Ben Roethlisberger

Ben Roethlisberger had a spectacular start to his career as quarterback of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Big Ben won his first 16 starts as a rookie. In his second year in the NFL, he led the Steelers to a win in the Super Bowl. Roethlisberger established himself as a premier player in the league and as a leader of his team.

This season, however, Roethlisberger was not named as one of the captains of his team. His behavior off the field had led to accusations of sexual misconduct, and the league suspended Roethlisberger for the first four games of the season. It seems that Big Ben’s teammates were holding him accountable for his actions. They have higher expectations for their leaders.

Many churches could learn from the sports world. I know of cases where churches have put the “captain” label on men who have proven themselves to be anything but capable Christian leaders. Poor behavior is ignored–and sometimes even rewarded–as divisive, quarrelsome, overbearing men are named elders and deacons in their churches.

These churches get what they deserve. They should understand that the church will never rise above the level of its leaders. That’s why Paul says that we shouldn’t be hasty in setting apart men as leaders (1 Tim.5:22) and that leaders who sin should be rebuked publicly (1 Tim.5:20).

When will we learn this important lesson that much of the world already knows? Leaders must meet a high set of standards, and they must be held accountable for their actions.