Grievous Wolves Among Us

Have you ever come to realize that things aren’t exactly what they seemed at first glance?

At the Dover Springs church of Christ, the members there are about to learn this lesson firsthand. There is a harmony among them that is a product of their naiveté. There is a trust between them that is bred by familiarity. And yet at the same time, given the personalities of the members, the scene is also ripe for eye-opening revelations. There’s Kevin McIntosh, the congregation’s minister, who is perfectly happy with himself atop the status quo. Enter Matthew Dodds, newly arrived in town, who is unafraid to challenge the status quo. Add Ron Carpenter, commuting from a nearby town, who understands the pitfalls of the status quo. Mix in other current members, among them Spencer Thompson, Kevin’s confidant and right-hand man; Fred Miller, the conscientious one, content to remain behind the scenes; and Norman Phillips, the unassuming and unofficial patriarch. Finally, blend a collection of subsequent members in, including Gary Andrews, the one who is always ready to roll up his sleeves; Richard Jordan, the practical organizer with a knack for getting things done; and Leonard Fowler, one who doesn’t mince words. Not only do the characteristics of these men often drive them into opposing camps, but so do their views. Who among them then is worthy of being called the Lord’s sheep? More important, who among them is best prepared to lead the Lord’s sheep? And most important, who is merely disguised in sheep’s clothing?

Even in a sleepy little country church, there is no shortage of drama.