Respect for the Unbeliever
Acknowledging that all human beings are made in the image of God, we treat those of different faiths or no faith with absolute dignity.
1. The Image of God in All People
Every individual we interact with—whether a supportive partner or a vocal critic—is created in the image of God (Imago Dei). This theological reality demands that we treat every person with inherent respect and honor.
We do not dehumanize, mock, or dismiss those who reject the Christian faith. Our interactions must reflect the love of Christ, who spoke truth to power but treated the seeker and the skeptic with compassion.
2. Fair Representation of Secular Arguments
We commit to never 'strawmanning' the positions of unbelievers or critics. If we critique a secular worldview, a political policy, or an ideological movement, we must describe it in terms its own proponents would recognize.
Misrepresenting our opponents' arguments to make them easier to defeat is intellectual dishonesty. We engage with the strongest versions of opposing viewpoints, confident that Christian truth can stand under the highest levels of scrutiny.
3. Practical Engagement Rules
Listen actively to the objections of unbelievers. Seek to understand their underlying concerns rather than immediately preparing a counterargument.
Address secular arguments with intellectual integrity, utilizing common ground such as logic, historical evidence, and human experience.
Ensure that all public and private statements regarding non-believers are charitable, fair, and free from condescension.
Code of Conduct Pillars
The Standard of Sanity
The Christian Council unites leaders, churches, and citizens around a shared standard of public character, sanity, and theological clarity.
