205 responses so far ↓

• 1 Mike Cotton // Mar 13, 2009 at 9:45 am

  The same thing happened to Jerry Lewis last July. http://www.reuters.com/article/domesticNews/idUSN2938528720080729

• 2 Kevin Bungert // Mar 13, 2009 at 9:50 am

  John,

  Such is life. No one is perfect. We all make mistakes, hopefully the law looks at who and what you do and responds accordingly. Thank you for sharing though, most people wouldn’t admit to it so easily. Kudos my friend! All the best!

  Kevin Bungert

• 3 Lisa Price // Mar 13, 2009 at 9:52 am

  John,

  Thanks for helping to change the world! Sometimes when you are out changing the world trouble follows. Kinda like a superhero gets in a predicament every now and again!

  You are loved and respected. Thanks for sharing this. You are a wonderful inspiration.

  God bless you! Here is the scripture that came to my mind:
  Numbers 6:24-26
  Our God has you covered!

  Keep helping to change the world…we love you!!!

  Lisa

• 4 Lisa Harman // Mar 13, 2009 at 9:55 am

  Hopefully people will understand and extend the grace that they would want extended to them.

• 5 Marla Saunders // Mar 13, 2009 at 9:58 am

  Thanks for sharing that story, John! You made my day with your delivery and descriptions! And poor Margaret…did the gun get confiscated for evidence???

  Surely — eventually — all will be well and you will have gained an outstanding ice breaker and illustration.

  Safe travels and hurry back to CF soon.

• 6 Ashley Jensen // Mar 13, 2009 at 10:01 am

  Wow John, that is an unreal experience. Definitely one for the books and always makes great speaking material! But it sounds as if everything worked out well… You’re out of jail at least! I love the principle shared within. Thanks for sharing and I pray God gives you favor for any upcoming legal matters as it was obviously a mistake. Thank you so much for your leadership and authenticity.

• 7 Tricia Herrick // Mar 13, 2009 at 10:11 am

  John, This is the reason you are such a great leader…. Mistakes happen, we all make them.
  I love the fact that even through all of this your still teaching us and now that is Failing Forward!
  I’ll be praying for you…. Remember that you have the favor of God and Jesus is your Advocate…
  Also, I still say that John,your my friend!

• 8 Jennifer // Mar 13, 2009 at 10:41 am

  Well, I declare! John, at last you have joined cyber world…and to think you had to go and get yourself locked up so I could see it with my own eyes! Hey, this will make for a very good leadership lesson and one more story…we all love you!

• 9 Robyn Marin // Mar 13, 2009 at 11:38 am

  They probably took the gun, huh? Besides the embarrassment and humiliation you must have felt the other bummer is that you don’t have the gun anymore. I think your friend is a good guy for giving your wife a gun. I’m not a big fan of guns either, but when the fit hits the shan I’ll be the first one hiding behind my husband who will be holding one or our many that we kept for protection. You just never know in this crazy world. We need to protect ourselves and protect our rights to bear them. Thanks for sharing a personal Mr. Magoo moment. I’m a new reader of yours. You have already taught me so much. Keep up the good work Mr. Maxwell

• 10 Holy Cow… « timmcollins.com // Mar 13, 2009 at 12:03 pm

  [...] he posted an incredibly personal and vulnerable story about something that happened to him recently.  I was both shocked and encouraged by it.  Shocked [...]

• 11 samisoni latukefu // Mar 13, 2009 at 12:05 pm

  Hi, john Maxwell,
  i am a student at waianae high school and i am coomenting on one of the quotes that you came up with.”A leader is one who knows the,way and shows the way.” I really like this quote because it really motivates me to become a better leader to my family and my platoon. i am also in ROTC llike a military course for school and your quote has helped me alot in being a good leader. it shows that people like you do such good things to help people like me and cause of you and the faith of GOD i am a changed person now. i am looking forward to reading more of your quotes. just to let you know ahead of time i am going to present your quote to my class on thursday march 19,2009 so my class knows what a good quote writter you are.
  thank you: samisoni latukefu

• 12 Kmac4him // Mar 13, 2009 at 12:54 pm

  Ouch! I am so sorry you had to grow through that! I forget things all the time. My son is a USMarine and he bought me a gun. I accepted it because of the heart of concern it was given in He taught me how to use it responsibily, took me to the shooting range. I don’t like guns either, and I never imagined owning one or even touching one but I feel like this is a new world. Ask my daughter who lives in Sampson AL, she teaches High School there and now there is an “empty desk” in her 9th grade classroom… and a shattered community. Maybe this happened for a reason, times are changing and we need to know. Do we carry a gun as a Christian Leader? These are questions I thought I would never have to ask! I don’t know what is the right thing to do because these are things we never talk about in the Christian Churches!

• 13 Dondi Byrd // Mar 13, 2009 at 1:26 pm

  John…John…John…inter-cranial flatulence happens to the best of us! Praise God you have such a life of integrity that this will be seen as an honest oversight! We still love you and appreciate you for all you do!

• 14 John Gallagher // Mar 13, 2009 at 1:36 pm

  I simply cannot imagine the feeling you had in your heart when this happened! I appreciate the share. You have added value to so many. Keep up God’s work, friend.

• 15 Michelle Haddad // Mar 13, 2009 at 1:44 pm

  John,I’m so incredibly happy that you are my teaching Pastor at my church. Your honesty and integrity is something that inspires me daily.

  I’m so sorry you are going through this, but I can’t wait to hear your sermon on this experience. Your church family is waiting to ’show you some love’.

  If the Judge needs any witnesses, I’m sure the Christians of the world will be standing in line!

• 16 Larry // Mar 13, 2009 at 2:01 pm

  John-A similiar thing happen to my son who had not knowingly bought a “hot” gun from a close family friend. When he took the gun to resale at the local gun shop, they ran the numbers and arrested him. (He was embarrased beyond belief.) I used a few quotes from your book “Failing Forward” to encourage him. I would quote those to you but tht would seem cruel. My precious brother John your one of a kind-and as always we love you and count your “Magoo” presence on earth a true blessing!! (book ideal-”21 Irrefutable Laws of Airport Securtiy.”

• 17 Jamie // Mar 13, 2009 at 2:10 pm

  John,

  We are friends with Joel & Elisabeth. Prayers for favor going up for you. Joel & Lis have been keeping us in the loop. No one is going to beat you up over this, except maybe you! We love you! Remember….Hannah, JP, James, Madeline & Ella!!!!!!!

• 18 Butch Heath // Mar 13, 2009 at 3:28 pm

  John, no one in their right mind would purposely take a gun on a plane. They should know it was an acident. At the least the media should have mentioned that you had forgot to take it out of your case.

  Well, one thing we know for sure God has a purpose in every thing that happens.

  I see a new book coming out of this, “The Day I was Arrested.” You probably needed a little extra excitement in your life. This can add to the story of Clyde and Benny in your first church.

  Thanks for your strong leadership skills you have taught us over the years.

  Your friend in Hobe Sound, waiting to be a blessing!

• 19 Steve Helm // Mar 13, 2009 at 3:44 pm

  On the brighter side… there “may” be a book out of this somehow!

• 20 GIBSON SYLVESTRE // Mar 13, 2009 at 3:46 pm

  Hello,

  My prayers are with you. The best part of mistakes is learning from them. You have expresed the deepest humility. I believe God is going to honor you even more because you handled this hurdle very, very, very, well!!!

  Sincerely,

  Gibson Sylvestre,

• 21 Nancy Breland // Mar 13, 2009 at 3:53 pm

  I was teaching pilates and heard the news. I am a paralegal (retired, thank God) as well as a pilates instructor. I worked for a retired Judge (C. Michael Shalloway) ten years ago and the exact same thing happened to him; however, he was on his way through security at the courthouse and forgot that his handgun was in his briefcase. For some odd reason, he was so intrigued to be on the other side that he couldn’t wait to call me at the office to share the news. He was waiting to post bond at Gun Club. Aside from the fact that your gun was a gift, sorry to tell you John, this is one chapter that you plagiarized (just kidding). Catch up with you and the lovely wife soon. Nancy

• 22 Brian Gaughan - Christ Fellowship City Place // Mar 13, 2009 at 4:05 pm

  John, I have great respect for you and know it was an honest mistake. We all have lapses in judgment at times. As long as we learn from them, which I’m sure you have, it will eventually be OK. Hang in there and keep up the great work. You are loved and accepted at Christ Fellowship!

• 23 Daphne Schaffer // Mar 13, 2009 at 4:05 pm

  We know Margaret is the one who packs your bags! John, we all love you! I can’t wait to hear this in a sermon to teaching again! What a story, what’s life without a little excitement. Loving you.

• 24 Scott Smith // Mar 13, 2009 at 4:51 pm

  John, I am glad to see your blog up and running and it is truly upsetting to see these events take place, but according to God and his word. Everything happens according to His purpose! I also want to give a little shout out about one of your older books I am reading and loving. It is “Heroes of the Old Testament” I believe you are mentoring my Pastor, Ray Brock. I would love to send a book or two the next time you two meet for you to autograph if you don’t mind! God Bless and keep your eyes on Him, also thanks for all of the great leadership lessons, and sharing what you have learned from this incident.

• 25 Mickey // Mar 13, 2009 at 6:08 pm

  You will do anything for new material. This is difinitely one for the laminated cards.

• 26 Ray Brock // Mar 13, 2009 at 6:17 pm

  Hi John,

  I’m praying that you will have favor through this. Hang in there. Thanks for being a great teacher and setting the example of how a leader stands up to mistakes made along the journey.

  Your Student,
  Ray

• 27 Loretta Cooper // Mar 13, 2009 at 6:28 pm

  Thanks for setting an example of what a good leader does in a miserable situation. I am so sorry you are going to have to face the consequences, but I am know you will doit with grace and dignity.

• 28 LeadHership // Mar 13, 2009 at 6:53 pm

  No experience is wasted with Him! Not the good ones, nor the bad ones. You are a cool man of integrity and God will def. use this, thru you, to help pupils like me.

• 29 Mark L. // Mar 13, 2009 at 6:55 pm

  John, Since I first met you I sensed you were larger than life, caught up in your mission and driven like many of us in the bigger thing. Easy to miss an exit sign or no left turn,one way, dead end, etc. Don’t sweat the small stuff even if it makes national news beacause in the end , as outrageous as it sounds, it is still small stuff. I once had a science teacher Mr. Antonoochi, he always was forgetting his socks and used to wrap paper towels around his ankles. Most of the kid used to laugh at him but I loved him and hung on every word and to this day love science and have become a success in the health care field. So you never know.

• 30 Mark L. // Mar 13, 2009 at 7:16 pm

  Didn’t mean to end on tnat note, you never know that these kind of things really matter to people you have impacted at all and may, in some ways provide new opportunities. So may God put his blessings on this issue and an and all opportunities that may present themselves.

