Cindy, that you for coming forward. I am sorry for the years of suffering you have endured at the hands of a “wolf in sheep’s clothing.” I am praying for you and your family. I hope you get to tell your story on Dr. Phil.

Stand strong is all I can say. I suspect this is only the beginning of the exposure of the rot that is within Gateway Church. There is a tipping point where an avalanche becomes unstoppable. Which is why these organizations try to nip it in the bud (courtesy of their hired crisis management team). However, once that point is reached, their damage control/PR teams are simply overwhelmed with the volume and they are swept away. For Gateway Church, that tipping point was probably yesterday. Also avalanches can start other avalanches. Other shoes will drop, creating more avalanches. You are watching the implosion of Robert Morris and Gateway Church in real time.

“This scandal is not just about Robert Morris; it’s about larger system dynamics at play that both foster and protect ongoing predatory behavior.”

From a June 1990 article:

https://greensboro.com/tv-evangelist-had-affair-reports-claim/article_f633330d-295d-5942-9d50-0c5d9e29cba0.html

“Robison, 46, who is married and has three children, repented, and the matter was handled in a Christian way at that time, said the Rev. Jack Taylor of Fort Worth, who has been a spiritual counselor for the evangelist and for the woman. Sources said Robison, one of the nation’s best-known TV evangelists, and the woman, now in her late 20s, reportedly became involved while she was single, employed by the evangelist’s ministry and temporarily living with Robison and his wife.

So, Jack Taylor “restores” James Robison to ministry. James Robison “restores” Robert Morris. It truly is a longstanding systemic issue.

Another comment by a person who is not trauma informed, biblically uninformed, and supportive of a person staying in ministry who confessed to molesting a 12-year-child.

I regret what happened to you. God calls us to forgive. He went for help and even later came to you and your father to seek your forgiveness. Supposedly you said yes. God did redeem him and has used him greatly. God is a God of restoration. God cleanses us of all unrighteousness. I do believe from what I have read that he may not have been completely honest with the elders. That is wrong. I was also sexually abused by my brother and cousin but I never sought revenge. You are letting unforgiveness destroy you. How does seeing a gifted teacher resign help you. Unforgiveness keeps you from the healing and freedom you desire. He is not the same man he was 40 yrs ago. Seeing him go thru turmoil is not going to help you one bit. The enemy is using you.

What astounding courage! And the wisdom here, truly blown away. It’s clear Cindy is aligned with the heart of God. Her statement answers the question before it’s even asked “He resigned; what more do you want??” It is not too much to expect full transparency, full accountability, and as much justice, restitution and healing for the victims as humanly possible. After feeling so disheartened and exasperated about how the church at large responds to (or ignores) abuse, I feel hope. I believe and pray this will be a watershed moment for advocacy for the safety of the vulnerable especially children. Thank you Cindy and Dee. Adding my prayers to the many praying for you both and your families.
This part particularly stood out to me –
“My family and I have gone to leaders of very prominent churches and well-known ministries with this information, hoping that someone would hold him accountable and remove him from ministry leadership.”
They should ALL be held accountable! No more excuses!

Kathy Noll: How does seeing a gifted teacher resign help you.

He’s not a gifted teacher; he’s a paid professional motivational speaker. And a criminal, too.

Kathy Noll: Seeing him go thru turmoil is not going to help you one bit.

He is not “going through turmoil.” He is very belatedly experiencing the consequences of his crimes.

Kathy Noll: The enemy is using you

Careful on this one. Pharisees said Jesus was being used by the devil too.

I hate to sound like a broken record, but why was Law Enforcement not involved from the get-go?
Child sex-abuse is a felony in all 50 states.
I agree with Max, if your child is molested, Stop Number One is the Cops, not the Elders, not the Deacons, and not the Pastor

Muff Potter,

Muff, I’ve got a response to you stuck in moderation. But ask yourself this: If only 1 in ten adult women today report a rape because of the way they are treated by cops and lawyers, why would you expect a child or her parents to do it 30+ years ago. Cindy came out when she could, and not a moment before.

In New South Wales, Australia, there is no statute of limitations for child abuse. As a result, paedophile priests have been tried and found guilty of their crimes. Child victims come forward years and even decades later to report the abuse. Hence a statute of limitations works to protect the abuser and deny justice to the victim.

My Mama and I are current member’s of Gateway Frisco and served with the Students up until May when we were asked to step down. Outside of church, we train and educate parents and children in our community to keep them safe from predators. In February 2023, the wife of a Frisco campus leader called us to say that her husband had just molested their granddaughter during a family visit in Indiana, and then learned he was molesting in total four granddaughters over many years!!

Long story short, we immediately reached out to Pastor Adana and was advised to notify the authorities. We reported this to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and a detective called within an hour to begin investigating the allegations. He was arrested two months later, 4/26/23, with two felony charges involving three minor girls, ages 8-12.

Leadership told Scott he could not attend church or the small groups he founded, but never told any of the families and leaders who served under him about the abuse claims. We gave Gateway six weeks to notify all those with young children who were under his leadership, but nothing was ever done. If we hadn’t shared the allegations with the families in our small group, no one at Gateway would be aware of anything.

Several other families who are in leadership positions, and are very close with Scott, claim that we made this all up, and Satan is using us to go after him because of his “anointing”. It has now been 18 months, and those same families, who have kids in Students, continued to attack us, telling the students we are bad people, not to be trusted, and not fit to be serving. Just last year that same Dad leading the attacks was made a deacon/elder at Gateway, and last month we were asked to stop serving at the church.

Dale Rudiger,

The “woman” was an 18 or 19 year old college student. She and I attended the same university. For years leading up to this my family had a close relationship with the James Robison Evangelistic Association. Soon after the affair became public James left the Baptist denomination, surrounded himself with “Yes men” and was welcomed with open arms by charismatics.

Jay McKay: welcomed with open arms by charismatics

There have been a lot of “Men of God” flee to the charismatics after falling from grace. Mark Driscoll is now a Charismatic Calvinist and has been hanging out in Assembly of God pentecostal ranks. There’s just something about that crowd that is more forgiving of bad-boys than they should be … many of which never stop being bad-boys.

Max: There just has to be better church/law enforcement cooperation on these matters. Clergy are mandated reporters of crimes like this.

I agree completely. I have not gone to church since experiencing the way law enforcement looked the other way while the local churches and community rallied around the abuser in the situation I mentioned… So, I don’t know how things are currently handled.

Kathy Noll
I am really struggling to understand how anyone can defend a 20 something man who molested a 12 year old child while staying in her parent’s home with his wife and child. It sounds like you are saying that Cindy is angry and should move on because RM has done so much good for others. I would suggest you look into studies regarding recidivism rates for child molesters and read Proverbs 31:8 and Matthew 18:6 before passing judgment on children/women who have been sexually abused.

Regarding law enforcement: The F.B.I. has men and women who spend their days tracking down child sexual predators for the protection of our children. They spend hours in front of screens trying to identify who is distributing child porn on burner phones. That agent, may be an agnostic. But he might be more righteous than the Christian who seeks to minimalize a heinous crime. I know an individual who has worked in this quest to protect children. It is difficult work. But tireless effort.
Always report out sexual assault of a child. Professionals are able to deal with children within a scope of practice which is merciful and does not add to the trauma. They know how to ask age appropriate questions Trust them to do their jobs.

