Faith Baptist Church: Orlando, FL

FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH BY-LAWS

ARTICLE 1 ~ MISSION STATEMENT

To develop a community of maturing believers through active participation in God-honoring Corporate Worship, Comprehensive Discipleship, Genuine Fellowship, and intentional Evangelism both locally and globally.

ARTICLE 2 ~ MEMBERSHIP

Section 1 – Qualifications and Admission

2.1.1 To qualify for membership in this church, a person
1. must be a believer in Jesus Christ who gives evidence of regeneration,
2. who has been baptized in obedience to Christ, following his or her regeneration and verbal profession of faith.
3. and who wholeheartedly believes in the Christian faith as revealed in the Bible.
4. Each member must support the doctrines of our church and be in peaceful submission to them, in accord with our Confession of Faith,
5. and must promise to keep the commitments expressed in the Church Covenant.

2.1.2 The normal process for becoming a member is
1. completion of all sessions of the New Members’ Class,
2. an assessment of a person’s qualification for membership in an interview with at least two elders (pastors),

3. a vote by the Board of Elders to receive, refuse or delay the applicant as a member.

4. presentation of the new member to the congregation.

2.1.3 Upon admission, new members shall relinquish their membership in other churches. Those applying for membership will be received as members by baptism or letter of transfer. A statement of faith and personal testimony may suffice in the event that a letter of transfer is not obtainable.

Section 2 - Duties and Privileges of Membership

2.2.1 In accord with the duties enumerated in the Church Covenant, each member shall be privileged and expected to participate in and contribute to the ministry and life of the church, consistent with God's leading and with the gifts, time, and material resources each has received from God. Only those who are members of this congregation shall be entrusted with leadership in the ministries of the church.

2.2.2 It is the privilege and responsibility of members to attend all business meetings and vote on such matters submitted to a vote.

2.2.3 A member who for more than 3 months fails to attend church services and communicate with the elders, or whose whereabouts cannot be ascertained, may be placed on the inactive roll by the Board of Elders. Members on the inactive roll shall not have a vote or hold office in the church. Persons on the inactive roll may be restored to full membership by the Board of Elders as deemed appropriate, in accordance with the Church Covenant and membership requirements.

Section 3 - Watchcare Membership

2.3.1 Students and others temporarily residing in the Orlando area who are members of an evangelical church may apply for watchcare membership. Qualifications are identical to those for full membership as set out above, except that home church membership must be retained. A letter of commendation will be sought from the applicant's home church.

2.3.2 Duties and privileges of watchcare members are the same as for other members except that: 1. when absent from the Orlando area for extended periods of time they are released from the responsibility to attend our church services; 2. while they will be encouraged to participate in members' meetings, they will not be eligible to stand for any office or to vote.

2.3.3 Termination of watchcare membership as a disciplinary measure will be as it is for other members, except that the elders (pastors) shall notify the pastor or elders of the home church of that termination. Watchcare membership will normally terminate immediately upon the ending of the period of temporary residence in the Orlando area.

Section 4 - On Church Discipline

2.4.1 Formative discipline is inherent in the preaching, teaching, and exercise of other ministries in the church. When formative discipline fails due to sin, corrective discipline is then necessary. Corrective discipline is for the good of the church and the member who has sinned. It is never to be entered into lightly or quickly. The goal of corrective discipline is always remedial, that is, the goal is always the salvation and holiness and good of the one being disciplined.

2.4.2 Any member consistently neglectful of his or her duties or guilty of conduct by which the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be dishonored, and so opposing the welfare of the church, shall be subject to the admonition of the elders (pastors) and the discipline of the church, according to the instructions of our Lord in Matthew 18:15-17 and the example of scripture.

2.4.3 The purpose of such discipline should be:

1. For the repentance, reconciliation, and spiritual growth of the individual disciplined (Heb. 12:1-11; Matt. 18:15-17; 1 Cor. 5:5; Gal. 6:1);

2. For the instruction in righteousness and good of other Christians, as an example to them (1 Cor. 5:11; 1 Tim. 5:20; Heb. 10:24-25);

3. For the purity of the church as a whole (1 Cor. 5:6-7; Eph. 5:27; Rev. 21:2);

4. For the good of our corporate witness to non-Christians (Matt. 5:13-16; John 13:35; Acts 5:10-14); and

5. Supremely for the glory of God by reflecting His holy character and obeying His holy word. (Deut. 5:11; John 15:8; Eph. 1:4; 1 Pet. 2:12). 2.4.4 It is desirable in the case of public sin that a confession be made before the church in a specially called meeting, so that the church can freely extend forgiveness. Such public confession is especially necessary in the case of elders (pastors) and deacons (1 Tim. 5:19-20; Gal. 2:11-14).