• 31 The Steele's in Park City // Mar 13, 2009 at 7:23 pm

  John, We respect you so much and know you are a man of integrity. Our son even wants to go to big church just to hear you. You make a difference in so many people’s lives and are such an inspiration. Be encouraged and know you have a lot of fans out there and prayer warriors on your side!

  We will pray God uses this for His glory!

• 32 Andy & Kelly Van Epps // Mar 13, 2009 at 7:27 pm

  John
  Sorry for your misfortune,Thank you for manning up,that’s a lesson in it self in today’s world. God Bless !!

• 33 Kim Steinolfson // Mar 13, 2009 at 8:45 pm

  John-
  You have truly changed my life and the lives of so many others. Your work is an inspiration to all. I have become a better person and a better leader because of your work. You and Margaret have always told me that things happen for a reason. We may wonder “why” sometimes, but in the end, it all works out. You are still so loved and respected. Tis honest mistake would never change that. Blessings to you and Margaret!
  Kim

• 34 Los // Mar 13, 2009 at 8:55 pm

  Oh my dear Lord.
  That makes it almost ok to unveil my arrest story.
  almost.
  You just went up 1500 levels in my book.
  Thanks for being so authentic.
  And thanks for signing my 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership book when I was 20.
  You signed it, “Your friend, John”
  I was able to convince no less than 20 friends that you and I were BFF’s.
  Los

• 35 roger and ila sweeting // Mar 13, 2009 at 9:03 pm

  dear dr. maxwell,

  we are wholly by your side!what gracious love of our Father is bathing your heart in this known moment entrusted to you and mrs. maxwell by our Father. we can only imagine the riches that will flow from the stewardship of this trial. thanks for your example of humility to us.
  always in our hearts,thoughts, & prayers.

  roger & ila

• 36 Angel // Mar 13, 2009 at 9:24 pm

  I have to say first of all… WOW! And second, as a high school teacher, I will from now on adopt that saying: stupid hurts

• 37 Gina // Mar 13, 2009 at 9:51 pm

  Your humility about this is astounding. Thank you for being so transparent! My husband and I have been greatly impacted by your leadership influence over the years. You’re well respected by this family, despite your forgetfulness! Hope the media goes easy on you, and whatever legal matters you have to deal with will be cleared up soon.

• 38 James Williams // Mar 13, 2009 at 10:03 pm

  Well, son-of-a-gun We love you John!!!

• 39 Anonymous // Mar 13, 2009 at 10:44 pm

  wah wah

• 40 Guy Walker // Mar 13, 2009 at 10:55 pm

  Hey that guy that gave the pistol away was my dad!!!

  I put the story on my blog!!!

• 41 Jamey Johnson // Mar 13, 2009 at 11:04 pm

  Hey Mr.John Maxwell,
  I’ve been in ministry for over 14 years (8 as a youth pastor, 6 as a pastor of leadership development). You’ve taught me so much (I know in a long-distance type of way…I hope I don’t sound too weird)and my ministry was changed that day I read Developing the Leader Within. Through your Injoy resources (as well as seeing you in person), I’ve learned that:
  1. leadership is influence
  2. Equip people to do the work of ministry
  3. Listen to people
  4. Build relationships with my team.
  5. GROW, GROW, GROW (personal growth matters)
  6. My attitude counts!
  7. Live with passion (inner-fire in the belly).

  and now you have modeled (for this 37 year old pastor)to own my mistakes, communicate them immediately, and admit my faults with a sense of humility.

  Take care John, (and remember I here to tell you…”my name is Jamey and I am your friend”

  Hope things go well! Blessings to you and your wife.

• 42 Alan Humphries // Mar 13, 2009 at 11:31 pm

  Thanks for sharing John. I just flew in from Hawaii. While there I purchased a new pocket knife. When I got to the airport in Honolulu I emptied my pockets in the bin and donated my new pocket knife to the state of Hawaii. Thank God no jail! I’m glad things turned out well, another great lesson for us all.

• 43 David Richardson // Mar 14, 2009 at 12:45 am

  Mr. Maxwell -

  Thanks a million for your ministry! I’ve personally been moved over the years by reading your books.

  My prayer will be that the legal system will recognize this for what it is: an honest mistake by a busy man with a reputation of integrity.

  Best wishes!

  David

• 44 Terry // Mar 14, 2009 at 12:50 am

  You’re ministry out weighs a stupid moment!! You’re awesome and like many have said hopefully the courts will recognise that.

  Maybe you’ll get community service and you’ll serve like you’ve been doing all this time anyways hehe!

  God increase you MORE!!!

  Terry

• 45 Phillip Gibb // Mar 14, 2009 at 4:18 am

  shock and horror.
  well I guess u can say that it’s a lesson learned.

• 46 Ron Edmondson // Mar 14, 2009 at 4:48 am

  This is great. Thanks for being honest. Your leadership principles just got even stronger in my mind.

• 47 John Maxwell Arrest Story: An Example of Honesty - Ron Edmondson - Graced Again // Mar 14, 2009 at 5:09 am

  [...] the post HERE. Share [...]

• 48 Staci J. Shelton // Mar 14, 2009 at 5:17 am

  Real leadership requires Transparency, Integrity and Honesty. You are a shining example of this.

  We ALL make mistakes; the problem is most of us try to JUSTIFY and HIDE them. You always inspire and help us to grow by sharing yours so openly.

  We’re going to make mistakes; we’re going go fall; sometimes, we’re even going to fail. It’s how you handle them, yourself and others afterward that speaks to true character.

  You’re an inspiration and father to millions, and know that each of us is praying for you.

• 49 Andrea // Mar 14, 2009 at 5:41 am

  Now I’m really convinced of it…you are one of the greatest leaders I have ever had the pleasure of meeting.

• 50 Nick Kruger // Mar 14, 2009 at 6:12 am

  No. This is beyond a stupid mistake.

  The most important characteristic of a leader is responsibility.

  You do not forget you’re responsible for a firearm.

  Nick Kruger (South Africa)

• 51 Gretchen Goldsmith, President/CEO, Rose Publishing // Mar 14, 2009 at 6:42 am

  Here’s some sympathy from a fellow traveler who has had five Swiss Army knives confiscated by TSA. Now it’s part of the checklist I go through before I fly. We all have our minds elsewhere at airports. Best wishes…and remind me not to go to the airport when you are there.

• 52 Marty Macdonald // Mar 14, 2009 at 6:51 am

  This will simply be the start of a new book that will help people like me! I love you John. You have impacted my life. I love Church of the Highlands! How did it go?

• 53 Ben Macdonald // Mar 14, 2009 at 7:03 am

  Hey man, what a story. You’ve always been such an inspiration to me and my business. I’m glad to hear your “human” and make mistakes like the rest of us. Be encouraged and keep doing great things!!!

• 54 John Voelz // Mar 14, 2009 at 7:04 am

  John, look for my new book coming out soon . . . The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Airport Security.

  Ha. Thanks for your story. Peace.

• 55 Susan Wales // Mar 14, 2009 at 7:07 am

  John, what an amazing man you are . . . not only do you own up to your mistakes, but you share it with others. Even after most people are caught, the first thing out of their mouth. . . “it’s not my fault,” and then of course, we find out later it was their fault! My guess is you were kind to the people who arrested you and behind bars. You never know what lives you may have touched. you have sure touched mine.

• 56 Metric // Mar 14, 2009 at 7:08 am

  Thank you for coming right out and admitting what happened instead trying to cover it up or justify it. This has set an example for me of how to handle mistakes.

  -met

• 57 John Voelz // Mar 14, 2009 at 7:12 am

  I should also tell you I did a similar thing with a large knife I use when working on aesthetics around the church. The only difference being, they didn’t notice it was in my bag. I noticed when I was in the air and reaching in my bag for my laptop. The blade is about 6 inches long. I felt like such a felon.

• 58 George Tallmage // Mar 14, 2009 at 7:29 am

  John my respect and admiration for you deepens in light of this story. As a young up and coming leader I am taught not to shy away from failure but to accept it and learn from it. Thanks for your transparency and your life of pursuit…George

• 59 Pauline // Mar 14, 2009 at 7:37 am

  OMGoodness! You must have been mad at yourself, embarrassed at your stupidity and shocked back to reality all in one thundering bolt.

  I am not sure if I have ever heard of a woman accidently carrying a weapon in her luggage and forgetting its there. But I do have to say we women juggle and have many spiders in our brains to remind us to do things in order or remember them. You may want to buy some of those little bright color square pieces of paper stuck together called post it notes. When I get overloaded, I use them!

  Aren’t you glad the stupid’s before you have paved a way for forgetful men like yourself. *lol*

  God Bless your heart

• 60 Tamara // Mar 14, 2009 at 7:49 am

  Your honesty and willingness to make this a teachable moment is worthy of much respect. Thank you for your transparency.

• 61 Brad // Mar 14, 2009 at 7:52 am

  I have done the same thing with a pocketknife before; luckily I just got a reprimand but never saw the inside of the clink. I did lose the knife, though–which was a monogrammed wedding gift.

  Yours seems like an honest mistake. Thanks for being transparent!

• 62 Robin Bryce // Mar 14, 2009 at 8:07 am

  Your story is great. It’s the best post I’ve ever read on leadership.

  I feel like I am in good company. No less dumb as dumb does, but somehow my Mrs. Magoo antics now seem okay. If John Maxwell can make mistakes and get arrested, I’m free to go and do likewise. Make mistakes that is. I’ve visited jail before and don’t want to reside there.

  Thanks for blogging!!

• 63 Phil Winn // Mar 14, 2009 at 8:07 am

  Brilliant pre-emptive strike John. I love your style.

• 64 Perry Markowitz // Mar 14, 2009 at 8:37 am

  Pastor,

  Thank you for your honesty and transparency. Even in your mistakes you are an inspiration and a leader to look up to.

  We will continue to keep you in our prayers,

  Perry

• 65 Nathan // Mar 14, 2009 at 8:38 am

  John, you didn’t do anything wrong. The words “wrong” and “illegal” do not mean the same thing. Please do not apologize for the stupidity of our government. They infringe upon your rights, you were just absentminded. I pray all charges are dropped, as they should be.

• 66 Dee Johnson // Mar 14, 2009 at 8:58 am

  John,
  I certainly understand how this happened. I know how forgetful you can be. I love that you shared this with us. I really needed this. I know the Lord lead me to the blog. I can now accept how my day with knowing at least I did not get handcuffed or arrested.
  You are the great encourager and great example to us. Thank you Dee

• 67 John Maxwell Arrest Story // Mar 14, 2009 at 9:06 am

  [...] Read the full blog post here [...]

• 68 Bev Hodel // Mar 14, 2009 at 9:06 am

  Dr. Maxwell,
  I am doing a paper on ethical leadership, and I want to thank you for modeling to us how to accept responsibility. I love reading your books, and now I know you really are real.

• 69 Gee // Mar 14, 2009 at 9:10 am

  Prime example of “don’t put off for tomorrow what you could be doing today”

• 70 rjb // Mar 14, 2009 at 9:12 am

  hey john
  didnt paul spend time in jail? and do some of his best writtings….is God speaking to you??