R’as al Ghul: Wow, the crisis management sock puppets are out in force today, aren’t they?

i.e. “BOT OR NOT?”
I mean, how much a loser do you have to be to fail a Turing Test?

nmgirl: Just stop with this!

Respectfully nmgirl, I will not stop, these a$$ wipes (Morris et. al.), would like nothing better than to have the Cops not involved.

Dave: In 95% of cases, the legal system was not an option in the 1980’s.

I was advocating FOR TODAY, not for the land of ago (1980s), and I stand on my comment.
The sex-abuse of minors IS NOT TOLERATED in any legal jurisdiction of the land.

Kathy Noll,

True!!100%

Nicole Ishee,

Hi Nichole. Can you elaborate on this? We are also members in Frisco and haven’t heard about this. We have a daughter in the students ministry. Who was arrested last year in April?

Lastly, I am committed to fighting for criminal and civil statute of limitations reform for victims of child sexual abuse. Victims should not be robbed of justice simply because it has taken them time to process childhood trauma before being emotionally ready to confront those who are responsible for these crimes. It is time for us to START protecting children and STOP protecting predators!

Cindy,
I agree. There should be no statutes of limitations. I hope you are successful. Even if you only make a small dent, you will make justice possible for some victims. Congratulations on finally getting at least some small amount of justice yourself.
As a former grades 7-12 teacher, I, along with some teachers I worked with, had to deal with a few students who were being abused – at least two of them were sexually abused…… There are all sorts of legalities, blockades, and channels that prevent or interfere with any type of intervention for minors.

You’ve beaten the odds and have grown up to be a wise, courageous, woman. I’ll bet your family and friends are so proud of you! You’re a warrior.

BTW, you are absolutely gorgeous, to boot.

Donna: Ariel,

Perhaps if he goes through turmoil, it will bring him to repentance. It sounds as though he only regrets getting caught. What about the victims lengthy turmoil? The victim is who is of concern.

Remember Judas experienced regret and felt sorry, but it was NOT repentance.

Muff Potter: I stand on my comment.
The sex-abuse of minors IS NOT TOLERATED in any legal jurisdiction of the land.

Except among the Godly(TM) in the churches, where it has become a Privilege of Rank.
With many long prayers and Bible verses.

Jasmine:
Kathy Noll,

This is so incredibly out of line and should be deleted.

Just another Godly Sock Puppet.
EVERY church corruption whistleblower blog attracts them like flies to carrion or maggots to an open wound.
Though I’m surprised this one used a real-sounding name instead of the more common Hyper-Spiritual Uber-CHRISTIAN handle.

Kathy Noll,

I feel so sorry for you… to believe that women should allow abuse and not fight for justice. No child molesters should be in a position like he was. Thank you Cindy for persevering and encouraging other victims to come forward and not to remain silent I like this comment suggests.

Wow, the crisis management sock puppets are out in force today,
R’as al Ghul,

Yeah, and I’ll betcha that if these ‘sock puppets’ all were waiting at a red light and somebody walked up to their cars and smashed out the car windows, they all just say, “ God loves you! Have a blessed day” and drive on……. Not.
Everything is just fine and dandy as long as they are not the ones who were hurt.

Kathy Noll,

personal forgiveness is wholly compatible with accountability and consequences for the perpetrator.

The Dallas Morning News has an article today addressing the question of whether Morris can be criminally charged now for his abuse. It addresses the many changes in the statute of limitations which have taken place:
1982 (at the time the abuse started): 3 years from the incident
1983: changed to 5 years from the incident
1991: changed to 10 years from the incident
2000: changed to 10 years after the victim turned 18
2007: changed to no limitations

However, the article also mentions a case involving continual abuse of a child during 1982-1983, where a defendant was sentenced in 2007. The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals overturned the conviction, stating that under the law at that time, the statute of limitations had expired, and the changes to the law could not resurrect the charges under the constitutional prohibition against ex post facto laws.

Thus, it is unlikely that Morris can be held criminally accountable.

The article also mentions whether he can be held civilly liable. It says that in 2019, the statute for civil charges is 30 years after the victim turns 18. BUT there are provisions to extend the statute based on repressed memories.

What might hurt Cindy’s case here is that after she tried to settle the matter twice out of court – in 2005 and again in 2007 – she didn’t file suit seeking damages. There is a legal doctrine called “laches”, which allows a defendant (Morris, Gateway, or both) to claim that the plaintiff took too long to file suit, and they are thus prejudiced by fading memories, lack of records, or both.

So, although we likely won’t see justice on Earth (other than that Morris has become persona non grata in the preaching world, having been deplatformed from TBN and Daystar), it will be served at the Last Judgement. And to quote Charlie Daniels from his song “Payback Time”: “the books don’t lie, the judge don’t deal, no high-priced lawyers to appeal”.

Mark R:
The Dallas Morning News has an article today addressing the question of whether Morris can be criminally charged now for his abuse.It addresses the many changes in the statute of limitations which have taken place:
1982 (at the time the abuse started): 3 years from the incident
1983: changed to 5 years from the incident
1991: changed to 10 years from the incident
2000: changed to 10 years after the victim turned 18
2007: changed to no limitations

However, the article also mentions a case involving continual abuse of a child during 1982-1983, where a defendant was sentenced in 2007.The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals overturned the conviction, stating that under the law at that time, the statute of limitations had expired, and the changes to the law could not resurrect the charges under the constitutional prohibition against ex post facto laws.

Thus, it is unlikely that Morris can be held criminally accountable.

The article also mentions whether he can be held civilly liable.It says that in 2019, the statute for civil charges is 30 years after the victim turns 18.BUT there are provisions to extend the statute based on repressed memories.

What might hurt Cindy’s case here is that after she tried to settle the matter twice out of court – in 2005 and again in 2007 – she didn’t file suit seeking damages.There is a legal doctrine called “laches”, which allows a defendant (Morris, Gateway, or both) to claim that the plaintiff took too long to file suit, and they are thus prejudiced by fading memories, lack of records, or both.

So, although we likely won’t see justice on Earth (other than that Morris has become persona non grata in the preaching world, having been deplatformed from TBN and Daystar), it will be served at the Last Judgement.And to quote Charlie Daniels from his song “Payback Time”: “the books don’t lie, the judge don’t deal, no high-priced lawyers to appeal”.

The only potential option is if Morris took Cindy across state lines or used a telephone, etc. for attempting something with a minor. Then you are looking at a Federal Mann Act violations, and there is no statute of limitations on that.

Nicole Ishee,

What? This is despicable

Is there a fund we could perhaps donate to for Cindy’s defense ?

Max: There have been a lot of “Men of God” flee to the charismatics after falling from grace.Mark Driscoll is now a Charismatic Calvinist and has been hanging out in Assembly of God pentecostal ranks.There’s just something about that crowd that is more forgiving of bad-boys than they should be … many of which never stop being bad-boys.

It appears to have become a good ole boys private club. They all find a way to stay in because it is lucrative if you are good at tickling ears.

Jo: Dr. Phil is good friends with Robert Morris.

the plot thickens

Desrtlvr: I am really struggling to understand how anyone can defend a 20 something man who molested a 12 year old child

We see this a lot on The Wartburg Watch … folks defending their pastor to the bitter end. When these things are revealed about a trusted church leader, there is a range of emotions displayed by the congregation. Most finally come to their senses; some never do.