Section 5 - Termination of Membership

2.5 Termination of membership shall be recognized by the church following the death or transfer of membership of any church member. Membership may be terminated at the discretion of the elders (pastors) for any member placed on the inactive roll. Membership may be terminated as an act of church discipline in accordance with scriptural procedures and conducted by the elders (pastors).

ARTICLE 3 ~ MEETINGS

Section 1 - Worship Meetings

3.1 Worship services shall be held each Lord's Day and may be held throughout the week as the elders determine.
Section 2 – Business Meetings

3.2.1 In every meeting together, members shall act in that spirit of mutual trust, openness, and loving consideration which is appropriate within the body of our Lord Jesus Christ.

3.2.2 There shall be a regular business meeting three times a year, at some time apart from the Sunday morning service, and at a time acceptable to the membership. The elders (pastors) shall see that the stated meetings of the church are regularly held and that required reports are submitted to the church by the responsible members.

3.2.3 Special business meetings may be called as requested by the elders (pastors), or at the written request, submitted to the elders (pastors), of ten people or ten percent of the voting membership whichever is greater. In the event of a written request from the members, the elders (pastors) shall call a special meeting to be held within one month of their receipt of the request.

3.2.4 There shall be an annual business meeting no more than three months nor less than three weeks prior to the start of the fiscal year (Jan. 1). At this meeting a budget will be approved by the membership, officers appointed, and positions filled.

3.2.5 The chairman of the elders (pastors) shall preside as moderator at all business meetings of the church. In the absence or incapacity of the chairman of the elders (pastors), another elder appointed by the elders (pastors) shall perform these duties. The date, time, and purpose of any regular or special meeting shall be announced at all public services of the church at least two weeks preceding the meeting. Provided all constitutional provisions for notification have been met, a quorum shall be understood to be met by those members present.

3.2.6 Meetings shall be run according to Robert's Rules of Order. On any matter that is brought to vote, a two-thirds vote is needed for it to pass (unless this constitution specifies otherwise).

ARTICLE 4 ~ OFFICERS

Section 1 - Summary

4.1.1 Jesus Christ is the Lord and head of this church and He rules primarily through the Scriptures.

4.1.2 The biblical offices in the church are elders (pastors) and deacons. In addition, our church recognizes the administrative positions under this constitution of treasurer, assistant treasurer and clerk. All officers must be members of this church prior to assuming their responsibilities.

Section 2 - Elders (Pastors)

4.2.1 The elders (pastors) shall provide broad oversight to the ministry, financial management, and resources of the church. In keeping with the principles set forth in Acts 6:1-6; 1 Tim. 3:1-7; 5:17; Tit. 1:5-9; Jas. 5:14; and 1 Pet. 5:1-4, the elders (pastors) shall seek the mind of Christ through the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the word of God as they undertake the work of shepherding God's flock. The elders (pastors) shall teach and exhort; refute those who contradict the truth; pray for the sick; care for the church’s members; devote themselves to prayer, to the government of the church and to ministry. The elders (pastors) shall provide oversight of the congregation and lead the church to fulfill its ministries.

4.2.2 The Board of Elders (pastors) should be comprised of not less than three men provided they satisfy the qualifications for the office of elder (pastor) set forth in 1 Tim. 3:1-7 and Tit. 1:6-9. Only men may serve as elders (pastors) in accord with 1 Tim. 2:12; 3:2. Those elders (pastors) not receiving compensation from the church will be called “lay elders” for the purpose of this constitution, although biblically and functionally there is no difference among the elders (pastors).

4.2.3 The elders (pastors) of the church shall recognize men who aspire to the office of elder and are gifted to serve in this calling, in accordance with the provisions defined in I Timothy and Titus. Upon examination and approval by the elders (pastors) and the approval of the church, these men shall be received as gifts of Christ to His church and set apart as elders (pastors).

4.2.4 An elder’s (pastor’s) term of office may be terminated by resignation or by dismissal. Any two members with reason to believe that an elder (pastor) should be dismissed should express such concern to the elders (pastors). The elders (pastors) shall discern what actions ought to be taken in accordance with the instructions of our Lord in Matt. 18:15-17 and 1 Tim. 5:17-21.

4.2.5 The elders (pastors) shall take particular responsibility to oversee worship services, administer the ordinances of baptism and the Lord's Supper, equip the membership for the work of the ministry, encourage and teach sound doctrine, admonish and correct error, oversee the process of church discipline, coordinate and promote the ministries of the church, mobilize the church for world missions, examine and instruct prospective members, examine and recommend all prospective candidates for offices and positions, and oversee the work of the deacons and appointed church agents and committees. The elders (pastors) are further to ensure that all who minister the word to the congregation, including outside speakers, share our fundamental convictions.