• 71 Olga Gomez // Mar 14, 2009 at 9:13 am

  Dear Mr. Maxwell:

  I was working out this morning at the Gym, when I saw the news on T.V. My first thought was, Oh Lord let this not to be any sin of sexual nature. Thank God it wasn’t. I read your blog page and I was at peace. I saw you for the first time in the Stuart Campus around Christmas, and I was inspired by your message and the story about the heart problem that you had in Atlanta. May the good Lord keep you from evil. God bless you! and thank you for sharing your story.

  Love, Olga (Stuart Campus)

• 72 PastorEd // Mar 14, 2009 at 10:16 am

  To: John Voelz says:
  Re: Post # 2

  “John, look for my new book coming out soon . . . The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Airport Security.”

  Mr. Voelz, you, sir, caused coffee to come perilously close to shooting out of my nose. You almost owe me a new computer keyboard!

  Mr. Maxwell, that was great. Thank you for sharing… now I have a personal template for “what to do when presented with a handgun as a gift”.

  Priceless.

• 73 Ron Edmondson // Mar 14, 2009 at 10:57 am

  the comments keep building. I would say this is going to be a bigger story yet. I pray it’s because of the positive influence the upfront, honest way you are approaching it.

• 74 Josh Hargrove // Mar 14, 2009 at 12:12 pm

  Hey John,

  Thanks so much for your story. I (very) recently had a similar experience involving a video shoot and a fake hand gun on our church premises. It was humiliating on a number of levels, but you are so right with the points you make. I appreciate your candor in admitting your own stupidity in this situation and in taking full responsibility. I share that sentiment, and it’s good to know that I’m not alone-even John Maxwell has run-ins with the police!

  Thanks Again,
  Josh

• 75 Debra // Mar 14, 2009 at 12:18 pm

  this highlights to me the importance of listeing to the still small voice speaking to our hearts…thank you for living transparently

• 76 Suzi // Mar 14, 2009 at 12:22 pm

  WOW too bad that happened. Ill pray & have faith that the Lord will intervene. Similar situation happened to me. My city slicker husband & I flew to visit my redneck gun packing, hunting family where everyone has a few guns & he shot a gun for the first time & kept the spent amunition shells for a souvenir. LOL I stuck it in his luggage & forgot it. Few days later going through airport security 10 cops swarmed my (Arab) husband & I, & we wouldve been arrested, but our necks were saved by my govt. security clearance(employed by US Airways @ the time)

• 77 bobby // Mar 14, 2009 at 12:42 pm

  just a thought
  1st for takeing ownership of your failures and not passing the buck… i wanted to ask, your a man of God,and you recieve a gift for your wife…dont you have a security system? and im not just refering to some alarm company at your home.i’m refering to Gods words,his promises…trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding…..
  God disciplins those he loves….

• 78 GG // Mar 14, 2009 at 1:57 pm

  My heart stopped when I saw the teaser for local pastor arrested. Although I always look to my God, I did not want another dissapointmet from someone I consider a spiritual leader. When I saw it was only a gun at the airport, I almot burst out in song! Sorry Dr. Maxwell for your trouble… perhaps it is simply a lesson in slowing down!

• 79 Paul Martinelli // Mar 14, 2009 at 2:19 pm

  When it comes to teaching leadership, John Maxwell is unparalleled. But John is more than a teacher; he is a leader in his own right and his demeanor in this serves as an example to the rest of us in how to respond to our own mistakes.

  John immediately acknowledged the mistake and oversight and is taking responsibility for his actions, just as he has advised millions of people to do.

  It was a simple mistake and should not have any negative effect on how people view John. And frankly, it’s not all that uncommon: see Dennis Farina, Barry Switzer, Jerry Lewis, Mike Huckabee’s son, the list goes on.

  I’m not excusing it, but as someone who also travels a great deal, I know the feeling of just trying to get from one place to the next in time for the next appointment and sometimes waking up not remembering immediately what city you’re in.

  As someone who has worked with John in the past, I certainly stand behind him and will continue to recommend and engage him to help teach the rest of us what it means to be a leader. I look forward to our presentation in West Virginia later this year and other engagements in the future.

  Paul

• 80 cmco // Mar 14, 2009 at 2:24 pm

  OK – I don’t think there is anything wrong with owning a gun, and I can certainly relate to forgetting about it in the briefcase. But I do have one question. Why do Christians feel the need to carry a weapon. What about all those scriptures we here about where God is our protection or does that only work in the OT. I can understand law enforcement or armed forces people using one, but Christians? If you want to feel safe, how about an alarm or guard dog, but a gun? Again, you have an incredible testimony and I have visited your excellent church. But Sir! I think you embarrassed yourself, your church and the gospel. Jesus didn’t run around with any weapons, instead he gave his life. Be more careful the next time and God continue to bless you.

• 81 Loran // Mar 14, 2009 at 3:44 pm

  John
  I’m still learning from you. Thanks for being a transparent leader that cares enough to help us grow.

• 82 Kenneth // Mar 14, 2009 at 4:26 pm

  The next book you write are you going to sign it John Maxwell or 83457654 (your jail number)

• 83 Don Peterson // Mar 14, 2009 at 5:28 pm

  God knows all about it. He knows your heart. I still love you in the Lord. No problems here brother. For all you have done for me……thank God. In Christ, Don Peterson

• 84 Arnie // Mar 14, 2009 at 6:22 pm

  My wife Rachael and I are part of the Christ Fellowhip (Gardens) family and I would just like to say how we love you and always enjoy when you are speaking. The 1st message I ever heard from you was about THE CHAIRS. We have never forgotten it. You are in our prayers. We think no less of you because of this incident. We still wish to learn from you.
  May God Bless you John Maxwell.

  Arnie & Rachael

• 85 Barbara // Mar 14, 2009 at 7:10 pm

  Surely I can not be the only person who finds this to be disturbing. How exactly does one forget they have a handgun in their bag? My prayers go out to Christ Fellowship and hope their church and beloved ministry will not be negatively impacted because of Mr. Maxwell’s careless and improper actions. There is obviously more to this story than Mr. Maxwell would have us believe. Sorry but the “Mr. Magoo” theory just doesn’t hold water. I notice you aren’t posting any comments that don’t show you in a positive light. Why is that John Maxwell?

• 86 Channabel // Mar 14, 2009 at 7:38 pm

  John,

  Nothing happens by accident. God has taken you through this experience, so you can create a new story to tell the world in your next books, perhaps a sequel to Today Matters.

  You are blessed abundantly, continue to help change the world one person at a time.

• 87 Mark Ellis Ph.D. // Mar 14, 2009 at 7:38 pm

  Ghaghhhh!!!

  What a fluke and a nightmarish freak incident. John, our hearts go out to you. And for those who would like to seize the opportunity to assassinate the character of a man of God I would caution you, not to hop on the “let’s all kill a great leader” piranha fest that is so common in the church world, by silly church people, as such silly church people have probably done stupider things that no one knows about (yet anyway…)

  No doubt this was an absent minded mistake as any reasonable person would know that a gun will not by pass security; especially now days. To even insinuate even for one moment that John Maxwell “attempted to commit a crime” as this one and think that he could “get away with it” is nothing short or foolishness and ignorance.

  Definitely embarrassing, but a freak absent minded incident nonetheless. Stuff like this happens and that does not diminish the credibility of a great, God fearing leader of excellence as is Dr. John Maxwell. Our prayers are with John and appreciate him very, very, much. Just brush off the dirt, and move on to greater things! Leadership happens.

  Down from my soapbox

  Mark Ellis M.B.A., Ph.D.
  Adjunct Professor of Business
  Management and Leadership

• 88 Debra // Mar 14, 2009 at 7:49 pm

  Father God,

  You are our King, our Father, our Jehovah Jirah. I praise your Holy Name and thank you for loving us. Father, you know Dr Maxwell better than anyone. You live inside him, guide him, protect and provide his every need. Father, I thank you for delivering and honoring our friend, your child John Maxwell. “”Because he loves me,” says the LORD, “I will rescue him;
  I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
  15 He will call upon me, and I will answer him;
  I will be with him in trouble,
  I will deliver him and honor him.

  16 With long life will I satisfy him
  and show him my salvation.” Psalm 91:14-16

  You are mighty God and I praise you, Father and thank you for going before John and lighting his way. Father I thank you for having favor for John and pray, Father, that you bless the court as he deals with this incident. I love you and thank you, in Jesus’ precious and holy name I pray, Amen.

• 89 admin // Mar 14, 2009 at 8:12 pm

  Note from Blog Administrator:

  Just to address speculation on comment deletions or moderation: No comments on this post, with the exception of some spam that our spam filter caught (and trust me, you’re glad they got caught), have been deleted or modified in any way.

  Thanks!

• 90 Kay Bloomquist // Mar 14, 2009 at 8:40 pm

  Dr. Maxwell,

  Sitting in church this evening, I heard the shocking news, as your fellow brothers and sisters prayed for you. You are a man of God and one of high regard in our community. Your uplifting sermons and charismatic teachings have encouraged my growth in Christ. My life has been blessed because of your caring words. Thank you for your integrity. Your honesty. For being the man of God you are. My prayers are with you and your family.
  In His Holy Name,
  Kay

• 91 Melissa // Mar 14, 2009 at 8:45 pm

  Dear Mr. Maxwell,

  I really don’t think that was stupid. It was just a mistake. We all make mistakes like that. It had worse consequences than other mistakes, because of the times we live in, but it was still just a simple mistake.

  While I understand and admire your desire to take responsibility with humility for your actions, I would encourage you to give yourself some grace on this.

  The enemy prowls about like a roaring lion you know…and he would love nothing more than to heap condemnation on you with words like “stupid”.

  And also keep in mind my dear brother:

  “…mercy triumphs over judgment.”
  -James 2:13

  “The steps of a righteous man are ordered by the Lord.”
  -Psalm 37:23

  “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death.”
  -Romans 8:1

  Praying for you to walk in His grace and mercy through this.

  Blessings,

  Melissa

• 92 Charlotte Allison // Mar 14, 2009 at 8:46 pm

  Hello Dr. Maxwell,

  I am fairly new on the staff at CF, but had the AWESOME priviledge of setting in on your teaching at the beginning of the new year, as well as the taping of a video piece for your new book. I’ve also read or listened to so many of your books and they have helped me in so many ways. Seeing you in your “humanness” gives me so much hope that my humanness is okay and natural! You have made a HUGE impact and added so much value to so many, it’s really cool to read these comments and see so many of those adding value to you! God will use this to use you in some unusual ways. This did not take Him by surprise! THANKS for who you are!

