Our Case Studies have been described as the most entertaining part of the day. We have a friendly draft of Elders from the delegates. These 3 or 4 Elders are presented with a hypothetical situation that Elders might face. After their first and second impressions, we open it up to the floor for discussion.
It is discovered that a member of the congregation has been involved in illegal activity. They are arrested and plead innocent to the charges. After a very public trial they are acquitted.
But they have confided to several people that they are actually guilty, and quite pleased they beat the rap. These confidences are broken, and his admission of guilt becomes public knowledge at your congregation. Word leaks out and people in the community know of his confession.
Some in the leadership are asking if they need to pursue the Matt. 18.15-17 approach, and begin the process of "church discipline." Most in the leadership agree that they are not very familiar about under what circumstances this ought to be used or how to proceed.
What should the Eldership do?
An increasing number of people you encounter claim they are "spiritual, but not religious." They seem very content with their spiritual state, and aren't interested in hearing what you have to say.
They have a low opinion of what they consider "organized religion" and therefore see you as pushy and partisan. They seem to suggest that if you aren't willing to accept their position you are being intolerant and narrow minded.
You don't want to just walk away from these people. You want to say something spiritually profound to make them think, and question their prejudices.
What should you say?
At a church pitch-in, Bert and Ernie get into a very engaged discussion about the upcoming presidential election. They support different candidates and both feel very strongly about who should receive the support of the Christian community.
Others at the pitch-in seem disturbed about the discussion that appears to be getting louder and louder. Some guests of the church are at the pitch-in and are watching the political debate with keen interest.
You are certain you don't want to jump into the discussion, but feel you have no choice. What do you say to Bert and Ernie?
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