Why do so many preachers have crime records?

Question

According to my research, about 60% of all the preachers in non-denominational churches have crime records. Most of the offenses are DWI or sex crimes.

I have received a lot of replies to my post regarding preachers with crime records. In response let me say that my comment about 60% of preachers having crime records is a result of my own analysis using an Internet based public database. Simply put, I gather the names off church marquees and put them into the database in order to determine if they have had an event that would cause them to be listed. So no, I can't reference anything official about this since it is my own conclusion. My purpose in making this known is to try and stimulate people to not blindly follow a preacher according to what he says from the pulpit, but to do some research to see if he is the genuine article. As some have suggested, it could be that these guys have given up their old ways and have "turned over a new leaf". While it is possible that some of them have done just that, the high percentage with crime records does not indicate that it is true for most of them.

Answer 1

Because they saw the light and repented their evils ways. Or they realized, there is an better way to get away with their crimes.

Answer 2

Statistics aside, there are far too many of these stories to excuse turning a blind eye. I agree with the "cover up" comment in one of the other answers. Whether it's one or a thousand such shameful incidents, the responsibility for this is not only a non-denominational problem, and is shared by denominational leaders, as well.

Just like cops...too often the persons with all the wrong characteristics for the profession, are the very ones attracted to it. That's why the Bible says not to let someone jump into a leadership position in such a hurry. That's also why it says to call no one "Rabbi" but the Lord Himself, who said, "Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them." Big churches, especially the Mega Churches, are breeding grounds for this sort of thing, regardless of the name that hangs over the door. They might make it easier to remain invisible for those who don't want to get involved. But they make it easier for criminals to hide there too.

And just because someone is a charismatic preacher is no reason to follow that person. So was Jim Jones.

Answer 3

Could you please post a source to back that up? Sometimes they may continue to be criminals, and using religion as a new way to go about it, other times, they are people who led dreadful lives, and turned thier lives over and redeemed themselves before it was too late. The pastor that wrote Amazing Grace was such a person. Certainly in the case of someone who has turned over a new leaf, in alot of ways I think that makes them more qualified than someone that lived in a sheltered religious atmosphere, and college etc, and never really had thier lives tested in such a way. If someone has made an earnest change, and truly redeemed themselves, they can empathize better with others on things like that. No, I am not a Christian.

Answer 4

And another very good reason I was born of the blood and practice the craft of the wise. They put everything into this one almighty being and when he lets them down, which he will, they get a lil batty. Organized religion has been corrupt since the Romans brought it over inbto the new world as said here, do this or die a horrible death. Way too violent for a peace, nature based Pagan as myself.
Blessings Rev. KelySue Thomson, High Priestess

Answer 5

And you don't have a link for us? I'm just supposed to take this at face value? I don't buy it.

EDIT:
I just had to post this, it's too dang funny. In response to my arched eyebrow of skepticism, my new friend Randy P here emailed me the following message:

" Message: So you don't buy it, eh? Then you must also believe in Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy."

I can't make up stuff this unintentionally funny (and I will happily forward the email to anyone who requests proof of my statement)

Answer 6

Did you differentiate between denominations? You should-
You will find the most in:
Pentecostal/Charismatic
Catholic
Independent

The rest are so small they do not register.

You will find the least in:
Amish
Mennonite
Baptist
Presbyterian

This all means something if people ( church members) would just look!

Answer 7

Booze and sex.
That seems to be the way for mankind.
Looking for pleasure.
It it the motivator for life.
WHAT IS HOOKED UP?
Booze, sex, drugs, food, gambling, exercise. The drive for pleasure.
Why not a preacher.
A sinner as the rest.

Answer 8

why worry about records? God does not worry like that...EZEKIELS 18: IF THE SINNER TURNS TO DO RIGHT, GOD FORGIVES HIM AND SO HE HAS LIFE !!! that is how good God is...we should not judge because only God alone has the right to judge..unfortunately, in Christian churches today, that is exactly what satan is doing to cloud our understanding of how God works...hope it is not you and i to judge...God Bless

Answer 9

for the sex crimes thing i might say for that bad reason
for the other, it could be for them to seek forgiveness and be in rescue of the church

Answer 10

You forgot grand theft