Reactions to Samuel Renihan’s Confession and Resignation
In his letter, Samuel Renihan said he has confessed to his congregation, resigned as pastor, and “submitted myself to the judgment and discipline of the church.” He has also confessed the sin to affiliated organizations and has unpublished his self-published works.
“The fault is entirely mine, and it grieves my heart that many others will suffer for my sin,” Renihan wrote. He continued:
I thank God that my wife has graciously forgiven me. I have humbled myself before God as a wicked sinner, praying that he would lift me up. And now I humble myself before a broader audience, asking only that you forgive me my hypocrisy and give glory to the Good Shepherd who will never leave or forsake his flock.
Several friends and colleagues have commented publicly about Renihan’s revelation. Discipleship Pastor Gregg Kite wrote that the news about his friend “has been very heavy on my heart.” He added:
I am angry for the reproach brought on the name of Christ and His church through Sam’s sin, but I am also grateful for his heartfelt repentance, as well as the picture of Christlike forgiveness displayed by his wife. Lord, have mercy. I am growing so weary of hearing this same story again and again. This time, it’s closer to home than ever.
Louisiana Pastor Tom Hicks wrote:
Friends, let us watch our hearts and repent daily. Christ commands us to have sound doctrine and orthodox churches so we must obey Him in those things. But without Christ Himself, personally, and our daily taking up our own crosses, we have no hope of surviving the temptations of Satan, the world and the flesh. Lord have mercy. May Christ help, rescue and protect Sam, his poor wife and son, the other woman and her family, and the church.