Max,

James Robison knew also.

Kathy Noll,

This is absolutely false!!!! Robert Morris did not truly repent. He lied about the nature of the relationship and to this day is still minimizing what happened. Cindy was not a “young lady”, she was a 12 year old little girl, a CHILD! Robert Morris sexually assaulted a child (which is a crime) and then lied about the nature of his “moral failure” (criminal activity) to protect HIMSELF! He was restored to ministry and has continued to lie about this situation for 35 years, all the while exalting himself as this greatly anointed spiritual leader anointed by God and has gotten rich in the process. I’m sorry, but where in the Bible does it say that God anoints those who are sexual predators who lie about what they did? The Bible says to have nothing to do with such people! It doesn’t say to continue to follow these people who use God’s name to get rich and prey upon people. God doesn’t require us to forgive unless there is “true repentance” and Robert Morris has NOT done this!!!! Cindy is not seeking revenge, she is seeking justice for a crime that was coming against her and to warn others about this man and other’s like him! Cindy needs our compassion, empathy and support, not condemnation!!!!

Cindy, I hope you name them all. Name the people you told and went to for help, who did nothing. It’s time those in “leadership” finally realize that there is zero tolerance for heinous crimes. I can’t in my right mind understand how pedophilia gets a hand slap of ‘two years as a civilian’ (boo-hoo) only to be welcomed back into ministry by the very people who knew about it. Sick. Implicate them all.

I had gone to Gateway for upwards of 12 years and recently left. It’s time for this place to go through a major shakedown. From the misogynistic stance of males in leadership toward the women in the church (NRH), to the continuation of scandals being hidden and victim blaming (Frisco), to now, this? You can’t convince me that the current elders had NO IDEA. If Tom Lane knew and acknowledged the abuse, who else knew? Are you telling me the current elder board are all newbs, just looking around like they haven’t a clue? These guys are a tight group and it’s not the first time people have “hidden” things because they didn’t want to disrupt the flow.

And hey, guys, their crisis management firm is handling this, so don’t for a second think that statements being released by the “elders” aren’t in fact being written and vetted by the creeps at Haynes & Boone, LLP. They’re going to try and save a sinking ship. I say “we the people” let it sink.

Joe,

Hi Joe! His name is Scott Gerber and he is currently awaiting trial in Indiana. He served on the Altar/Prophetic Team in addition to three Gateway Home groups. The group we attended included many families with young children.

We met with the host family, who has three young daughter’s, before our next scheduled meeting, and assumed that they had already been contacted by Gateway, but they did not even know he was banned from attending groups!

They agreed to tell the parents with children the same age as the victims at our next meeting, but never did. So after six weeks my Mama and I reached out to the parents directly to let them know.

Nicole Ishee,

Here is a link to his active felony charges in Indiana. He has been successful in delaying the trial several times, but currently the Jury Trial is scheduled for 10/4/24. He is out on $50,000 cash bail, and thankfully unable to leave the state.

https://public.courts.in.gov/mycase/#/vw/CaseSummary/eyJ2Ijp7IkNhc2VUb2tlbiI6ImduZ0xFV3VPRF9USjFzRTJrZGFGZTNNQTlNbDlnTmxMZUVOY0dYOWhHVlExIn19

I know of a local prison/Jail that needs a pastor. Robert could use the time in the pokey to reflect on what true Christianity is.

Melissa Little,

“Curious, what should have been the accountability when the kissing-fondling-touching occurred? This is a healthy dialogue & sheds light for victims.”
++++++++++++++++

oh, how about prison?

Melanie Hays:
I might not want to stand in this position because it goes against the way our physical mind sorts things but here goes: spiritually the Bible teaches us, the Holy Spirit witnesses to us ….sin is sin and none is worse than another because all sin separates us from God. He who has humbled themselves and asks for repentance is forgiven. This deluge of destruction that will roll out for years to come and pass on to the next generation will do so by OUR participation in not honoring the work of the Holy Spirit in it. When we slice and dice the sin and actions or inactions by being mad, withholding mercies, being the judge, we give power to that direction and OUR hand will be part responsible for the ongoing evil. God’s mercies are new every day and I received them today. I do not want to be part of the perpetuation of this by representing a position of righteousness of one over the other. Let us show mercy, grace, love, forgiveness and above all KNOW that we are all ONE. We are all part of the great I AM because He is in us. He took the responsibility of judgement from us. Our response is an opportunity to see ourselves and to practice God’s commandment to love one another and ourselves. Peace is given us by our Lord. It is for our good. Give the burden to Him. We are not to judge. ❤️✝️

According to John 19:11 not all sin is equal. KJV

Max,

Interesting how this verse is never quoted by the supporters of these abusers…..

dee: Darn, Max. You are 100% correct!

Don’t blame me. It’s the Word of God!

dee: I worry about these folks. They are shallow and poorly educated when it comes to the Scriptures. I am becoming quite worried as I deal with the consequences of their Bible-lite backgrounds.

Morris kept them there for a reason. Entertain them, but keep them swimming in shallow water … if they aren’t Biblically literate, they won’t question pulpit teachings … and the gravy train will keep them moving. It’s quite common in that religious expression.

Melanie Hays: We are not to judge.

Here we go again, so here goes the Word of God again:

“What business of mine is it and what right have I to judge outsiders? Is it not those inside the church upon whom you are to pass disciplinary judgment, passing censuring sentence on them as the facts require?” (1 Corinthians 5:12 AMPC)

Max: Here we go again, so here goes the Word of God again:

“What business of mine is it and what right have I to judge outsiders? Is it not those inside the church upon whom you are to pass disciplinary judgment, passing censuring sentence on them as the facts require?” (1 Corinthians 5:12 AMPC)

Which is why I think all the SJW’s in the Evangelical Church are misguided when they go after Drag Queen story hours, DEI, etc. and do little to nothing about the dumpster fires that are in the church. But then I am sure many Evangelical leaders and pastors are doing that to distract the sheep from the rot in the church (the classic MO of a authoritarian leader to have his countrymen go after foreigners and other countries to distract from domestic problems). Morris and his crusades to go after “Godless” school boards is Exhibit A. After all, why would his brain-addled followers look for the CHO-MO in the church that is Robert Morris when he stirs them up to go on a snipe hunt for ones in libraries and schools?

Max,

They don’t seem to have a clear grasp on scripture.

dee: Correct. Think about it. In heaven, some will be rewarded more than others. Why is that?

I have no desire to go to ‘Christian’ heaven.
Streets of gold and jewel encrusted vistas just ain’t my thing.
I find the Jewish concept of Olam-Ha-Ba (after-life) way more appealing.

I hope and pray these allegations are 100% truth. God absolutely vindicates His people and fights for them. My previous comments weren’t published, however, someone had to read them to decide NOT to publish them. If you are the one who chose not to publish them and don’t share them with Cindy, you will be held accountable by God and that just may have been a earning from God. He forgave Pastor Morris fir something that happened many years ago.

Forgiveness

This word and similar have been bandied about a lot. Here’s my take.

If you want forgiveness you have to admit FULLY to what you did. He did not.

