(A summary of Andy Addis’ teaching at the 2025 AC Leaders’ Conference.)
The Wounded Pastor: Finding Freedom Through Forgiveness
Ministry hurts. If you work with broken people, you’ll touch jagged edges. Every pastor has been wounded by their church in some way. But Jesus never meant for you to carry that weight. The way out is forgiveness—the same forgiveness He has given you.
1. Acknowledge the Wound (Jonah 4:1-3)
Your pain is real. Jonah’s anger wasn’t petty—it came from deep wounds. The Ninevites had committed atrocities, and Jonah struggled to accept God’s mercy toward them.
Like Jonah, you can’t wait for an apology to forgive. That’s like waiting for a snake to say sorry before seeking treatment. Unforgiveness is poison. Releasing them is about releasing yourself.
2. Shift Your Perspective (Jonah 4:4-9)
Jonah wanted to quit—maybe you do too. But remember, you were once the Ninevite. Even when you feel justified in your anger, your testimony is more important than your rights. There’s a better way than bitterness.
3. Gain God’s Heart (Jonah 4:10-11)
Everything you have is from God. If He freely forgave you, how can you withhold grace from others? Instead of praying for their downfall, pray for their redemption.
Ministry will wound you, but Jesus can heal you. Let go of the weight. Forgive.