KENNERLY ROAD BAPTIST CHURCH CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS

Placing our complete trust in the Lord Jesus Christ for our salvation and believing the Holy Bible to be the uniquely inspired, infallible, and authoritative Word of God, we band ourselves together as a body of immersed believers and hereby adopt this Constitution and By-Laws as our method of labor for the Lord.

The name of this organization shall be the Kennerly Road Baptist Church of Columbia. It is incorporated as a non-profit corporation under the laws of the state of South Carolina.

The purpose of this church shall be the glorification of God through the proclamation to all the world of the gospel of Jesus Christ as the only way of salvation; the preaching and teaching of the whole council of God as revealed by the Holy Scriptures; the holy worship of the Triune God in word and in music; the administration of the ordinances of the New Testament; the establishment of Christian education; and the exercise of charitable care for the brethren and beyond.

Having been led by the Spirit of God to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior and, on the profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, we do now in the presence of God and this assembly most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another, as one body in Christ. We engage, therefore, as the Holy Spirit directs us, to walk together in brotherly love; to exercise Christian care and watchfulness over one another; to participate in one another’s joys and sorrows; to be slow to take offense and always ready to make reconciliation; to encourage one another unto love and good works; and to forsake not the assembling of ourselves together. We engage to strive for the advancement of the Kennerly Road Baptist Church in grace, knowledge, and holiness; to promote its prosperity and spirituality; to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace; to sustain its worship, ordinances, and doctrines; and to contribute cheerfully and liberally to the financial support of its ministries, giving special attention to the evangelism of the world and the care for the needy.

We further engage to maintain personal and family devotions; and to educate our children in the Word of God, bringing them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord; to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances; and to avail ourselves of the great privilege of prayer for one another and for all men. Finally, we engage to walk circumspectly and watchfully in the world, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts; to be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements, and exemplary in our deportment; to refrain from gossip, backbiting, and excessive anger; to maintain a clear separation from all religious apostasy and all worldly and sinful pleasures, practices, and associations; endeavoring by example and by word to win souls to Jesus Christ, for whose glory and by whose power we live.

Section 1. Doctrine of the Scriptures

We believe that every word of the original autographs of the Scriptures was breathed out by God Himself (II Timothy 3:16-17); that by virtue of the superintendence and empowering of the Holy Spirit, the human writers of the Scriptures wrote not their private interpretations but the very words of God (H Peter 1:19-21), preserved from error of any kind on any subject whatsoever (John 10:35).

We believe that the Scriptures are, therefore, the unique, absolute, authoritative standard of faith and practice, to be studied, proclaimed, obeyed, and defended (Deuteronomy 6:6-9; Joshua 1:8; Psalm 19:7-11; John 17:17; Jude 3-4); that they are to be interpreted literally, historically, and grammatically (Matthew 12:39-41; II Peter 1:16) unless the context clearly indicates otherwise (John 6:35, 51:58; 10:7; 15:1); and that every portion is without exception profitable for doctrine and Christian growth (II Timothy 3:16). We believe, therefore, that the denial of their inerrant authority contradicts the clear position of Christ and the apostles and thus undermines all facets of their doctrine as reliable for faith and practice; that the sixty-six books of the Bible constitute the complete and only authoritative revelation of God to man (1 Corinthians 14:37; II Peter 3:15-16); and that anyone who adds to or takes away from this completed revelation is cursed of God (Revelation 22:18-19).

Section 2. Doctrine of God

A. Existence

We believe in one unique and infinite God (Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 44:6; Isaiah 45 :21-22; John 17:3), the Supreme Ruler of heaven and earth (Psalm 104; Proverbs 21:1; Daniel 4:25, 35; Matthew 6:26-30), whose existence, clearly evident from what He has created and innately recognized by the conscience of man (Romans 1:19-20), has always been and shall always be (Genesis 21:33; Deuteronomy 33:27; II Peter 3:8; Psalm 90:2, 4).