The elders may appoint members to serve on a missions committee as needed, or any other committee that may be deemed helpful in carrying out the varied ministry needs of the church.
4.2.6 The elders (pastors) may establish and oversee ministry positions and committees to assist them in fulfilling their responsibilities. The elders (pastors) shall also have primary responsibility for the employment, supervision, and evaluation of staff members. The outworking of this responsibility may, on a case-by-case basis, be delegated to deacons or another staff member.

4.2.7 A paid or volunteer staff position does not in and of itself constitute an elder’s (pastor’s) position.

4.2.8 The elders (pastors) may hire and fire non-ministerial staff, or delegate that responsibility on a case-by-case basis. The elders’ role is primary in the calling and appointing of ministerial staff (see Article 6, Section 3).

4.2.9 The elders (pastors) may choose to operate among themselves by consensus, but they must have at least 66% approval of the elders (pastors) in order to proceed with an action.

4.2.10 The elders (pastors) shall elect a chairman who shall serve as chairman of elders’ meetings and as moderator of church business meetings. The chairman may be either a staff or lay elder (pastor). In his absence, the elders (pastors) shall appoint another elder (pastor) to fulfill these duties.

Section 3 - The Preaching Elder (Pastor)

4.3.1 The preaching elder (pastor) shall perform the duties of an elder (pastor) described in Section 2, above. He shall be recognized by the church as particularly gifted and called to the ministry of preaching and teaching the word of God.

4.3.2 In the absence or incapacity of the preaching elder (pastor), the other elders (pastors) shall assume responsibility for his duties, any of which can be delegated.

Section 4 – Deacons

4.4.1 The office of deacon is described in 1 Tim. 3:8-13 (cf. Acts 6:1-7). The church shall recognize, in accordance with the constitutional provisions on appointments, men who are giving of themselves in service to the church, who possess gifts of ministry, and who are called to further service and care for the church’s members. The number of deacons shall be determined by the needs of the ministry and the call and qualifications of men in the church. These members shall be received as gifts of Christ to His church and set apart as deacons.

4.4.2 Deacons shall advise and assist the elders (pastors) in any service that shall support and promote the ministry of the word, new and existing ministries of the church, and the care of the members of the congregation. The deacons may be organized in the most fitting way to accomplish the mission of the church. Thus, the ministry of deacons may involve several diaconal committees.

4.4.3 The responsibilities of deacons is to assist the elders (pastors) in a ministry of service. They may teach and preach in contexts in which they are not infringing upon the oversight duties of elders. The responsibilities of deacons may include the following:

The ministry of mercy is a particular responsibility of deacons. They shall see that the sick, the sorrowing, the aged, and the infirm receive spiritual and physical comfort.
Deacons may also attend to the benevolence ministries of the church. They shall receive, hold, and disburse a fund for benevolence, reporting on its use to the elders (pastors) at their request, and reporting to the church its total receipts and total disbursements only.
Deacons may attend to the accommodations for public worship. Deacons may assist in providing for the elements during the Lord's Supper.
Deacons may attend to the normal care and maintenance of church properties.
Deacons may assist with the budgeting process of the church.
Deacons may approve expenses that are less than 2% of current budget.

4.4.4 Each year the elders (pastors), with the assistance of the deacons, shall present to the church an itemized budget at the regular members' meeting preceding the annual members meeting. This budget shall be presented for discussion at that time and called up for a vote at the annual members' meeting.

4.4.5 Deacons may recommend to the church any expenditure that is not shown in the current budget and is in excess of 2% of the current budget. Any such expenditure shall be approved by the elders (pastors) and ratified by the congregation according to Article 3.2.6.

4.4.6 Deacons, with the elders, shall hold in trust all property belonging to the church and take all necessary measures for its protection, insurance, management and performing such other duties as may be imposed upon the corporation by the Laws and Statues of the State of Florida. The Deacons shall not buy or sell real estate or other property valued at more than 2% of the current budget; nor mortgage, or otherwise encumber the assets of the church, without the approval of the Board of Elders and ratification by a three-fourths majority of the church membership present at a Business Meeting after a two-week notice has been given in church services.

4.4.7 No money shall be solicited by or on behalf of the church or any of its ministries without the approval of the elders (pastors).

ARTICLE 5 ~ ADMINISTRATIVE POSITIONS
Section 1 - Clerk

5.1.1 It shall be the duty of the clerk to record the minutes of all regular and special members' meetings of the church, to preserve an accurate roll of the membership, and to render reports as requested by the elders (pastors) and deacons.

