ministerial ethics 23032013

7/27/2019 Ministerial Ethics 23032013

1/28

Ministerial Ethics

Key Areas: - Ethical Issues

- Basic EtiquetteDefinition of Terms:

Ethics are moral principles that control or influence a persons behavior. Every vocation isguided by certain ethical standards.

Etiquette is defined as the formal rules of correct or polite behavior in society or amongmembers of a particular profession/vocation.

Anchor Scriptures:

The following verses provide a firm scriptural foothold for this seminar:

But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house ofGod, which is the church o the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. 1Tim 3:15

I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the covationwherewith ye are called. Eph 4:1

Let all things be done decently and in order. 1Cor 14:40 Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed. 2Cor 6:3 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation,

in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. 1Tim 4:12

Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of theGood News about Christ.. Phil 1:27 (NLT)

Ethics Vs. Etiquette

Good etiquette is generally based on sound ethical values Without a good understanging of ethical values, etiquette becomes mere playacting, or even a

burden! For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he Prov 23:7a

At the root of anything outstanding there is understanding. Ethics and etiquette are noexception

Core Values

God must come first Matt 22:37-38; Matt 6:33; Col 1:18b Personal integrity and discipline Matt 5:37; 1Cor 9:27 Give honour to whom honour is due Rom 13:7 Love your neighbor as yourself Gal 5:14; Matt 22:39


2/28

Kingdom ambassadors mentality 2Cor 5:20; Matt 5:14 Unity in the Body of Christ 1Cor 12:27; Jn 17:22; Eph 4:3-6 Decency and orderliness 1Cor 14:40 The need for a good testimony 1Thes 5:22; Phil 2:15 Dont be a stumbling block to others Rom 14:13 Selfless service Mat 20:28 Submission to constituted authority Rom 13:1 Support for the weak Acts 20:35

Part 1

ETHICAL ISSUES

Appearance

Be decent and moderate (neither too flamboyant nor tattered) Phil 4:5 Avoid curious, suggestive, indecent or weird hairstyles/haircuts and clothes Thes 5:22 Avoid excessive use of jewelry Phil 4:5 Beware of obsession with trendiness at all cost Rom 12:2 Dont appear archaic! Jn 19:23-24 Pay good attention to personal hygiene and cleanliness

Remember:

You ought to be a model (a specimen) 1Tim 4:12 We are in the world but not of the world Rom 12:2 Liberty comes with responsibility Gal 5:13 New wine is for new bottles Lk 5:38

Therefore:

Always glorify God with your appearance 1Cor 10:31 Dont be a stumbling block to others Rom 14:21; Gal 5:13 Dress the way you wish to be addressed

Comportment

Not lousy, flippant or bossy Not a talkative, rash, brash or razz Humble, polite but confident Friendly and approachable


3/28

Carry yourself with dignity Learn to condescend to men of low estate. Rom 12:16 Avoid scrambling for food, drinks or seats at gatherings

Respect and Courtesy

Honour and prefer one another Rom 12:10 Dont struggle with pregnant women, the elderly or the physically challenged Never allow your disagreement with anyone to degenerate into physical assault Remember, you have been called to serve. Matt 20:28 Let Jesus be your example in humility

Read Jn 13:13-14; 1Tim 3:3,8,11; 1Tim 4:12; Acts 20:35b

Demonstrate respect/courtesy towards:- Your spiritual leaders- The elderly- Even your colleagues and subordinates

Dont despise your leaders Num 12:2 Dont speak against dignitaries Acts 23:3-5 Avoid rudeness and insubordination in all forms Honour and appreciate your Pastor/ leader in word and in deed Avoid flattery or eye service See your spiritual leader as:

- Gods representative and- A helper of your destiny

Read: 1Pet 2:17; 1Thes 5:13; Heb 13:17; 1Tim 5:1; Rom 13:1,7; 1Sam 25:10 (Nabal)

Punctuality

Meaning: Being at the right place at the right time

Lateness is a sign of indiscipline or nonchalance Sign of disrespect to authority Plan to arrive at meetings a little ahead of schedule Apologize when you are lateBiblical examples of tragic lateness:

Esau missed his fathers blessing because he arrived late! Gen 27:30 The five foolish virgins missed out on account of lateness Matt 25:11-12 (Note that their

virginity did not make up for their lateness)


4/28

Therefore, make punctuality a habitSense of Responsibility

Avoid unauthorized absenteeism from meetings/programmes Always call ahead or write in for permission/nitofication Unauthorized absenteeism is a sign of:

- Irresponsibility- Disregard for your Pastor/leader- Low self-worth- Rebellion

Take your assignments seriously Small assignments, great attitude! Faithfulness in little qualifies you for much Lk 19:17 Stop making excuses! Never discourage others on their assignments To remain relevant, you must remain responsible (Lk 3:8)

Proper Reporting Relationship

Do not break ranks Joel 2:7b

Discretion and Information Management

Be discrete with previledge information about the church, the Pastor, ministers or certainmembers.

