It looks like the Jinwright journey is coming to a milestone in the story of a ministry, a family, and a church.

Like many others, I read the developments in the trial of pastors Anthony and Harriet Jinwright and about what will soon be a judge’s sentencing following the guilty verdicts issued by their citizen peers.

Throughout the entire public display, somehow it has been lost as to whether or not the Jinwrights were or are Christian people.

There are justifiable assumptions, of course, based on their careers as clergy. But to paraphrase a popular saying: Just because kittens are born in an oven don’t make them biscuits.

I came to the conclusion a long time ago that Christianity is not simply an ideological belief (religion). It is not simply a shared consensus. Nor is it a factual experience that sets one particular standard.

I am convinced that the definitive characteristic of Christianity lies within the actions of those who profess to follow Christ. Obviously, Christ is the paramount viewpoint within the context of Christianity, for his name lies within its membership.

It is the highly esteemed membership of the Christian church that is responsible for ensuring that the houses of worship they choose to attend never lose focus for the reason of their attendance -- to share the gospel of Christ. It is, therefore, the responsibility of the pastor to ensure that the flock’s focus stays on the glorification of Jesus’ name.

As a minister, I have no objection to receiving gifts from the flock to care for my family’s needs. Being a pastor does not eliminate the need for housing, food, and sustenance. Paul set a good example of that in his letter to the congregation of Philippi. However, when the shepard’s needs are placed above the instruction of Christ to evangelize, the potential impact of Christ’s message is decimated. The church then becomes a Christian-like “business” operating to provide a profit margin for the CEO and his staff.

Christianity is a word that implies certain actions, thoughts and responsibilities. It is not a garment we put on or take off as needed.

When the salvation of Christ is accepted, it is as much the responsibility of the laity, as well as the leadership, to ensure that the will of God be done in the respective houses of worship. Our statement of Christian membership must be reflected in our actions.

I would rather someone notice that I am a Christian than me trying to convince them that I am.

Christianity should run as thick in the pew as it does in the pulpit. Her head should show as boldly in the darkest of grief as in the height of rejoicing. Her trumpet should sound as loudly in the valley as it does on the mountaintop.

Our Christianity is a lifelong journey. One does not get the badge of a Christian until the last breath is taken.

Mercifully, the Christian experience is not defined by the milestones of our lives, nor within the context of a decision (or lack of one) we make. It is, however, evaluated at the end of the race by The Merciful Judge.

I hope that each of us who professes the name of Christ has a long journey. Not because the scenery is great, but to repair and replace our imperfect running shoes.

So I ask again, are the Jinwrights Christian?

If they are, then I am not ashamed to call them my brother and sister who have stumbled (as I have so many times). If not, I welcome them into the membership of a people who believe that all sins can be forgiven through the shed blood of a risen savior.

Let’s all pray as Christians that, whatever punishment they get, that they are drawn closer to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
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John Hicks is an ordained minister and serves as President of Synergy Farms International.
 

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