B. Spirituality

We believe that God is a Spirit (John 4:24), and as such is an Immaterial (Luke 24:3 9), invisible (John 1:18; Romans 1:20; Colossians 1:1; I Timothy 1:17; 6:16), living (Psalm 84:2; Matthew 16:16) and life-giving (Psalm 36:9; John 5:26) Person.

C. Triunity

We believe that God comprises three distinct Persons in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit coequal in every Divine perfection and fulfilling distinct yet harmonious functions within the Godhead (Matthew 28:19; II Corinthians 13:14; Galatians 4:4; John 15:26; John 16:13-14).

D. Transcendence

We believe in the infinite and unlimited transcendence of God: in perfection, holiness (Exodus 15:11; Psalm 99:9; Isaiah 6:3; 1 Peter 1:15-16) and immutability (Psalm 102:27; Malachi 3:6; James 1:17); in knowledge, omniscience (Proverbs 15:3; Isaiah 46:10; Hebrews 4:13); in power, omnipotence (Isaiah 40; Matthew 19:26; Luke 1:27; Ephesians 3:20; Job 42:2); and in presence, omnipresence (Psalm 139).

E. Immanence

We believe in the immanence of God, as evidenced by His gracious love for and merciful interaction with the creation, notably with man (Psalm 103), demonstrating His trustworthiness (Psalm 100:5; John 17:3; I John 5:20; Romans 3:4); righteousness (II Chronicles 12:6; Ezra 9:15; II Timothy 4:8; Revelation 6:4) and goodness, love (I John 4:7-8), benevolence (Psalm 145:9; Matthew 5:45; Acts 14:17), mercy (Ephesians 2:4; James 5:11; I Peter 1:3), and grace (Romans 5:21; II Corinthians 12:9; Titus 2:11).

F. Creatorship

We believe that God directly created out of nothing the universe and all that is in it, including mankind, as literally set down in Genesis 1-2; that all theories of evolution, secular or religious, not only deny observable natural law but also deny the veracity of the Scriptures and undermine the rightful authority of God over His own creation (Genesis 1:31; Isaiah 45:11-12, 18; John 1:3; Romans 5:12; Colossians 1:16; Revelation4:l1).

G. Providence

We believe that God providentially oversees the affairs of the universe, both spiritual and physical, sustaining and guiding it according to His predetermined purpose (Nehemiah 9:6; Colossians 1:17; Hebrews 1:3); that on occasion He has used literal miracles to bring about His will (notably in the days of Moses, of Elijah and Elisha, and of Christ and His apostles); that even those things that are inherently bad and evil cannot ultimately thwart His will, but become tools in His hand to bring about the Divine consummation of history (Psalm 76:10; Acts 4:25-28).

Section 3. Doctrine of the Holy Spirit

A. Deity

We believe that the Holy Spirit is God, coequal with the Father and the Son, as demonstrated by His attributes (I Corinthians 2:10; Psalm 139:7; Hebrews 9:14), works (Genesis 1:21; II Peter 1:21; Luke 1:35; John 16:8; John 3:5-6; Titus 3:5; Romans 8:26-27; II Thessalonians 2:13), and association within the Trinity (II Corinthians 13:14; Ephesians 4:30; Matthew 28:19).

B. Personality

We believe that the Holy Spirit is a distinct Person of the Godhead and as such possesses the attributes of personality (Acts 5:3, 9; 7:51; Matthew 12:31; 1 Corinthians 2:11; Ephesians 4:30; John 14:26; 15:26; 16:13-14).

C. Work

1. Within the Godhead

We believe that the Holy Spirit participated in the creation of the universe; that He empowered the writers of Scripture to pen the very breathed-out words of God, that He bears witness to the truth; and that He testifies of Christ and brings honor to Him (Genesis 1:2; II Peter 1:19-21; John 16:13-15; John 15:26).

