We are clear that we are not responsible for Shawn’s sin, he is. But we are equally clear that we are responsible for our sins, actions, and inactions after the fact. James 4:17 states, “So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.”
The truth is, we have hurt and scared people because we did not tell the truth enough, early enough, long enough, or loud enough, and this is a just criticism. Our hearts are grieved, and embarrassed. When we sin or mess up publicly as we have, it’s important to take responsibility publicly, to listen as people share their frustration, sadness, fears, and corrections.
Shawn Bolz was a trusted guest minister who frequently spoke on our platform and whose products were available in our stores. In 2019, allegations were made about his ministry practices, inappropriate behavior, and creating an unacceptable work environment. At that time, Bethel chose to stop platforming his ministry. Bethel has since faced criticism and taken accountability for not being more public about the situation sooner.
Bethel Church’s Community Guidelines and Safe Church process exist to continue the work of revival through supporting physical, emotional, and spiritual health within the Bethel community, and to provide a safe place if an unhealthy or unacceptable interaction or experience should take place.
