Good sherpard still lives

 The recent arrest of a pastor in our region accused of murdering women has sent shockwaves through Eswatini and beyond. The disturbing case of a church leader allegedly linked to the deaths of multiple women is enough to break hearts and test the faith of many. For the victims’ families and communities, the pain is immeasurable. Many believers now find themselves asking difficult questions: If such evil can hide behind the pulpit, can we still trust the church? Is this institution merely a front for darkness? Will this lead more people to doubt God Himself?

These are honest reactions born from betrayal and grief. Yet as painful as these scandals are, they do not disprove the God of the Bible. In fact, they confirm the accuracy of Scripture in ways that should strengthen, rather than destroy, our faith.

Jesus Himself warned of false prophets who would come in sheep’s clothing but inwardly be ravenous wolves (Matthew 7:15). He spoke of deception increasing in the last days, with false christs and false teachers performing signs to lead even the elect astray if possible (Matthew 24:24). The Apostle Paul cautioned that savage wolves would arise from within the church, distorting truth and preying on the flock (Acts 20:29-30). The New Testament repeatedly describes a time of growing hypocrisy, greed, and immorality among those who hold a form of godliness but deny its power (2 Timothy 3:1-5).

What we are witnessing is not a surprise to God. It is the unfolding of biblical prophecy about the last days. The presence of fake pastors and predators in positions of spiritual authority does not mean the Gospel is false; instead it proves that the warnings in God’s Word are true. Evil is becoming bolder because the time is short. These events are less a failure of God and more a fulfilment of what He foretold.

This pattern also reveals a deeper spiritual attack. By exposing hypocrisy in the church, the forces of darkness aim to make people reject God entirely. When trust in religious leaders collapses, many turn away from faith altogether. Yet we must remember: the failures of men do not define the character of a holy God. True Christianity has always been tested by hypocrisy… even one of Jesus’ own twelve disciples betrayed Him.

In Eswatini and across the region, this is a crucial moment for discernment. We must test every spirit (1 John 4:1) and examine the fruit of those who claim to lead. At the same time, we should not allow the wolves to steal our eyes from the Good Shepherd. Genuine faith communities continue to bring healing, hope, and transformation every day through humble service rooted in Christ.

These scandals are painful birth pains. They remind us why we desperately need the real Jesus. The Bible assures us that the gates of hell will not prevail against His true church (Matthew 16:18). Justice will come. Every hidden deed will be exposed. And the King is returning to make all things new.

To every believer feeling shaken: Hold fast. Let these events drive you deeper into prayer, Scripture, and authentic fellowship. The darkness rages, but its time is limited. Our hope is not in flawed human leaders; it rests in the unchanging God who warned us these days would come, and who promises to finish what He began. The Shepherd is still good and He is coming soon.