In June, the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE) released a code of ethics for pastors; early signatories include Bill Hybels, Rick Warren, and Tim Keller. According to a recent NAE survey, 71 percent of evangelical leaders are not required to sign a code of ethics.
"Clergy intend to do the right thing, but—given the eroding moral standards of recent years in our country—in many instances there isn't adequate clarity and a strong enough sense of obligation to do what's right."
Luder Whitlock, chair of NAE Code of Ethics drafting committee
"Signing a biblical code of ethics can communicate needed specificity regarding the expectations of pastoral integrity, and can also serve as a solemn act of 'covenant making' between a pastor, God, and the people they serve."
H. Wayne Johnson, director of M.Div. program, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School
"If churches and denominations require signing a code of ethics, they are bringing themselves in line with many professions, organizations, and industries. But of course, signing a code does not ensure compliance; ultimately that is a matter of one's heart."
Dennis P. Hollinger, president, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
"It is the moral responsibility of each congregation or denomination to require the highest ethical standards of its ministers. Where they are sluggish in doing so, pastors should take the initiative to develop and self-apply their own ethics code."
David P. Gushee, director, Center for Theology and Public Life, Mercer University
"Signing a code of ethics is a matter for local churches and ministers to decide, rather than making it a matter of compulsion."
George O. Wood, general superintendent, Assemblies of God
"My hope is that we pastors will require it of ourselves, regardless of whether or not others demand it of us. I fear that requiring this across the board for all pastors may backfire, by securing only a notional, quasi-hypocritical commitment."
David A. Currie, director of D.Min. program, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