5.1.2 In the absence or incapacity of the clerk, the elders (pastors) shall appoint a member to perform the duties of the church clerk.

5.1.3 The church clerk shall ensure that dated copies of the most recent revision of this constitution shall be available for all church members.

Section 2 - Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer

5.2 The treasurer and assistant treasurer, neither of whom shall be an active elder (pastor), shall ensure that all funds and securities of the church are properly secured in such banks, financial institutions, or depositories as designated by the church. Under the authority of the elders (pastors) and/or deacons, the treasurer and assistant treasurer shall also ensure that full and accurate accounts of receipts and disbursements are kept in books belonging to the church, and that adequate controls are implemented to guarantee that all funds belonging to the church are appropriately handled by any officer, employee, or agent of the church. The assistant treasurer shall assist the treasurer in rendering to the elders (pastors) annually, or whenever they may require it, an account of all transactions as treasurer and of the financial condition of the church. The treasurer shall also be responsible for presenting regular reports of the account balances, revenues, and expenses of the church at regular business meetings.

ARTICLE 6 ~ APPOINTMENTS and ELECTIONS

Section 1 - Principles

6.1.1 General Statement: The appointment of elders and deacons is the prerogative of the Lord Jesus Christ alone. However, He has ordained that they be formally recognized by the consent of the particular church they serve. Elders and deacons are appointed to office by the laying on of hands by the eldership. This is an expression of approval for which the elders are responsible. Therefore, each officer must have the approval, not only of the church as a whole, but also of the eldership in particular. The Lord's appointment of an individual to either of these offices is recognized by means of that individual's possession of those graces and gifts required by Scripture for the particular office, and his own conviction that the Lord is calling him to minister in that office. The recognition of officers is a matter of such importance that it should never proceed without much prayerful waiting upon God, careful consideration of the relevant passages of Scripture and thorough evaluation of those persons being considered. Each member of the church has a responsibility to be intelligently informed regarding these matters.

6.1.2 The process for church appointments and elections shall be interpreted and carried out to fulfill the following principles:
1. Substantial prayer, both individually and corporately, shall be an integral part of the appointment process.
2. All candidates for church office shall be treated with the grace, kindness, and honesty appropriate in evaluating fellow members.
3. The appointment process shall express that spirit of mutual trust, openness, and loving consideration which is appropriate within the body of our Lord Jesus Christ.

6.1.3 Procedure of Appointment: The recognition of those whom the Lord has appointed to bear office in this church is carried out in 3 steps: nomination, election, and ordination.

Section 2 - Selection of Elders and Deacons

6.2.1 Nomination

(1) Nominations to offices of elder and deacon shall be made to the congregation by the elders with input from the congregation (Acts 6:1-6; Acts 14:23; Tit. 1:5). The elders will obtain congregational input in two ways. First, the elders will welcome the advice of individual members at any time during the year. Second, the elders will seek the entire congregation's input once each year through an advisory ballot. In September of every year, each member will be asked to prayerfully consider whether he or she thinks any male member should be appointed to the office of elder or deacon. If a significant number of people think a man should be nominated to an office, and if the elders unanimously believe the man should be nominated to an office, and if the man is willing to serve in the office, the elders will place his name in nomination before the congregation. Under ordinary circumstances, the elders will announce his nomination to the congregation no earlier than one month before the congregation is called to vote on the nomination. During this time period the congregation will have opportunity to know the man and to pray for God's guidance. The congregation will vote on each candidate at a duly called meeting of the members of the church

(2) The elders, if unanimously agreed, may at any time during the year nominate a candidate or candidates to either or both offices and call a special congregational business meeting for their consideration. In no case may a man be nominated to either office without his knowledge and prior consent.

(3) If any member believes that a nominee is not qualified for the office or if any member has serious questions about the nominee's qualifications, he or she is encouraged to speak directly to the candidate and/or to the elders before the nomination is considered at the proposed meeting. It is not appropriate to express criticisms at the meeting which have not been previously addressed to the elders and/or the nominee in private.

6.2.2 Election

Normally, after at least one month from a candidate being presented to the congregation for consideration, the elders will inform the congregation of their recommendation to vote for the approval of the candidate. Any church meeting for the election of officers shall be announced on four Lord’s Days prior to its being held. The names of all nominees shall be separately discussed and voted upon. During the discussion the nominee under consideration and members of his immediate family shall leave the meeting until a written ballot is taken. The Scriptural qualifications shall be read and expounded, and the nominee’s qualifications openly discussed in the fear of God and with due respect for the reputation of the nominee. After that a written ballot shall be taken. It is hoped that the vote of the congregation will in such matters always be unanimous, but if unanimity is not realized, no less than a three-fourths majority of the members present and voting shall be required for the election of an office-bearer.

