This policy provides a framework for resolving conflicts within Evangelical Faith Church in a manner that reflects the teachings of the Bible. The policy is based on principles of love, forgiveness, reconciliation, and restoration. The aim is to maintain unity within the Church and ensure that conflicts are handled in a way that honours God and fosters peace.
2. Biblical Foundation
This policy is grounded in the following Biblical teachings:
- Matthew 18:15-17: “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church…”
- Ephesians 4:31-32: “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.”
- Romans 12:18: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
3. Scope of the Policy
This policy applies to all members, leaders, pastors, ministry team members, and staff of Evangelical Faith Church. It covers any form of conflict, including disagreements, personal offenses, misunderstandings, and any relational issues that disrupt peace and unity within the Church.
4. General Principles of Conflict Resolution
4.1. Love and Forgiveness
All parties involved in a conflict are encouraged to approach the situation with love and a willingness to forgive, as instructed in Colossians 3:13: “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
4.2. Prayer and Self-Reflection
Before engaging in any conflict resolution process, individuals are encouraged to pray and seek God’s guidance. Self-reflection is also vital, ensuring that all parties examine their own behaviour and motives (Matthew 7:3-5).
4.3. Privacy and Confidentiality
Conflicts should be addressed privately at first to avoid public embarrassment or unnecessary exposure. Confidentiality must be respected throughout the resolution process unless the matter escalates to higher Church authorities.
5. Conflict Resolution Process
5.1. Step 1: Personal Resolution (One-on-One)
- The first step in resolving any conflict is for the offended party to approach the person who has wronged them in private. This should be done in a spirit of humility, seeking to restore the relationship rather than to condemn (Matthew 18:15).
- The goal is to seek understanding, reconciliation, and resolution.
5.2. Step 2: Mediation (Involving One or Two Witnesses)
- If the conflict cannot be resolved privately, the next step is to involve one or two unbiased and spiritually mature individuals as mediators (Matthew 18:16).
- These witnesses should facilitate the conversation, help clarify issues, and encourage both parties to resolve the matter in line with Biblical principles.
5.3. Step 3: Church Leadership Involvement
- If the conflict remains unresolved after mediation, the issue should be brought before the Church’s leadership team, which may include pastors, elders, or a designated conflict resolution committee (Matthew 18:17).
- The Church leadership will evaluate the situation, pray for wisdom, and offer a final attempt at mediation and reconciliation. They will guide the parties involved through Scripture and offer solutions that align with Biblical teachings.
5.4. Step 4: Public Disclosure (In Rare Cases)
- As a last resort, and only in extreme cases where the individual remains unrepentant after all previous steps, the issue may be brought before the Church body, as instructed in Matthew 18:17.
- The aim here is to encourage repentance and restore relationships, while maintaining the integrity and unity of the Church.
6. Reconciliation and Restoration
6.1. Restoration of Relationships: The ultimate goal of any conflict resolution process is the restoration of relationships within the Church, in accordance with 2 Corinthians 5:18, which speaks of the ministry of reconciliation.
6.2. Accountability and Healing: After a conflict is resolved, it is important for both parties to remain accountable and work towards healing the relationship. This may include follow-up meetings or counselling, as necessary.
6.3. Forgiveness: Parties must commit to genuine forgiveness and moving forward in love and unity. Holding grudges or seeking revenge is strictly discouraged (Romans 12:19).
7. Special Considerations
7.1. Harassment, Abuse, and Criminal Conduct
In cases involving harassment, abuse, or any illegal activities, the Church will follow legal requirements and report the matter to the appropriate authorities, while still providing pastoral care and support to the involved parties.
7.2. Leadership Accountability
If the conflict involves Church leadership (e.g., a pastor or elder), the issue will be handled with utmost care, following Biblical guidelines for dealing with leaders. 1 Timothy 5:19-20 outlines the process for addressing accusations against elders, which should not be entertained without two or three witnesses.
8. Prevention of Conflict
8.1. Fostering a Spirit of Unity: Evangelical Faith Church is committed to promoting unity and peace within the congregation. Regular teaching on forgiveness, humility, and love will be integrated into Church programs to help prevent conflicts.
8.2. Communication and Openness: Leaders and members are encouraged to foster open communication, addressing concerns and potential issues early before they escalate into larger conflicts.
9. Amendment of the Policy
This policy may be amended by Urgent Mission Council (UMC) in consultation with the senior pastor and leadership team, as necessary, to address emerging challenges or changes in the Church environment.
10. Effective Date
This policy is effective as of January 1, 2025, and all members and leaders of Evangelical Faith Church are expected to adhere to it.