Code of conduct

... for leaders in the Vineyard Movement 

Why a code of conduct?

The Bible leaves no room for discussion that those in leadership carry a burden of responsibility. Already in the book of Deuteronomy (17:14-20) future kings of Israel get strict instructions about how to deal with money, sex and power. In Ezekiel 34 the prophet speaks profoundly about shepherds that take care of themselves instead of their sheep. Also in the New Testament there are clear instructions and warnings to those in leadership like in 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9 and 1 Peter 5:1-3. It is clear that Christian leadership follows the example of Jesus, who had the attitude of a servant (Philippians 2:5-9). S

Anywhere where people can be in a position to abuse power and manipulate people, deceive, or treat people or money improperly or sexually harass, we are not closing our eyes for this but will do anything we can to stop this.

We work with SEM

This is why all churches in Vineyard Benelux work with the Stichting Evangelisch Meldpunt (Foundation for Evangelical Reporting Point) - from now on referred to as SEM. SEM has written a code of conduct that everyone in a position of leadership in the church are supposed to sign. We accept these rules as the norms for operating in leadership and carry responsibility to do so as a church. We publicize these rules here so that anyone will know how people are supposed to behave in the house of God (1 Timothy 3:15).

When someone in leadership breaks this code of conduct and is not open for correction, a victim can file a complaint with the SEM. The SEM will then test this complaint according to their procedures.

You can read the code of conduct here. 

 For more information about SEM we refer you to their (Dutch) website.

You can find more information here about their complaint procedures.

Confidant

SEM also supports external confidants who you can call about a situation of abuse of power.

IF YOU ARE IN NEED OF A CONVERSATION WITH A CONFIDANT ABOUT ABUSE OF POWER, PLEASE CALL THE SEM AT: 085-488 14 40
OR This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.085 - 488 14 40  085 - 488 14 40