This is a good video that at least addresses the issue. I am not sure it answers it completely, or, if the question can be answered in such an objective manner. I will propose, however, that the question must be answered and addressed on a regular basis. To avoid the issue is like avoiding cancer - it doesn't just cease to exist because we cease to think about it.
Those of us in the ministry must not be so naive as to think ministers are not struggling with at least a regular temptation in this area. Some may not have an issue at all; but to assume that most do not is a grave mistake. I want to be clear. I am not saying that most ministers have a p0rn addiction. I am not saying that most ministers are currently struggling with regular p0rnography use. But I am saying that to keep the issue strictly a secular matter, or one that only our congregants deal with, is prideful and dishonest.
Ministers are not immune to lust.
But here is the catch. What if a minister is struggling? Can he say anything about it to his fellow elders or ministers? What will they say - or do? Will they insist that he step down from ministry? Can he lose his job or credentials? The fear that accompanies the answers keeps strugglers in the dark. And that is the rub with ministry and p0rn. If I confess, I may lose my job. I better not confess. The only problem is that lust thrives in the dark and, if left there, will quickly grow to the status of addiction.
If you have read this blog for any length of time, you know that I have a testimony closely related to the issue. During seminary, I was graciously counseled by a good friend (who was a counselor) on a regular basis. I needed to know the answer to the question at hand. With good, gracious, godly, and courageous accountability (that is still in my life today - wife included), the question was answered. I am walking in light, and my conscience is clear. There simply is no other way. We can trust Christ.
The issue has to come to the light. The questions have to be answered. If we stay silent, people will die.
Pornography and Ministry from Harvest Bible Chapel on Vimeo.
I think that to ask the question, "how much porn can one view to disqualify them?" is the wrong question. The question should be: "is he a man that is above reproach in this regard?" Christ used very simple and clear language when addressing lust: "If your hand offends you cut it off; if your eye offends you cut it out." If a pastor ( or any elder) is incapable of putting his sexual sin to death. He is at best salt that has lost its flavor; he is useless.
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