Also, it was a CRIME. He skated around this for decades to the point he can’t now be prosecuted. Or it will be hard.

Once his admits FULLY to the deed and the crime and allows himself to be punished for the crime …

Forgiveness is nonsense until then.

Oh, and there are also those who knew the extent of what happened and did not follow it through with the police.

Nancy2(aka Kevlar),

Yes I believe there should be statute of limitation reforms for sexually abused children. And there should be consequences for predators. May God use you for such a time as this!

dee,

I’m sorry, dee, but I’m afraid you’re spitting into the wind. These people believe Morris can do no wrong. If my 5 year-old grandson stole a half of an Oreo cookie from his brother, they’d say that their favorite greedy, lying, false prophet child molester’s acts were no more evil or criminal than my grandson’s.
They’d probably take Morris’ side against their own children, even if the witnessed the incidents.

Melanie Hays: I might not want to stand in this position because it goes against the way our physical mind sorts things but here goes: spiritually the Bible teaches us, the Holy Spirit witnesses to us ….sin is sin and none is worse than another because all sin separates us from God.

Nowhere, lemme’ repeat that, nowhere does Scripture teach any such thing.

Randy Robinson:
Editor’s note: I’m banging my head on the kitchen table and scaring my pugs. If he was such a gifted teacher on David, why do you sound clueless? David was a political leader “(I will give you a king and you’ll not like having a king.”) As you know, most Biblical kings did evil in the sight of the Lord.T hey were kings and were not removed because they were not priests. If David was a priest, he would have been removed since messing around was not allowed. Could it be that you were being groomed for such a day as this. “See David was forgiven!” Be a witness to the faith you claim you carry and sound thoughtful, not silly.

Kathy Noll,

Very well said. Who benefits from ruining a gifted teacher who has been forgiven by God. Isn’t that the definition of Christianity to be forgiven? God has used him mightily in the ministry. Did everyone forget about David in the Bible? God still used him!!! The devil would love nothing more than to destroy a ministry that is doing so much good for the Kngdom!!

Dee, as an aside, if was to get a dog, it would be a Pug. The combo personality, size, and their “fugliness” as it makes them so cool.

I believe some have been hypnotized from the pulpit. Please people…get in the Word. Meditate on it. Hide the Word in your heart. Don’t believe everything you are told because it makes you feel good.

Dave,

I’m so sorry that you had this experience. We had the opposite experience this year, when we went to law enforcement. The kindness, compassion, understanding, and support from law enforcement (at all levels) was real and tangible. Trauma-informed specialists carefully protected our young daughter while actively pursuing the perpetrator. Several agencies came out of the woodwork to give sound support.

Randy Robinson,

so, what kind of pedophile should be prosecuted?

Donna: I believe some have been hypnotized from the pulpit.

Mega-ministers and ministries are good at brainwashing the spiritual sense out of followers. Personality cults have become masters at this.

R’as al Ghul: The delusion is strong within them and their devotion/worship to their dear leader is unquestioned.

“Therefore, God sends upon them a misleading influence, a working of error and a strong delusion to make them believe what is false” (2 Thessalonians 2:11)

Putting your faith in the personality of a mere man, and not the person of Jesus, never ends well.

Kay: there should be statute of limitation reforms for sexually abused children

There should be no statute of limitations for child sex abuse in all 50 States.

Thank you, Cindy, for your bravery! I struggle to tell my own story publicly. I know it will be met with both judgement and slander. Years ago our then pastor played “The Blessed Life” sermon series and insisted everyone read and study the book. I knew in my spirit immediately that Robert Morris was a liar and a manipulator. I could barely look at or listen to him. I was appalled when he showed it again just one year later. I pray for your safety and peace.

I was in a ladies Bible study for quite a few years and then they started using his videos. I saw so many red lights! His demeanor, arrogance but mostly his doctrine which I didn’t think was sound teaching. I tried to explain to the ladies how I felt because he was supporting Mark Driscoll who I knew shouldn’t be a pastor. I had to leave the study because my spirit was grieved from hearing him. Now this! I’m so sorry and I’m so sorry for the way Christians cover sin up and live like there’s no consequences. It’s a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the mighty God! You’re in my prayers and on my heart.❤️

Elaine:
Gateway and Tom Lane have now publicly addressed this. I am hoping we can move into the healing phase.This is my prayer.

On the contrary, the conversation is just getting started. Gateway needs such a shakedown that it sets a new precedence of accountability for “church leaders” across the globe. THAT is a worthwhile prayer.

Ed. note This is an example of uneducated commenters who love Morris. He did not admit to the crime of sexual abuse with a 12 year old girl. Admitting it was a young lady is a lie. He still hasn’t owned up. He just resigned. Morris taught you, in his personal life the meaning of a parasitic love which involved preying on a mono girl for 4 1/2 years. And we are supposed to judge it. Why else would God tells us these things are wrong. The only thing you cannot judge is salvation which is in God’s hands. We are to cats the first stone when we see someone abusing another. Be sure to learn to interpret Scripture in context. I leave this as a challenge. Why, in this situation, did Jesus say “Let he that is without sin cast the first stone. What is the context.Do not throw around Bible verses because they sound good.

First of all I do not condone child abuse in any way and I feel sorry for this lady, we all must remember we live in a sinful world and there is going to be sin until Jesus comes.

I am sure Pastor Robert & his family is hurt badly over this but whats done is done he admit his crime and don’t deny any of it.

lets stop judging one another and love one another thats what Jesus want us to do.

we can’t change the past altho some think we can, i belive pastor Rober is very sorry for what happen at least he admits this happen.

Pastor Robert is a good Man and I will stand by his side . because this man has taught me the meaning of true love and help me find Jesus for which i will be forever greatful.

Jesus said let the one who is without sin cast the first stone >> as these above comments that certainly is happening. I Love Pastor Robert Morris and his loving family & i will continue to support my Gateway Family and all I have learn at Gateway.

I will forever be greatful & we must love one another as we love Jesus. May God Bless us All.

Elaine: What the enemy uses to tear down, God will use to build up.

We need to be careful blaming “the enemy” with this. Scripture speaks of three categories of things that come against the church: the world, the flesh, and the devil. It’s clear that flesh has been the culprit here, as well as a healthy dose of the world. I’ve seen the devil at work in churches … this is not his MO.

What was going on at Gateway of significance to the Kingdom of God that the enemy needed to tear it down? Perhaps God orchestrated this for such a time as this. He’s been busy doing the same in other mega-ministries (Driscoll, Hybels, Bickle, etc. etc.). The kingdoms of men are coming down … they have to, so that the people of God will no longer be distracted from the Kingdom of Heaven on earth in the here and now. If/when we get back to fulfilling the Great Commission that will get the enemy’s attention!

SJ,

“Gateway needs such a shakedown that it sets a new precedence of accountability for “church leaders” across the globe. THAT is a worthwhile prayer.”
+++++++++++++++++++

Gateway Church can be the first church ever to revoke all NDA’s they’ve used to take people’s voices away

(like Ursula the Seawitch sucking Ariel the Little Mermaid’s voice out of her and owning it and her)

that would be a step towards redemption and restitution that would be very significant.

if you want to be famous so you can make God famous, this is your ticket.

i really don’t think it works to say “Ok, Jesus, redeem me while i maintain my dishonesty and avoid accountability for my crime(s) because it’s more comfortable and convenient that way.”

and let’s be clear. accountability for a criminal is turning yourself into the police.

accountability is *not* whatever your yes-men say, all of whom have a huge conflict of interest and also want what’s comfortable and convenient for themselves.

gaaaaaawd, you’re all like the cleric who tip toes along the trailside knife-edge cliff to avoid having to get their hands dirty with the one who was robben, beaten and left for dead.

because it will cost them too much. and be inconvenient and uncomfortable.