• 93 Leslee & Allen Unruh // Mar 14, 2009 at 8:57 pm

  I don’t feel so bad. While traveling recently I got a letter opener as a gift like you got and was raked over the coals and almost arrested. I’ve been married to Mr. McGoo for years. Ask John Hull what my husband was like at his Birthday party. We love you. You are the greatest. I hope you got your gun back. Our forefathers came here with a gun in one hand and a Bible in the other. A gun and a kind word accomplishes more than just a kind word. We’re from the only state that shoots its’ State Bird Our airport sells shotgun shells and has hundreds of hunters with guns walking around with them. Maybe God is telling you to come to SD and participate in one of our phesant hunts. God Bless, Leslee and Allen Unruh (Amber’s Parents)

• 94 Tom & Linda Spencer // Mar 14, 2009 at 11:49 pm

  John…we are from Tucson, AZ and watch the services online. We found CF and you two yrs ago as I was driving around the area trying to find a church to attend for the month we would be in town. Now some people would say it was just a coincidence how I found CF, but we know better. The Lord led us right to the front door and we have been truly blessed to hear the word from you and Pastor Tom. The real blessing came this past winter, when my husband’s employer said we would be in West Palm for 7 months. Whoohooo…I wish I could take this bullet for you John (wrong choice of words…lol) because this was just a simple mistake. Can you imagine how many people would be willing to stand on your behalf…what a visual huh!!! We love you and pray for you.

• 95 Doug Mollo // Mar 15, 2009 at 5:49 am

  John: Did you witness while you were there? Now that you have a record you could always change your name to Paul!

  You are a true Blessing to us all! Stay the course~

  Doug Mollo

• 96 Mrs. Sofa // Mar 15, 2009 at 6:47 am

  An arrest takes a toll on our emotions whether we want it to our not, especially for a Christian leader who works hard to keep a good reputation. The advantage of this experience is that it will help you to be amazingly more merciful to others who have been arrested. You won’t have to try to care; you will simply care about them.

• 97 Johnda Wireman // Mar 15, 2009 at 7:56 am

  Dr. Maxwell,

  I am so sorry that you had to endure the suffering and humiliation at the airport. But just think of the suffering that our Savior experienced here on earth while He was spreading the good news. And you certainly aren’t stupid!

  I so enjoyed the Success Seminar and Sunday services last weekend in Birmingham, AL. I am attending “The 5 Levels of Leadership” seminar March 17 in Charlotte, NC. I can never get enough of your material on leadership. Our world needs more great leaders of integrity and passion such as yourself.

  You are the best; don’t forget that! You know that God will use this ‘unfortunate incident’ for His glory.

  I am praying for you during this trial and always!

  Your friend and soulmate,
  Johnda

• 98 Loyal Fan // Mar 15, 2009 at 10:24 am

  I still support you! I think a new book will come out of this experience!

• 99 Harold kopp // Mar 15, 2009 at 11:25 am

  After some very personal surgery Ii had on my personal parts I could have easily forgot something like this as well. Have you recently had anything like that in your life lately? God bless you.

  Concerned from Hobe Sound

• 100 Annette // Mar 15, 2009 at 12:28 pm

  I’m curious to know how Margaret reacted!!!

• 101 Noemi // Mar 15, 2009 at 12:30 pm

  Dear my Pastor and Hero,

  I love all you books and even if this was a difficult moment for you…. You always mentioned to keep a positive attitude and mind!!! I believe this is one of the moments of learning and I will be the first one to buy your new book about this experience.

  Lesson of the week:

  1.- Always check your luggage before you go to the airport
  2.- Remember to smile for the picture!!
  3.- (the most important) God always giving us the opportunity to share the gospel and I believe that God use you to speak to someone inside the jail….. Anyway.

  We love you and we are waiting for you witting open arms in your church “Christ Fellowship” Royal Palm

• 102 Paul Leder - CF Automotive Ministry // Mar 15, 2009 at 1:24 pm

  John – God is speaking to you, listen with your heart.
  You have been such a blessing to us.
  Love ya baby!

• 103 Jennifer - RPB Christ Fellowship // Mar 15, 2009 at 1:32 pm

  Oh John! This only makes you even more human! All of us who know you (even if its just through seeing you on the stage at church) know you would never do this intentionally. Thank you for sharing what happened and no matter what happens, to God be the glory! you are in our prayers!

• 104 DARLENE // Mar 15, 2009 at 8:36 pm

  DEAR MR. MAXWELL, YOU ARE NOT STUPID, JUST A HUMAN BEING THAT THE LORD JESUS MADE YOU TO BE. HE KNEW BEFORE US ALL THAT THIS DAY WOULD COME FOR YOU, AND HE ALSO KNEW THAT HE PUTS THEESE “EPISODES” IN OUR LIVES TO TEACH US. THANK GOD HE GIVES THE PERFECT LESSONS TO THE PERFECT STUDENT,(YOU) SO THAT YOU CAN CONTINUE TO TEACH ALL OF US!! I HAVE SO ADMIRED YOU FROM THE MOMENT I HEARD YOU SPEAK AT CHRIST FELLOWSHIP. IT WAS ALSO A PLEASURE TO WORK FOR YOU AND YOUR LOVELY WIFE MARGARET. WE WILL PRAY FOR YOU THRU THIS LITTLE “SPEED BUMP” IN LIFE, SURELY THRU THE GRACE OF GOD IT WILL ALL WORK OUT. GOD BLESS, AND BEST REGARDS, DARLENE

• 105 Phil Bransom // Mar 15, 2009 at 9:14 pm

  Thanks for sharing this story.

  Let’s us know we are all human and prone to mistakes. I’ve always said I’d rather strive for excellence, not perfection.

  You don’t have to be perfect, just excellent, even if only getting profile pix taken.

• 106 Lisa // Mar 15, 2009 at 9:16 pm

  You are an awesome human being and we love you. Foregive yourself and move on. God has a story for you to write about — about this. Know you are loved.

• 107 jesse // Mar 15, 2009 at 11:46 pm

  When we make mistakes that are felonies that involve an arrest, we almost always hurt others even if it’s unintentionally, Mr. Maxwell. Funny how we as Christians aren’t so forgiving when it’s someone we don’t know, someone who’s not popular or worse yet, who does something that is socially unacceptable. Be glad that illegally smuggling an unregistered gun onto a commercial airplane isn’t so socially unacceptable especially for a high profile type of a person like you. May others who makes “dumb mistakes” be treated with such forgiveness and respect as you seem to be. However, the Law doesn’t accept the excuse, “I didn’t know, I forgot or I’m Mr. Magoo.” I wonder how you’re going to work in a church that does background checks as a convicted felon? I’m sure you’ll be treated differently than most.

• 108 kim // Mar 15, 2009 at 11:59 pm

  Being in possession of an unregistered firearm is illegal, Mr. Maxwell. A felony is some states. And then you committed a federal offense by taking it on a commercial airplane. You didn’t know that? That’s not Mr. Magoo, I think that is something else that you probably need to examine. I found your trite Mr. Magoo response offensive. What if the sincere church member gave you a bag of marijuana, “from the heart” and you took it? I don’t think you’d be saying Mr. Magoo then and I don’t think you’d be hearing too much of “forgive yourself and move on.”

• 109 Suphat // Mar 16, 2009 at 1:06 am

  Dear Sir,

  I am sorry that it happened to you.
  “Mistakes make us a human”
  “falling forward”, my leader.

  A pastor in Thailand
  Suphat

• 110 Jenn // Mar 16, 2009 at 4:56 am

  Wow, that will be a funny story to share with your grandkids….one of these days. sorry it hurts so much now. I hope you didn’t miss your speaking engagement.

• 111 Gabe Taviano // Mar 16, 2009 at 6:00 am

  As we prepare for Easter, this reminds me of how obvious it was that Christ was giving Himself away for us. He handed himself over, almost like it was too obvious. He should have just given them the weapons too. Thanks for sharing this John, that took humility!

• 112 Donavon Hill // Mar 16, 2009 at 6:04 am

  Regarding your story, especially knowing you, it’s hilarious!

  Regarding the feedback to the story, especially knowing you, I’m shocked at the hoity-toity, hypocritical pontificating.

  My suggestion? Go to the firing range!

• 113 SmartChristian.com » Blog Archive   » JOHN MAXWELL ARRESTED // Mar 16, 2009 at 6:27 am

  [...] leadership guru, for some not me, was arrested for carrying a hand-gun (a gift) through airport sucurity to catch his private plane.  The gun arrest dosn’t bother me as much as the regular use of a private plane.  Not sure [...]

• 114 gene // Mar 16, 2009 at 7:10 am

  It was good to receive the story of this personal mishap and the resulting reflection that helps us all concentrate. But I wonder if the reflection is just a bit short? Consider for a moment, with all of the honest intentions, that you looked foreign, even though you are an American. Consider if your skin is a bit swarthy. Do you think that you could have even been able to post bail, or would you have been locked away, by the Patriot Act, without the right to bail, notice, or counsel? Think about what has happened to our country over the past 8 years, and what was on tap to happen if a miracle had not occurred in the last election. Think about it!!!!

• 115 Scott Sherwood // Mar 16, 2009 at 8:05 am

  Makes me feel better about myself on a Monday morning.

  You are in my prayers. People who think guns are evil will condemn you for possessing one anywhere. Their comments can be dismissed.

  May God turn this around to your benefit and the benefit of all those he has in mind for you to serve.

• 116 Allen White // Mar 16, 2009 at 8:11 am

  Hey John,

  I am praying for you and your family during this time. We all make mistakes, but unfortunately this one ended with a mugshot.

  You have been such an inspiration to me over the years. You’ve really been a mentor from afar.

  Seriously, I think there are better ways to spice up your testimony. I can’t wait to see what book comes out of this: Maxwell’s Prison Epistles? Leading from the Center of the Gang?

  You’re awesome. Don’t let this stop you.

• 117 Jacque // Mar 16, 2009 at 8:26 am

  Gosh…..why would someone hand you a gun at a church anyway? What were they thinking?? Having said that, you were wise to blog your experience before the tabloids got a hold of it. Anyone one of us could have boarded a plane with a screwdriver, a pocket knife, a knitting needle and yes, even a forgotten gun.

• 118 Randy A. // Mar 16, 2009 at 8:40 am

  John,
  If this was a gift for your wife, why were you not eager to give it to her when you got home? After all, it was not your gift right?

  I would be curious to see how you immediately reacted to the idea of someone giving your wife a gun as a gift. Especially, since you are “not really a gun person.” Speaking from personal experience, the idea of a gun in my home for the first time takes a few moments to sink in. All the thoughts of security vs. liability immediately come to mind. This is a decision that most would like to come to on their own time and terms. Accepting this gift had to be a bit uncomfortable.

• 119 Kim // Mar 16, 2009 at 9:20 am

  Dear Pastor John Maxwell -
  You are so loved and are being prayed for. God will NOT waste your sorrow. When I heard I grieved for your experience. I, and so many who love you, hate to see you hurt in any way. People are always going to be judgemental becasue hurting people feel good about stuff like this. You were right up front and it was so obviously an oversight. You have a team around you that is unbreakable. Please allow God’s spirit to let you let this go to the point the accuser can not penetrate your heart. Your even stronger now – Thank you Jesus! You are loved and blessed. I consider it to be an honor to be under your teachings from time to time. You now have more of an experience of knowing Him in his death and resurection and that is you goal. I Love you, Kim

• 120 Nicole // Mar 16, 2009 at 9:38 am

  Thank you for your transparency!

