obedience to God's Word. He shows his love for the world over love for God.

[@martygough]

While I agree with you I wonder how Begg would treat someone who disagrees with him on this issue in his own church? I mean he believes in church discipline and practices it. He believes those who disagree are not free to do so, they are like pharisees, and what does he do with pharisees? So, while I disagree with those calling him a heretic, I suspect he might be doing the same to those who disagree with him

[@Spartanthermopylae]

@@martygough You make a very good point, Marty. He plays the unrepentant victim, but condemns others.

[@hayride5953]

First of all, there is no such thing as ljbkrq or q. By calling it that means you recognize it. It’s called perversion. Until you call it that , I’m not interested in anything you have to say.

[@micheletisdale7467]

Thank you, Gavin!! This was much needed!! I literally listened when this first aired and I raised an eye and thought hmmm I don't know if that was the advice I would have given and then I just moved on and continued listening because I like you know what a Godly and faithful and trustworthy man he is.

[@taylore22]

I just have to say brother I love your drive and willingness for unity! It's so true with social media I had to clean up my youtube because I noticed a lot of the people I was listening to had such zeal, but no love or wanting to reconcile. Truly Gavin God has gifted you with teaching and the spirit of gentleness and self-control I pray that He would continue to increase your channel it has been such a blessing in my life and others. When I think of your channel I think truly of "Iron sharpens iron" blessings brother!!!

[@jonasopmeer]

I saw a few of those videos and I as really confused about why people were seemingly intentionally misrepresenting the situation. Thank for this video!

[@darissabrooks2023]

I’ve never seen your posts before and I am thanking God for seeing this one. My heart as also been grieved for how this is playing out in the public domain. It seemed to me almost immediately that everyone was missing Pastor Begg’s heart for the lost and willingness to practice radical love for sinners. If we think that we are going to agree with everyone all the time we have not understood Jesus’ warnings, prayers for us, nor human nature. Thank you so much for your compassionate, gentle, and reasoned counsel here. We must show love to one another. Along with loving our enemies, it is indeed how we will get the world’s attention and show God’s glory. Thank you!

[@RachelRamey]

Nobody has "missed" that. We recognize that his "heart for the lost" has blinded him such that he's teaching people to hate them and thinking it's love. Of course he means well! But good intentions do not excuse sin. Good intentions do not excuse redefining "love." Good intentions do not excuse pleasing man rather than God. Good intentions do not excuse promoting hypocrisy as the best way to "win sinners." And those who are affirming such things are complicit in causing people to stumble.

[@robertrowe8392]

@@RachelRamey Totally wrong on every level!

[@peterhonour8515]

You are so right! We allowed dear Alistair Begg to go from Scotland to you there in the USA! He is the BEST preacher we have right now. Forget all your Hinns, Copelands, Johnsons and other REAL heretics! Support and LOVE men like Alistair. Let the LORD Jesus be his judge - not you. With grace and love. Peter - an 83 year old in the UK. Yippee!

[@robertrowe8392]

@@peterhonour8515 amen!

[@daviddixon9257]

Thank you for your comments. They are right-on and very helpful and kind.

[@calencampbell7160]

Voices like yours are needed in these times. Thank you brother.

[@ecs6832]

Thank you so much for a gracious and thoughtful view on this entire episode. It’s been fuel for the enemy to take down a ministry that has done so very much to bring people to Christ and teach the Bible. The way the feeding frenzy has gone has made me weep.

[@godisreality7014]

If you are weeping now, what will your condition be at the Great White Throne Judgement?

[@ecs6832]

@@godisreality7014 then I will be in the presence of the perfect Lord and a child of the kingdom where there will be no more weeping

[@godisreality7014]

@@ecs6832 There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth for some. Or rather, for most.

[@woody1320]

Prayers for Alistair and his family and the rest of us as we navigate through this, hopefully with grace and compassion.

[@tedsess3106]

Thank you for your wisdom and perspective Gavin. Christian author and theologian Greg Koukl (Stand to Reason) shared a very similar perspective and I believe you are both right on the mark. Again, thank you for being willing to share your views. It’s a blessing for us individually and for the body as well.

[@PastorDavidBess]

Thank you so much my brother! I've been wrestling with this Alistair Begg issue since the whole thing began on social media. You've expressed my views more than anyone else to this point. We are definitely in the minority, but hopefully God will use us to make a difference in the way disputes are handled in the greater body of Christ. I'm honored to claim you as a brother in Christ and a fellow pastor!

