The Pastor Who Thinks He’s 80 Stories Above Everyone Else: A Stark Warning Against Arrogance in Church Leadership

The church is meant to be a place of humility, accountability, and mutual respect, yet some pastors seem to have forgotten this sacred duty.

Terry Anderson, longtime pastor of Lily Grove Missionary Baptist Church, is spotlighted here as an example of a troubling trend: pastors who elevate themselves so high above their congregations and critics that they become disconnected and unapproachable.

The sermon in question starts off with solid biblical principles about the importance of handling criticism well.

Anderson quotes Nehemiah, emphasizing the need to endure criticism when doing God’s work.

He even acknowledges that true believers should be able to hear hard truths without anger, warning that if they cannot, their relationship with God is on shaky ground.

However, the message takes a sharp turn when Anderson reveals his attitude toward criticism directed at himself or his friend, Pastor Jamal Bryant.

Anderson famously tells Bryant that he is “80 stories above” those who criticize him and that he does not need to “come down” to engage with them.

This elitist perspective implies that many voices—especially those perceived as lesser or unknown—simply do not matter.

Such a stance is not only arrogant but biblically problematic.

The speaker points out that humility is a core requirement for pastors, citing Paul’s admonition not to think too highly of oneself but to exercise sound judgment.

True spiritual leadership requires openness to correction, even from unexpected sources.

Anderson’s refusal to take advice or criticism from those he deems unworthy undermines the very foundation of pastoral accountability.

The speaker highlights a past incident where Anderson hung up on a concerned Christian who questioned why controversial figures like Al Sharpton were allowed to preach in his pulpit.

This defensive and dismissive behavior further illustrates a disconnect from servant leadership.

The critique intensifies as the speaker examines Anderson’s continued friendship and defense of Jamal Bryant, a pastor who has faced numerous controversies.

According to scripture, church leaders must not associate with those who persist in immoral behavior without repentance.

Yet Anderson’s loyalty blinds him to these biblical warnings, putting his own reputation and influence above the health of the church.

The speaker calls out Anderson’s attitude as elitist and insulting, likening it to a pastor who believes he is untouchable and beyond reproach.

This mindset, he warns, disqualifies someone from true pastoral ministry and damages the church’s witness.

Importantly, the speaker does not claim immunity from criticism himself.

He openly invites accountability and acknowledges his own imperfections.

This contrast underscores the humility lacking in Anderson’s approach.

In closing, the speaker urges pastors like Anderson and Bryant to reflect deeply on their attitudes and leadership.

When pride and arrogance replace humility and accountability, the church suffers.

The call is clear: pastors must lead with servant hearts, embrace correction, and remember that no one is truly “80 stories above” others in the eyes of God.