Jesus and The Code of Conduct Paradox: When Inclusion Excludes

Jesus and The Code of Conduct Paradox: When Inclusion Excludes

We all know the drill: mandatory Code of Conduct training. It’s a staple in today’s workplace, designed to foster respect and prevent discrimination. And honestly, a baseline of decency is essential. Some people genuinely need a reminder about basic human kindness. But during my recent training, something struck a nerve – a familiar, painful echo of a past experience.

Let me preface this by saying this is a personal story I’ve kept close, and shared only with my family and a few close friends. But it’s relevant, and I feel compelled to share it now.

A few years ago, I was working at a school when a student requested to be addressed by a name and pronouns that differed from their biological sex. As a Christian, I couldn’t reconcile this request with my deeply held beliefs. I informed the school that I would continue to use the student’s legal name, or they could find another staff member to accommodate the request. Ultimately, the school reassigned the student, and everything seemed to proceed smoothly.

Until the following year.

I was informed that my contract wouldn’t be renewed due to “restructuring.” A classic cover story, I suspected. Then, the School Lead called me personally. He explained that the decision stemmed from the previous year’s incident. The staff had concluded that I was “unwilling to work with all students.”

This was a blatant misrepresentation. I never refused to work with the student. In fact, I knew him and his family personally. My only boundary was my inability to compromise my faith.

This experience highlights the inherent contradiction in many Code of Conduct and inclusion policies. While they preach tolerance and acceptance, they often create a space where Christian beliefs are marginalized. During the training, the irony wasn't lost on me: these policies supposedly protect everyone, yet my story demonstrates how they can be used to discriminate against Christians.

I’m not sharing this to complain or ignite a battle. I share it to illustrate a choice I made. As a follower of Jesus, I accept the possibility of persecution. Could I have pursued legal action? Perhaps. But that’s not the path we’re called to follow. Jesus himself warned us that the world would hate us because it first hated him. We are in this world, but not of it, awaiting the return of our King. Knowing the world’s stance, why should I expect anything different when I stand firm in my faith?

This brings me to my question for you: Are you willing? Are you willing to face harassment and discrimination for the name of Jesus, for the Truth? Are you prepared to stand firm in your convictions, even when the world pushes back?

Learn more at www.theexchangemin.com


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