[@GospelSimplicity]

"Very few people will survive this culture." Amen to that. The body of Christ needs faithful pastors, and the rate of burnout and walking away is so high right now, at least in part because of the polarization and division in the church. We're creating no-win scenarios.

[@thomasrutledge5941]

Being bound by a doctrinal statement can be stressful. Zen Buddhism is the least stressful, philosophically [Sunyata].

[@davidhemphill3735]

well, aren't you just proving the point . What a vapid thing to say.@@thejoshuaproject3809

[@petercollins7848]

They don’t need to ‘survive this culture’! What ‘culture’? All they need to do is be faithful to Scripture. I love Alistair Begg and have listened to him for years, but he has got this badly wrong. Now people need to give him time and space to reflect and hopefully come to his senses ( like the Prodigal Son) . The fact that he has been dis-invited to the Shepherds Conference is simple common sense, it would only cause upset and controversy at the event. People need to pray for him. But these things happen all the time and we need to remember that ‘the best of men are only men at best’, and not put Pastors on pedestals or make idols of them - which can easily happen with long serving and famous ones.

[@SongSwan]

Did Jesus not say that he did not come to bring peace but division.No divison means one rules the other,in this case lies would rule the truth.

[@hayride5953]

@@petercollins7848 Nicely said. Very true.

[@kerrydougan7594]

Thank you very much for this message. I am a missionary who has dedicated my life to help at'risk children in the Dominican Republic. My children were raised on the mission field, so you can imagine how my heart was broken when, now as a adults on two consecutive days my oldest two children both came out as atheists and homosexuals. I can not take the time to relate my entire struggle through these last three years of dealing with this issue, but let me say, that I started out more or less in the same place you are, and I ended up exactly where Allister Begg is. My daughter is planning a wedding and I have, after much prayer and study come to the conculusion that I need to attend. I have struggled for years to let my two children know that my main problem with them is that they have rejected Christ. As non-Christians I cannot expect them to hold Christian values, but the last thing I want my daughter to think is that it is my relationship with Jesus Christ that separates me from her. It would be far easier for me to stay home from the wedding, because, honestly I struggle with how I can represent Christ well if I attend, but there is one thing I know. I cannot represent Christ well if I do not attend. I do not expect those who have not walked my walk to come to the same conclusion I have, but I have been personally, deeply offended by some of the arrogant criticism I have heard of Allister Begg from the Christian right of which I consider myself a member. The Bible is very clear on what is sin and what is not, but it is not so clear on how we should confront sin, and by enlarge the way that the church has chosen to confront the sin of homosexuality has been an abject failure from which I believe we will be held accountable. How is it that we cannot even hold civil conversations in which a man is not disfellowshipped and condemned for suggesting that maybe we need to go about this in a different way. I thank you for having the insight to recognize this!

[@jtbasener8740]

I sincerely appreciate all that you had to say here. Thank you, Pastor Ortlund!

[@barbwhitehouse6611]

Amen and Amen! I was thinking, “Who is the world will want to be a pastor?” God bless you and Allister Begg!

[@timyoder2541]

Thanks for expressing this so well, Pastor. I came upon you through your appearance on Beckett Cook's channel. I've enjoyed your content. I am an amateur student of Church history and find your videos very interesting.

[@HershelPeppers]

Wish there were more level-headed, Godly voices on youtube like Truth Unites.

[@jimmiespeach]

Totally agree

[@Spartanthermopylae]

And water down the truth?!

[@godisreality7014]

@@Spartanthermopylae its all about ecumenism. And eventually about the whole church taking the mark of the beast.

[@DD-ld1xq]

​@@godisreality7014 "Christian" unity at what cost and which "Christians"? Matthew 7:21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ 23 And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’

[@godisreality7014]

@@DD-ld1xq I just told you. Read what I wrote.

[@jillandpeterwyper7884]

This is so refreshing! Had decided not to listen to the horrible judgmental comments but thankful to hv found you. 🙏 We highly respect and honor Alistair & nothing has changed. 🙏🙏

[@sundayandee]

Thank you for addressing this- you are so right- no one survives in this culture we are creating. Its so sad whats happening to pastor Begg.

