Redress of grievances

What should you do when you are offended in a church

Example of things which cause offense

You noticed a misuse of funds You feel from reading the Bible that doctrines are being twisted to raise more funds You saw or are a victim of bullying by someone who is older in the faith or gives more tithes You noticed some false doctrine being taught You are a victim of Jesting or inappropriate jokes You noticed some sexually suggestive words or acts by the Pastor or some members, and it is being tolerated

Prove violations only by Scriptures

If you are offended, examine your heart, accusations of should not be from your own feelings, preferences, or traditions. FOR EXAMPLE:

ABOUT FUNDS, did they violate

1 Corinthians 16:3 2 Corinthians 8:19-22

ABOUT BEHAVIOR, did they violate

Titus 1:7-11; 1 Timothy 3:1-12; Ephesians 5:1-8

What to do if you notice it or a victim of it

Be discreet - Titus 2:1-8 Forbearance - Eph_4:2 Col_3:13 Discernment - Heb_5:14 Much prayer Jas. 5:16-20 Wise words Rom. 16:17-19; Jas. 3:13 Respect and submission Heb. 13:7, 17, 24 You should use a Proper forum I Tim. 5:1, 19; Matt. 18:15-17; I Cor. 6:1-8 (the Church Tribunal)

Precautions in Church Tribunals or personal meetings due to offenses

Such meetings should be ruled by love and compassion He who falls out of love has the greater sin He who falls out of biblical parameters is guilty of disobedience to God

A church that does not have such a mechanism endangers itself