6.2.3 Ordination

Following the election of an officer there shall be a portion of a worship service set aside at which time the officer-elect shall be ordained and installed into office by the laying on of the hands of the eldership.

Before the laying on of the hands, one of the elders (pastors) will lead the officer-elect in the following oath:

Questions for Elders: 1) In the presence of the all-knowing God, do you confess that you were by nature a lost, hell-deserving sinner in God’s sight, and that your one and only hope of salvation is through the grace of God alone, by faith alone in the person and work of Jesus Christ alone, as He is revealed in the gospel? 2) Do you believe the Scriptures as written in the Old and New Testament to be the Word of God, and do you accept them as the only infallible rule of faith and practice? 3) Have you personally adopted and will you cheerfully submit to, defend, and teach according to the Confession and Constitution of this church? 4) Do you solemnly commit yourself to endeavor to carry out the duties of the office of Pastor, in accordance with the Scriptures, as one who will give an account to the chief shepherd, the Lord Jesus Christ?

Question for Deacons: 1) In the presence of the all-knowing God, do you confess that you were by nature a lost, hell-deserving sinner in God’s sight, and that your one and only hope of salvation is through the grace of God alone, by faith alone in the person and work of Jesus Christ alone, as He is revealed in the gospel? 2) Do you believe the Scriptures as written in the Old and New Testament to be the Word of God, and do you accept them as the only infallible rule of faith and practice? 3) Have you personally adopted and will you cheerfully submit to and defend the Confession and Constitution of this church? 4) Do you accept the office of Deacon, and do you promise to care and manage the practical affairs of this church in the fear of God?

This solemn act should always be accompanied by the special prayers of the church (Acts 13:1-3). The laying on of the elders’ hands shall signify their approval of an officer-elect.

6.2.4 Review of Officers

Each officer shall hold office only as long as he is faithful to his calling and has the confidence and esteem of the congregation. Every fifth year after a man’s initial election to office, the congregation will be asked to evaluate that officer’s biblical qualifications and to express their confidence in him to fulfill the responsibilities of that office by written ballot. It is hoped that the vote of the congregation will be unanimous. If a three-fourths (3/4) majority of the members present and voting is not reached, the other officer(s) will meet with the man to evaluate the lack of unanimity. Upon the conclusion of the evaluation, a special business meeting will be called and the findings will be given to the congregation along with a recommendation on the next course of action, if any (Amos 3:3; Psalm 133:1).

6.2.5 Non-Disciplinary Termination of Officers

An officer may resign from his office without prejudice if he does so in an orderly fashion and for good and valid reasons. This resignation together with its reasons and the date upon which he wishes his resignation to be effective shall be submitted in writing to the elders of the church (Acts 24:16).

In cases where the elders determine that an officer is no longer competent to fulfill all the duties of his office, by reason of infirmities not of themselves blameworthy that deters him from fulfilling his office well (2 Samuel 21:15-17), they shall explain their concerns to him and seek his resignation. If he will not resign, the elders shall solicit the wisdom of like-minded churches to determine the best course of action to preserve the unity and peace of the church. If the like-minded churches determine resignation is prudent, the elders shall present their concerns to the congregation and call for a vote of confidence in him. In order to retain his office in such circumstances the officer must receive a vote of confidence via a written ballot by no less than a three-fourths (3/4) majority of the members present and voting.

6.2.6 Lack of Officers

This constitution assumes, and the norms of biblical church order ordinarily require, that a plurality of elders oversee the local church. While each local church is independent, not every local church is fully organized. The lack of a plurality of elders is a real, serious, and practical deficiency in the order of a gospel church (Tit. 1:5). Therefore, if at any period in the life of the church, there no longer exists a plurality of elders, and this lack cannot in a timely way be supplied, the remaining elder (or the church, if there is no elder) shall seek the temporary assistance of the pastors of a trusted sister church holding as its doctrinal standard the London Baptist Confession of Faith of 1689. The purpose of such an arrangement is to provide both pastoral care and leadership in the recognition of a plurality of elders. When a suitable eldership willing to undertake these responsibilities is located, the church shall within a reasonable period of time seek the assistance of that eldership. If the church has a remaining elder, the aforementioned eldership shall provide assistance and counsel as if they were his fellow elders. This action shall be taken by a written ballot at a properly called meeting of the church. A three-fourths majority of those present and voting is necessary for such an action. The recognition of the oversight of such an eldership shall be confirmed (or failing a three-fourths majority withdrawn) in the same way at the annual meeting of the church in succeeding years. When a plurality of resident elders is realized, the oversight arrangement described here shall immediately cease.

