WhatsApp Community

Code of Conduct

Modern technology gives us special privileges in that it allows us to communicate with each other beyond our usual physical interactions and gatherings. As with anything, it’s important that we as Christians think theologically about our use of technology, and that we safeguard church unity in our use of communication channels such as WhatsApp. As Paul writes to the church in Thessalonica, our aim in all things should be to 'encourage one another and build one another up,’ (1 Thess 5:11). As such, the following code of conduct applies to all persons participating in the Penuel WhatsApp community group.

1. We are to avoid obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather we are to give thanks in all things (Eph 5:4).

2. No corrupting talk is to come out of our mouths (or our phones!), but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear (Eph 4:29). The content of all of our digital correspondence, and our face-to-face dealings with one another, should be honouring of one another and edifying for one another.

3. We are to avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law (Titus 3:9).

4. To respect those who haven’t given consent for their photograph / photographs of their children to be taken, don’t post photographs in the community group without express permission.

5. Regarding any matter of conscience, we are not to quarrel over opinions, and we are not to pass judgment on one another (Rom 14:1-5). Examples of matters of conscience in our present day include;

   • attitudes towards what is permitted on the Sabbath

   • eating certain foods and dietary choices

   • consumption of or abstention from alcohol

   • parenting strategies

   • Political engagement – whether that be in our voting for particular candidates or parties, or our views on government policy.

     
     

     Each of us must apply Biblical principles to matters of conscience, but we must recognise that in our pursuit of obedience to the word of God and our pursuit of justice and morality in our community, we can apply Biblical principles and come to different conclusions. The Bible has principles for us to consider for all aspects of life, but there are many issues about which the Bible doesn’t speak directly. On these matters there is a gap, often sizable, between principle and application, wherein we may disagree as brothers and sisters without breaking fellowship.

6. When we err, the Bible calls us to correct one another. As individuals, by continuing to participate in the WhatsApp community group we hold ourselves accountable to each other, and open to loving correction. In addition, should an individual post a message that contradicts the code of conduct, an administrator will remove the message and send a private message explaining the reason behind the removal. Should an individual continue to post messages that disregard the code of conduct (i.e a handful of times), they will be removed for a time, to work through the issues raised with the Pastor.