(speaking to Robert Morris and all his yes-men past and present)

Simply want to send love her way and thank her courage to share what happened to her

He also needs to pay monetarily. This has cost her. I’m sure there are things she may have pursued if this rapist did not enter her life. He needs to sign over a portion of his pension, wealth accounts and vacation homes, rental properties. Church also must settle. I don’t think you will need litigation for this at all. If so sue board of church, enjoy discovery he has not stopped

This lady is hero. He may be a predator in his family. Definitely in the church. Great litigators in Dallas. Call them up

God bless you for your courage

You are loved and truly an inspiration. I hope you frel strengthened and whenever you do not pls just turn to friends and family and whatever support you need.

Thank you for your loving heart

Church girl,

I believe Tom Lane. It seems to me Robert and a few others intentionally hid her original age (12) from Todd. Which is certainly interesting now. The only ones who knew, seemingly are the only ones with Robert at that time. In 2011 Robert and Jimmy Evans flew to Oklahoma City to meet with Cindy. Jimmy Evans is the ONLY pastor to have actually met with her with Robert. Interesting. Has Jimmy Evans said anything publicly?

Here is Pastor Tom Lane’s full statement.

——

I am deeply saddened by the pain Cindy Clemishire has endured and the recent revelations regarding Pastor Robert Morris. My deepest sympathies go out to Cindy, and I pray her suffering is fully recognized and validated.

Until Cindy’s statement on June 14, I did not fully understand the severity and specifics of the sexual abuse she experienced, nor did I know she was 12 years old when the abuse began. I believed Robert’s testimony, which included an admission of infidelity with a “young lady.” Like many others, I was under the impression that the matters of infidelity, widely accepted as truth, had been fully addressed by the Elders of Shady Grove Church.

As it was always described to me, the agreed-upon process between Pastor Robert and the Elders of Shady Grove Church, along with Cindy’s parents, included a two-year restoration period, during which he stepped out of ministry and received professional counseling. My understanding was the process had been closely managed by the Elders of Shady Grove Church and it was complete.

When Cindy came forward in 2005, I believed, based on the knowledge I had at the time, that the necessary actions had been taken and the situation had been appropriately resolved, as it concerned a pastor involved in a moral failure. Regrettably, I have never met Cindy in person and, until this past Friday, I never fully grasped the extent of the abuse she endured or the fact that Cindy was a child, not a ‘young lady’, at the time. It was always understood that Pastor Robert had a consensual extramarital affair, not the sexual abuse of a 12 year old child.

It is heartbreaking to know Cindy has suffered this prolonged pain. I pray she finds the healing she has longed for. Given the facts that have now emerged, it is evident that more could have been done to support and protect Cindy, and for that, I am deeply sorry. The process of healing varies for each person who has been abused, and this is Cindy’s time to come forward.

I will be praying for Cindy and her family so she can continue to heal and be supported in her journey to recovery.

Max,

2Corinthians 11 says that Satan parades as an angel of light and that his servants are in the church advocating for him with their false authority, false Jesus, false gospel and false spirit. So that is where he tries to place his headquarters. He has his spokespeople – Michael Brown probably being the greatest demonic bastion in defending the most demonically inspired and cruelest men on the planet.

And “we put up with it easily enough.” We are committing the sin of the Corinthian church. #EnoughIsEnough

DB: where in the Bible does it say that God anoints those who are sexual predators who lie about what they did? The Bible says to have nothing to do with such people! It doesn’t say to continue to follow these people who use God’s name to get rich and prey upon people

2 Samuel 11 and 1 Chronicles 20 – King David uses the power of his position to have the wife of Uriah (Bathsheba) brought to him and has sex with her. When she tells David she is pregnant, he tries to cover it up by bringing Uriah home – knowing Uriah will sleep with her – but Uriah keeps himself pure from sexual relationships which is the requirement at the time for men at war. David then arranges to put Uriah in a fighting position in which it is guaranteed he will die – which he does. David commits intentional murder to hide his deeds. He then takes Bathsheba as his wife. David gets caught and confronted by the prophet Nathan. It is obvious David did not confess on his own. And we don’t know how or when this story about David becomes known or fully known and part of what we know about King David. What we do know is David bore the consequence’s within his family AND that he remained king and God called David a man after his own heart and one who God promised would always have a descendant upon the throne. Jesus was a descendant of David. Bathsheba – the victim became the wife and it was her son Solomon who was David’s first descendant on the throne of Israel. Perhaps a good discussion to be had is what does God see in us as humans in our worst moments that causes him to consider us a persons after his own heart and worthy of saving and of making promises to and keeping them. And how does God work with the victim to bring glory out of seasons of oppression and shame. How would that discussion inform our own hearts, attitudes and actions? What can we discover about God’s character. God is never first concerned about a temple, nation, or organization, but rather about individual lives, their hearts, their freedom and their eternal life.

Elders, Do the right thing and remove everything Robert Morris related from anything Gateway: church’s website, YouTube, all social media, etc.

R’as al Ghul: Remember Judas experienced regret and felt sorry, but it was NOT repentance.

Sally Davidson,

the statement that is referring to Judas, was NOT mine, thank you!

Kathy Noll:
Another comment by a person who is not trauma informed, biblically uninformed, and supportive of a person staying in ministry who confessed to molesting a 12-year-child.

I regret what happened to you. God calls us to forgive. He went for help and even later came to you and your father to seek your forgiveness. Supposedly you said yes. God did redeem him and has used him greatly. God is a God of restoration. God cleanses us of all unrighteousness. I do believe from what I have read that he may not have been completely honest with the elders. That is wrong. I was also sexually abused by my brother and cousin but I never sought revenge. You are letting unforgiveness destroy you. How does seeing a gifted teacher resign help you. Unforgiveness keeps you from the healing and freedom you desire. He is not the same man he was 40 yrs ago. Seeing him go thru turmoil is not going to help you one bit. The enemy is using you.

This person is totally out of his mind, no one who has not suffered from sexual assault has nothing to say, much less use the Bible to defend the predator.

Sally Davidson:
Melanie Hays,

https://youtu.be/l14PCQI6Xw4?si=Vc_in3tSqYUl2e5h
NOT AN EXCUSE, BUT PERHAPS AN EXPLANATION/ENLIGHTMENT, into why Pastor Robert committed this grievous mistake. Some, may not be aware of the childhood “sexual abuse” and rejection that he suffered also, from many many years ago.