[@Handistamp]

Thank you for voicing what many of us think but don't have the ability to pull it together like you can. I will be sending my brothers and sisters to your video for clarity on this issue with the unfair treatment of dear, faithful Allistair Begg. I love the quote at the end from Spurgeon - keep room in our heart for the love of a brother/sister in Christ.

[@robertdagit4315]

How is the criticism unfair? Is he above criticism? Have you listened to his response sermon where he compared those who disagree with him Pharisees?

[@babycakesweetiepie77]

​@@robertdagit4315 yes and they are.

[@godisreality7014]

@@robertdagit4315 Soft-pedalling it with sodomites points to sudden destruction.

[@DD-ld1xq]

@@robertdagit4315 This exactly. In Alistair Begg's opinion, anyone following the Bible is a Pharisee. when in reality, a Pharisee is one who tells others to follow the law but doesn't themselves whenever it's convenient. It's Begg who is the Pharisee and he is projecting. Christ said HE WILL SPLIT FAMILIES. I can't think of a more approriate example than the Grandmother endorsing an unholy, anti-Christian act of a homosexual wedding by attending it. Who is Begg to deny God's will by telling her to compromise in the pursuit of family harmony and preaching the falsehood that "God is love" and nothing besides?

[@WyoRaider]

Outstanding message!!! If I could "thumbs up" a million times I would. There is a way to address these issues within the church and running to KZbin to proclaim your piety over another is not the way. Thank you for addressing this issue, not with approval or condemnation, but with love and truth.

[@lindadavidson7328]

Thank you. I have spiritual battles on Sunday morning. And I know it’s the demons trying to keep me from church.

[@vikawinters]

Gavin, this was probably not your intention, but your solution to your family’s Sunday trouble felt like a glove to me. I’m sharing this but with my husband right now. ❤

[@mjsblessings7498]

The analogy of sharks smelling blood in the water was spot on. As I listened to other Christians on KZbin, I couldn't help but feel like many of them relished in a man being in error. The critisisms were quick and decisive. I wondered, "Did you even take time to pray for him? Did you have to make a video about him 30 seconds after his comments?" That is scary. We are one in Christ (John 17). Pray for our brother Alistair. He has served the church for decades.

[@mikepetersen5540]

Stumble upon this video and your channel (no subscribing). The turmoil over this situatiuon has troubled me much. Well said pastor! Especially regarding if the world can see our love for one another in the church. Thank you! I like cease fire Sundays.

[@stanleycheryldevine7408]

Thank you Gavin for reminding us to be kind to one another. I am praying a long with you about this matter. This matter also reminds us that we are only human. When we give wrong counsel, it is only God that can turn this around as we humbly come before Him. I am praying for Alister Bagg and for those who are trying to work through this with him. Praying for you to be alert as you address these situations as well. Blessings, Stan ❤

[@anglicanaesthetics]

This is *so* good, Gavin. Absolutely. I disagree with Alister Begg on this too, but he'd a godly man and a brother in Christ. We ought to disagree charitably and respectfully--in a way that stuns the world with our charity, not mirror the world at its worst and most bitter. Public discourse needs your voice!

[@brandonbooth2425]

As usual, thank you Dr. Ortlund for your response and video on the matter. While I (like you) disagree with Mr. Begg's counsel and the premise of attending a gay wedding, I was more bothered by response from many other Christian leaders. I think we are witnessing a toxic form of "cancel culture" within evangelicalism that has ratcheted up to an extreme post 2020 craziness. If someone disagrees with a big name teacher or organization, they are now seen as outside the camp and all their previous work/ministry is seen as bad. Don't misunderstand me, I am all for upholding doctrine and not compromising issues of great importance, but disagreements, especially on more tertiary issues, must be done in love, humility and all charitableness. Thank you Dr. Ortlund for your humble and charitable response on the issue. Dr. Albert Mohler similarly addressed the issue on "The Briefing" clearly and humbly without even addressing Begg by name, thus preserving the honor of his faithful ministry. More Christians need to take example from leaders like you, Dr. Mohler, and Spurgeon in charitably responding to disagreements, even when they are of a more serious nature. God bless!