6.2.7 Commissioned Ministers

The church also recognizes the role of ministers of the gospel specially commissioned by the church for specific gospel tasks, such as foreign or home missions and theological training. The difference between an officer of the church and a commissioned minister is that a commissioned minister does not oversee a duly constituted congregation but is sent or commissioned by the church in obedience to Christ to make disciples and to gather them for the purpose of establishing a duly constituted church body or to engage in the training of those who plant or serve such churches. (Acts 13:1-4; 1 Tim. 1:3-4; 2 Tim. 2:2; Tit. 1:5, 9).

Those commissioned in this way must be nominated to this task by the elders and elected to this task by the church in accordance with the requirements and procedures outlined for the election of officers in Section in 6.1 and 6.2. Following the election there shall be a portion of a regular worship service set aside at which point the person will be officially commissioned to the work by the laying on of the hands of the eldership. Commissioned ministers shall be subject to the same terms for termination stipulated for elders and deacons in Section 6.2.

Section 3 - Calling of Paid Elders (Pastors)

6.3.1 In the calling of any man to a paid elder (pastor) position, the same basic process of calling an elder (pastor) must be followed, and the elders (pastors) shall encourage members of the congregation to submit names. In addition, the church shall be given adequate opportunity to assess the gifts and spiritual life of any potential paid elder (pastor). If deemed expedient (necessary) by the Elders, they may appoint a search committee to assist in the processes of identifying potential candidates.

6.3.2 In selecting a paid elder (pastor), his gifts in preaching and teaching and his commitment to minister personally to the members of this church will be prerequisites. The ability to preach will be assessed with particular care when selecting a potential preaching elder (pastor). The church shall receive assurance from the elders (pastors) that, having interviewed the man concerned, they are in no doubt as to his wholehearted assent to the Confession of Faith and Church Covenant. The elders (pastors) shall bring only one recommendation to the church at a time.

6.3.3 Upon the nomination of a man to be received to membership and called as a paid elder (pastor), written notification shall be given to all active members. In addition, public notice shall be given at two Sunday morning services following the nomination, prior to the vote at a business meeting. The call of a paid elder (pastor) shall take place at a business meeting set aside for that purpose. The extension of a call shall be made upon an affirmative vote of 75% of the ballots cast by the voting members present.

6.3.4 Review of Paid Elders (Pastors). The full support of Elders as well as their continuation in office will be subject to review (see Section 2.4). Normally, a review of full support will take place in conjunction with the review of an Elder’s qualification for office, whether at regular intervals or at special review meetings. However, circumstances may arise in which an Elder’s full support may need to be reviewed as an issue separate from his continuation in office. In such cases, a review shall follow the applicable procedures outlined above. Continuance of full support shall require no fewer than three-fourths of the ballots cast.

Section 4 - Selection of Administrative Roles and Church Employees

6.4.1 The appointment of those holding administrative positions (clerk, treasurer, and assistant treasurer) shall take place at the annual business meeting of the church. Three months prior to the meeting the elders (pastors) will welcome recommendations from the general membership in the nomination and selection process for vacant positions. Appointments to fill any need that may occur during the course of the year may be held at any business meeting, provided appropriate notice is given.
6.4.2 A list of current administrators (clerk, treasurer, and assistant treasurer) and the name(s) of nominee(s) to serve as treasurer, assistant treasurer, and clerk shall be presented by the elders (pastors) and made known to the church at least one month prior to the annual business meeting. Any member with reason to believe that a current administrator or nominated candidate is biblically unqualified for a position should express such concern to the elders (pastors) as far in advance as possible before the relevant business meeting.

This must be done in accordance with the Christian virtues of kindness, truth, humility, and a peaceable spirit, absent any form of slander, malice, or deceit (Eph. 4:25-32, James 3:13-18).

6.4.3 The appointment of the treasurer, assistant treasurer, and church clerk shall be done by the Board of Elders with the assistance of the deacons.
6.4.4 Newly appointed officers and those appointed to administrative positions shall be presented to the congregation by the chairman of the Board of Elders.
6.4.5 The persons appointed shall assume their respective offices at the beginning of the fiscal year, Jan. 1 (unless another date has been specifically designated).

6.4.6 Church Employees

From time to time the church may find it advisable to employ those who are not elders in the business of the church. Such employees may include youth workers, secretaries, custodians, or any others the elders and the congregation believe are needed for the effective advancement of God's work. Such persons may be hired at the discretion of the elders, subject to a majority vote of the congregation to approve funding for non-ministerial or short-term ministerial positions and to approve the individual for long-term ministerial positions. Those people employed for such purposes must demonstrate the same personal, domestic, and moral qualities expected of all members (1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Galatians 5:19- 23). Should such a person cease to demonstrate such qualities, or should the person be unable to carry on his or her work in a way that is conducive to the welfare of the church, the elders may terminate the employment of said person with two weeks' notice and with appropriate communication with the congregation. In addition, if at any time serious allegations of misconduct should be made against an employee of the church, the elders may at their discretion suspend such a person from the performance of his or her duties until such time as an appropriate investigation of the allegations may be made.