• 121 Ben // Mar 16, 2009 at 10:09 am

  Man, I could totally see myself doing that.

• 122 Allison // Mar 16, 2009 at 10:19 am

  Personally I’d rather be busted for having a gun than something really small and (in my opinion) kind of dumb like a bottle of water or a teeny-tiny bottle of hand lotion or (gasp) nail scissors. It may just be me, but I think all this airport security, though well-justified, is a little out of hand.

• 123 Al Thompson // Mar 16, 2009 at 10:19 am

  Thanks for sharing an embarrasing moment. We all have them; I pray that mine are not as spectacular! Thanks for your transparency…it speaks to the real life.

  Your friend Stan Toler will be in our area at the end of this month. Tell him to not come packing…he’ll be safe here.

  Blessings,
  Al
  http://afterthesermon.blogspot.com/

• 124 Rev Kerry Collins // Mar 16, 2009 at 11:08 am

  Bro. John

  I am sure the ministry world is plastered with mistakes, there are the things we know and do that is wrong when we do them, then there are the things we do but by mistake. How many conversations have turned out wrong when only we were trying to help. The Lord understands us and our Humanity. Let us all say this – “Let us pray more than we judge” Bro. John I will be in prayer for you, but you by your actions here are doing the actions you tell your hearers to do, and that is do the right thing. You have, and I know that the Lord will honor you for that, and I always remember the Book of Romans that says what our enemey means for harm the Lord will turn for Good. Some thing good will come from this maybe it is your witness for Jesus in the realm of honest inspection and confession.If we live Trouble comes to us all.

  Ralph Waldo Emerson said,

  “One of the illusions of life is that the present hour is not the critical decisive hour. Write it on your heart, that every day is the best day of the year”

  You are a great Man of God with allot of Great day’s ahead. But watch each day with careful eye’s.

  God Bless.

• 125 Margie Alleln // Mar 16, 2009 at 12:03 pm

  we are not perfect God is still working on us all . We all make mistakes. Just know you will be using this in the future just to help someone else. Isn’t that why we all go through trials to help us grow and to help others. Mr. John Maxwell God is using you greatly and will continue to do so be blessed.
  Margie

• 126 Bob Billings // Mar 16, 2009 at 12:28 pm

  Dr. Maxwell,
  I too have been through the experience of attempting to enter a secured airport area with a bag containing a forgotten handgun. Scary, embarassing and humbling for sure. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you work through this event. One day you will be able to look back on it as hiccup along the road of all the good that you do in mentoring others. Stay strong.
  Best Regards,
  Bob

• 127 Don // Mar 16, 2009 at 1:13 pm

  John–I personally think that you and your “story” are full of bull.

• 128 william Spencer // Mar 16, 2009 at 2:05 pm

  Now you know what it feels like to be a black man

• 129 Vernon Brewer // Mar 16, 2009 at 2:50 pm

  Thank you John. I am now the second most stupid person in the world. I gladly relinquish my title to you. Try not to shoot yourself in the foot with your new gun.

• 130 Rick Habegger // Mar 16, 2009 at 4:01 pm

  John…I have worked in Nuclear Power for over thirty years. You cannot even drive to work with a gun…and definitely go thru security. Thanks for taking the responsibility!! It is a good lesson for us all…always think! Like in Camelot…when the words were spoken with such great force…THINK…THINK!! We all need to do that every day. I am glad it was not worse!!! Thanks for your faithfullness and heart for Christ and OTHERS!! Peole don’t care how much we know until they know how much we care!!! You care for people!

• 131 Alan Bianchini // Mar 16, 2009 at 4:08 pm

  You do great things for so many people. Everybody makes mistakes. The trick is how will you use this to help others. I am absolutely certain you will. God Bless!!!

• 132 Holly Sohriakoff // Mar 16, 2009 at 4:18 pm

  Mr. Maxwell,
  It is amazing to me how some Christians do not know how to forgive, yet the Bible clearly states we will not be forgiven unless we forgive. As leaders we are held more accountable for our actions especially for those leaders in the spotlight like yourself. However, it was a mistake and what is the greatest part about it for me is that I learned a lot from your mistake. I have a tendency to put things off, like taking stuff out of my car and putting it in the house. While that seems pretty minor, it is the same thing you did except you had a gun, which does kinda make it worse. However, the principle is the same. Take the time to get done what needs to get done now so it doesn’t cause problems in the future. It will take less time to deal with it now than deal with the consequences of dealing with it later.
  I consider myself a student of yours and of leadership. So thanks for the lesson! Keep your head up and move on! You are my hero!

• 133 Rev William Loader // Mar 16, 2009 at 5:00 pm

  Transparency shows the strength of whom a person is in Christ Jesus. Some of the strongest men I have in this ministry are transparen. This is something that you did not do intentionally. I just pray that nothing comes of all of this as far as the police dept goes.

  Bless you

• 134 Pastor Rafael Tassiun // Mar 16, 2009 at 8:53 pm

  You should have your Bible not a gun. That’s very stupid thing. Friends don’t give guns…

• 135 Runner // Mar 16, 2009 at 10:39 pm

  I think we all should get guns. Why cant Maxwell? Gee….he forgot to take it out of his baggage…so shoot the man why don’t we? LOLOLOL!!! Get real.

  If I were him, Id have no problem carrying one regardless of what theses mindless little critics say about the incident.

  Dr John is great man. Thank God for him!!

• 136 Benjamin Horvat // Mar 17, 2009 at 1:19 am

  There are those who feel fortunate to follow great people. (that’s me)

  There are those who are, to some degree, squeeky clean on the outside but have not gotten caught for the wickedness of their hearts. (fill in the blank___)

  There are those whose eyes are fixed on Christ to inwardly renew them so that they might point others toward becoming the best version of themselves. (great leaders)

  I don’t know of anyone who doesn’t fall in one of these 3 categories…

• 137 Jim Beran // Mar 17, 2009 at 7:49 am

  John,

  Congratulations. You’re human. You made a mistake and you admitted it. You know the drill: apologize, learn, seek forgiveness and make amends…then get right back to your ministry. I’ve read, enjoyed and learned from your material for years. Please don’t let your imperfections stop God’s work for another second.

• 138 Dee // Mar 17, 2009 at 11:15 am

  This is so funny!! It just goes to show we are all human. Sorry you were arrested, but I sure needed the laugh!!

• 139 John // Mar 17, 2009 at 1:21 pm

  You may be a respected Christian writer but you are an idiot if you “forget that you are carrying a gun” into a restricted areas such as an airport.

  This sort of inexcusable incident just increases the rant and taints those who legally carry and are responsbile.

  No one, no one “forgets” that they are carrying a gun, gift or not.

  This is a terrible thing and has caused immeasurable damage to the real issues of personal, and Christian, I might add, thoughts of self preservation and protection.

• 140 Delton Frost // Mar 17, 2009 at 1:51 pm

  You are one of my favorite authors. Mistakes do happen. Could your next book possibly be titled “Have Gun, Will Travel”.

• 141 Heidi // Mar 17, 2009 at 1:58 pm

  Wow- I’m glad that God doesn’t have the same attitude the last guy had or we would all be in a world of trouble. God allowed this for a reason. I trust him with the results. I’ve always been appreciative when it comes to your transparency as a Christian and a leader. This does not make me doubt your faith, integrity or personal values in the least. It just proves we are all human. God Bless!

• 142 John // Mar 17, 2009 at 2:35 pm

  “God allowed this for a reason”…”Heidi”…that says it all!

  I’m not here to be ugly, it’s admirable that he took responsibility for his, what can I say, stupidity.

  But you folks are so soupy, I’m gonna have to leave and go puke…

  Christian and Elder!

• 143 Kathy Harris // Mar 17, 2009 at 3:15 pm

  Those of us here at Skyline who served under your wonderful ministry are sitting back, scratching our heads and wondering why this didn’t happen years ago! ! ! Only kidding folks – so if you think I’m going to “talk dirt” about Pastor Maxwell you couldn’t be more wrong! Just think – if everyone who had ever made an “airport mistake” were lined up end to end, the line might be ALMOST as long as the line going through “Security” right now! A big HELLO to your sweet wife, kids and all their kids! You are sorely missed out here on the West Coast!

• 144 John // Mar 17, 2009 at 3:33 pm

  One final comment (because I am, I am confident, being taken as a hater – far from the truth), but had he been an ordinary person and the gun had gone off, and shot someone – most of you would have pounced on this with a vengance and wanted every gun in the world melted down.

  You don’t have a clue of the seriousness of this infraction and the impact that it has. Yes, it was a mistake but not in the same frame as forgetting to put your lotion in a Ziplock.

  If you that busy, you’re too busy. And it is that kind of lack of seriousness that gets folks killed, with guns, on the highway, on the jobsite…and “Heidi”, I don’t think any of such is in “God’s plan…

• 145 John Armstrong // Mar 17, 2009 at 5:29 pm

  I travel often and carry a gun most of the time. The only reason I haven’t had this happen is simply the grace of God. It is very easy to forget, I can attest to it.

  Plus the greater your lid, the more you have on your plate the easier it is to forget, I live there often. Assuming you get the gun back, either frame and hang it in a special place or have a close friend teach you and your wife how to use it.

  Your all good, don’t worry about it.

• 146 John // Mar 17, 2009 at 6:16 pm

  I’m back.

  Nonsense to the last post – John Armstrong.

  I’ve traveled regularly throughout the country and carried a gun, guns, for over 20 years and you NEVER FORGET SOMETHING LIKE THIS.

  It is a grave responsibility and you NEVER FORGET THAT, else you should not have the right to carry one.

  Too much, lives, are at stake. Again, if you’re that busy, you’re too busy to even own a gun.

• 147 admin // Mar 17, 2009 at 7:08 pm

  Stephanie the Blog Admin here.

  I’m stepping in to remind everyone that you are always welcome to contribute to discussion, as long as it’s done in a civil and respectful manner.

  John of the most recent exchange, you sound like a person who is familiar with guns and takes the responsibility of carrying one seriously.

  This reaction seems normal from any reader with gun experience. You who are trained in that area have been made fully aware of the danger that comes with owning a gun. We who haven’t had that training can only understand it in theory.

  I’m grateful for your perspective, as is John. I think it’s safe to say most of the other commenters get your point: guns are a huge responsibility, and you never make light of that.

  John was and is fully aware of the seriousness of what he unintentionally did. He truly does consider it the stupidest thing he’s ever done.

  So he is not making light of the mistake. I don’t think the average commenter is making light of the mistake.

  Having said that, I ask that you see things from a different perspective. If the mistake is in your past, you should reproach yourself. Of course you wish you could turn back time and use the common sense that seems so clear in hindsight. And yes, you should take precautions to make sure that something like this NEVER happens again.

