He’s trying to prevent sin.
Al Mohler, a prominent theologian with the Southern Baptist Convention, recently offered guidance to young men in ministry who wish to avoid the pitfalls faced by Pastor Steven Lawson and others accused of sexual misconduct: he advises against spending time alone with women.
Lawson, who serves as the lead pastor at Trinity Bible Church in Dallas and is also the president of OnePassion Ministries, was recently ousted from ministry following allegations of an “inappropriate relationship” with an unnamed woman.
Speaking at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, where he holds the presidency, Mohler refrained from naming Lawson but referred to him as a “dear friend” and a “well-known preacher.” He expressed his shock over the situation, noting that he did not anticipate such events.
“I was blindsided by this news. I don’t want to reference any names, but I also don’t want to downplay the gravity of the situation,” Mohler stated. He emphasized that this preacher is widely recognized and has previously preached from the seminary’s platform, highlighting the personal connection they shared.
Reflecting on the situation, Mohler acknowledged that while he couldn’t have predicted Lawson’s misconduct, he could identify certain patterns in hindsight, particularly regarding the extensive travel Lawson undertook alone.
“When disasters like this occur, you can look back and identify warning signs that weren’t obvious at the time,” Mohler remarked. “One concerning trend is the excessive amount of time spent traveling solo, which increases exposure to temptation.”
He cautioned that while past transgressions among ministry leaders might have been revealed gradually, today’s instant communication via the internet and social media can amplify scandals, bringing shame to the Gospel at a much faster pace. “It’s not necessarily that more misconduct is happening, but rather that it’s being shared immediately on social media,” he warned. “Be aware that your sins will come to light and be broadcast globally in seconds.”
Mohler urged those entering ministry to take Lawson’s situation seriously, advocating for what is known in contemporary Christian circles as the “Billy Graham rule.” He stressed the importance of implementing safeguards to prevent situations that could lead to temptation or moral failure.
“I want to be as direct as possible in this chapel,” Mohler continued. “A wise individual once told me, ‘You will not engage in sexual relations outside of your marriage if you never find yourself alone with another woman who is not your wife.’ This is straightforward advice that merits deep consideration.”
He emphasized that the moment one allows for temptation, they expose themselves to risks they may not be able to withstand. Mohler, who has shared platforms with Lawson and others like John MacArthur and the late R.C. Sproul, asserted that the severity of Lawson’s actions is often more serious than it may appear.
Following reports on September 20 regarding Lawson, several allegations of an extramarital affair emerged. Phil Johnson, executive director at Grace to You, indicated that Lawson had been involved in a long-term relationship, suggesting that Lawson only disclosed his actions after being confronted by the woman’s father.
Johnson, who later deleted his comments on social media, clarified that Lawson’s relationship was not entirely physical, yet he described it as “adulterous in spirit.” He expressed confidence in the elders at Trinity Bible Church to handle the situation appropriately.
With over 40 years in ministry, Lawson has previously held significant roles, including teaching fellow at Ligonier Ministries and dean of Doctor of Ministry Studies at The Master’s Seminary, from which he has since been removed. He has frequently collaborated with MacArthur at various church events.