This eldership has allowed us to share their initial communication to members outlining the biblical principles they are committed to as a church navigating the new COVID-19 Protection Framework
We as an eldership acknowledge that there is a public health problem regarding the COVID-19 outbreak. Therefore, we are guided by the public health authorities regarding how we are to respond. The effect on the vulnerable, and the potential impact on daily lives sees us seeking to follow public health recommendations, but also desiring to support those who are affected.
We are in a season of change. The very world we live in and the lifestyles we have enjoyed are changing. The worldwide pandemic has affected how we do church. We can choose to fight this, or we can embrace the opportunity to be the church in these changing times.
To date we have tended to manage this transition, until we get back to normal. There is now a need for us to lead into what might be a new normal. This challenges how we have done church, but more importantly, what it means to be the Church. This challenges our opinions, but more importantly what our hearts are set on. This challenges what we hold to as a church family, but more importantly our desire to be one in Christ.
This season will require us stepping out in faith but with clarity and transparency. It will require humble servant leadership. A spiritual shepherding that is reflective of knowing, protecting, guiding, and leading the church family. That is our role as elders under Christ.
As a church family it’s important that we are guided by the heart and mind of God. He reveals truth to us in his Word, and the person and work of Jesus Christ, as illuminated by the Spirit.
We have established the following principles to guide our decision-making:
GOSPEL DRIVEN
We are called to defend and present the truth of the gospel for the glory of God.
Galatians 2:5; 14
How does this decision both represent and present the gospel?
CHURCH UNITY
God calls us to preserve unity by serving and growing together as part of His kingdom mission, through being and making disciples. This does not change even if circumstances require us to do church differently.
Ephesians 4:1-6
How does this decision promote unity?
GODLY CHARACTER
We are to have hearts set on what God values and to be shaped into the character and nature of Christ.
Philippians 2:5-7
How does this decision both reflect and model godly character?
SUBMISSION TO AUTHORITY
God is the final authority who in his sovereignty appoints those in power. We are called to submit and obey those who God appoints, unless it goes against God’s word.
Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17; Hebrews 13:17
How does this decision reveal a right submission to authority?
FREEDOM IN CHRIST
We are free in Christ, having gained God’s favour, we no longer live for selfish ambition or personal rights, but use our freedom to serve one another in love.
Galatians 5:13-14; Philippians 2:1-5; 1 Peter 2:15-17
How does this decision best reflect a heart for others?
As an eldership we want you to know our deep love for you. Let’s grow and learn together as we travel through the coming weeks and months. Know our prayers for you individually and as a church family. We are here. Please share with us, as we mutually encourage each other.
"Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins."
1 Peter 4:1-2; 8