2. In relation to believers

We believe that the Holy Spirit is the agent of the new birth (John 3:5-7; Titus 3:5; II Corinthians 5:17); that He baptizes all true believers into the body of Christ (Mark 1:8; I Corinthians 12:13), indwelling (John 14:16-17; I Corinthians 3:16; 6:19), sanctifying them, and thereby sealing them unto the day of full redemption (Romans 8:16; II Corinthians 1:22; Ephesians 1:13; 4:30); that He intercedes for (Romans 8:26) and gives gifts to each believer (Romans 12:6-8; I Corinthians 12:8-11; I Peter 4:10-11), empowering (Acts 4:31; Ephesians 5:18), guiding (Galatians 5:16,25; Romans 8:14), and teaching them (I Corinthians 2:12-13); that the true test of His control is not how spiritually gifted a person is, nor what supernatural experience he or she enjoys, but that the person honors Christ as Lord, living in love toward the Church and in obedience to the Scriptures (I Corinthians 12:1-11; 14:16-17, 26; Galatians 5:22-6:1).

3. In relation to the world

We believe that the Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment; that He restrains the evil one in the world until God’s purpose is fulfilled (Genesis 6:3; John 16:7-11; II Thessalonians 2:6-7).

Section 4. Doctrine of Christ

A. Person

We believe that Jesus Christ is the unique, eternal Son of God (John 1:14,18; 3:16, 18; Hebrews 11:17; I John 4:9), one Person consisting of two natures, human and Divine: 

1. His Deity

We believe that as God the Son, Jesus the Christ is completely God, Possessor of Divine attributes and Agent of Divine works, to be worshipped and honored as Jehovah God Himself (John 1:14, 18; 3:16-18; Hebrews 1:8; I John 5:20; John 1:3; Isaiah 42:5, 45:12; Philippians 2:10-11; Isaiah 45:21-23; Matthew 3:3; Isaiah 40:3; John 12:41; Isaiah 6:lff.; Hebrews 1:10-12; Psalm 102:25-27; Ephesians 4:7-8; Psalm 68:18; Genesis 3:15; Micah 5:2; Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 9:6).

2. His Humanity

We believe that by virtue of His incarnation and virgin birth, Jesus Christ is completely man, yet without sin, able to function as both our mediating Advocate and sustaining Comforter (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:35; John 1:14; Romans 8:34; Philippians 2:6-8; Hebrews 7:25; 9:24; I John 2:1).

B. Work

We believe that according to the will of the Father, Jesus Christ took upon Himself human nature, laying aside the prerogatives of Deity; that He lived His earthly life without sin or sins, and voluntarily sacrificed Himself on the cross in bloody death once and for all on behalf of mankind, bearing the sins of the entire race in His own body; that in so doing He paid sin’s penalty and appeased the wrath of God ("Sufficient for all; efficient for some."); that He rose again bodily from the grave to die no more and is exalted to the right hand of God to reign forever; that only in Him, by virtue of His exalted Person and vicarious work, can man find salvation from sin and death (Isaiah 53; Mark 10:45; John 10:11; Romans 5:8; II Corinthians 5:21; Philippians 2:8-11; I Peter 3:18; I John 2:2; 1 Corinthians 15:3-8; Matthew 28; Mark 16:1-14; Luke 24; John 20; John 14:6; Acts 4:12).

Section 5. Doctrine of Man

We believe that man was created in the image of God and is, therefore, unique among all God’s creation; that in Adam man willfully sinned against God, thus forfeiting his original innocence and alienating the entire race from God and eternal life; that every man from Adam’s fall onward is a sinner by birth and by choice, utterly incapable apart from God of escaping his sinful condition or its rightful eternal punishment (Genesis 1:26; 2:7; 3:1-19; 9:6; Ecclesiastes 7:20; Psalm 51:5; 58:3; Isaiah 64:6; Romans 3:10-23; 5:12, 17-19; I Corinthians 15:21-22; James 3:9).

Section 6. Doctrine of Angels

A. General characteristics

We believe that angels are spirit beings, created by God to serve as His ministers (Job 38:4;7; Hebrews 1:14; Psalm 104:4); that although some rebelled against God and thus are forever wicked and doomed, they all were created sinless and pure (Jude 6; Genesis 1:31); that their ministries and ranks differ, but they are not to be worshipped (Revelation 19:10); that their strength, appearance, and travel are beyond human capabilities (II Peter 2:11; II Thessalonians 1:7); that they are immortal and do not marry (Luke 20:36; Matthew 22:30; Mark 12:25); and that their proper abode is in heaven (Jude 6).