[@frankmurphy6010]

WOWEE Gavin somebody who is making sense of this situation with Pastor Begg. the think is that most of these who made video after video about this would not give him the light of day on their videos normally. but the smell of blood and they are in to point whats wrong and criticise, over and over, no humility just needing to ramp up views/revenue. so Gavin your video was level, encouraging and yes having a blessed view. iIt is a first listen it was such pleasure to listen to you, thank you

[@ForwardTalk]

Gavin, this is exactly how I have felt about this BEGG controversy. Thank you for this graceful approach. I like the idea of not diving into controversy on Sundays. I want to take that challenge.

[@andrewk8857]

Amen. I have been waiting for someone to say what you said. The guy fed many of us for decades, I would think that he fed many of his critics for decades. Even if he is totally wrong on this issue, where's our Christian, brotherly love? Have we not been saved by GRACE? Thank you for your work.

[@maple2grace]

Amen!❤

[@MrJbee73]

Are we not called to speak out? Does the church not judge the church righteously? 🤔

[@godisreality7014]

Laodicea here we come. We´re there. Lukewarm. You know the prognosis.

[@MrJbee73]

@@godisreality7014 becoming more evident. We need to stand strong

[@godisreality7014]

@@MrJbee73 the way is narrow and the gate is straight. Broad is the way to hell. False teachers rely on the strength of numbers, which is a dead giveaway of false doctrine. The more appealing, the more appalling and untrue.

[@gaylanbishop1641]

I’m so glad I found this. I think this is a viewpoint that we would be well served to heed. This is really excellent!

[@Anchorchurchflorida]

Very wise counsel thank you for sharing!

[@PJW605]

So appreciate these words brother. I share your concerns and have for some time. We are creating our own evangelical cancel culture and I hate it. We have a bookstore at our church and I occasionally have to defend this author or that author because they said that thing about the flood being local not global and so how can you endorse HIS book!?!? Ha. Well spoken as always Gavin!

[@Mike-ch9ql]

This is the first time I've seen this channel. Truly TRULY LOVE this post. Really appreciate how you so lovingly speak to this situation. May all fellow Christians truly speak truth with GREAT love. This certainly means doing so in a loving way. Some say "not speaking the truth is not loving". While that may be true, speaking the truth in an unloving way is also not love. Thank you, Gavin.

[@annjanetteellsworth3059]

Thank you so very much for posting this! You put into words exactly what I have been thinking.

[@tategarrett3042]

I think this is a very good and to be honest, even a convicting, message for the church right now - we are so often caught up into our tribes and trenches that we begin to act as though other Christians were not our brothers or our fellows, and to practice against them what amounts to a sort of Christian Cancel Culture. We should strive to amend this and follow more closely the words of the Lord as Gavin cited them.

[@Waterman1000]

Just discovered your channel and saw the title of this video. Wow-you’re saying precisely, almost word-for-word, all that has gone through my mind all week since I learned of this Begg issue. Like you, I also disagree with Begg’s counsel. However, if-for example-I learned about it privately and couldn’t hardly find anyone talking about it, I’d be a bit saddened over that particular incident with Begg and contemplate it for a while, being puzzled by what I see as an inconsistency with all I know about him, BUT it is precisely ALL THAT I DO KNOW ABOUT HIM that would and should triumph over this one matter I don’t fully grasp. It is this public arena of KZbin-driven tribunals that has sent this thing off the rails-like so many issues in the church today (snd even society at large to an extent). Thank you for recognizing and pointing-out accurately just how bloodthirsty so many [Christians] are out there online, ready to pounce! It’s almost as if there is an enjoyment to it. I know firsthand what that kind of cold indifference, in the name of Truth, looks like. I know there’s a void of Gospel-driven love (of Truth itself I would claim was the motivator nor of the person on trial as it were). I always knew I was operating on a Pharisaical and law-driven anger that was not the Love of Christ, and the only “comfort” for the guilt I had was in the reinforcement of my fellow “jurists” and stone-throwers. It is interesting to observe this whole matter with Begg because it is the first news story of controversy surrounding a Christian leader I’m experiencing since I have come into some new sensitivities towards Gospel-centeredness I didn’t have before. The reasons for these new perspectives I believe the Lord is showing me pertain to a very painful, recent, and difficult situation of leaving a church riddled with legalism and immature leadership. I can just hear several people at that previous church being the first to express their righteous indignation at Begg on these various websites and blogs. And so because I’m experiencing a very new sensitivity (that I love), it’s very easy at this point to see my “old voice” expressed in so many of these vitriolic and lambasting comments towards a dear and faithful pastor these people are so eager to reduce to the ash heap! What is interesting also is that most or all of these people who use one incident with Begg they don’t agree with or understand (nor do I agree with or understand it) are likely very conservative people politically and theologically, as I am also, and yet they have adopted the tactics of leftist cancel culture to the letter! Are they unable to see this glaring inconsistency? It appears so.

