Ten days after an accountability team deemed Dr. Michael Brown fit to return to ministry—despite independent findings of serious but “isolated incidents” of sexual misconduct from decades ago—the apologist shared “his heart” with listeners.
During a five-minute YouTube video posted on May 7, Brown, founder and president of The Line of Fire, thanked supporters for their love and prayers. “This time away from ministry has been very painful and difficult, but I have encountered God…in ways I never have before,” he said. “I really look forward to ministering to you in the days ahead.”
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Although Brown acknowledged that some people would “rather never see my face again,” he urged Christians to “unite around Jesus,” not “divide over me.”
The video is Brown’s first message to followers since his December 2024 apology video, which is no longer available on YouTube. In that message, the ministry leader had apologized for causing pain but also pointed to “false statements and mischaracterizations.”
Michael Brown Hopes To ‘Lower Temperatures’
As ChurchLeaders reported, an independent investigation by Firefly found that Brown had taken “inappropriate and unacceptable” actions “toward…two females.” One, Sarah Erin Monk, accused Brown of grooming and inappropriate touching. Another woman was a married friend of Brown’s, and he admitted developing emotional ties with her that involved a “lack of judgment.”
In his May 7 video, Brown didn’t mention the alleged victims or offer details. “There’s a lot to share with you, but now is not the time,” he said. “I’m not here to argue. I’m not here to prove a point. I’m not here to chase down this rumor or refute this allegation.”
“I’m not going to be putting up screenshots and video clips and getting into some kind of internet war,” said Brown. “I don’t believe that’s God-honoring.”
The goal, Brown said, is to “lower the temperatures, not raise them.” The leader emphasized that he had wanted “everything to come to light” and that his board worked to find an investigating organization that was “more friendly” to his accusers’ perspective.