I watched the video. You are correct, his personal history of trauma and abuse (including sexual abuse) is NOT AN EXCUSE. Yes, it’s an underlying cause of his own problems, but nonetheless, traumas don’t mean we can commit a crime!! The video is moving in its own right, and he needs compassion for his own traumatic childhood experiences, but holy moly, that’s no reason to become an adult who molests a 12-year-old child, nor to be a pastor who sanitizes the story as a past moral failure with a “young lady”. She was 12. It was rape of a child for 4 1/2 years. This video, although moving and explanatory, shows that he doesn’t take responsibility for his actions, but blame shifts. He describes arguments with his wife and blames it on the trauma. He needs to understand that trauma triggers us, then we act. And our actions are within our control. In this video, there is no personal responsibility. He doesn’t point right at himself for his own actions, but points at other causes, like childhood trauma. Those of us who went through trauma, abuse and childhood rape (as I did) know that triggers are triggers, emotions are emotions, but our own actions must be honorable.

Nancy2(aka Kevlar),
Yes, and that first child of David and Bathsheba died from an illness when he was seven days old, as prophesied to David by Nathan. Nathan also told David that the sword would never depart from his house.

Thennnnnn:

Nancy,
All the details of David’s life you list after “Thennnnnn:” was what I was referring to when I stated: ‘What we do know is David bore the consequence’s within his family’

But what I continued to say was not as you stated -“Certain people keep using King David as a get-out-of-jail-free card for Robert Morris.”

David did bear heavy earthly consequences for his choices to feed his passions and cover up his sins with lies and murder. And his children bore heavy consequences as well. Most of us who realize the depths of our sins do come to know the extent of the pain and suffering that have followed those sinful choices. Yet God was the final and just judge both for David and for Bathsheba and ultimately for David’s children.

He did this in 2 ways – letting earthly consequences follow their course but also knowing the heart of David toward his Him as his God and Father. As a result of God’s character and deep understanding of this child of His I stated that God also did the following ” AND David remained king and God called David a man after his own heart and one who God promised would always have a descendant upon the throne. Jesus was a descendant of David. Bathsheba – the victim became the wife and it was her son Solomon who was David’s first descendant on the throne of Israel.
We all must be careful what stones we throw and from what heart space they are coming from, because each of us have hearts that are more deceitful than we know and we may find stones being flung at us one day for failing to live pure moral lives when all along we may have believed we were. Thank God that He knows we are dust (Psalm 102) and in need of the benefits He offers even in the midst of bearing our consequences. Benefits of forgiving ALL iniquity, healing ALL diseases, redeeming our life out of the pit we have made for ourselves and then has the audacity to crown us with steadfast love and mercy and makes us whole. These benefits are standing ready for Robert Morris as one who afflicted another and Cindy Clemishire who was scarred by that affliction.

There is only one God and only His way that has the possibility of bringing good out of all things. As he did for David AND Bathsheba He is more than capable of doing with Robert Morris and Cindy Clemishire. My prayer is that all the shock, betrayal, righteousness indignation, anger, judgement, etc that is being aired across so may platforms be transformed into a uniting cry of gratitude that our hope and solid ground is made secure not in humans who are but dust, but rather in the Love, heart, and character of the Father of us all. That our cry to this all powerfully loving Father God be that this individual and corporate great dis-ease in the light of this revelation be healed; for each one of us is expressing through our thoughts and emotions a great dis-ease which only God – not man – not churches – not courts – not retribution -not vindication – can fully heal.

Nancy2(aka Kevlar): Nathan also told David that the sword would never depart from his house.

The story of David is an interesting base for speculation. Did Amnon feel permitted to rape his half-sister Tamar because he saw his father get away with arranging the death of one of chief men and raping and stealing his wife? Then David does nothing to Amnon for the rape of Tamar so does that first push Absalom to personally avenge his full sister, Tamar, by killing Amnon and then much later rebelling against his father and raping his father’s concubines. Crime upon crime and failure upon failure to do justice. What if David had resigned as king? Told God he was unworthy and to appoint a new blameless king. How could the story have gone then?

Stand on your truth. Don’t let Rev Morris side of change your view of what really happened. This is gaslighting and it is what narcissists do. I have also been emotionally abused by ministry leaders and after DECADES finally got the correct counseling I needed in a town far away. Stand firm! God can use this situation for you to help others.

Ann Heckathorne:
Dave,
Sorry, I should have stated in my last comment that I know you were talking about the 1980’s!It’s much easier now to report these abuses to law enforcement.
Dave,

It is great to hear that things have improved dramatically. I hope you and your daughter got the closure you needed to move forward.

Many people don’t understand that the 1980’s were a different time and place as far as sex crimes go.

Ed note: He has not repented of molesting a young girl. He just said he has. If he had, he would have grabbed one of his attorneys and gone to the local police and confess to them. he resigned, he didn’t even release a statement saying he was sorry. Now, your theology is whacked but I blame that one the teaching you have received. You misunderstand where and what Jesus was doing when he said that “God will not forgive you if you don’t forgive others.” The same goes for the woman caught in adultery. I have a challenge for you. These are “gotcha” passages used by those who don’t take the time to study. 30 years ago, I spent about 5 years studying such passages and it has changed my life. Unfortunately, for those who like the jumping up and down style of worship, it takes time. Something many don’t take. Try it. You will sound less clueless the next time around and give a witness to the education you get in your church.

Kathy Noll,

Since Robert Morris has repented it is all under the blood of Jesus . Do church people think all their sins are washed away but not Robert Morris ? I thought when Jesus died on the cross, ALL our sins are forgiven when we repent and never to go fishing for them in the Lake of Forgiveness. Oh !!! but this sin of Robert Morris is one that Jesus just was not able to forgive , or wash with His Blood ! I thought Jesus paid the price for this sin . If you don’t forgive Robert Morris for this sin from years ago , God will not forgive you ! What did Jesus say to those who were going to throw stones at the sinner who was “ CAUGHT “ in Adultery ? “ Let Him who has no sin throw the first stone”.

Kathy Noll,

You need to read Matthew 18. That days it all in my opinion.

editor note: It makes me sad that people like Tami are so uneducated that they come across as clueless and out of touch. Tami-please educate yourself. Most people in the world know why it takes a women years to come out about their abuse. If you want to make a difference, you need to sound like you have taken the time to research child sex abuse. You are angry and looking for anything. Your pastor is gone. Now it is time for you not to come across as just one more Gateway person who is braindead.

What I’m trying to comprehend is WHY NOW ?
Why do women always come out 20 years later unless it’s about money

Amy Moore,

I don’t know you and more to the point I don’t know how you would have been as a 12 year old on Christmas night in her own home with a family friend shockingly exploiting you in such an unconscionable way. I don’t know how you would have handled the burden of
being told by such a gifted communicator and manipulator that you telling would ruin everything knowing he was an evangelist and had a new wife and young son. How would you have handled that burden in 1984 when pretty much no one was telling or warning children about bad touch and the like. It’s hard to say how your mind, wired for survival like all of us, would have responded. Would you have blacked it out all together? Preferred to consider it akin to a bad dream in some sort of alternate reality versus being able to process the horror of reality and all the cognitive dissonance of that? Would you have split it off in some way in order to survive? Would you like most of the many
child victims I’ve spoken to about it over the years have feared for your very life or that of your family? Would you have taken the burden on yourself in order to spare your family the pain of the reality? I don’t know. I don’t think any of us can say for sure. I do know one of my cohorts from back around that time that probably would have told after the first time given her personality. Only one.

GM,

I just saw a video of RM preaching about the sub-conscious and he actually said the name, Cindy, in the recording. How do you think it made Cindy feel? How about Debbie?

