When an individual becomes a member of a community, he or she always lays aside certain personal rights for the good of the total community. To this end, it is understood that those who have accepted positions of leadership and employment within Southside Christian School are committing themselves to uphold biblical lifestyle standards as cited in this statement.
Standards based on specific commands of Scripture: The Word of God is the final authority on all matters of faith and conduct. SCS employees and volunteers are expected to fully adhere to biblical lifestyle standards in keeping with God’s Word (Ex. 20:7, 14-15; Lev. 19:11; Rom. 1:21-27; 1 Cor. 6:9; Eph. 4:28-32, 5:3-4; Col. 3:9; 1 Tim. 3:3; Titus 1:6). Therefore, things expressly forbidden in Scripture are never acceptable for SCS employees such as, but not limited to, drunkenness, stealing, lying, the use of slanderous or profane language, pornography, addictive behaviors of any kind, extramarital sex, and homosexual behavior.
Scripture also condemns attitudes such as greed, jealousy, pride, lust, bitterness, hostility, an unforgiving spirit, and prejudice based on race, sex, and socioeconomic status (Eph. 4:22-5:5; Col. 3:1-17). Therefore, SCS employees and volunteers are expected to demonstrate Christ-like attitudes appropriate for maturing Christians in speech and action.
Standards based on scriptural principles: While Scripture does not provide specific teaching regarding all social practices in a given cultural setting, it does speak to the Christian's responsibility in areas of conduct which may be harmful or spiritually offensive to self or others (Rom. 14; 1 Tim. 3:3; Titus 1:7). Based on the teaching of Romans 14:13-23—to protect from becoming a stumbling block—leaders and employees are expected to exercise biblical discretion by restricting their freedom in the public use of addictive substances and behaviors (such as, but not limited to, alcohol, tobacco, or gambling), and in their choice of entertainment and literature. They should demonstrate sound judgment based on biblical principles and display tangible evidence of spiritual growth and maturity (Titus 2:11-12).
Personal standards of godliness: Since we are members of both the local and universal Body of Jesus Christ, it is expected that everything we do will reflect our commitment to our Lord and to His body of believers. This commitment is to be demonstrated by personal spiritual growth, faithful involvement in a local church which is in agreement with the SCS Statement of Faith, and expressions of Christian love toward those with physical or spiritual needs. All are also expected to aspire to a faithful pattern of godliness and devotion to Christ and His work, typified by, but not limited to the following (1 Tim. 4:6-16):
1. Regular devotional life: Scripture reading and study, prayer (1 Tim. 4:7)
2. Faithful church membership and attendance (1 Tim. 4:12-13; Heb. 10:24-25)
3. Faithful financial stewardship (2 Cor. 9:6-8)
4. Personal volunteer ministry work (Rom. 12:11; 1 Peter 5:2-3)
5. Active involvement in evangelism/discipleship (Matt. 28:19-20)
Standards based on our responsibility of influence: In our relationship with others within the body of Christ, our conduct should demonstrate an attitude of personal responsibility and sensitivity by always being aware of the impact of our actions and attitudes on others (Gal. 5:13).
It is recognized that conflicts and personal failures may occur, as Scripture declares "we all stumble in many ways" (James 3:2).
It is expected that when an offense occurs, the instructions of Matthew 18:15-20 must be followed. This is to be done in the spirit of Galatians 6:1, thereby making "every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:3).
When personal failures occur within our lives, we are to quickly repent, seek forgiveness, and with the help of godly counsel, prevent these from taking hold in our lives. To do otherwise would jeopardize our continued role in leadership or responsibility.
By accepting employment and/or volunteer responsibility at SCS, employees and volunteers agree to the guidelines set forth in this Statement of Christian Life Commitment and agree to fully adhere to a biblical lifestyle standard, conscientiously representing the Lord Jesus Christ and SCS as a role model in all areas of conduct 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
