He’s taking full responsibility.
During a Sunday service broadcast on Facebook, Pastor John Lindell of James River Church in Missouri extended an apology to his congregation for the controversy stirred by the recent Stronger Men’s Conference. He expressed gratitude for the response received earlier in the week, acknowledging it as both biblical and necessary, with a palpable presence of the Lord. However, he was unequivocal in taking full responsibility for the decision to invite Pastor Mark Driscoll and professional sword swallower Alex Magala to the conference.
Lindell lamented the unintended division caused within the Body of Christ, emphasizing that the essence of the Stronger Men’s Conference was always centered on bringing men closer to Jesus Christ. He acknowledged the disappointment and clarified the intent of the event, reiterating its mission to further the gospel.
His remarks came in the wake of a nearly 40-minute rebuke of Driscoll, in which Lindell criticized Driscoll’s public confrontation of Magala’s performance, arguing that Matthew 18 should have been followed for dispute resolution. Lindell also defended the decision to feature Magala at the conference, portraying him as a devout Christian and family man.
Magala, however, contradicted some of Lindell’s assertions, clarifying his marital status and religious background. He refuted claims of being born-again and highlighted his Orthodox Christian upbringing.
Lindell condemned Driscoll’s characterization of Magala’s act as influenced by a Jezebel spirit, defending Magala’s faith and reputation. He also refuted Driscoll’s comparison of Magala’s performance to a striptease, emphasizing the longstanding tradition of sword swallowing as distinct from erotic entertainment.
The controversy stems from Driscoll’s objections to Magala’s performance, drawing parallels to his past involvement as a pole-dancing artist. Driscoll’s likening of Magala’s act to a striptease led to his removal from the conference stage.
Magala’s past involvement in pole dancing, albeit for different audiences, was brought to light, sparking further debate over the appropriateness of his performance within a religious context.
Despite the discord, Lindell stood firm in his support of Magala and the decision to include him in the conference program, reiterating his commitment to defending both Magala and his congregation.