Those results were turned over to “an independent team of elders,” said Brown, who didn’t mention Firefly’s findings or the elders’ rejection of those findings. The elders “looked at the results of the investigation. They evaluated me, and then they rendered their verdict,” Brown said. “And on April 28, they released me to resume ministry effective immediately. And that’s why I’m here now speaking to you today.”
The elders took issue with several aspects of Firefly’s findings, including its definition of sexual misconduct. Brown’s behavior, according to the elders, amounted to “leadership misconduct” (with Monk) and “moral indiscretion” (with the other woman).
There’s ‘A Mini Civil War Over Me,’ Says Michael Brown
On May 7, Brown again apologized “for any pain or confusion that I brought you.” He also said he’s “very much aware of the fact that in the [church] body now there’s kind of like a mini civil war over me. Some of you are really for me. Some of you are really against me.”
That’s when the apologist appealed for unity, not division. “Please don’t lose friendships, relationships, ministry partnerships over me,” he urged listeners. “Jesus said every kingdom, every house, every family divided against itself will fall.”
RELATED: Firefly Will Conduct Investigation of Sexual Misconduct Allegations Against Dr. Michael Brown
In online comments about Brown’s return, division is still apparent. “For the love, please just stop,” someone wrote about his new video. “If this is not 5 minutes of you repenting for the pain and damage you’ve caused the body of Christ then you should delete this.”
Another person commented, “It’s been distressing to see how poorly and sinfully you have responded to being exposed. It’s a stain to the Body of Christ.”
Other commenters said they’re more concerned about abuse victims than about Brown. “The civil war is not over ‘you,’” someone wrote to him. “It is about protecting those who Jesus loved. Protecting the vulnerable.”
Supporters applauded Brown’s return to ministry. “Glad to see you back,” one person wrote to him on X. “Ignore the haters, don’t answer your critics, and just keep preaching Jesus!”
Another posted, “I’m so glad God gives grace for every mistake and sin! We all fall short. That’s why we all need Jesus! I honor you for your life and ministry.”
