Twelve Reasons Why Jesus Would Make a Terrible Bishop

We were talking about a couple of issues at our most recent pastoral council meeting.  Someone mentioned a saying from Jesus, to enlighten all of us.  Without thinking, I blurted out, "That doesn't help.  Jesus never had to make a payroll or pay Parish Share.  Jesus would make a terrible pastor."  The group laughed, and another parishioner shot back, "That would make a great blog post."

So, upon further review and reflection, with tongue firmly in cheek, here are 12 reasons why Jesus would make a terrible bishop and pastor (with Gospel references).

+   Jesus never stayed in one place to minister.  He was always on the move.  (Matthew 4:23; Mark 1:28-29)

+   Jesus angered the most devout members of his faith.  (Matthew 16:5-12; Mark 3:1-6; Luke 14:1-24)

+   Jesus played favorites.  He had an inner circle of 12 men, he had three close friends (Peter, James and John) and he dearly loved the poor.  (12: Luke 6:12-16; 3: Mark 9:2-8, Mark 14:32-42; poor: Matthew 18:1-4)  

+   Jesus chose a bookkeeper who was a thief.  (John 12:16)

+   Jesus prayed.  (Luke 6:12; 11:1)

+   Jesus ate with sinners.  (Luke 5:30; 15:2; 19:1-10)

+   Jesus loved women.  (Luke 8:1-3; John 11:5)

+   The family of Jesus thought he was crazy.  (Mark 3:31-35)

+   Jesus brought forth division, not peace.  (Luke 12:49-53; John 6:66)

+   Jesus angered the Roman authorities.  (Luke 13:31-33)

+   Jesus said he was God.  (John 13:19; 18;5; 18;33-37)

And the final reason Jesus would have made a terrible bishop...

+   Jesus taught with authority.  (Matthew 7:28-29;  Mark 1:22; Luke 4:32)