People In Glass Houses...

Personally, I’ve never understood why some folks send money to TV preachers, especially when they physically are able to participate in a local congregation. Based on my study of the scriptures, I see the Christian faith as something lived out in community with other believers. It simply isn’t “me and Thee,” or “me and the guy on television.” Try calling the televangelist when you are in a spiritual crisis, or even in need of prayer and pastoral support.

But, many people apparently are compelled to make contributions to someone they see on TV. Even then, it can get very, very specific, and if a “ministry” continues with a different face out front, sometimes the checks don’t flow as freely.

This appears to be the case with Robert Schuller’s “Hour of Power” television program. I’ve never once watched it, but many people have, and a lot of them sent money in response to Schuller’s appeals. Schuller long ago exceeded retirement age, and seemingly hoped that his son would succeed him as pastor and TV presence.

All well and good – except that father and son disagreed enough on church matters that the son dropped out all together. No pastoral leadership of the Crystal Cathedral, and no TV preaching. Again, that’s between them, but it was a little disturbing to read a description of the situation: “The Schullers consider the church a family business.”

Further, it seems that at the crux of the crumbling of the church and its TV show is not only a lack of “brand loyalty” to the younger Schuller, and subsequently, to the substitute preachers who are filling in, but also contention between father and son over “vision” and “direction.” In the article I read, neither appealed to God or the practice of spiritual disciplines in determining how things should proceed. It simply appears to be, “I want this, and he wants that.”

Giving is down big-time, and there seemingly is no one at the helm.

Some of the viewers have connected the dots, and are asking, “Where is God in all of this?”

The article concludes, "They have not been forthcoming at all," said John Dewart, an insurance agent from New Jersey who's watched for 30 years. "Why can't a father and son work together for the glory of God? That's my big question."

Others are beginning to grasp this deficiency, as well.