US megachurch pastor Matt Chandler has hinted at a possible return to The Village Church after being forced to take a leave of absence over a relationship that "crossed boundaries".
Despite claiming the messages were not sexual or romantic in nature, elders at The Village Church deemed the use of language to be inappropriate for a pastor, as well as the "frequency and familiarity" of the correspondence.
Taking to Instagram on Monday, Pastor Matt said: "'Jesus I don't want to do this without you.'
"That sentence has been my mantra these past few months.
"It has rolled through my mind and heart on repeat.
"Whether it has been going on a walk, heading out to our river cabin or even walking into Jiu Jitsu I have been more aware than ever of that earnest and angsty prayer of David's in Psalm 27:4.
"He has been my sustaining grace and the strength of this season.
"I am eager to return to [The Village Church, Flower Mound] soon and am grateful for a family of faith that have loved me and [Lauren Chandler] so deeply in this season.
"What a picture of gospel formed community you are.
"Eager to see what the Lord has for us in the next 15-20 years!"
Prior to taking his extended leave, Pastor Matt said he felt he had "embarrassed his wife and kids" and felt "stupid" and "dumb".
"Forgive me," he concluded. "I love you."