Ed Note: You need to read what happened. In the eyes of the law it was intercourse. Be careful here. You sound uneducated. I bet you hoped to influence us. It didn’t work due to your lack of knowledge. Do your reading.

I did not hear a victim’s story here. There were no details which would identify it as such. She leaves the narrative to Robert Morris as just kissing and touching with no real sex! It sounds like Robert has not completed his Restitution to you though. So, he is not faultless. She has to tell the full story in outline to get full healing!

I’ve only made it this far in the comments….and I still have all the more recent posts and comments to read. 🙂

Dee,

I read your comment and wanted to respond before I finish reading the comments on this post….

FWIW, except for eChurch — and I often skim eChurch and / or read the comments, and I regret that I don’t have the time to do more….I know how much time and love, etc. you put into eChurch 🙂 — I read all the TWW posts and almost all the comments….and I read the comments on posts until the comments are closed. 🙂 The comments I don’t read are generally the ones that are trolls, sock puppets, etc.

And my apologies, Dee, for editing and / or modifying your comment….which includes deleting some things you wrote, and not because I don’t agree with you. 🙂

dee: I am at the end of my rope, answering the same question over and over because commenters refuse to get educated, have not read the posts, or think their defense will be backing….[whoever].

….Most childhood victims cannot deal with [or don’t remember] their abuse until later in life.

….By the way, the most judgemental comments came [and frequently come] from those who claimed [or claim] we cannot judge [even if the claim isn’t done in the usual Christianese]. Do you folks read what you write?

….It is not for any of you to tell how someone should forgive.

….[abuse, of all kinds, affects]….life trajectory. [Been there, done that, bought the T-shirt.]

….This blog does not discuss politics. We discuss abuse in the church, and politics divides us 50 / 50. This blog attempts….[and usually succeeds 🙂 ]…To dig into what is Scriptural and right.

….Those of you who claim to be Gateway [or somehow connected to Gateway, etc.]….I am concerned about your church’s health. [How many other predators and / or victims are in Gateway that have gone unnoticed?]

….How many of you understand the need for both the Law and the Gospel? If you don’t, do some reading.

My rant has ended.

And I appreciate your rant, Dee. 🙂 Sometimes people need the equivalent of a smack upside the head. 🙂 And your rant is much politer than some of the words I’ve used when talking back to my computer. 🙂

Stay safe, Dee….and Todd Wilhelm and GBTH. I know — and understand 🙂 — how slammed you’re getting. Please take care of yourselves. 🙂

researcher,

Dee said it much more gracefully than I could have. (I think I’m growing fangs and my eyes are turning more green!)
I get the feeling that a few commenters believe that RM will be the judge sitting upon the Great White Throne on the final judgement day!

Christie: Since Robert Morris has repented it is all under the blood of Jesus

“Uhhhh… That’s All Under The Blood.”
— Mike Warnke and his fanboys, after Cornerstone exposed Warnke as a total fraud.

Robert should have been completely honest even with the congregation if he was truly sorry. Look at the thousands of people hurt and maybe even leave church for good. He should have offered Cindy all the help she needed instead of saying she could get into legal trouble. That’s repulsive. I was a.member of Gateway many years and had great respect for him but like most members we feel betrayed. Ot should not have come to this. He should have truly talked to Cindy as she asked. So truly sorry for you Cindy. I pray for complete healing for all victims.

Thank you for being brave and courageous. Your story brought me to tears, as my heart breaks for you (and the little girl in you that was harmed). May God continue to heal you, protect your heart and mind, and use you to protect other precious children.
One of the things about your journey (although there are many) that greatly hurts my heart for you is that Robert refused to pay for your counseling. This is where real repentance from Robert could have taken place, by offering to pay for life time counseling and whatever else it took to help you heal. Continuing to pray for you precious Cindy.

Mona Strandburg,

“But I guarantee she wasn’t twelve years old. Again I can’t guarantee that”
++++++++++++

good grief.

(i could say so much more…)

Mona Strandburg:
She said she was twelve years old. That is her word against his. I’m not saying that she didn’t go through something. Because he admitted it. But I guarantee she wasn’t twelve years old. Again I can’t guarantee that I just don’t believe it. And I think.
She’s just out for money. And why was she wait all this time to bring this up. Please people.
Can’t you see through this.

Then why did Gateway make a counteroffer in 2005? If they thought Cindy was lying about her age (especially claiming to be a minor if she was not), they would have told her to go pound sand, and likely report her to authorities.

They made the counteroffer for one reason: they wanted her to go away and not tell the world what happened. Had they been smart, they would have offered to pay the $50K with the NDA requirement, and she probably takes the offer. The lowball offer plus the NDA was the deal-breaker.

Muff Potter: Most of them have no desire to read anything above the level of Archie and Jughead.
Some of them ain’t playin’ with a full deck either.

Muff Potter,

Thank you for the laugh. 🙂 And I love that you stand your ground 🙂 ….and that you don’t speak in polite Christianese…. 🙂

Ariel: He’s not a gifted teacher; he’s a paid professional motivational speaker.And a criminal, too.

He is not “going through turmoil.”He is very belatedly experiencing the consequences of his crimes.

Careful on this one.Pharisees said Jesus was being used by the devil too.

Thank you! I was going to respond to Kathy’s comment, but yours was exactly what I was thinking.

Nancy2(aka Kevlar):
Lastly, I am committed to fighting for criminal and civil statute of limitations reform for victims of child sexual abuse. Victims should not be robbed of justice simply because it has taken them time to process childhood trauma before being emotionally ready to confront those who are responsible for these crimes. It is time for us to START protecting children and STOP protecting predators!

Hi Brave beautiful Cindy,
I am a licensed victims advocate in Texas. In early 2023 Biden signed Bill 3103. Texas has ammended the statute of limitations. Under TX H.B. 206 voted on by the legislature in Sept. 2023.
We have a zero statute here in TX. I understand Oklahoma is not there yet

If some of the continuous sexual abuse happened in TX you can file here. Purple heart of courage, wishing you strength and peace.

Caroline
Cindy, I agree.There should be no statutes of limitations.I hope you are successful.Even if you only make a small dent, you will make justice possible for some victims.Congratulations on finally getting at least some small amount of justice yourself.As a former grades 7-12 teacher, I, along with some teachers I worked with, had to deal with a few students who were being abused – at least two of them were sexually abused…… There are all sorts of legalities, blockades, and channels that prevent or interfere with any type of intervention for minors.

You’ve beaten the odds and have grown up to be a wise, courageous, woman.I’ll bet your family and friends are so proud of you!You’re a warrior.

BTW, you are absolutely gorgeous, to boot.

Mona Strandburg,

Well, I happen to believe you are the one who cannot see through your own blinders.

“It’s all a big lie and it’s the worst kind of counterfeit spirituality. There has been no surrender, no separation, no heartbreak over sin, no laying down the past life! Jesus tells it like it is. You people really don’t want My Word. You don’t tremble at it. You don’t hear it. You don’t stop and let it sink in. It means nothing to you! You people think you are My disciples , but you’re not. “If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him” (1 John 2:15). God said through Malachi: “…if then I be a father, where is mine honour? and if I be a master, where is my fear?…” (Malachi 1:6).