  But I’m sure even you wouldn’t expect someone to stay in that place forever.

  At some point, we all have the choice to either continue to feel anger at ourselves, or to laugh at ourselves. I understand how this could seem like laughing at the situation, but I know it’s not for John.

  We hope that this DOES serve as a cautionary tale and others learn from John’s mistake.

  Please feel free to continue this conversation. As long as all who participate remain respectful of each other and of this forum, I will let it continue.

  Thanks, Stephanie

  Want to contact me directly?
  email admin@johnmaxwellonleadership.com

• 148 Wes Beavis // Mar 17, 2009 at 9:42 pm

  Dr John, it was a totally innocent situation and I truly understand how it happens. My son’s gave me a Swiss Army knife that I carry with me every day. It’s the most useful father’s day present I have ever received. Many times in my travels I have stood in an airport security line and at the last moment realized I still had it in my pocket, causing me the aggravation of having to return to the ticket counter and check it on as ‘checked luggage.’

  One time I was flying out of the Caribbean Islands. I was selected for a secondary security check. . . whereupon I realized that I had, once again, forgotten to put my trusty Swiss Army knife in my checked luggage. The security guard went through my carry on bag and also discovered a container of yogurt. He looked at my knife and waived me through, allowing me to take my knife on board but insisted that the yogurt had to be confiscated for security reasons.

  You’re a good man Dr. John Maxwell, thanks for being who you are. . . in all circumstances.

  Cheers,
  Wes Beavis

• 149 Will // Mar 17, 2009 at 10:04 pm

  I don’t buy the Mr.Magoo story, kind of disingenuous coming from someone like Mr. Maxwell, he should know better. And no one is above a kind word of reproach.

  Obviously he has influenced many people for the good and I trust the Lord will continue to use him as an effective servant, however…

  The mistake was accepting the gun, pure and simple, not the forgetting! Why does a minister of the gospel need a gun? He has the sword of the word at his full disposal.

  Do the gun advocates among you suggest he keep it on the pulpit given recent events in one of our churches?

• 150 Paul Stevens // Mar 17, 2009 at 10:08 pm

  While you have made an understandable (to some, at least) mistake of leaving a handgun in a carry on bag, you have compounded that mistake by publicly explaining how it got in that bag. Under federal law, the only legal way for a private citizen (who does not have a federal firearm dealer license) to obtain a handgun is to obtain it in their home state. Federal law allows going to another state and purchasing a rifle or shotgun from a licensed dealer in that state (if no state laws are violated by the purchase), but transfering ownership of a handgun (even as a gift) from a resident of one state to a resident of another state requires processing the transfer through a federally licensed dealer.

  http://www.atf.gov/firearms/faq/faq2.htm#b

  By publicly explaining your actions, you and the person who gave you the handgun could be explaining the gift to a federal judge.

• 151 Bill // Mar 18, 2009 at 3:42 am

  No John, leaving it in you luggage was the second most stupid thing you did. The stupidest thing you did was say the gun was a gift.

  Expect a visit from the ATF jackboots and the fellow who gave you the pistol to be arrested for illegal transfer of a firearm. On the other hand, if he loaned it to you, then you might get by, but because you have already said it is a gift, they are going to try to put you both in prison on felony conviction. But do not cop a plea or they will own you.

• 152 scott lane // Mar 18, 2009 at 5:35 am

  John please be careful & most of all honest to yourself. Several years ago in a small church in jupiter florida, Pastor Ian Mac Farland, was also caught with ba gun that really led to other more inappropriate behavoir which cripled the church, his life and so many of us who loved him.

  My family will pray that it was just a Mr. Mag00 mistake and not a more serious issue you are dealing with.

  God Bless

• 153 Craig A. Loewen // Mar 18, 2009 at 6:11 am

  John, I’ve been reading your stuff since you started writing and I appreciate the evidence that you live out what you write by your transparency and willingness to take responsibility.

  Kudos, good sir.

  And though I know you will take full responsibility for your actions, still get a very, very good lawyer.

  And my own story: once when helping my elderly parents get to their plane, they missed my father’s pen knife, but my key fob (a small metal pen-shaped fob with no sharp edges or points) was confiscated.

• 154 Heidi // Mar 18, 2009 at 6:57 am

  Directed to “john”. Everybody is entitled to believe how they will. I believe God uses our unintentional mistakes, our stupidity and sometimes our outright flagrant sin to accomplish his plan- therefore making all of it part of his plan- seeing he is all knowing and knew us and our every move before we were even born. I’m sorry you were so offended by my response to your post-however, his mistake is in the past and you can’t beat a dead horse. I’m sure Dr. Maxwell has been harder on himself than you or any media person would ever need to be. So I would like to invite you to share in forgiving Dr. Maxwell, just as your father in heaven has forgiven you for your mulitude of sins (as well as mine). Have a blessed day.

• 155 rich miller // Mar 18, 2009 at 8:27 am

  John, will all of the traveling you do, do you realize how much you are now going to be flagged, followed, searched, etc…you realize you are going to get roasted a long time about this one! sorry bout the near heart attack-good thing you didn’t use a fake ID!

• 156 Lesson Learner // Mar 18, 2009 at 9:59 am

  A good follow-up on this at http://equippingministryblog.com/2009/03/18/learning-from-others.aspx

• 157 Nancy Sutherland // Mar 18, 2009 at 11:35 am

  Thank you for being so transparent in this situation and finding a way to still teach a lesson from it. I have been following your teachings for many years, and one of the things that I like best about your style is your story telling. I remember Mr. Magoo, and I appreciated the clip today. God bless you for all that you do to serve Him.

• 158 Annie // Mar 18, 2009 at 1:28 pm

  Though faced with this trial you still found a way to teach a lesson and share what can be learned. You’re a man of the almighty God and no weapon formed against you shall prosper. Thank you for being such an inspiration. Hurry back to CF.

• 159 Paul Stevens // Mar 18, 2009 at 3:58 pm

  In response to Bill’s comment about loaning a gun. Yes, it is legal for a private individual to go to another state and borrow or rent a gun from someone in that state, but it’s my understanding that the gun cannot be removed from that state by the person borrowing it.

• 160 Stephanie Calley // Mar 18, 2009 at 6:43 pm

  John,
  Thanks for sharing your story…one thing I know about God is that he puts us in places where he needs us the most. It’s very possible that you may have been a positive influence on someone you came in contact with during your ordeal. Whether it be a law enforcement officer or a fellow prisioner. Just think many of the people in that jail would never have an opportunity to meet someone with your upstanding character or wisdom. I really believe God was somehow using you it that situation to be a positive effect on someone who otherwise never would have had the privilege of meeting you.

  Remember if God brings you to it, He will bring you through it!

• 161 Rex // Mar 19, 2009 at 2:21 am

  Dear John,

  My heart was beating fast when I read the initial sentences of this news article… thinking that another great Christian leader was arrested!

  Thank God that it was not so! Honest mistake. I do not know all the gun laws in the US ( I am from the Philippines) but even Church leaders do not know everything and make mistakes!

  Please be careful. I could not have imagined my “mentor” to be walking with handcuffs!

  God bless you. Take care.

  Rex

• 162 G. Fisher // Mar 19, 2009 at 4:09 am

  Now I know why I never bought any of your books!!!!!!!

• 163 Charles S // Mar 19, 2009 at 7:08 am

  Dear john..Love the mug shot with your deep Florida Tan!

• 164 John // Mar 19, 2009 at 10:54 am

  Thanks for putting this up on your blog. Being a leader means having to be transparent with people, you’ve taught me that, and through this event, God is still using you to teach. The sad thing is that so many “Christians” will use this against you, and for that, I am very sorry, but I, for one, will not.

  I pray that everything works our for you, and one day, you can laugh about it. May the bless you and keep you and make His face to shine upon you!

• 165 John Thomas // Mar 19, 2009 at 11:38 am

  With Mary Magdalene, Jesus did not accuse or excuse; in other words he did not look for a way in or a way out.

  He did not embrace the elite or go down in sin.

  How he did this I don’t know, because it runs counter to everything I have learned while on earth.

  It seems that most of those who accuse do not excuse and those who excuse never accuse.

  Those who do find themselves in the middle find the meaning of Christ being alive in them Body, Soul and Spirit, and in that, it offers no relief but by GOD’S number of day’s.

  No matter your thoughts and even though you struggle that the flesh wants out and GOD want’s in; stay in the middle John; it’s sure to end with GOD.

  Of course I never take my own advice and would fight them with everything I got; I would not let them take me down without a fight and I have GOD as my example for this; I’m in Deuteronomy right now!

  Where are you at?

• 166 RONBRO // Mar 19, 2009 at 2:22 pm

  Ty for sharing that your HUMAN like all of us

  BTW
  7 year ago I had one of your books in my hand
  it was a 3 in one John Maxwell Book

  and then we had to leave the store and I never ever got it

  Most of my friends say MAXWELL is the MAN!

  if I was going to BUY one JOHN MAXWELL Book?

  what one should I start with?

  Im 48 Married ,a dad and a grandp
  and have been rescued by Christ for 12 years

• 167 Ivan // Mar 19, 2009 at 6:25 pm

  I love your books as I love your honesty!

  A mistake is a mistake… and you have already paid for it; however, my concern is not about the forgotten gun in you bag, my concern is about the kind of gift that you received with appreciation from a Christian friend.

  Let’s think about Jesus for a while, the perfect and only Master. Did He ever receive a weapon as a gift from one of His followers? Did Jesus accepted a weapon for Mary… thinking that He was going to be away for few days?

  I know Jesus is with you all of the time, but would you have accepted the gun from your friend if you saw Him in person?

  My dear brother, I am not judgmental. I love you and I love your ministry, but a gun was invented to shot…

  An advice? A lesson? Well, please have a break to read Psalms 91 and 34:7, specifically when you are focused writing a book, and you will not be involved in a similar accident!

  God bless you!!!!!

• 168 Thomas // Mar 19, 2009 at 6:39 pm

  READ MORE (the Bible) and WRITE LESS!

• 169 A Nuñez // Mar 19, 2009 at 7:55 pm

  Brother Maxwell,

  There are ‘other ways’ to go to minister in jail…lol…jk. I’m sorry you went through that, but I’m sure once it’s all clear; you’ll look back and laugh about it )

  Blessings,
  PS
  “…the ‘weapons’ of our warfare…are mighty through God…” 2 Cor. 10:4

• 170 Stephen Williams // Mar 19, 2009 at 9:48 pm

  Dear John,
  This incident reminds me of some or your driving adventures when you where pastor at Skyline Wesleyan Church.
  You will get past this, but I suspect you will get some creative milage out of this senior moment. Blessing to you and your family. We are praying for you. God bless you!!!
  Stephen and Teddy Williams

• 171 John Maxwell Arrested - JohnCDonahue.com // Mar 19, 2009 at 11:05 pm

  [...] Bestselling Christian leadership author John Maxwell was arrested after an airport security agent found a gun in his luggage at Palm Beach International Airport in South Florida.  For the full story, click here. [...]

