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Code of Ethics

Fellowship of Israel Related Ministries (FIRM) has a unique role as a major resource to the local ministries and non-profit organizations in Israel. FIRM has strived to earn public trust through ethical, honest and responsible service.

The following Code of Ethics encompasses the fundamental values of FIRM. Although by itself it cannot prevent wrongdoing, it conveys a strong message both internally and externally about the culture and work of our ministry. The continued success of FIRM depends upon ethical conduct of its employees, volunteers and representatives.

STANDARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

“We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path, so that our ministry will not be discredited.” 2 Corinthians 6:3

“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of the Messiah.” Philippians 1:27

All who are called by God to the ministry of the gospel solemnly commit to a life of joyful obedience and selfless service in order to glorify God and enrich His people.

Therefore, our ministry will:

Pursue Integrity

“I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity. All these things I have given willingly and with honest intent.” 1 Chronicles 29:17

  • in personal character. Exalt the Messiah, not self. Be honest, not exaggerating or overpromising; peace-loving, not contentious; patient, not volatile; diligent, not slothful.
  • in personal care. Care for the spiritual, mental, emotional and physical dimensions of your person, for “your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit” 1 Corinthians 6:19.
  • in teaching the word. Interpret the Bible accurately and apply it discerningly: “In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned” Titus 2:7-8. Speak the truth in love. Give due credit when using the words or ideas of others.

Be Trustworthy

“It is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” 1 Corinthians 4:2

  • in leadership. Use power and influence prudently and humbly. Foster loyalty. Keep promises. Respond sensitively and appropriately to ministry requests and needs: “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much” Luke 16:10.
  • with information. Guard confidences carefully. Tell the truth, or remain discreetly silent: “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret” Proverbs 11:13.
  • with resources. Be honest and prudent in regard to personal and ministry resources. Refuse gifts that could compromise ministry. Ensure that all designated gifts are used for their intended purpose: “If you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?” Luke 16:11.

Seek Purity

“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12)

  • in maintaining sexual purity. Avoid sinful sexual behavior and inappropriate involvement. Resist temptation: “Among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality” Ephesians 5:3a.
  • in spiritual formation. Earnestly seek the help of the Holy Spirit for guidance and spiritual growth. Be faithful to maintain a heart of devotion to the Lord. Be consistent and intentional in prayer and scriptural study: “Take captive every thought to make it obedient to the Messiah” 2 Corinthians 10:5.
  • in theology. Study the Bible regularly and carefully to understand its message, and embrace biblical doctrine. In forming theology, consider biblical teaching authoritative over all other sources.
  • in professional practice. Avoid taking advantage of the vulnerabilities of others through exploitation or manipulation.

Embrace Accountability

“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.” 1 Peter 5:2-3

  • in finances. Promote accepted accounting practices and regular audits. Ensure that funds are used for their intended ministry purposes.
  • in ministry responsibilities. Ensure clarity in authority structures, decision-making procedures, position descriptions, and grievance policies. Model accountability at the highest organizational levels.
  • in a ministry organization. Ensure compliance with organizational standards and expectations.

Facilitate Cooperation & Unity

“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:3

“Five of you will chase a hundred, and a hundred of you will chase ten thousand, and your enemies will fall by the sword before you.” Leviticus 26:8

We choose to increase our effectiveness as we strive toward a common goal through one heart, one Spirit & one Messiah:

  • with staff. Provide regular staff team building, affirmation, training, evaluation, and feedback. Be honest with staff regarding areas to celebrate as well as those needing improvement.
  • with the community. Build God’s Kingdom in cooperation, not competition, with other local ministries.

*Taken and adapted from the National Association of Evangelical’s Code of Ethics for Pastors.

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