[@ryanpurdy743]

Thank you for this video Gavin! This video has articulated the exact way in which we should disagree with others. I have loved Alistair begg for years and this recent controversy has not changed my opinion on him as a pastor. The recent sermon Alistair shared on Luke 15 is very insightful to understand where he is coming from. All that being said, this video is the best response I have heard to the controversy and this is a must watch for anyone in leadership. Thank you once again Gavin for your work on this channel! Once again it has really blessed me to watch this

[@TruthUnites]

thanks, glad it was useful!

[@CathyBlack-wr8uz]

I appreciate your words today Pastor Ortlund.. I felt so very sad (I was almost in disbelief), after hearing Alistair’s advice to the grandmother’s question. I’ve so loved Pastor Begg’s faith shine thru so brilliantly in the past. Finding pastors (or congregants!), who want to honour God, and be a truthful voice for Him in love, has been so difficult, that I am at a loss. I agree with Gavin that we must not shy away our concerns/disagreements, but we must seek the Holy Spirit’s counsel before we say anything, otherwise we will never reflect His glory to a broken world. Because of this, and because God is so good, and so full of grace, I will, as the Spirit leads me, pray for truth and reconciliation between all involved. I loved the C. Sturgeon’s quote you added in at the end!

[@godisreality7014]

God is the Law. And Holy.

[@emonperl5330]

God bless you Pastor Gavin. This is so so encouraging and helpful. I pray for these points along with you. Much love, Emon

[@pastorernestalbuquerque4770]

Hi Pastor Gavin, just stumbled on your channel, (which has led me to watch your other talks on Genesis account.) Contemplating on your different take on Pastor Begg. Trying to keep a balance in a godly manner. God bless.

[@michaels7325]

I think you miss the point that many pastors did reach out to him with gentleness and care and were not only rejected, but subtly accussed of secretly wishing they could commit sins they most aggressively speak against.

[@dubyag4124]

This is true: AFR called his team and gave him every opportunity to clear up that statement (i.e. repent) and he confirmed there was no mistake on his part. They were grieved and dropped him. Begg's response in his reply sermon was well really sad because he discipled every person who heard this to have the same attitude: "Repent?!? Repent!?!". It's like, brothers and sisters, there are going be a billion times when we NEED to repent, but don't FEEL like we need to or should. But no, Begg, as a pastor went with his feelings over truth. And now every hearer has been discipled to do the same. Tragic. So pastor Ortlund, no, the pastoral response to Begg's error is not the largest error, and you continue to pander to your "tribe" of those who love feelings over truth, winsomeness over actual love. Lev. 19:17 “You shall not hate your brother in your heart, but you shall reason frankly with your neighbor, lest you incur sin because of him."

[@haltersweb]

Please list your sources for this.

[@michaels7325]

@@haltersweb What do you mean by sources? It's not as if they all got together for an article or something.

[@michaels7325]

@@haltersweb But if you are referring to the 2nd part of my statement the source is Begg's own sermon in response as to why he won't repent.

[@haltersweb]

@@michaels7325 I was asking for sources for the first part: You mentioned that many pastors reached out to him with gentleness and care. I was wondering which ones did, and in which video or article you’d heard about this happening? I’ve been doing a lot of research on this and have only seen public statements by pastors and others. No inkling that there were private conversations from these same pastors first. My concern is that no one is following God’s prescribed method of rebuke. If so, this would have been mentioned.

[@susandixson5830]

I just subscribed. Like a breath of fresh air. Thank you. Looking forward to sensible, well thought out information and discussions. Thank you.

[@TruthUnites]

Welcome aboard!

