Ministerial Ethics - Hedges Cont...

Lecture 11: Hedges in Ministry and Relationships

Objective: To discuss the value of establishing hedges in ministry-related relationships and interactions to maintain integrity, avoid scandal, and effectively shepherd the flock.

1. Hedges in Relationships with Congregants:

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:22 “Abstain from all appearance of evil”.

Ministers must be careful to maintain clear and appropriate boundaries with members of the opposite sex. It’s not only about avoiding actual wrongdoing but also about avoiding situations that could be misinterpreted or compromise one’s reputation.

Practical steps include:

o Being cautious with private meetings or extended private conversations with congregants.

o Conducting counseling sessions in visible or transparent settings or involving a third party, such as your spouse or a trusted church leader.

Jerry B. Jenkins - “We need to constantly ask ourselves, ‘How would this look to someone on the outside? Am I behaving in a way that leaves no question about my integrity?’”

o This encourages leaders to think proactively about how their actions are perceived, reinforcing the biblical directive to avoid all appearance of evil.

2. Maintaining a Healthy Balance Between Ministry and Family:

Scripture: Matthew 16:26 “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”

Ministers often pour themselves out for the church but neglect their own families. Balancing ministry with family requires intentional scheduling and prioritizing quality family time.

Ministers must recognize that success in ministry should never come at the cost of their family’s well-being.

• Jerry B. Jenkins - “Your family is your first ministry. Lose them, and you’ve lost the credibility to minister effectively to others.”

o Prioritizing family is godly!

3. Hedges in Financial Integrity and Decision-Making:

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 4:2 “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.”

Financial mismanagement or misuse of church resources is a common pitfall for ministers. Hedges in this area include transparency in financial dealings, establishing clear accountability systems, and involving church elders or committees in financial decision-making to maintain credibility and trust.

Jerry B. Jenkins - “Money, even more than power, can corrupt. We must be careful not only to avoid taking what is not ours but also to remain above suspicion in all our dealings.”

o Hedges in Finance:

 Policy.

 Integrity.

 Transparency.

4. Guarding Against the Subtle Dangers of Fame and Influence:

Scripture: Luke 14:11 “For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.”

Influence and recognition can subtly breed pride and self-promotion in ministry.

Ministers must guard their hearts against these dangers by:

o Emphasizing humility and servant leadership.

o Regularly engaging in self-reflection and prayer, asking God to reveal any areas of pride or hidden motivations.

o Surrounding oneself with truth-telling mentors who are willing to provide correction and counsel.

Jerry B. Jenkins - “The more successful or influential we become, the easier it is to start believing we are somehow exempt from the rules that apply to others.”

I must warn against the subtle shifts in attitude that can occur when ministers gain influence, urging them to remain humble and accountable to avoid falling into the traps of pride and self-exaltation.

5. Long-term Commitment to Integrity in Ministry:

Scripture: Joshua 24:15 “But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”

Hedges are not just temporary measures but lifelong commitments to personal integrity and spiritual growth.

Ministers must consistently review and reinforce their boundaries, always seeking God’s guidance and grace in their service.

Jerry B. Jenkins - “A hedge is not something you set up once and then forget about. It must be tended, reinforced, and renewed as circumstances change.”

o You must be vigilant to:

 Review Experienced Hedges.

 Reinforce Exposed Hedges.

 Sometimes, with a change of place or change of pace, you will recognize the need to Reinforce a hedge that is not as effective as it once was.

 Realize Extra Hedges.

 Sometimes in a new season you will realize a weakness that you did not even know (or consider) was in your life.

6. Q&A and Group Discussion:

• Discussion Questions: Discuss challenges faced in maintaining boundaries in ministry and how hedges can be practically implemented.

Jerry B. Jenkins “A hedge is not something you set up once and then forget about. It must be tended, reinforced, and renewed as circumstances change.”

o Encouraging ministers to reflect on their motivations for establishing boundaries.

o It underscores the importance of a heart that seeks to honor God first in all relationships and decisions.