B. Good angels

We believe that the good angels (those that kept their first estate) are the spirit ministers of God: as such they proclaimed the birth of Jesus Christ (Luke 1:26-33; 2:13) and His resurrection (Matthew 28:2,6), as well as protecting and strengthening Him (Matthew 2:13; 4:11; 26:53; Luke 22:43); they take interest in Christians’ prayer and witnessing and give aid in danger and death (Hebrews 1:14; I Corinthians 4:9; I Timothy 5:21; Luke 15:10; Acts 12:7; Luke 16:22); and they also execute God’s providence toward and judgment on the nations (Genesis 19:13; Daniel 10:21; Matthew 13:39; Acts 12:23; Revelation 8,9, 16; 14:6-7).

C. Fallen angels

1. Satan

We believe in one literal, personal Devil, once a holy angel with God, who led the angelic rebellion against God and, hence, against His creation; that the Devil is the accuser of the brethren, the destroyer of men’s souls, the god of this world, whose network of demons (fallen angels) carry out his battle against God and man; that just as he cannot exceed the prescribed limits of God on his activity, so he also will not ultimately succeed, but will be rendered inactive for the thousand years of the millennium and then, subsequent to one final rebellion against Christ, be cast into the lake of fire to burn forever in utter torment (Isaiah 14:12-14; Ezekiel 28:12-19; Luke 10:18; John 8:44; Matthew 4:1-Il; Luke 4:1-13; Job 1 and 2; Revelation 12:9-10; I Thessalonians 2:18; II Corinthians4:4; l1:14~15; I Peter5:8;Matthew25:4l; I John3:8;

Revelation 20:1-10).

2. Demons

We believe that when Satan rebelled against God, a great number of angels followed in his sin; that they are confirmed in unrighteousness, some chained in darkness awaiting their final judgment and others free to aid Satan in his efforts to thwart the purposes of God, inflicting disease and pain, possessing humans and animals, opposing God’s children, promoting immorality, and spreading false doctrine; that they are nonetheless under the sovereign control of God, who can use them to carry out His own purpose; and that their doom in the lake of fire is sure (Daniel10:10-14; Revelation 16:13-16; Ephesians 6:11-12; Matthew9:33; 12:22;Acts8:7; Mark 5:8-14 I Timothy 4:1-3; I Samuel 16:14; II Corinthians 12:7; Matthew 8:29; 25:41).

Section 7. Doctrine of Salvation

We believe that the salvation of sinners is a gift only by the grace of God; that it is received by turning from sin unto God through personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and His finished work (John 1:12; Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8-9; Hebrews 9:24-25; 10:19; 12:24; I Peter 1:18-19; Revelation 1:5).

A. Regeneration

We believe that in order to be saved, sinners must be born again by the Spirit of God; that the new birth makes one that is dead in trespasses and sins a partaker of the divine nature and of eternal life, the gift of God; that its proper evidence appears in the holy fruits of repentance and newness of life (John 3:1-8, 33; Romans 6:23; II Corinthians 5:19; Ephesians 2:1-9; Colossians 2:13; Titus 3:5; James l:18; I Peter 1:3).

B. Justification

We believe that justification is the judicial act of God whereby He declares one to be righteous, thereby pardoning his sin and imputing to his account Christ’s righteousness (Acts 13:3, 9; II Corinthians 5:18-25; Romans 5:1, 8-11; Ephesians 1:7).

C. Sanctification

We believe that sanctification is an act and a process by which God sets apart all believers from sin and the world unto Himself, thus conforming them to the image of Jesus Christ, which transformation shall be made complete at the return of Christ for His saints (Romans 8:29; I Corinthians 1:2; Hebrews 10:14; Ephesians 1:3-4; 4:11-13; I Thessalonians 5:23-24; Philippians 1:6; 3:21; 1 John 3:2; Jude 24).