ARTICLE 7 ~ DISPUTE RESOLUTION

7.1 Believing that the Bible commands Christians to make every effort to live at peace and to resolve disputes with each other in private or within the Christian church (see, e.g., Matt. 18:15-20; 1 Cor. 6:1-8), the church shall urge its members to resolve conflict among themselves according to biblically based principles, without reliance on the secular courts. Consistent with its call to peacemaking, the church shall encourage the use of biblically based principles and the avoidance of suits of law to resolve disputes between itself and those outside the church, whether Christian or pagan and whether individuals or corporate entities.

SUMMARY OF DOCTRINE

I. The Scriptures.

The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments were given by inspiration of God. Therefore, all scripture is authoritative, infallible and inerrant. The Scriptures are the only sufficient rule for faith and practice (Ps. 19:7; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Pet. 1:20-21).

II. God.

There is but one God, the Maker, Preserver and Ruler of all things, having in and of Himself, all perfections, and being infinite in them all; and to Him all creatures owe the highest love, reverence and obedience that springs from faith (Deut. 6:4; Ps. 145:3; John 1:3; 1 Cor. 8:4-6; 1Tim. 1:17).

III. The Trinity.

The Scriptures reveal that the one God eternally exists in three persons: The Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Each person has distinct personal attributes, but without division of nature, essence or being (Matt. 3:16-17; 28:19; 2 Cor. 13:14)

IV. Providence.

God from eternity, decrees or permits all things that come to pass, and perpetually upholds, directs and governs all creatures and all events; yet so as not in any wise to be the author or approver of sin nor to destroy the free will and responsibility of intelligent creatures (Isa. 46:9-11; Prov. 16:33; Col. 1:17; Heb. 1:3; Jas. 1:13-15).

V. Election.

Election is God's eternal choice of some persons unto everlasting life—not because of foreseen merit in them, but of His mere mercy in Christ—in consequence of which choice they are called, justified and glorified (Rom. 8:28-30; 1 Cor. 1:27-29; Eph. 1:4, 11).

VI. The Fall of Man.

God originally created Man in His own image, and free from sin; but, through the temptation of Satan, Adam transgressed the command of God, and fell from his original holiness and righteousness; whereby his posterity inherit a nature corrupt and wholly opposed to God and His law. As a result, they are under condemnation, and as soon as they are capable of moral action, become actual transgressors (Gen. 1:26-27; 3:1-7; Rom. 5:12-19; Eph. 2:1-3).

VII. The Mediator.

Since Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, is fully God and fully man, He is the divinely appointed mediator between God and man. Having taken upon Himself human nature, yet without sin, He perfectly fulfilled the law; suffered and died upon the cross for the salvation of sinners. He was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended to His Father, at whose right hand He ever lives to make intercession for His people. He will return again visibly and bodily. He is the only Mediator, the Prophet, Priest and King of the Church, and Sovereign of the Universe (Isa. 53:10-12; John 1:1, 14; Acts 1:9-11; Rom. 3:21-26; 8:34; 1 Cor. 15:3-4; Gal. 3:13; 1 Tim. 2:5; Heb. 1:1-3).

VIII. The Holy Spirit.

We believe that God the Holy Spirit brings glory to the Father and the Son. He applies the work of Christ to believers and distributes spiritual gifts to every believer according to His sovereign good pleasure for the purpose of building up the body of Christ. He is the Comforter, the Spirit of Adoption, the Seal of our Salvation and the Guarantor of our inheritance in Christ (John 14:16-17; 16:14; Acts 5:3; Rom. 8:14-17; Eph. 1:13-14).

IX. Regeneration

Regeneration is a change of heart, wrought by the Holy Spirit, who gives life to those dead in trespasses and sins, enlightening their minds spiritually and savingly to understand the word of God, and renewing their whole nature, so that they love and practice holiness. It is a work of God's free and special grace alone (Eph. 2:1-6; Tit. 3:5; 1 John 5:1).

X. Repentance.

Repentance is an evangelical grace, wherein a person being by the Holy Spirit, made sensible of the manifold evil of his sin, humbles himself for it, with godly sorrow, detestation of it, and self-abhorrence, with a purpose and endeavor to walk before God so as to please Him in all things (Acts 2:37-38; 11:18; 2 Cor. 7:10-11).

