Q: I had to remove a band member for moral failure, but have been accused of being judgmental. Some are saying, "We all sin and have fallen short of the glory of God." Could you clarify what moral failures would warrant removal?
—Teresa in Georgia

A: "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it" (Heb. 12:11).

It is true that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. It is also true that we must be careful to guard well our integrity and reputation as we represent Christ and our church. As they say, it takes a lifetime to build a good reputation and just one poor decision to ruin it.

There are two biblical reasons to remove someone from ministry due to moral failure: (1) the loss of the right to lead due to the failure, and (2) the need to regroup and put a life back together again. Individuals in this situation need time to reflect and just work on themselves. ...