D. Election

We believe that God ordained before the foundation of the world those that will be saved and that His election cannot be ultimately thwarted, that this election in no way negates the responsibility of sinners to repent from sin and turn to God nor that of saints to proclaim the gospel of Christ to every person (John 6:37, 44, 65; Acts 13:48; Romans 9:11, 15-16; l0:8-17; Ephesians 1:4,11; Revelation 22:17).

E. Perseverance

We believe that all true believers will never totally or finally fall from grace; that their perseverance is in itself evidence of the reality of their profession; that they are kept by the power of God through faith unto eternal and complete salvation (John 10:27-28; Romans 8:28-39; Ephesians 4:30; Philippians 1:6; II Timothy 1:12).

F. Glorification

We believe that when Christ comes for His church, all believers will be transformed in a moment into His likeness, their bodies made immortal and incorruptible (Romans 8:30; I Corinthians 15:51-54; 1 John 3:2).

Section 8. Doctrine of the Church

A. Definition

I. The Universal Church

We believe that the true Church, founded by the risen Christ at Pentecost, consists of all who have put their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior; that the true universal Church shall never die out, although local assemblies may; that it constitutes the body of Christ; that the Church is in this dispensation the vehicle of the kingdom of God, as was theocracy of Israel in Old Testament times; that just as national Israel was a mixed multitude, so the professing Church includes hypocrites alongside of the true born again believers; that those who apostatize, although they may have enjoyed spiritual benefits, reveal that they were not truly regenerate (Matthew 16:18; Acts 20:28; I Corinthians 10:1-12; Ephesians1:20-23; 3:3-11,21; 5:23-32; Colossians 1:18, 24; Hebrews 6:4-8; I John 2:19; Revelation 2:14-16, 20, 24).

2. The local church

We believe that the local church is a local representative body of the Church universal; that it is a body of believers that meet together to worship God, to receive instruction, to observe the Christian ordinances, and to render whatever service the gospel requires; and that the local church is autonomous, directly responsible to Christ the Church’s head (Acts 2:38, 4 1-47; I Corinthians11:17-34; Ephesians 1:1-2; 4:1l-16).

We believe that local churches, while maintaining their autonomy, should fellowship and work together with true churches obedient to the Scriptures as needs and opportunities arise (Acts 11:22; II Corinthians 8 and 9ùnote 8:19; III John 10; I Corinthians 12; cf. I Corinthians 1:10-13).

B. Separation

We believe that the Scriptures demand of the Church. corporately and individually, separation from this world’s unrighteous system, repudiation of those that teach false doctrine and that spread discord among the brethren, and corrective disassociation from professing brethren that are flagrantly disobedient; that the carrying out of these Scriptural directives is fundamental to the spiritual integrity and survival of the church and of the individual believer; and that those professing Christian groups or individuals that refuse to obey these commands are erring brethren and should be treated as such (I John 2:15-17; Ephesians 5:11; II Corinthians 6:14-18; Matthew 7:15-20; II Corinthians 11:13-15; Acts 20:28-30; Galatians 1:8-9; II Peter 2:1-3;

II John 9-11; I Timothy 1:3-7; I Timothy 6:3-5; Deuteronomy 13:1-3; Romans 16:17; I Corinthians 5; II Thessalonians 3:6, 14-15; I Timothy 1:20).

C. Ordinances

We believe that the New Testament enjoins two ordinances and only two: baptism and the Lord’s Supper.

1. Baptism

We believe that water baptism by immersion constitutes the public declaration of one’s spiritual initiation into the body of Christ; that it symbolizes the believer’s cleansing from sin through identification with Christ in His death. burial, and resurrection, which identification is accomplished by the spiritual baptism of the Holy Spirit, who incorporates the believer into the true spiritual Church; and that its spiritual meaning requires prior regeneration and conversion of the one being baptized (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 2:38, 41; Romans 6:3; I Corinthians 1:13, 15).

