Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity (Colossians 3:12–14).

LCA Standards of Ethical Behaviour

... reflecting God's love

As Christians, we know and proclaim that God loves all human beings. Responding to that love in how we behave towards one another is an important part of that message. As Jesus says in John 13:35, 'If you love each other, everyone will know that you are my disciples'.

It is important, therefore, that we clearly articulate the standard of behaviour we expect from one another, not using vague language but in useful and practical terms.

The General Church Board has approved specific standards of ethical behaviour for the Lutheran Church in both Australia and New Zealand. Underpinned by Scripture and church policy, these standards are applicable to all aspects of the life of the church. They relate to:

our personal behaviour
our pastoral care
caring for children
our communications
financial and administrative matters.