They had no sense of need then or now. To them there is no need to repent or to change – nothing to lay down or forsake. They simply pick up all their worldly ways and follow Jesus. These kind use Jesus as an enhancer of their own selfish ways. He is seen not as an emancipator to set them free, but as one added to what they already have — one who will enhance their talents, open doors, bless, add new dimension to their careers. They pray for God to make them successful in their careers of sin!”

Counterfeit Christianity

David Wilkerson

daniel lick,

The Great Apostasy – by David Wilkerson

researcher: ….and that you don’t speak in polite Christianese….

Nope, nope, nopity-nope.
And I drop the f-bomb on occasion.

Donna,

“I believe some have been hypnotized from the pulpit. Please people…get in the Word. Meditate on it. Hide the Word in your heart. Don’t believe everything you are told because it makes you feel good.”
+++++++++++++++

hmmmm…. i think we can put our faith in the interpration of scripture which we have been told is the right one (or which we have adopted for whatever reason)

rather than faith in God the father son and holy spirit

to the point that we silence our God-given common sense and gut feeling.

and to the point that we silence God’s still small voice itself, and Godself.

AF:
Church girl,

Tom Lane said he didn’t know her age.It’s amazing that the Elders past and present know nothing.

When your Position, Prestige, Paycheck (and legal liability) all depend on you NOT Knowing…

Kathy Noll,

Adults of serial abuse in childhood often turn to drugs, alcohol, and sadly suicide in adulthood to numb the pain.
Pedophilia is the hardest addiction to cure. And if the are “forgiven” will likely abuse again.
She wasn’t old enough to forgive him. At that time she had no idea of the repercussions that will stay with her for life.
He is a predator, he groomed her for years. Plain truth

John 3:19
New International Version 19

This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.

Ariel,

Yes the enemy is definitely using you. Forgiveness is a much better option. To think you have held in this much bitterness for this many years is so sad.

Headless Unicorn Guy,

EXACTLY!

Ed. note: Best comment yet!!

And Robert Morris restored Mark Driscoll

Shannon: And Robert Morris restored Mark Driscoll

“One Hand Washes the Other…”

Thank you for your bravery. I was a victim of sexual abuse and rape from the ages of ten to fifteen. My accusers got a slap on the wrist. There is so much abuse that is never acknowledged! It has to stop. Justice must take place.

BZ: You hit the nail on the head.Theres a greater issue of the particular era/ denominational ‘sub-culture’ RM was a product of. Right or wrong, I thinkRM believed that he himself was guilty,but could–and should–continue in ministry as others around him had.

As revealed in the NBC transcript, he acknowledged in 2005 to Cindy that maybe he should have been required to do more in 1987, “but i did everything I was asked to”.

Especially since his mentor and restorer Robison was back in the pulpit after his clergy abuse, and Robison’s spiritual advisor John Hagee was back in the pulpit with his own empire after cheating on his wife with a woman in his church and later marrying her. The bad apple does not far from the tree.

So sorry Cindy,We do live in a truly evil world and Satan is in control.churches or schools are not safe for children without True accountability by the entire administration seems to always be missing. My poor inocent daughter was only 9 when raped at recess at her school when 3 inmates escaped and harmed her terribly and we did not know until years later and found that the school covered it even though they knew it. That kind of rape haunts the victim for life.

Elaine,

I am so heartbroken for you Cindy. I was molested by a bright in law when I was 14. It took me years to recognize the significance of this criminal act as he was 21. I was a child and did not tell anyone until a few years ago. It was 55 years ago. Yes, it affected me in horrible ways and still haunts me. I can’t imagine this happening to you for 4 years. I am so saddened for you and for all of us Christians that believed in Robert Morris as a solid Christian. I am drained from hearing about this a few days ago and I can’t wrap my thoughts around it. I have been praying for everyone involved,

R’as al Ghul,

They have lifted the statute of limitations in several states. My understanding is they seek to do the same in TX and OK. Additionally it appears if other victims are found, he can be charged as a serial r@pist. No limitations on that in TX.

Mona Strandburg,

You can guarantee she wasn’t 12? News stations, professional investigative reporters have interviewed her. But YOU can guarantee anything about this matter? You think they don’t fact check? Delete your comment! It’s slanderous!

Laureen Kristensen: More truths will come out and I truly hope his followers will awaken to the sin of Idolatry, which is what they have been practicing.

Gateway, like so many other mega-churches, is a cult of personality … celebrity worship … no Morris, no Gateway – they are one and the same. When Driscoll fell, Mars Hill ceased to exist … when Hybels fell, the Willow Creek model of doing church fell out of favor … when MacDonald fell, Harvest Bible Chapel struggled to stay open … when Bickle fell, IHOP has been thrown into a state of confusion … etc. etc.

dee:
I am at the end of my rope, answering the same question over and over because commenters refuse to get educated, have not read the posts, or think their defense will be backing Robert Morris or helping Donald Trump.
1. Cindy has been dealing with this for a long time. Read her interviews.
2. Most childhood victims cannot deal with their abuse until later in life. If said commenters would educate themselves about childhood sexual abuse, they wouldn’t sound so stupid and end up ineffective.
3. She deserved the entire money to pay for her counseling. Mr “Give it away and get it” wouldn’t do it and called her, as a 12-year-old child, “flirtatious.” This was a fatal error.
4. He did not repent for having sex with a 12-year-old child. That is a crime, and he bears that responsibility alone.
5. Christians are to judge actions; otherwise, we would not be able to apply Scriptural warnings such as “Do not commit adultery.” The commandment not to judge is for the Christian not to judge who is or is not saved. That judgment is in the hands of God Himself. By the way, the most judgemental comments came from those who claimed we cannot judge. Do you folks read what you write?
6. It is not for any of you to tell how someone should forgive. What you did is for you alone. Morris has never apologized to Cindy, who, as an adult, came to understand the crime Morris committed against her. It affected her life trajectory.
7. This has nothing to do with money, even if it resulted in a lawsuit. The creepy pastor molested a 12-year-old child. Restitution is a most discussed item in the Bible. Do you folks read it or just listen to prosperity sermons?
8. This blog does not discuss politics. We discuss abuse in the church, and politics divides us 50/50. This blog attempts, but often fails, To dig into what is Scriptural and right.
9. And the woman who claimed that 12-year-olds are mature and Cindy was trying to get Robert to divorce Debbie needs serious counseling.
10. Those of you who claim to be Gateway, prove your faith in how you communicate. At the moment, I am concerned about your church’s health.
11. How many of you understand the need for both the Law and the Gospel? If you don’t, do some reading.

My rant has ended.

Well said Dee. We support Cindy because we support truth, justice, and Jesus. You hit the nail on the head with idolatry.

Max: Gateway, like so many other mega-churches, is a cult of personality … celebrity worship … no Morris, no Gateway – they are one and the same.

And Brigham Youngs who can turn such a thing into a long-term, self-sustaining religious system are extremely rare.

Headless Unicorn Guy: Isn’t that like Humbert in Lolita

Nabokov suggests that HH was a kind of collector, as one hunts, kills and collects butterflies, and pins them to a board for ongoing satisfaction.

Am I remembering correctly that Morris attempted to share his victim with other predatory preachers? If so, that greatly amplifies the crimes in question.

phyllis roth,

All I can say is, Bless your heart!