XI. Faith.

Saving faith is the belief, on God's authority, of whatever is revealed in His word concerning Christ; accepting and resting upon Him alone for justification and eternal life. It is wrought in the heart by the Holy Spirit, and is accompanied by all other saving graces, and leads to a life of holiness (Rom. 3:27-28; 4:1-5; 4:17-25; 10:14, 17; Phil. 1:29; Eph. 2:8; Jas. 2:14-26).

XII. Justification.

Justification is God's gracious and full acquittal of sinners, who believe in Christ, from all sin, through the satisfaction that Christ has made; not for anything wrought in them or done by them; but on account of the obedience and satisfaction of Christ, they receiving and resting on Him and His righteousness by faith (Acts 13:38-39; Rom. 3:21-26; 8:34; 10:3-4; 2 Cor. 5:21; Phil. 3:9).

XIII. Sanctification.

Those who have been regenerated are also sanctified by God's word and Spirit dwelling in them. This sanctification is positional in that all who are in Christ are sanctified. This sanctification is also progressive through the supply of Divine strength, which all saints seek to obtain, pressing after a heavenly life in cordial obedience to all Christ's commands (Jer. 31:31-34; Ezek. 36:27-29; Rom. 8:1-17; Gal. 5:13-24; 2 Pet. 1:3-11).

XIV. Perseverance of the Saints.

All those whom God has regenerated will never totally nor finally fall away from the state of grace, but shall certainly persevere to the end; and though they may fall through neglect and temptation, into sin, whereby they grieve the Spirit, impair their graces and comforts, bring reproach on the church, and temporal judgments on themselves, yet they shall be renewed again unto repentance, and be kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation (John 6:37-40; 10:28-29; Rom. 8:28-39; 1 Cor. 1:8-9; Phil. 1:6).

XV. The Church.

The Lord Jesus is the head of the church, which is composed of all His true disciples, and in Him is invested supremely all power for its government. According to His commandment, Christians are to associate themselves into particular churches; and to each of these churches He has given needful authority for administering that order, discipline and worship which He has appointed. The regular officers of a church are Elders (Pastors) and Deacons (John 10:16; Acts 20:17, 28; Eph. 1:22; 5:23; 1 Tim. 3:1-13; 5:17-18; Tit. 1:5-9; Heb. 10:25).

XVI. Baptism.

Baptism is an ordinance of the Lord Jesus, obligatory upon every believer, wherein he is immersed in water in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, as a sign of his fellowship with the death and resurrection of Christ, of remission of sins, and of giving himself up to God, to live and walk in newness of life. It is prerequisite to church membership and to participation in the Lord’s Supper (Matt. 28:19; Acts 2:38; Rom. 6:3-5; 1 Cor. 12:13).

XVII. The Lord's Supper.

The Lord's Supper is an ordinance of Jesus Christ, to be administered with the elements of bread and the fruit of the vine, and to be observed by His churches till the end of the world. It is in no sense a sacrifice, but is designed to commemorate and proclaim His life, death, resurrection, and ascension; and to be a bond, pledge and renewal of their communion with Him, and of their church membership (Matt. 26:26-29; 1 Cor. 10:16-17; 11:23-34).

XVIII. The Lord's Day.

The Lord's Day is a Christian institution for regular observance and should be employed in exercises of worship and spiritual devotion, both public and private (Acts 20:7; 1 Cor. 16:1-2; Rev. 1:10).

XIX. Liberty of Conscience.

God alone is Lord of the conscience; and He has left it free from the doctrines and

commandments of men, which are in anything contrary to His word, or not contained in it. Civil magistrates being ordained of God, subjection in all lawful things commanded by them ought to be yielded by us in the Lord, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake (Matt. 15:9; Rom. 13:1-7; 14:4; Acts 5:29; Col. 2:20-23).

XX. The Resurrection.

The bodies of men after death return to dust, but their spirits return immediately to God—the righteous to rest with Him; the wicked, to be reserved under darkness to the judgment. The bodies of all the dead, both just and unjust, will be raised (John 5:28-29; 1 Cor. 15:12-28; 2 Cor. 5:1-10; Phil. 1:23).

XXI. The Judgment.

God has appointed a day, wherein He will judge the world by Jesus Christ, when every one shall receive according to his deeds; the wicked shall go into everlasting and conscious punishment; the righteous, into everlasting life (Matt. 25:46; John 5:22, 27-29; Acts 17:31; Rom. 2:6-11; 2 Cor. 5:10; 2 Thess. 1:7-10; 2 Tim. 4:8; Rev. 7:13-17; 14:9-11).