• 172 Wayne Smith // Mar 20, 2009 at 8:10 am

  John I like the statement everything rises and falls on leadership but I have a question that has troubled me since first hearing that statement. If it is true then the greatest leader would be Jesus Christ and even while on earth with very few followers. Very few followed Christ at that time and most would say he is a bad leader. Would it not be better stated that everything rises and falls on followership? Just a few thoughts on the quote. Have a blessed day.

• 173 kim // Mar 20, 2009 at 9:34 pm

  The responses on this blog are really incredible to me and seem to be very disingenuous and juvenille.

  I am a Christian, but withdrew my membership from a church who fired our beloved pastor of 30 years for being caught with a joint at his home. His career was ruined and he was ostracized and totally humiliated in our community. He was treated as an unforgivable beast. Face it, Christians (as a whole) do seem to shoot their wounded. Yet Jesus does the exact opposite.

  We have a long, long way to go in the forgiveness dept. We don’t get to pick and choose who we forgive and who we don’t forgive. I applaud the forgiveness so unabatedley and lavishly shown to John Maxwell as evidenced in this blog. But we aren’t consistent. We are selective on who we forgive. That’s the problem.

  Where is the forgiveness for ” regular” people who have sinned or just simply made some poor choices? Where is the forgiveness for Ted Haggard? Don’t you think that he believes that his mistake was the stupidest thing he’s ever done? Where is the forgiveness for Jim Bakker? Don’t you think he is sorry and deeply pained by his poor choices? Why is Ted Haggard not allowed to lead a church anymore? He was human and a sinner before he made the mistake and is still human now. Don’t you think he has something to offer us after going through something like that? Do you think he isn’t a Christian anymore? Imagine what a testimony he could tell us all about his walk with Lord after experiencing something like that!! Imagine!!

  We are all sinners who have fallen short! Why is John Maxwell still allowed to go on with a “o well i made a mistake, i’m just a Mr. Magoo” and Ted Haggard’s life is ruined? O so it matters what the sin is, eh? I’m glad Jesus doesn’t think that way!!! Does it really matter the sin? Is our forgiveness contingent on the social prejudices of the day? So, as long as John Maxwell didn’t commit the unforgivable sexual sin all is well??

  I am truly convinced that God has forgiven John Maxwell with all of the grace and mercy and not one iota less than he has with Ted Haggard.

  John deserves forgiveness and he deserves to continue on his ministry being all the stronger for it. I applaud him for admitting his mistake and using it to better himself and his followers.

  Let us take a moment to think of the non-John Maxwells of the world who make mistakes and sin and get caught!! Are we so ready to forgive, so ready to live and let live, so ready to show love, support and compassion? Are we? I think not.

  Let us show Christ’s love and compassion to ALL people, all sinners, people who are popular and unpopular, socially acceptable and the socially unacceptable, to the high profile illegal gun carriers all the way to the sex offenders. (I mean really folks, we don’t even allow sex offenders in our churches. We don’t care if they are sorry or have changed. We just don’t want them. By the way, the modern day sex offender is to the leper in Biblical Times, but that’s another story!!) The point is ALL people are deserving of Christ’s love and if we are called to be like Christ, what is the issue exactly?? The problem is US, not THEM.

  We must forgive all people without exceptions. I believe that is what Jesus would do.

  By the way , that pastor that I spoke of earlier now manages a McDonald’s and lives everyday with his “Mr. Magoo” Moment. His job as a manger came hard as he was barely able to do even that due to the fact that he forever has a criminal record. He was my ” John C. Maxwell.”

• 174 Anonymous // Mar 21, 2009 at 8:49 am

  This is another perfect example of Christians being willing to forgive a sin—as long as the sin isn’t too bad. Just like all sinners are welcome at church—as long as the sin isn’t too bad. Lucky for you, John. Your sin (the one that was exposed) wasn’t, in this case, too bad and your followers are able, in all their Christian love, to forgive you. Now is you were found in an airport restroom. . .

• 175 Brenda Mason Young // Mar 21, 2009 at 9:05 am

  I have known and respected John C. Maxwell for a long time. He is the person most responsible for my wonderful husband’s (of 35 years) salvation. Several of Kim’s responses (the writer before me) are understandable and valid, but I would point out major differences that need to be considered. Ted Haggard’s issue was deliberate, ongoing sin, done by knowing choice. John’s was a stupid mistake, without intent to deceive. I have been very appreciative of Ted Haggard’s contributions in our world, my heart broke at his fall, and I pray for his complete restoration. He has long been forgiven by me. Ted and John both are due our forgiveness. But restoration to leadership is a different matter. A stupid, careless mistake clearly has different ramifications with God and with people than does a chosen pathway of sin. It is irresponsible and lacks wise love to the leader himself/herself and to the people who follow to equate all actions in their impact, and want the consequences to be the same. Mr. Haggard needs and deserves for the Body of Christ to love him, forgive him, walk with him–and withhold leadership from him until such a time as capable people are able to say that the issues that caused his very public sin and fall are resolved in a way that minimizes the chance of further heartbreak for him, his family, and anyone who follows him. That’s not a lack of forgiveness–that is Christ-like love at it’s best.

  As for John? Maybe we should pay his tuition for a memory improvement course. His heart and his lifestyle are right on; his memory was bad.

  Even so, he made no excuses, acknowledged it, and stepped up to pay the price for his failure. That is always what is at the the heart of true, godly repentance, whether it is for deliberate, chosen sin, or a unintentional mistake.

• 176 Andy Heller // Mar 21, 2009 at 11:24 am

  Dear Mr.Maxwell, things happen to us. A few years ago someone who was a friend kept begging me for money for gambeling and I repeadily said no. This person suffers from emotional outburts and started to shake me in anger. In response I pushed myself away and as I did that I accidentaly pulled her necklace off and it broke. My friend was so mad at my “no” answer for money that an hour later she called the police and accused me of attacking her (she is neighbor who is 65) . Because there was a mark on the back of her neck from the necklace being pulled, I was charged and arrested in my business place. Thankfully no customers were there. Fedral law requires that if a mark is present, the accused must be brought in and held for 48 hours. I had to go to court where the judge dismissed the whole case and the charges were dismissed. My friend had since apologized and asked for forgiveness and has sought counseling. So…these things happen. It’s still bothers me that it happend. Untill then, I hadnt even been stopped for a speeding ticket. It was all embarassing and all that, but it’s over now. It does stay with you always, but in time you learn how to handle it emotionally. I still look up to you and consider you a friend and mentor. This all will pass and in time no one will remember. God Bless you and I look forward to your new book!

• 177 Tommy B // Mar 21, 2009 at 3:00 pm

  Kim, #173
  I am sorry that your faith was shaken by your pastors diminished judgement, and even more shaken by your contemporaries apparent mishandling of the whole issue. I understand that so many Christians and self proclaimed Christ Followers are more engaged in “spec in the eye vs. log in the eye judgement” and this has brought more shame and reproach to the name and cause of Christ, than so many of the autographical offenses that they are addressing; but the reality is, that people that are in leadership positions are held to a different standard of accountability than those that are less visible, and less influential to Christiandom at large. Unfortunately you seem to embrace one of the most damnable myths in many sects of contemporary Christianity; the notiion that sin is sin, and all sin is the same, and should be dealt with as such! Nothing could be further from the truth, and nothing gives us psuedo -licsence to justify our particular behaviors of choice, than that school of thought! It is true, that the condition that afflicts us all ,(sin) separates us from God, but not from forgiveness through repentence and faith in Christ and the redemptive work that was procured by the Godhead,through Christ and his incomprehensible love and sacrifice for all of us. but… there are now, and always have been a divinely imputed stratification of consequences for various sinful choices, behaviors and yes even selected lifestyles. These consequences have been woven into the fabric of the universe by the creator Himself, and are like the Creator himself immutable!! He does not apologize for this reality, even when it doesn’t fit into our personal desires that it were otherwise, so we could feel better about ourselves in our “Sins of Choice”! Ask King David if you don’t believe me! I might add that some of the severity of his punishment was because of his position of leadership, and his influence on so many lives that are precious to the Master! The higher the position of leadership, the further the fall, when it is because of putting egocentric desires and selfish choices ahead of the well being of those that have been entrusted to them! You cannot place John’s snafoo in the same camp with the offenses and userpations of authority and selfish choices of some of the others that you have mentioned. God’s forgiveness is remarkable and able to reach the very depths of hell it’self, but the consequences have been illustated through out the scriptures. Unfortunately, so many people choose to embrace the line of thinking that you are describing in your discourse to justify, and bring to a level playing field their particular pet sins. If you take a good, hard, honest look at this whole conceptual battle, the honest and credible thinker will not take glibly the forgiveness that came at such an excruciating cost to the Divine. There is no cheap grace in God’s economy. Please don’t equate Dr. Maxwells’ human blunder with the deliberate and hurtful choices of other Christian Leaders who have brought such shame and reproach to the cause of Christ, and left so many new and shallow believers faith and lives in shipwreck. Thank you for your kind consideration or re-consideration of your thoughts.

• 178 Connections 03/22/09 « CONNECTIONS // Mar 22, 2009 at 7:54 pm

• 179 Roberto Bautista - Lidere // Mar 23, 2009 at 10:58 am

  Dr. Maxwell,

  I took it hard when I first read the headline, but when I learned the all history I thought “… There comes another book … there comes another book .. ha,ha”

  Here is the lessons I learned:

  1. I need to read the all article
  2. It´s better to receive gifts in cash
  3. with transparency in one`s live, stupid things make noble-heart men become greater men

  Dr. Maxwell my highest respect for a lifetime of giving yourself to others.

• 180 karina // Mar 23, 2009 at 4:56 pm

  Hola, mi querido hermano y amigo, usted ha sido victima de un descuido, que sucede a diario pero nosotros como cristianos y sobre todo personas públicas de grandes retos como usted no pueden darse ese lujo, los hijos de Dios debemos estar alertas en todo momento, no podemos ver el mundo como un jardin de rosas, es de suponerse que un arma en pleno siglo xx, no es cosa de juego o de suposiciones, es decir no podemos ser palomitas incautas que el enemigo viene y nos engaña, es de anteojito que el diablo aprovecho su descuido para obrar de la manera en que todo sucedio, dando gracias al Dios altisimo que siempre manda sus angeles para que nos cuiden donde quiera que nos dirijamos, ya que el nos ama, pero recuerde el nos manda tambien a ser astutos, asi que hermano no se aflija más, recuerde que no somos perfectos, solo somos perdonados, pero esto es una buena oportunidad para seguir creciendo y bienvenido al mundo real, Good bless you!

• 181 Dr. Warren Jackson // Mar 23, 2009 at 7:50 pm

  Dr. Maxwell,

  I have used your material many times in my personal and business life. You are a man of integrity. Thank you for being authentic and open. Mistakes happen. You sure have helped a lot of people like myself deal with theirs. We are here for you.