Many churches have been thrown into crisis due to lack of discretion among ministers andworkers in the management of sensitive information.

Ability to bridle the tongue is the key attribute of a worker/minister (Jam3:2). Ministers, ushers, secretaries, church admin officers and members of the prayer band need to

be particularly cautious.

Read Prov13:3;18:21;Matt 12:34-37.


5/28

Attitude to Sanction/Disciplinary Action

Take it humbly and in good faith Do not bear animosity against your leaders or your Pastor And do not threaten to leave or divide the Church, like some do Chastening is for those children that the Father loves. (Heb 12:6-7) Even when you feel cheated, let God be the judge.

For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure

chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? But

if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards and not sons. Heb 12:6-8

Relationship with the Opposite Sex

In general, it is good to be warm and d\friendly towards people, both male and female However, excessive/questionable closeness to the opposite sex is unethical as it could lead to

suspicion or sin.

Examples of questionable closeness include:

Holding secret prayer meetings or counseling sessions behind closed doors with the oppositesex

Anointing a womans sensitive parts Just hanging out regularly with the opposite sex (e.g. at joints, in the car, doing lunch etc) Carelessness is a gateway to sexual sins. 1Cor10:12 Having someone elses husband to be your close confidant as a woman. (The same applies to

the men).

Giving such personal and amorously suggestive gifts as roses, under wears to the opposite sex, ifyou are not married.

Avoid late night telephone calls or visits to the opposite sex except you really have to. Eventhen, try not to go alone.

Sending emotional cards or text messages to another persons husband or wife should beavoided.

Kissing, pecking or giving full hugs to the opposite sec\x could have unsavoury outcomes, evenwhen the motives are pure. Cultural context also counts here.

We must abstain from all appearance of evil (1Thes 5:22).Regarding Singles: Play Straight!

Are you interested in marital relationship with someone? Be bold. Make your intentions knownto your Pastor as soon as possible. Let all thy ways be established Prov 4:26

Dont colonize sisters or have multiple courtships


6/28

Regarding Engaged Singles

Even when engaged, you are not married until you are married! Stay pure 2Tim2:22 Keep your Pastor in the know Be discrete, decent and focused Abstain from all appearance of evil 1Thes5:22 Be a worthy example. 1Tim 4:12

When You Need a Transfer

It is basically not wrong to seek transfer Discuss your reasons with your Pastor Put your request in writing Wait for your leader to release you and pray for you While waiting, dont cause disaffection

Dont abscond from Church As mush as possible, settle all differences before leaving 1Cor14:40; Gal 6:7; Matt 18:15-20;

1Cor 6:7

As a newly transferred worker

Its unethical to make frequent, nostalgic references to your former Church or Parish Dont give the impression that your allegiance remains with your former Church. Identify fully with your new place of assignment and observe things This could affect your integration in to the new church and your overall usefulness there Dont be part of schism/rebellion Eph 4:3-6; Ps 1:1 Dont run down your former pastor or parish

As a Transferred Pastor

Accept your posting as from God and report at your duty post promptly Hand over properly to your successor Dont canvass for ministers, workers or members to follow you to your new parish. Emergency

transfers are unethical. Depend on God!

Lodge an official request for a reconciliation of your posting I there is a compelling reason to doso

Dont condemn your predecessor, but appreciate him/her. Dont change too many thingsinitially

Ensure that your predecessor is properly sent forth Dont meddle in the affairs of your former parish Dont accept invitations to your last parish to minister too soon after you exit Dont entertain tale-bearers from your former Parish. Mind your own business


7/28

Attitude to Gifts

Wrong attitude to gifts is a common ministerial pitfall! It is basically not wrong for a minister to receive

gifts from:

Church members Subordinate/fellow workers and ministers Even superiors in the ministry

Good reasons for such gifts could include:

Appreciation of your person and ministry A demonstration of love As a seed of faith As an encouragement In response to a perceived (not advertised) need By divine leading

A note of caution:

Ministry is not all about gifts Matt 20:28 Gifts are mere previledges and not rights Not all gifts are to be accepted 2Kg 5:26-27; Act 8:20 Some gifts are baits, bribes or spiritual poisons 1Tim 6:6,10 Gifts are not always a sign of loyalty or love Avoid being led by gifts (but by the Spirit) in taking decisions Rom 8:14; Prov 17:23; Ex 23:8 (gifts

can make you blind) Care more for the souls of men than their pockets! Dont allow your messages to become gifts-driven It is generally not advisable to receive gifts from people of questionable character or very young

converts.

And thou shalt take no gift: for the gift blindeth the wise, and perverteth the words of therighteous. Ex 23:8

The Bible cautions on gifts:

A wicked man taketh a gift out of the bosom to pervert the ways of judgement Prov 17:23 Avoid he said unto himis it a time to receive money, and to receive garments, and oliveyards,

and vineyards, and sheep, and oxen, and menservants, and maidservants? The leprosy therefore

of Naaman shall cleave unto thee2Kg 5:26-27

I have coveted no mans silver or gold, or apparel. Act 20:33 But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is

certain we can carry nothing out. 1Tim 6:6-7


8/28

Partisan Politics

It is basically not wrong for Christians to participate in the political process in their countries orcommunities

But it is unethical for ministers and workers to engage in partisan politics within the church. (e.g.people actively campaigning for the same office on the platforms of different political partieswithin the same local assembly)

Partisan politics can be very damaging as it could cause suspicion, chaos and division in thechurch. (Paul vs. Apollos 1Cor 1:12;3:4)

Financial Integrity

Financial impropriety is a common ministerial pitfall. Avoid it by following due process in all financial transactions. Keep room for abuse. It is unethical for the Pastor to double as the Church treasurer. It leaves room for abuse. Two/more signatories to account to avoid abuse. Even Jesus appointed a treasurer (Judas) The Pastors wife or his children should not be appointed as treasurers For major purchases, the Pastor should involve two or more church members for credibility. Pastors, ministers and workers should avoid extorting money from church members through

craftiness, prophetic harrassments, begging or borrowing.

You could however approach fellow ministers or workers, or Pastor(s) for assistance if need be. Welfare fund for Church workers and ministers is advisable

Accountability and Feedback

Always render account of your stewardship through timely reports, accounts and feedbacks onall assignments: 1Cor 4:2

- Financial- Non-financial

Always keep proper records Lack of accountability and feedback is irresponsible, unethical and dangerous too! Dont take offence when you are asked to render account of your stewardship Lk 16:2

Concerning Guest Ministers

Inviting a Guest Minister

Seek clearance from your Pastor/leader before inviting a guest minister Avoid controversial/questionable ministers Inviting a minister you dont know could be risky! Contact guest minister well in advance Send a detailed letter of invitation, signed or countersigned by the Pastor-in-Charge


9/28

Invitation by text message usually not good enough. Email could be okay. Follow-up byphone or visits

Introducing the Guest Minister

This should be done ideally by the Pastor-in-Charge (PIC) Introduce the guest minister briefly and correctly and without flatteries State his correct name, title and Church/ministry Introduce his wife (if present) and his entourage (if any).

Appreciating the Guest Minister

After ministration, appreciate the guest, his team and his ministration Give God the glory Isa 42:8 Get the congregation to pray for him Dont critize his message/ministration Offer him and his team a drink, at least Make them feel good about coming to you Hospitality is a key ministerial ethic Rom12:13; 1Tim 3:2

Gifts to the Guest Minister

It is normal practice to honour a guest minister with gifts in cash and/ or in kind (honorarium)discretely

Cash should be in crisp, uniform and high denomination currency notes Cheques should be carefully written with correct name and never post-dated or dud! Gift items should be placed in his car before he ends ministration Remember, you are not paying the minister

You as the Guest Minister

Obtain clearance from your Pastor Dont get bitter if your Pastor says no Communicate acceptance to host if yes Obtain details of the programme Notify host in time, in case you can no longer make it Ask for proper direction to the host Church Prepare well for your ministration Plan to arrive a little ahead of schedule Appreciate your hosts when called to speak Dont change the theme/topic given to you!


10/28

Dont criticize your host/ his Church Avoid self-projection and sheep-stealing Dont use craft toraise money for yourself e.g. through prophetic harrassments Keep within the time allotted to you Dont complain about your honorarium!

Handling Revelations

Ministers often receive revelations about the church or its members which could take the formof: dreams, visions, audible voice etc Joel 2:28; Jn 14:26; 1Cor 12:1-11

But while revelations could be very useful in leading the church aright and checkmating thepowers of darkness, they could easily become counter-productive if not handled properly, even

to the point of scattering the church.

A great deal of Godly wisdom and discretion is often required in handling revelations in theChurch to avoid serious problems.

Altar ministers and prayer band members need to be especially cautious Revelations are not for witch-hunting people or causing fear or suspicion in the Church Attention should be paid to the following

Key Issues:

- Authentication 1Jn4:1- Sharing Prov 4:7; 1Cor 14:29

Authentication

Not every revelation is from God. Try every spirit, prove all things 1Jn 4:1

The devil also gives revelations and often uses revelations to cause confusion in churches 2Cor2:11

Revelations must be judged and interpreted in the light of Gods word, godly wisdom and thecharacter of the vessel involved. It is often helpful to talk to your Pastor/matured believers.

Caution: Never present your personal opinion as a revelation from God!

Sharing

Always take time to ask God to shed light on revelations you receive before acting on them orsharing them with the congregation

It is usually advisable to share the revelation first with the Pastor-in-Charge, especially if it has todo with the church or specific people therein. Besides, others may have shared similar

revelations with him.

Godly wisdom, discretion, brotherly love and humility of heart are required in handlingrevelations


11/28

Sharing revelations about the Church from the pulpit (and, perhaps, also instructing the peopleto take certain actions) without the Pastors foreknowledge could embarrass your Pastor and

the Church and could cause considerable damage/schism in the Church

It is wiser to let your Pastor know first Rom 14:16 Very often, the issues revealed could be tackled in prayer at the level of the Pastorate or

workers

Remember that the congregation is made up of people at different levels of spiritualunderstanding

Even with the Pastors permission, it is often the essential message of the revelation that needsto be shared from the pulpit, and not the actual details of it (which could be misunderstood or

scary)

Bye-passing your Pastor with your revelations (perhaps to appear more spiritual) is unethical.Even the Lord Jesus addressed His messages (through John) to the angel of each of the seven

Churches in the book of Revelation. Follow His example. Eph 2:1,8

Handling revelations well will open the door to greater revelations. Matt 25:23.

BASIC ETIQUETTE

Greeting

The most basic etiquette in any culture is greeting Learn basic greetings e.g. Good morning, Sir/Ma?, How are you today?, Hows the family?

Shalom. Its okay to greet first.

Jesus greeted and taught Jn 2:26; Lk 10:5 Learn to courtesy, especially where elders are concerned Learn to put on a smile

Dont discountenance people. It smacks of pride

Appearance/Carriage

Be decent, moderate, not archaic Avoid colour riot Combine stripped/plain clothes well Avoid tight or oversized clothes Carry yourself well, with grace and dignity


12/28

Dont pick your nose or clear your ear with biro tips in public. Use cotton buds Dont frown or look morose in public. Smile, Relax Neh. 8:10

Men

Labels from suit sleeves are meant to be cut off after purchase Dont wear your tie loosened on the altar Avoid s\casual footwear with suits e.g. sandals, flip-flop, sneakers etc Avoid the use of jeans trousers with blazer at formal gatherings Avoid bushy hair on your head/face. Barb your hair, shave regularly Avoid the use of bright-coloured socks (it is childish)

Women

Done expose your body excessively. Be responsible Appear neat and confident, but not arrogant Carry yourself well, walk and sit with grace and dignity Avoid excessive use of make-up and jewellery Wear clothes that compliment your colour, shape and size Dont smell like a perfume factory! Peoples opinion counts. Let your moderation be known to all men (Phil 4:5) You never get a second chance to make a first impression Your appearance is your VISUAL RESUME

Sitting

Dont scramble for seats at gatherings Dont occupy seats meant for dignitaries Lk 14:7-11 Upon entering a senior persons office, dont sit down until you are asked or beckoned to do so Sit decently, especially ladies (e.g. legs are to be crossed at the ankles not knees) Wives to sit on the left side of their husbands at formal gatherings It is ethical to vacate your seat for the elderly, pregnant women, guests etc, if need be.

Speaking

The way you speak is your audible resume

Speak clearly, confidently but politely Choose your words carefully, especially when speaking to elderly and non-familiar people Prov

18:21. Life and death

Watch your diction. Get rid of the sh and h factors Work on your grammar Mind your language Prov 15:1 a good word turneth away wrath..

Eating in Public


13/28

Learn to use cutlery correctly Avoid eating like a hungry man/woman in public Avoid asking for more food or scrambling Avoid eating chewing gum in public or on the altar Dont carry food home from gatherings except you are given It is sometimes advisable to avoid eating in public Avoid the use of toothpicks outside of where you eat Avoid belching audibly or farthing in public gatherings/meeting

Written Communication

Be very careful with written communication e.g. letters, newsletters, reports, adverts etc. They

are permanent and can go very far!

Letters:

Be simple, polite brief, logical and grammatically correct. Avoid abusive, indecent, or ambiguous words / expressions Spell-check your letters and read them over Remember to date your letter and address it appropriately Begin with: Dear Sir/Ma, Dearly Beloved, Dear Pastor Jones etc End with: Thank you (not Thanks); Regards; God bless you etc Use: Yours in His Vineyard, Yours Faithfully, Yours in His Service; Yours sincerely. Avoid things like: Yours Powerfully; Yours Forevermore Use more of we and less of I in official communication. You could also use passive voice

Use your correct title and designation at the end of an official letter. E.g. Asst. Pastor Chidi Ige,Pastor-in-Charge of Parish

All letters going outside your local Church/Parish should be signed or countersigned by thePastor-in-Charge

The envelop matters. Type the address neatly and correctly Keep an acknowledged copy of every letter for future reference

Handbill, banners etc:

Always proofread all publicity items before mass production to avoid embarrassment/ waste Your publicity materials say a lot about your church and the Pastor. Pls be interested.

Handshakes

Dont initiate a handshake with an elder, a dignitary or an unfamiliar lady. Its good to courtesy when shaking hands with leaders, elders or dignitaries. Dont keep holding on to the hand! Dont clamp, pump or scratch peoples hands, except they are your close friends or colleagues.


14/28

Introducing People

Introduce the junior person to the senior person first Avoid giving wrong details about people e.g. name, title, designation etc Avoid embarrassing, superfluous, flattering or patronizing introductions Avoid over-familiarity

Telephone Etiquette

When receiving a call from your leader:

Give feedbacks like ok sir, yes ma, absolutely etc. it is improper to remain silent all through. Dont hang up on him/her. Always wait for him/her to hang up first. It is also impolite to yell back at him with words like, speak louder, I canthear you! or call me

back.

Return missed calls from leaders. No flashing!When calling a leader/elder:

Identify yourself politely, and begin with a greeting. Plan what you wish to say ahead so as not to waste his time When you receive an SMS from your leader, always give a feedback e.g. Ok sir, Thanks sir When you send an SMS, identify yourself, avoid excessive abbreviations and read it over Avoid late night phone calls to ladies and elders

Discussion Point

What is the impact of local culture on ministerial ethics and etiquette?

Dear Pastor: A Quick Reminder

Dear Pastor, each time you look into the mirror, is this exactly the man you see?

A man truly born of the Spirit, not merely talented or charismatic A true shepherd, not a hireling Jn 10:5,12,14 A man called of God, not just by men or ambition Heb 5:4 Spirit-filled and spirit-led, not self-willed Rom 8:14; Titus 1:7 A man with a clear vision, not a gambler, imitator or competitor Prov 29:18; Act 26:19 A leader, not a boss Matt 20:28 A true servant-leader, not a Czar Jn 13:12-17


15/28

A developer of men, not just a user of men Matt 4:19 An encourager, not a quencher of spirit 2Cor 1:4 A motivator, not a manipulator of men 2Cor 4:2 A patient teacher and a coach 2Tim 2:24; 1Tim3:2 A compassionate care-giver, not a law-giver Matt 9:36 Poised to serve, not looking to be served Matt 20:28 A true labourer, not just a manager Matt 9:37-38; 1Cor 15:10b A good example to the flock 1Tim 4:12 A great family man 1Tim 3:5 Husband of one wife Titus 1:6 A man with exemplary wife and children 1Tim 3:11; Titus 1:6; 1Sam 2:12 A blameless, not a blemished, man 1Tim 3:2a A continuously improving, not a stale man 2Cor 3:18 A studious man, ever learning 2Tim 2:15 A prayerful man ( a minister of the sanctuary) Heb 8:2 A difference-maker, not just a title-holder Act 10:38 A gentle, humble and yet resolute man 2Tim 2:24 A courageous and confident man (in his God) Josh 1:7,9; 2Tim 1:12 A decent man, not a shabby, clumsy or awkward man 1Cor 14:40 A fair-minded, impartial man James 2:1-4 A man with Godly wisdom and good judgement Prov 4:7; 1Kg 3:9-10 A man of dignity and integrity Matt 5:37 A networking leader, not a lone-ranger Eph 4:3; Ps133:1 A matured man, not a novice 1Tim 3:6 A hospitable man Titus 1:8 A man able to endure hardness 2Tim 2:3; Phil 4:12-13 A mentor of men, not a tyrant 1Cor 11:1; 2Tim 2:2 A man submissive to authority, not a rebel Matt 8:9; 1Sam 15:22b A man who asks the right questions at the right time Matt 12:19 A lover of God and His people, and not a lover of money 1Tim 6:10

Is this exactly the man you see in the mirror? Fix the man, not the mirror! James 1:22-25

Handling Key Relationships: A Practical Guide

Relationship with your God


16/28

Never neglect your relationship with God for anything. Give priority to your times of prayer,fasting, Bible study and meditation to remain fresh and impactful. Dont be too busy. You can

only speak to people on Gods behalf when God has spoken to you in your closet.

Dont live a presumptuous life. God hates sin, no matter who commits it. Live holy. Always see it as a priviledge to be called to serve God, and not a burden Remember, you are a servant of God and He is your principal rewarder, not man Always depend on God, and not men. The armof flesh will fail you! Dont make God jealous Always give God the flory for your successes. Avoid boasting Get your priorities right. God must come first, then your family and then ministry. Never mix this

order up.

Observe regular times of rest. They help you rejuvenate physically and spiritually. Even Godrested.

Read: Lk 10:27; Eccl 9:8-10; Heb 11:6; Isa 42:8; Gen 2:2

Relationship with your family

Let your home be a model for others to emulate Make it obvious that your family matters to you. Others will take a cue from that Love and honour your wife, especially in the open. Dont rubbish your wife in the presence of

others. It doesnt show you are in control, rather it shows the contrary.

Obey and respect your husband. Do this not only in Church but also at home Love your children and spend time with them. Dont make them hate the God that you serve! As a man, lead your damily in prayer and Bible study regularly As a woman ahead of your husband spiritually, dont hijack headship rom him Be interested in the well-being and progress of your wife/husband and children Consider your family in taking certain decisions Consider comments and opinions from your spouse. Dont wave them aside off-handedly.

He/she can tell you what others in the Church cant. But have a mind of your own.

Pray for your family regularly. The devil might attempt to distract you by attacking your familymembers

Remember you dont have a credible ministry with a broken home.Read: 1Tim 3:5; Gen 18:19; 1Sam 2:12

Relationship with superiors

Honour and respect your superiors or those in authority over you Obey your superiors as much as lie with you. Even when you have complaints, try to obey first Relate with them with loyalty, sincerity and genuine support. Remember the law of harvest!


17/28

Humbly present. Discuss your observations or suggestions with them rather than murmuragainst them or criticize destructively. Youd be amazed howmuch youd be appreciated for

this, perhaps not immediately.

Avoid eye-service. It is ungodly. Besides, many leaders see through such things, unknown toyou!

Dont make a habit of running down your superiors and their policies and programs before yoursubordinates or your members. It is indecent. Besides, you often dont really get to see what

your leader sees at your level. Wait till you get there!

Appreciate your leaders, but dont flatter them Pray for your superiors. A lot depends on them. Realize that spiritual leadership can be a huge

challenge/burden!

Relationship with subordinates

Know that leadership is a previledge Be a worthy example to them Be a team player. Realize that you need your subordinates to succeed Have respect, love and empathy towards them. Identify with them during challenging times.

This would endear you to them and build a strong bond. People often respond better to genuine

love than to sanctions.

But deal with firmness and impartiality, even if it hurts at the moment. You will be glad you did. Be humble. Be a servant-leader. Humility is an attractive virtue to both God and man. Recognize the gifting of your subordinates and give them opportunity to exercise such. Bring out

the best in them. And dont be intimated or feel threatened when they do well.

But avoid delegating sensitive duties to untested hands. It might take you a very long time toclear the mess generated through their incompetence or inexperience

Avoid having hot verbal exchanges or physical confrontation with your subordinates no matterwhat. Control your temper and always weigh your words before speaking

Pray for your subordinates regularlyRead: Jn 13:1-17; Lk 10:1

Relationship with Church members

Demonstrate genuine love and care for all. A Pastor is basically a care-giver, not just a preacher. Have a positive, warm and friendly attitude towards members. But avoid frivolities. As a Pastor, treat the elderly church members with honour and respect, listen to their advice,

but remain clearly in charge.

Do not misrepresent God before the church members


18/28

Genuinely care for people. Empathize with them even when you dont have the solution to theirproblems. Rejoice with members that rejoice, and grieve with them in their grief.

Exercise godly wisdom at all times. Note that wisdom is not the same as craftiness. Maintain purity and integrity, especially in financial matters and in dealing with members. There

should be neither Jew nor Greek. Otherwise, you could deeply polarize or deplete the Church

and hinder the move of God. Members gathered on tribal sentiments are not likely to be sound

believers.

Avoid having cliques in the Church. Try to lead a united Church. This depends a lot on the Pastor. You could be sending the wrond signals as the Pastor if you selectively buy/use aso ebi from

members.

Avoid taking undue advantage of members e.g. by frequently using their cars, always demandingfavours, borrowing/demanding money, undue closeness to the opposite sex etc. as a Pastor,

dont make a habit of discussing your personal needs with members. It could be seen as

begging.

Avoid partiality in all forms e.g. failing to rebuke erring members because they are lifting upyour hands, paying frequent visits to the houses of rich members while neglecting the poor etc.

Be discrete. Avoid using cases brought to you for counseling by members as sermonillustrations. Learn to keep members secrets secret.

As a Pastor or minister, avoid taking key decisions when you are hurting, angry or drepressedand avoid making promises when you are enthralled or excited. This would save you a lot of

mistakes and regrets. Time is a healer of some sort. Be patient.

Read: Prov 4:7; 1Tim 4:12; 1Tim 5:1-2; James 1:27;2:1-9;3:2,17; 1Pet 2:17;5:2; Tit 1:7

Relationship with the outside world

Relate to the outside world (especially unbelievers) with Godly wisdom Maintain honesty and personal integrity in all your dealings. Dont deny Christ by your conduct. Love all, but dont compromise with them no matter the pressure Keep a good testimony. Always be conscious of the fact that you are an ambassador for Christ.

Your conduct speaks volumes about you, your faith and the Church/mission you belong to.

Avoid being unnecessarily judgemental towards people. Rather, shine the light for them to seeby your own conduct. That in itself convicts. Be careful to keep the door open for unbelievers to

come to Christ. Remember, you were once one of them. Remember, it is Jesus who saves, not your Church! Avoid running down other Christians, churches or men of God before unbelievers. You drive

them farther away from Christ by so doing.

Avoid getting involved in vain talk, argument and jestings with unbelievers, even when theyapplaud you in so doing. It weakens you r testimony and your witness for Christ.


19/28

Have a single-face life. That is, dont be one kind of man in Church and quite another outside.Remember, you are a man of God in or out of Church!

Dont be unequally yoked together with unbelievers in terms of marriage, shady businesses etc Be diligent at work. Dont use your employers time for Church work or personal business Deal with people in such a way that you can still preach Christ to them.

Read: Matt 10:16; 2Cor 5:20; Phil 2:15; Ex 23:2; Rom 8:19

If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them. Jn `13:17

Dining Etiquette Tips

You might be surprised at how many times you may be put in a situation where you will need to display

these skills! Although most people realize the importance of proper table manners, mastering them is a

real art. By being knowledgeable and practiced, you will be able to avoid embarrassment and the

possibility of offending someone.

Before the Meal-Being Seated

Men precede women to the table. Remain standing until the host or hostess has been seated. On social

occasions, it is still considered polite behavior for a gentleman to seat his female guest or companion.When being seated, enter your chair from the left and rise from the right.

Napkins

Napkin is unfolded immediate or after everyone is seated and placed on ones lap. Large napkings are

folded in half with the crease toward you. Small napkins are completely unfolded. If you must leave the

table during the meal, rest the napkin on your chair. At the end of the meal, place napkin to the left of

your place setting, NEVER on your plate.

Reading the Table

Analyze the place setting to find clues on number of courses and foods to be served. Notice the location

of each utensil and remember the first one used is farthest from the serving plate eating is done from

the outside in!


20/28

Table Settings

Dinner Plate: Largest plate

Salad Plate: Medium

Bread Plate: Small

Goblet/Wine: Right side above dinner plate.

Utensils:

Dinner Knife: Largest knife, right side closest to plate Bread Knife: Small, across bread plate Dinner Fork: Largest fork, left side closest to plate Salad Fork: Small, outer left side Teaspoon: Small spoon, next to knife on right side Soup Spoon: Large, next to teaspoon on outer right sideBeverages The Proper Method

Grasp glasses by the stem, using the thumb and first two fingers Traditionally speaking, red wine is served with red meat, white wine with white meats Wine Service The host/hostess is served wine first to gain approval for the table. Other guests

wine will be served after the host/hostess has completed the tasting.

Coffee is considered an after dinner drink unless ordered with the mealTo Start the Meal

Generally speaking, there will be a host or hostess at the table, other guests should remain standinguntil the host/hostess has been seated.

When being seated by a man (woman), enter the seat from left, and rise from the right after dinner. Spread your napkin on your lap when you are seated. Large dinner napkins should be half-folded,

small napkins should be opened full-size. At the end of the meal, leave the napkin semi-folded to the

left of your plate

Do sit up straight in your chair Your elbows should be kept in and not rested on the edge of the table Read the place setting. In a proper place setting, you will use the silverware farthest from your plate

first. Your place setting can tell you what is about to be served. If you are unfamiliar with the people

seated at your table, take the time to introduce yourself to the other guests.

Do wait until all of the guests at your table have been served before beginning to eat. Do not automatically salt and pepper your food. Take a small taste and season to where you feel it is

appropriate


21/28

If you are with a host/hostess who orders wine, it is proper for the host/hostess to sample a smallamount of wine, and either approve or disapprove of the wine. If approved, the waiter/waitress will

then pour wine for the remainder of guests at the table.

Follow your host or hostess lead when dining, this is very important. Wait until the host or hostessorders. The host or hostess will set the stage for your dinning experience.

The Meal-First Course-Soup

Not all soup is served hot Do not blow on hot soup to cool it Do not crunch crackers in your soup When using your soupspoon, enter the bowl or cup from the front, move to the back of the dish,

then lift up

When finished, place the spoon on the right side of dinner plateSecond Course Salad

In Europe, salad may be third course Use the correct fork Use your knife if necessary, and when finished, place the used knife on the spoon if no liner plate

exists.

Again, lay used utensils on the side of the plateThird Course Palate Cleanser

In Europe, entre may be the second course If passing a food item, such as the bread and butter, pass to the right Do not wipe your silverware if it is dirty. Instead, ask for new silverware Do not reach in front of a person. Do not bow down over your food.Fourth Course Entre, Potato or Pasta, and Vegetables

When cutting food, never cut more than 2-3 small pieces at a time Quietly wipe up small spills. Ask for help from the wait staff for large spills. If silverware is spilled,

ask the wait staff for new silver

Fifth Course- Dessert

Only two pieces of silverware should be left. The dessert fork, if needed, will be closest to the plateof the left hand side, or will be above the place setting.

Coffee cups are usually turned upside down. Turn your coffee cup up to alert the wait staff that youwant coffee.


22/28

Dining Dos and Donts

Do:

Sit up fairly straight Keep your elbows in Spread your napkin on your lap when you are seated Large dining napkins are half-folded, small napkins opened fill-size At the end of the meal, leave the napkin semi-folded at the left side of the plate Wait until all are served before beginning to eat Use the silverware farthest from your plate first Pass to the right Only cut one or two small pieces of meat at a time Eat in small bites and slowly Place used silver on the dish to which it belongs Replace your chair after the mealDont:

Place elbows on table while eating Wipe off your silverware before eating Reach in front of a person Help yourself from a dish first Bow down over the plate as you eat Blow on food to cool it

Crunch your crackers in soup Dunk Leave your spoon in the coffee, tea or soup Stir beverage too vigorously Stack your dishes Drink with food in your mouth Push your chair back after the meal and sit sideways or with legs crossed Smoke

Other Tips

The silverware to be used first will be placed on the outside Food is served on the left, except for beverages, and empty plates are removed from the right If there is a hostess/host, follow her/his lead Dry foods not served with serving piece are finger foods. (Celery, carrot sticks, olives, crackers, most

hors doeuvres)


23/28

Soup is taken with the soupspoon and crackers are eaten with the fingers Bread is buttered with a knife, one piece at a time Use your knife to cut your salad if necessary Remove foreign matter such as fish bone, fruit seed, inedible material with your fingers and place it

on the side of the plate as inconspicuously as possible

Wipe your mouth with the corner of your napkin before drinking Large-stemmed glasses are held with the thumb and the first two fingers at the base of the bowl.

