How Do We Handle Issues in the Church?

Our job as Christians is not to look for a scandal or gossip when something occurs. However, when something happens and demands our attention, there are biblical steps and protocols for handling it in a Godly way that pleases the Lord and allows for the best possible outcome.

**If something illegal has happened, it must be dealt with and reported to authorities.**

Here are a few examples of what we should do in this case according to the Bible:

1. Seek God’s Guidance in Prayer

▪️Before taking any action, seek the Lord for wisdom and discernment. This ensures decisions are Spirit-led and not driven by emotions. The worst thing we can do in these instances is act out of flesh.

Scripture:

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5, NKJV)

2. Address the Matter Privately First

▪️If the scandal involves sin, the first step is to address the individual(s) involved privately to clarify the situation and allow for repentance. If a resolution can happen at this stage, that is best.

Scripture:

“Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother.” (Matthew 18:15, NKJV)

3. Involve Wise Counsel

▪️If the issue cannot be resolved privately or the sin persists, involve trusted leaders or elders to provide accountability and guidance. The leaders and elders should not be bias but should have a heart and responsibility to ensure the best biblical guidance and solutions.

Scripture:

“But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that ‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.’” (Matthew 18:16, NKJV)

“Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14, NKJV)

4. Public Acknowledgment (only if Necessary)

▪️For matters that impact the entire church or community, transparency is crucial. Handle public acknowledgment with humility, grace, and a focus on restoration. (Not restoring to ministry but as a believer.)

Scripture:

“Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.” (1 Timothy 5:20, NKJV)

5. Extend Grace and Pursue Restoration

▪️This is a hard one as many emotions are involved, but If repentance occurs, walk with those involved toward restoration, ensuring accountability and healing. Again, this is referring to repentance and healing as a believer. To restore them to right standing with the Lord and in their walk.

▪️If they were in ministry, there may not be a full restoration to ministry, but if there is, it needs to be after a long process of healing, true repentance, mentorship, and accountability. When this situation occurs, the first objective is not to even consider restoration in ministry but rather to make sure the person is in good standing with the Lord.

Scripture:

“Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.” (Galatians 6:1, NKJV)

“For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” (Matthew 6:14, NKJV)

6. Protect the Body of Christ

▪️Take steps to guard the church’s witness and ensure the scandal does not lead others into sin or cause division. Communicate openly and avoid gossip. Do not get “caught up” in the drama of the situation; but rather handle it with wisdom, understanding, and grace.

Scripture:

“Let all things be done decently and in order.” (1 Corinthians 14:40, NKJV)

“But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife.” (2 Timothy 2:23, NKJV)

7. Ensure Accountability and Boundaries

▪️If the scandal involves leadership, ensure they step aside for a season of accountability and restoration, prioritizing the purity of the church and the individual’s growth.

▪️If there are victims involved, make sure they are being taken care of first and foremost and that they are safe, protected, and given the needed attention and support. This can be extremely painful and it’s important that these matters are given priority.

Scripture:

“A bishop then must be blameless… of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach; not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous.” (1 Timothy 3:2-3, NKJV)

8. Trust God to Redeem the Situation

▪️Acknowledge that God can use even the most difficult circumstances for His glory and the strengthening of His church. Seek God for redemption and forgiveness. For a Godly path forward and way to defeat the plans of the enemy.

Scripture:

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28, NKJV)

A scandal must be handled with wisdom, humility, truth, love, and a deep reliance on God’s Word. Prioritize the integrity of the church, the well-being of those involved, and the testimony of Christ to the watching world. Believe me when I tell you, people are watching. How we navigate these challenges is a huge factor as many lives are at stake and the collateral damage is also often substantial.

Our job is to best represent the Lord and allow His mercy and grace to permeate throughout the entire process. Guide us oh Lord, and order our steps as we navigate these times.