Ethical issues can be complicated. They involve competing interests: privacy versus disclosure, redemption versus justice, rights of the individual versus the good of the community.

As the three case studies in this issue illustrate (see pages 35, 41, 51) pastors sometimes need the wisdom of Solomon. But it's amid such ethical knots that a leader's integrity is tested and proven.

Leadership editors Marshall Shelley and Eric Reed gathered four men who understand the complex relationship of ethics and integrity. Here they discuss ethical principles; in the case studies, you'll see them applied.

Mark Beeson is founding pastor of Granger Community Church (UMC) in South Bend, Indiana. He took his first pastorate when he was 18.

David Handley has for 21 years pastored First Presbyterian Church of Evanston, Illinois.

Stan Grenz is distinguished professor of theology at Baylor University and Truett Seminary in Waco, Texas. Previously he taught theology and ethics at Carey Theological College and Regent ...