Case Study: Freddie, The Flesh Cutter

Photo: ©Voyagerix from Getty Images via Canva.com

Biff’s best friend, Freddie, is a practical joker. It is one of Freddie’s strengths that most people love. But, as in most cases, Freddie’s strength has become his greatest weakness. It seems you can never have a serious conversation with him. He’s sarcastic, mocks nearly all the time, and is regularly putting down his friends in front of others. He does these things as though it was a competitive event. Many of his friends have found it paralyzing to be around him.

Freddie is also a ministry leader, but his over-the-top communication style demands everyone’s focus to be on him rather than his Lord, and his jesting wears thin on people. Rather than developing leaders, his team is more guarded and measured when around him. Someone said recently,

You never know when you’re going to get hit with a verbal jab.

Ironically, his team is more outgoing, expressive, and independent thinkers when Freddie is not around them. The saddest commentary of all is that many of Freddie’s friends are mimicking his behaviors, which leaves little time for prayer, encouragement, and other Christlike actions.

Biff has come to you for help regarding how to approach Freddie the “flesh cutter.” Biff said,

I’m just a church member. Freddie is a leader. How am I to respond to him?

Case Study Questions

1. What is your theology on the tongue?
2. How would you guide Biff?
3. What are your guidelines and other thoughts about lightheartedness versus seriousness?

Need More Help?

1. If you want to learn more from us, you may search this site for thousands of resources—articles, podcasts, videos, graphics, and more. Please spend time studying the ones that interest you. They are free.
2. If you want to talk to us, we have private forums for those who support this ministry financially. Please consider supporting us here if you would like to help us keep our resources free.

Rick Thomas

Rick launched the Life Over Coffee global training network in 2008 to bring hope and help for you and others by creating resources that spark conversations for transformation. His primary responsibilities are resource creation and leadership development, which he does through speaking, writing, podcasting, and educating.

In 1990 he earned a BA in Theology and, in 1991, a BS in Education. In 1993, he received his ordination into Christian ministry, and in 2000 he graduated with an MA in Counseling from The Master’s University. In 2006 he was recognized as a Fellow of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC).