Angry Pastors

I am perplexed at how many so-called pastors are angry men. I have seen this many times and it was again brought to my attention by two friends who attend different churches.

Whenever confronted with a question (usually that they can't answer), idea (that conflicts with their agenda) or confrontation (concerning an error in their behavior), they most often respond in anger. It can be anger that explodes (destroying others) or implodes (destroying themselves). This response happens to be the norm rather than the exception.

Generally, anger is a response that one has when he feels he is losing control or authority. This plays out in parenting too.

It amazes me that many church goers have seen this, but have varied responses and it is usually the whipped dog response, curling the tail between the legs and bowing the head in submission.

Our response should be to follow the Word when it says: Do not associate with a man given to anger; Or go with a hot-tempered man, Lest you learn his ways, And find a snare for yourself. Pr. 22: 24-25.

Why is it we ignore this verse? Do we like the feeling we get from angry people? Do we believe we need to stay the course despite a "pastor's" flaws? It dismays me that we have certain "Christian beliefs" of evangelism, witnessing, church planting, outreach, etc. but we ignore these short verses, which are also inspired?

One may say, "but he only blows up once in a great while". This, however, is evidence of a character flaw, not an occasional error in judgment. Would you buy a piece of property near a volcano that "only blows once in awhile"? Probably not, it would endanger you and your family. Solomon said the same thing, don't associate with a man given to anger or a hot tempered man, why, because you would learn his way AND find a snare for yourself. The same concern you have about placing your family at risk by moving near a volcano needs to be given when you are in a church with a pastor given to anger. This is why Scripture gives strict qualifications for the elder. (See Qualifications of the elder)

One friend did not agree with the direction of his church, the way they handled a new believer and some of the ideology. He discussed this with the leaders and was met with resistance and name calling; "you must be having marital problems or you are being divisive". Both statements put the friend both ill at ease and defensive. Whenever someone answers a question you pose with a critique of your character, they are trying to throw you off balance in order to avoid the question.

Why do “pastors” feel the need to manipulate and control under the guise of love? Why does one allow it?