Ethics

 

 

 

 

 

Ethics define and protect our personal life, family, ministry and relationships as ministers in Open Bible Churches.  These ethics are rooted in the principles of Scripture.  Our bylaws state that the breach of ministerial ethics could result in disciplinary action.

 

PREAMBLE
As a minister of Jesus Christ, called by God to proclaim the gospel and credentialed by Open Bible Churches, I commit myself to this code of ethics.  I make this commitment sincerely and wholeheartedly, so my ministry will be acceptable to God, beneficial to my family and church, and a witness to the world.

 

PERSONAL & FAMILY

  1. I will continue to develop my spiritual life through consistent prayer, Bible reading, and personal application of Scripture.

  2. I will seek to maintain balance between family and ministry and will treat my family with love, attention and respect.

  3. I will pursue physical and emotional health through regular exercise, healthy eating habits and adequate rest.

  4. I will be a life-long learner through the pursuit of educational opportunities and resources.

  5. I will manage my personal finances with integrity by promptly paying bills, avoiding excessive debt and preparing for retirement.

  6. I will abstain from gambling, pornography, alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, abuse of legal medication and affiliation with secret, fraternal orders.

 
CHURCH RELATIONSHIPS & RESPONSIBILITIES
  1. When preaching, I will prepare and deliver biblically-based messages and communicate with honesty, giving credit when using another’s material.

  2. In counseling, I will keep strict confidentiality except to prevent physical harm or as required by law.

  3. I will use discretion and wisdom with the opposite sex to prevent the appearance of evil, temptation or sin.

  4. I will ensure that proper checks and balances are in place so finances are managed with integrity and in accordance with government laws

  5. I will not loan money to the church or receive a loan from the church or its members without the written consent of the church board and either the district or regional superintendent.  (Note:  Some laws forbid non-profits from lending money to corporate officers.)

  6. I will inform potential staff members of the church’s policy regarding their retention or release in the event of the resignation or release of the Senior Pastor.

  7. I will minister without partiality and not allow a personal relationship to unduly influence the decisions and direction of the church.

  8. I will in marriage only individuals who fulfill biblical guidelines.

  9. I will use caution and discretion in using my influence to endorse products or agencies.  In my capacity as pastor, I will not endorse political parties or candidates running for public office.

Differences Between a Father and a Religious Leader
Rev. Mel D. Davis
   Canadian Coalition of Apostles
March 16, 2006
Father Religious Leader
Welcomes intimacy (into me see) Stays aloof-distant
In difficulty stands with you Forsakes, criticizes and saves his ministry
Teaches you to trust yourself Controls and overlords
Enjoys the successes and overtaking of their sons Feels bypassed – losing control
Want to help you demanding nothing in return Wants to be supported
Brings you up and teaches you to be a Father Wants you to trust solely in him
Knows not everyone can be a son Wants a large whatever
Gives up his own life to save and protect Saves himself on the basis of saving the ministry
A father imparts Rom 1:11 Operates in gifts and displays his powers to confirm he’s the head, etc.
Authority comes from own discipline Puts discipline on the sons
Has learned to marry mercy with truth Jn 4 Doesn’t know the difference
Additional readings - 1 Corintians 4:15 & Psalm 127:5

 
RESPONSIBILITIES TO COLLEAGUES & OPEN BIBLE LEADERSHIP
  1. I will treat all ministerial colleagues, including predecessors with respect in my words and actions.

  2. I will work in co-operation with Open Bible leaders and ministers and will resolve conflicts in order to maintain a spirit of unity.

  3. I will, upon becoming aware of the serious misconduct of an Open Bible minister, contact the district or regional superintendent.

  4. I will contact the Senior Pastor of a church prior to contacting one of his/her staff or members concerning ministry opportunities.

  5. I will not start or locate a new church or relocate an existing church without first receiving written consent from the district and regional superintendent.

  6. I will not accept an independent pastorate in a city where an Open Bible church exists without first informing the district and regional superintendent.

  7. I will not approach or consider an offer from a church whose pastor has not officially resigned.

  8. I will, upon leaving a church, cease attending, unless invited by the incoming Senior Pastor and church board.

  9. I will, upon leaving a church, provide ministry to persons in the church only with the consent of the Senior Pastor, and I will not exert influence or undermine the leadership of the church.

  10. I will treat ministry guests with courtesy, providing adequately for their needs, and I will not invite persons to minister in the church who are under discipline, have questionable character, or have fundamental, doctrinal differences.

  11. I will not attempt to unduly influence people to leave other churches.

 

Building Churches and Leaders for the Harvest