[@deborahdoolin8227]

I almost cried while I listened to this. Thank you! Thank you!! Thank you!!! It's such a good thing to hear someone speak up with a different perspective, and I deeply appreciate your focus on how to love one another during these times. I'm on board!! It's been breaking my heart to see so many jump so quickly on the first thing [I've ever heard of or seen] in Alistair's teaching that can be seen as questionable. He has been SO solid biblically, that I have absolutely rejoiced in His teaching, and where on earth can we find a man who's perfect?! Only Jesus was perfect, and the Bible is full of humans like you and me - who long to be like Him - but simply aren't. Your examples of imperfect (yet faithful and remarkable) Christians through the ages is much appreciated, and I can only think that satan is having a heyday with this, urging others on to condemnation of this dear and humble man. I wonder, would reading Screwtape Letters might be a good exercise for the church about now? It's so true that others will know us by our love, and the damage this is doing is dreadful. Many are making public statements without knowing Alistair's record or heart, and with a vitriol that I fear will only turn non-believers (young people especially) away, I fear. In a culture so focused on accepting and loving everyone no matter their "truth," this seems like a poor example. The Bible speaks so often to us about being quick to hear and slow to speak, about leaving judgement to the Lord for only He knows a man's heart (while of course teaching how we can be wise), to taking the log out of our own eye, and so much more. Some of the statements and videos coming out seem pretty pharisaical. Just heartbreaking to see. I'd LOVE to see a video on the human foibles and faults and fragility of well known Believers through the years, a continuance of the list you began, and including some of the earliest Christians - even prophets! Wow. How about Jonah, Moses, and more! It seems that might be helpful (and encouraging) at a time like this! I also hope there can be an outpouring of love for the Begg family. How difficult this must be... At any rate, thank you for encouraging this particular heart! (I'm a new listener, and appreciate your measured, Biblical, and loving input very much).

[@martidiamond7109]

Amen. You speak with grace, truth and love... Godly.

[@hannahfourtner2624]

Amen, and amen. We are tearing each other apart with a Christian cancel culture, virtue signaling with public rebukes, calls for repentance, and throwing off conference agendas when respectful, loving disagreement is all that is needed. What a sinister climate to be a Christian leader. Thank you for your steadfast wisdom on this matter. Please, keep saying something!

[@DMilbury]

I said this to someone else, but is worth repeating because I find it to be very true: “I find this happens more in Calvinist circles than others. That strain of theology tends to cause many to be less graceful and tolerant of people with other theological views.”

[@hannahfourtner2624]

@DMilbury Perhaps. Calvinists tend to hold scholarship in Biblical doctrine very dearly and, while they can get extreme with too-hard--of-lines held, the most gracious Christians I know also hold to Calvinism. Like many groups, it's the mouthy ones that tend to get more headlines and platform themselves.

[@1ninjamom359]

Finally! I have been grieved by the attacks and tearing down of believers by supposed Christian brothers for what seems like social media’s sake. My husband I have personally experienced this type of bullying in leadership in our own church. It is ugly and hurts our hearts.

[@anastasiaburr3959]

Brother, you are the only one who speaks with not only logic, but also with wisdom in terms of the judgement passed on him! Thank you very much, my brother! No, Alistair is not approving of gay marriages.

[@YanoPratt]

Thank you for your thoughtful and gracious presentation, as always.

[@georgeluke6382]

Once again, really helpful Gavin. Thank you for this.

[@daveclark3165]

People in positions of authority are rightly held to a higher standard. Begg invited scrutiny and, when confronted, he became reflexively defensive and, without introspection, cobbled together inappropriate scriptures in a clumsy attempt to defend his position. Worse, he doubled-down, assailed those who disagreed, and called them (us) Pharisees. He talked about serving his Ohio congregation for 40 years and then sought to distance himself from American evangelicals as though their influence was contemptible and "unable to discern nuance." Looking to this leader who many have admired for his knowledge and grace, I listened to the whole message and found little grace extended to anyone apart from the grandmother. Meantime, I find it ironic that his subsequent withdrawal from the upcoming Shepherds Conference was justified "so as not to create a distraction." What? Hardly a distraction. Issues like this are top of mind and the very thing the "Shepherds" should be addressing. The subject of graceful disagreement, included.

[@tjflash60]

Grateful for your observations. It is a challenging situation now that in this environment and culture we are in there is strong disagreement about what marriage represents from the legal secular perspective and the spiritual perspective. Currently in our state individuals are considered legally married once they pick up the marriage certificate at the probate judges office. It is not necessary legally to even have a official conduct an exchange of vows. I have been blessed by the teaching of Alistair Begg and as you say because we disagree in one particular area it does not mean that we can't agree on any issue. Thank you, disagreement does not have to mean disrespect. I Cor. 9:19-27 indicates that balance we try to find between conscience and consideration.