Small stemmed glasses are held by the stems.

Ordinary coughing is done behind the hand without excuse. If you have a coughing fit, leave thetable

Blow your nose quietly and without excuse that would draw attention to it Spills- small quantities of spilled foods may be picked up immediately and without comment and

returned to the plate where they belong. Larger spills ask for help from wait staff

To use a finger bowl, dip the tips of the fingers of one hand at a time and dry them on your napkin,which is held in your lap. You may touch your moistened fingers on your lips, but dont moisten thenapkin for this purpose

Coffee cups are held with handle between your thumb and fingers. Do not hook a finger through thehandle

When finished eating, lay the knife and fork close together with the fork on the left, tines up, knifeon the right with cutting edge facing the fork.

FoodSpecific Tips

Chicken is eaten with a fork and knife Clams/oysters in the half shell hold the shell with the left hand and lift the clam out using your

oyster fork

Crab/shrimp/lobster cocktails are eaten with a cocktail fork Fried Fantail Shrimp are picked up by the tail and eaten with the fingers. Crab/lobster claws are cracked with a nutcracker, broken with the fingers and the meat taken out

with an oyster fork.

Potatoes:

Butter is placed on a baked potato with a fork, not with a knife Dont take the insides out and put the skin aside (or take the foil off); eat by scooping out the insides

bite by bite Chips are eaten with the fingers and French fries with a fork Never pick up the whole piece and bite part of it off.

Some Selected Hymns and Songs


24/28

TAKE MY LIFE AND LET IT BE

Take my life and let it be

Consecrated, Lord, unto thee;

Take my moments and my days-

Let them flow in ceaseless praise,

Let them flow in ceaseless praise.

Take my hands and let them move

At the impulse of Thy love;

Take my feet and let them be

Swift and beautiful for Thee;

Swift and beautiful for Thee.

Take my voice and let me sing

Always, only, for my King;

Take my lips and let them be

Filled with messages from Thee

Filled with messages from Thee.

Take my silver and my golg Not a

Mite would I withhold;

Take my intellect and use

Evry powr as Thou shalt choose,

Evry powr as Thou shalt choose.


25/28

Take my will and make it Thine-

It shall be no longer mine;

Take my heart- it is Thine now,

It shall be Thy royal throne,

It shall be Thy royal throne.

Take my lovemly Lord, I pour

At Thy feet its treasure store;

Take myself and I will be

Ever, only, all for Thee,

Ever, only, all for Thee.

ONWARD, CHRISTIAN SOLDIERS

Onward, Christian soldiers!

Marching as to war

With the cross of Jesus

Going on before.

Christ, the royal Master,

Leads against the foe;

Forward into battle,

See His banners go!

Onward, Christian soldiers,

Marching as to war,

With the cross of Jess

Going on before


26/28

Like a mighty army

Moves the Church of God;

Brothers, we are treading

Where the saints have trod;

We are not divided,

All one body we,

One in hope and doctrine,

One in charity.

Onward, then, ye people,

Join our happy throng,

Blend with ours your voices

In the triumph song;

Glory, laud, and honour

Unto Christ the King;

This through countless ages

Men and angels sing.

Purify My Heart

Purify my heart

Let it be as gold, precious silver

Purify my heart

Let it be as gold, pure gold

Refiners fire


27/28

My hearts one desire

Is to be holy

Set apart for you Lord

I choose to be holy

Set apart for you my master

Ready to do your will

Lord Prepare Me

Lord prepare me

A sanctuary

Pure and holy

Tried and true

With thanksgiving

Ill be a living sanctuary

For you

Let my life be a picture of You

Let my life be a picture of You

Let me be a letter written by Your hand

For the world to see

And to know you live

Within me

Why HPi Ministers Empowerment Seminar Series?


28/28

Designed to address crucial but commonly neglected issues among ministers and workers Very convenient: Your own choice of seminar tile, your own venue, your own people, your own time Scriptural, practical, interactive and interesting approach Experienced and hands-on facilitators Makes the job of the Pastor a lot easier Proven effectiveness in different churches Customized seminars available upon request Suitable combinations of modules possible based on peculiar needs Valuable suggestions to your church Good value for your time and resources Seminars inspired by a God-given vision Definitely raising standards!

ministerial ethics 23032013

Documents