• 182 Sam Koim // Mar 23, 2009 at 8:34 pm

  Hi John,
  I’m from Papua New Guinea and a great follower of all your teachings on leadership. You are a great person. I’m reminded of the statement that says “The many good things you do, people do not want to remember, but the one bad thing you do, people always want to remember” I hope and pray that the good will erase the memories of this one bad thing.
  Blessings
  Sam Koim
  Papua New Guinea

• 183 Rev. Mel Montgomery // Mar 24, 2009 at 6:46 am

  Hey Brother John,

  I hope there is a feature on this where someone reads the comments for you before they are published on your blog. I would like to have just a one-time private contact with you. If you don’t have such a feature, well, hello world!

  My name is Mel Montgomery, and I am an itinerant minister living in Joplin, MO. Your writings have helped me a great deal. I would like to ask your permission about something.

  I have a website, http://www.brothermel.com, on which I feature rare early Pentecostal audio recordings the Lord has brought me from around the world. It is my policy that when I receive a recording, I do my best to track down the speaker’s descendants, or the venue at which he preached, and ASK permission to host the recording. Asking permission first, rather than begging forgiveness later, has served me well.

  I’d like to ask your permission about something. Would it be alright if I put a link to your blog on my website on my “Links that will bless you” page, and link to some of your blog entries or articles in my monthly e-mail newsletter? You hardly need me to promote your site, but a link on my site might drive some new traffic to your blog and materials who haven’t heard of you before.
  The amount of attention these rare recordings have brought to my ministry and website has been substantial, and therefore the traffic through a link to your site might be substantial also. In the last 2 years I have had over 1 million hits on my website from people in 105 countries downloading my recordings and articles. More meetings have opened up for me. In August I will be preaching in London for 3 churches. And last week I did two radio interviews for international Christian radio programs. Not bad for a little guy no one ever heard of, in Joplin, MO of all places!
  Again, thank you sir for your writings and materials. And thank you for handling your airport experience in such an intelligent and adult manner. What happens with you guys on the national scene reflects on us all.
  Kind Regards,
  Rev. Mel Montgomery
  “Brother Mel”
  Joplin, MO

• 184 kenn sanders // Mar 24, 2009 at 10:28 am

  It has been a long time since working with you at Skyline…I have told so many people all across North America about how you lead as a Christian Pastor and Leader…nothing has changed…you teach us to be doing things right no matter what. What an EXAMPLE to us all. I love you John and I thank God for making you a reality to the world. Kenn

• 185 Edward Grajales // Mar 24, 2009 at 11:35 am

  As a leader, what do you teach us? carrying guns are right?
  what do you need it for?
  decoration?

  what a disspointment….

• 186 Omar Diaz // Mar 24, 2009 at 12:55 pm

  Dr. Maxwell:

  Here in Guatemala we admire you, first as a man of God and then as the great leader you are. You have blessed this country so much. Thank you for showing us your human side, God bless you!

• 187 mac // Mar 24, 2009 at 1:55 pm

  A veces tan distraidos, como cuando Adan acepto ser complice de Eva, por no poner atención, a lo que estaba sucediendo.
  Espero en El , que la inseguridad no entre a tu corazón, pues creo que nuestra dependencia y seguridad, vienen de Dios , quien nos ha llamado para ser diferentes a aquellos que no tienen seguridad y confianza en nuestro Poderoso Dios.
  A tu esposa tambien la cuidará El, y mejor que tu y cualquier arma terrenal.
  El os guarde y fortalezca,
  Atte. Mac, México city

• 188 JR // Mar 24, 2009 at 2:20 pm

  Mr. Maxwell you are a man of God, and beleived me that the devil wants to destroy you so please be obedient to His word and you should enter into His kindom.
  We are at end of times and be careful in falling into sin.

• 189 rey // Mar 24, 2009 at 6:58 pm

  la verdad es que sé que fué un descuido, y no sé si es confesión de estupides o me adelanto a que alguien lo diga, pero me intriga saber como un hombre de Dios tan tremendo como usted puede tomar un arma y ponerla en su valija sin temblar o pensar que no tiene nada que hacer con algo así..
  Un millón de líderes lo miran…

• 190 Jorge Trincado // Mar 24, 2009 at 8:59 pm

  Estos supuestos “hombres de Dios”, no son mas que Comerciantes de la Fe, que gustan el Lucro a costa de Ignorantes de las verdades Biblicas. Solo este incidente, es un ejemplo de la “fe en Dios” que estos comerciantes, perdon, estos Multimillonarios Evangelistas tienen. Predican de fe, pero ellos ni creen en Dios. Jesus ya lo advirtio; “haran mercaderia de ustedes”.
  Sinverguenzas como este Jhon Maxwell se multiplican cada dia.

• 191 Fernando L. // Mar 24, 2009 at 10:05 pm

  Jorge,

  No dudo que tengas razon de varios hombres que buscan lucro a costa de “ignorantes,” pero te aseguro que este hombre no es uno de ellos. Hay tiempos que llegamos a pensar por acciones que nosotros hacemos, mas no dejes que una acto de ignorancia descuide de tu esperanza en ver hombres verdaderos a Dios. Despues de todo, buenos o malos, nuestros padres siguen como nuestros padres, igual, nosotros, delante de Dios no somos tan diferentes, vive la vida con alegria y espera lo mejor de todos. Dios te bendiga.

• 192 Luz Elena // Mar 24, 2009 at 10:35 pm

  “Puestos los ojos en Jesús, el autor y consumador de la fe” Hebreos 12:2

• 193 Julio Abreu Corbin // Mar 25, 2009 at 8:35 am

  Hi, I only can say tha no one is perfect friend. The people know that you are an integrity man of God.. Go ahead
  Julio , from Peru

• 194 Boris Rodriguez // Mar 25, 2009 at 9:19 am

  Better to take refuge in the Lord than to put one’s trust in mortals. Better to take refuge in the Lord than to put one’s trust in princes.

  Better to trust that God is in charge of our families. we dont need guns to be secure or to secure our families, God cares about them. (a gun can’t do it better than God)

  Cast all your worries upon Him because He cares for for you.

• 195 Miguel Hinojosa // Mar 25, 2009 at 9:49 am

  Jorge,
  De la abundancia del corazon, habla la boca… Te sugiero que reflexiones sobres tus palabras un poco y limpies tu corazon de toda Crítica y Juicio, pues el único que puede juzgar es Dios.

  Dr. Maxwell,
  Gracias por compartir con nostros este episodio de su vida y reflexionar su aprendizaje con nosotros.
  Dios lo Bendiga.

• 196 John Maxwell preso por posesión de arma de fuego « Latin and christian woman // Mar 25, 2009 at 2:34 pm

  [...] han sido publicados por Grupo Nelson, usó el medio de comunicación Twiter y su propio blog: (http://johnmaxwellonleadership.com/2009/03/13/stupid-is-as-stupid-does/) para dar a conocer lo que él mismo reconoció como su mayor [...]

• 197 Julisa // Mar 25, 2009 at 2:53 pm

  Sr. Maxwell

  No soy de muchas palabras pero quiero decirle lo suigiente; Quiza Dios quizo que sucedediara esto para provarle, mostrarle o enseñarle algo, yo creo que todo lo que pasa, pasa por alguna razon, solo queda que le pida a Dios en oracion ” Que me quieres enseñar” Porque aunque sea un buen lider, todavia puede aprender de un GRAN MAESTRO QUE ES NUESRTRO SEÑORJESUCRISTO

• 198 Edwin Crozier // Mar 25, 2009 at 3:21 pm

  Well, I have to admit, it makes it a little easier for me to listen to your advice knowing that you can also make mistakes just like me. It’s easier to listen to a real person than someone who seems to do everything perfectly.

  As much as it may cost you, am I allowed to say thanks for messing up at least once where we could all see it?

• 199 Mark Barrientos Dörner // Mar 25, 2009 at 10:18 pm

  Hi, How are you?

  With a Humib spirit, you need to improve in wisdom. For making good choices.
  Peace,
  Pro. 2:11
  Mark Barrientos Dörner

  Valdivia, Chile

• 200 Maria Eugenia // Mar 26, 2009 at 1:49 pm

  Todas las cosas ayudan a bien a los que a Dios aman.

  “Mira que te mando que te esfuerces y seas valiente no temas ni desmayes porque Jehova tu Dios estara contigo a donde quiera que vayas.
  Josue 1:8

  Nadie debe de juzgar, todos estamos en camino de perfeccion. Solo nos queda volver a Jesus el autor y consumador de nuestra Fe. Nuestro ejemplo y el unico perfecto

  Mis oraciones para su ministerio,

  Maria Eugenia
  Costa Rica

• 201 pamela // Mar 27, 2009 at 1:13 pm

  hola comparto la opinion de mi hermana, pero esto nos lleva a ser mas precavidos y a pedir mas dicernimiento a la hora de tomar decisiones, un regalo no le hace mal a nadie, pero cuando las cosas las entrega el señor se notan porque son para edificar y nunca para avergonzarnos, la verdad es que las intenciones y pensamientos de nuestro corazon muchas veces son muy engañosas lo dice su palabra… no me parece tener o cargar un arma y no lo digo por juzgar, si no porque sabemos que la armas de este mundo no las a creado el señor….las nuestras son diferentes son sin espadas…..asi mi querido hermano…..que el señor lo bendiga y asi como usted le entrega su tiempo alseñor el sabra cuidar y cubrir cada area y preocupacion de su vida…..
  lo saluda una hermana y psicologa en cristo JESUS

  Santiago, Chile

• 202 Becky from Indiana~~ // Mar 27, 2009 at 5:25 pm

  Hey John,

  Maxine Wilson-Meade from good ole’ French Lick called and was laughing her head off when she heard this one. You can imagine. Welcome to the club of the “rushed”. I had to leave hair spray when my luggage got frisked in Florida after camp meeting and for a Nazarene, that is serious, so know what you mean. Ha! Blessings on you in the days ahead as your ministry continues to bless multitudes. Give Margaret our love.
  Maxine and Becky

• 203 GAVIN T COFFIN // Mar 27, 2009 at 9:10 pm

  MR MAXWELL I WAS SO HAPPY TO MEET YOU AT CHRIST FELLOWSHIP IN ROYAL PALM BEACH FLORIDA.. I REALLY LIKE HOW YOU TALK I AM A 25 YR IN WEST PALM AND I WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW IM WITH YOU 100% IM ALWAYS PRAYING FOR YOU.

• 204 Podcast #11 - Interview with John Maxwell | AwakenMe.tv // Apr 28, 2009 at 1:51 pm

  [...] than 2 million leaders worldwide. David and Keith have a little fun, listen to some wisdom, and avoid the question for legal [...]

• 205 Be carefull « Firearms & Freedom // May 20, 2009 at 9:51 pm

  [...] So be careful when you fly, and don’t end up like this! [...]