[@jdmaine919]

Which state? I didn't know that was a thing!

[@tjflash60]

The State of Alabama @@jdmaine919

[@antoniotodaro4093]

The answer is, "No" Christians should not attend such an abominable farce of a service

[@Spartanthermopylae]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/iaPCl2CrYrCgm9E

[@danpahlau16]

“Very few people will survive the environment we are creating right now” - I think that is precisely the intent of some of the biggest drivers in this space. I won’t name names because I can’t know for sure, but having grown up in ministry in some of those spaces, enough has been said out loud to believe that they are *happy* to cancel anyone who doesn’t believe exactly what they believe from top to bottom.

[@gareth2736]

It's dangerous isn't it. Rather than being able to get input on topics from a broad range of Christians with different views we will be in danger of fragmenting into multiple cult like groups.

[@JonJaeden]

@@gareth2736 i thought Begg characterizing those who criticized his counsel as Pharisees and fundamentalists who likely were suppressing their own gay lusts was pretty effective if fragmentation is the goal.

[@gareth2736]

@@JonJaeden is that a 100% truthful representation of exactly what Begg said?

[@DMilbury]

I find this happens more in Calvinist circles than others. That strain of theology tends to cause many to be less graceful and tolerant of people with other theological views.

[@mysonsmom9754]

⁠@@gareth2736that’s nearly exactly what Mr Begg said. Jon pretty much nailed it.

[@barbarypirate2713]

Thank you so much for your wise and godly comments on this issue, and on the larger issue of matters of conscience versus matters of salvation and sanctification.

[@godisreality7014]

Wickedness should be exposed, not tolerated and certainly not indulged.

[@joycegreer9391]

It's not seeking credibility from the world, but witnessing to the world. Great points, Gavin!

[@nickcurry3051]

Thank you for speaking truth with grace, humility, and a spirit of love! It really concerns me that many Christians are embracing cancel culture and are willing to crucify this minister of God over a mistake. Men should be held accountable, but they cannot be held to impossible standards either.

[@jasonwoodard7908]

Excellent work brother. Thank you for bringing a loving, articulate, truthful approach.

[@hollyassi1834]

Thank you for this. I feel so much better after hearing this as I have so much respect for Alistair Begg. You are right on.👍

[@secret_things7944]

THANK YOU for posting this. as ive been processing this entire controversy i've been trying to put words to what I felt was wrong with this whole scenario and you've helped me get tremendous clarity on whats been botehring me. thank you thank you thank you

[@A.F.v.R.]

I cannot thank God enough for this video. It is exactly how I feel, but am unable to put into sensemaking words. As God did not make bricks when He made us, it is very upsetting to see how people, regurgitating their opinions about pastor Begg, do not allow hím to have hís own opinion. He is one of a very few preachers I cherish and thank for being instrumental in my own growth in Christ. I won't stop listening to him, for I ask God for discernment whenever I delve into the Holy things of the Almighty. Thank you again, it is such a refreshing insight amidst all the vultures trying to tear him to pieces. May God bless you. 🌴

[@theepitomeministry]

This needed to be said. Thank you Gavin for being such a reasonable voice in such a polarizing time. Social media has done this. It has desensitized us to our fellow man, and it has caused us to be more polarized and radicalized. We need to unplug from social media and the internet from time to time and go touch grass as they say lol. Speak to people face to face. Read books, etc.

[@bethanyfaber2012]

Totally agree. My husband and I were just talking about this recently, how social media has made us largely unable to disagree well. It has convicted me to take the month of February as a social media free month!

[@theepitomeministry]

@@bethanyfaber2012 I wish you well this month! I'm sure it will be healthy for you to be away from. We could all use time away to be with the Lord and our family/friends, though most are too addicted to commit to that.

[@user-nr2us2vl6i]

I have never heard you before but you are the voice of reason, this is the best argument about Alistair I have heard !!!thank you!!!

[@stee1ydeac0n]

Thank you for your insightful comments and your admonishment to speak truth in LOVE!!! Your point about the meaning of attending a wedding is very discerning.

[@a1n1g1u1s]

Thank you! I’m glad you did this video!

[@emilyward6100]

Yes, I think too, that we mightn’t agree with the advice that Alistair gave, but for people to cancel out his ministry after so many faithful years of service is harsh and unkind.

[@wickedbigpuffeduphai]

This is so helpful and insightful. So needed right now.

[@leepeterson4868]

Thank you. I appreciate how you worked through this.

[@gnomesurf9234]

Great video as always

[@carolhub8080]

Your kindness was showing! Just came across your channel and this video has helped me understand the controversy. I started out thinking that Alistair was wrong on any level, but a very good friend helped me think differently. You have reinforced my not condemning. Thank you.

[@lifeofCierra]

Amen, and thank you for sharing.

[@anniebrown4169]

I am so glad that, I believe. this answer to my prayer for a balanced view of this controversy appeared, it has been such a blessing. Thank you, God bless you

[@sorenpx]

I 100% concur. Outside of the just a few core theological issues of the faith, I really think that we should be willing to agree to disagree on a very wide range of issues. To say that what has happened here is an overreaction is almost an understatement. It is shocking how quickly Christians can turn on a man who has given his life to pastoring, and done it well, just because he says one thing that they disagree with. Sometimes Christians really can be the most insufferable people.

[@fj8572]

Yes. I’m not American but have benefited from many American ministries. However, I’ve begun unfollowing them. The fighting is exhausting

[@raphaelfeneje486]

The Western Church is becoming woke. The woke ones is swallowing up the genuine church. Very terrible

[@RuslanKD]

I’m with you Gavin. This is spot on. Have a warm corner In your heart!

[@hopeful135]

Excellent Video...the soundest advice I have heard on the issue covered.

[@eileenharris2855]

Thank you, thank you for this! I'm appalled and ashamed of the well known Christian pastors and teachers who have judged and condemned and crucified Aliatair Begg. It makes me deeply sad. All I can do pray for these "perfect" Christians. May God bless you for your words of wisdom and grace.

[@JasonDBennett]

Thank you, G. You're exactly right.

[@GospelEd]

Begg gave private counsel to a grandmother, and it should have stayed private. When private counsel is introduced into public spaces in today's climate, worldly influence (cancellation) and critique are inevitable.

[@disguisedcentennial835]

Doing it on a radio show was not the problem. That’s been done for near 100 years. It was scandalous counsel (in the Christian sense). I say this as a fan of his work, who understands we all give bad counsel at least once because we mess up. Scandal is doing something that encourages or leads another into sin.

[@patDonahoe]

Ridiculous to think private counsel somehow is “different”.

[@Ray.J]

Sadly he was the one who made it public. Even knowing many wouldn’t like his answer, as he himself stated. So he invited the criticism.

[@thomasc9036]

The order of love is God first, then love your neighbors. The question is "Are you loving God by attending a desecrated holy ceremony that He created for human flourishing?". Can a Christian work for Planned Parenthood?

[@TruthandLoveTogether]

This describes what’s happening in our culture. But this should not be the case with Christians; a rebuke should be distinguished from worldly cancel culture.

[@user-my7nb9lv9i]

Thank you, Pastor Ortlund for your wise words. After decades of faithful service to the body of Christ, I pray the legacy of Pastor Alistair Begg NOT be defined by this unfortunate debate amongst the brethren.

[@breenarnianwarhorse5051]

Well said. Thank you for addressing this so kindly and with an eye toward wisdom, not just being right.

[@kakelso]

Excellent points. I tend to stay off of social media altogether on Sundays, largely to avoid politics and arguments. If more Christians made the same commitment you have, I would love to put together a list of accounts that I could look at on Sundays and only get uplifting content: devotions and comments like that. That would be great.

[@maxiomburrows2099]

going to a wedding is publicly showing your support, being of people that refuse to accept their future actions as being sinful, you support sin. The most loving thing to do is to not attend with explanation.

[@Ad-Lo]

You missed the point of this video. Entirely.

[@ryanbreen8784]

Thank you for this!

[@alanamorgan6806]

Bravo Gavin!!!! Thank you for sharing 🙏💜🙏💜🙏

[@ClauGutierrezY]

I love you brother and your heart for the loving core of the gospel. This was a beautiful video. Thank you for being a voice for those of us who want to give mercy because we received it abundantly in the first place.

[@frankahinojosa]

Gavin, I just love your heart. Thank you so much for using the platform that God has given you, to seek with such a burden, the beautification of his bride.

[@joshmcleod9951]

Thanks for making this