2. Lord’s Supper

We believe that the Lord’s Supper, consisting of unleavened bread and drink from the fruit of the vine, symbolizes Christ’s broken body and shed blood sacrificed on our behalf to deliver us from sin and death; that it looks forward to the day when we shall sup with Christ in His kingdom; and that it is open to all true believers in right standing with God (Matthew 26:26-28; Mark 14:22-24; Luke 22:17-20; I Corinthians 11:23-34).

D. Officers

1. Function

We believe that since the end of the apostolic age, the human officers of the Church function at a local level only, consisting of the pastor as overseer and teacher (with assistant pastors/ elders/bishops as needed), tending to the spiritual needs of the local body, and deacons as ministers to the needs of the church that do not require the direct involvement of the pastor(s) and that would distract the pastor(s) from primary pastoral duties (I Timothy 3; 4:14; 5:17; Titus 1; Acts 20:17ff.; Romans 12:8; James 5:14-16; I Peter 5:3; Philippians 1:1; Acts 6).

2. Requirements

We believe that the Scriptures clearly demand high spiritual standards of the church officers and that each may exercise gifts associated with the other, within the framework of proper authority (I Timothy 3; Titus 1; Acts 6; Acts 8).

We believe that the Scripture leaves some room for differences of polity among local churches according to the specific needs of the individual assembly in a given time and place (Titus 1:5; I Corinthians 7:17; 16:1,4; Acts 15).

E. Mission

We believe the mission of the Church is to evangelize the world, from local neighborhoods to the farthest reaches of the earth, and to make Christian disciples of those that believe, baptizing them in Christ’s name and providing them the thorough and demonstrative teaching of the Word of God (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:46-49; Acts 1:8).

Section 9. Doctrine of Last Times

A. Rapture

We believe in the imminent bodily resurrection of deceased believers immediately followed by the catching away of living believers to meet the Lord Jesus in the air prior to the tribulation and the millennium (I Thessalonians 4:13-18; II Thessalonians 2:1; I Corinthians 15:51-54).

B. Millennium

We believe in a literal thousand-year reign of Jesus Christ upon this earth, during which Satan shall be bound and believers shall serve as administrators of Christ’s kingdom. We believe that Satan shall be loosed to mount a final unsuccessful rebellion against Christ and His people and shall be cast into the lake of fire, where the man of sin and the false prophet are, to burn forever (Revelation 20:1-10).

C. Judgment

1. Judgment Seat of Christ

We believe that Jesus Christ shall judge His people to reward them for their earthly works as to their sincere worth in furthering His kingdom; that He will not judge them for their sins, due to their having been judged in His own body on the cross, but that He will judge them for rewards or the loss of them (Romans 14:10; II Corinthians 5:10).

2. Tribulation Judgment

We believe in a literal seven-year tribulation, during which God shall pour out judgment on the earth. We believe that the man of sin shall reign over most of the civilized world, aided by the false prophet; that he shall persecute Israel and those that have accepted Christ during this period, especially during the last three and a half years; and that both he and the false prophet shall be cast into the lake of fire after their unsuccessful battle of Armageddon against the Lamb of God, returning from heaven with His holy ones to set up His millennial kingdom (Revelation 6-19).

3. Great White Throne Judgment

We believe the unbelievers of all ages whose names are not written in the Lamb’s Book of Life shall be sentenced by Christ to burn in torment forever in the lake of fire (Revelation 14:9-11; Revelation 20:11-15).

D. Eternal State

We believe that the redeemed of the ages, in glorified bodies, shall dwell with the triune God forever, to serve and to enjoy Him in perfect peace and happiness (Revelation 21-22).

Section 1. Admission

Persons wishing to become members of the church shall notify the pastor of their desire. Upon such notification they shall become candidates. A candidate shall meet with the pastor and deacons to verify that he or she meets the following conditions of membership:

A. Profession of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ followed by baptism by immersion (or provide a letter of recommendation from another church of like faith and order);

B. Demonstration that he or she has been born again; and

C. Wholehearted agreement to the constitution, the covenant, and the declaration of faith.

Upon recommendation of the pastor and deacons, the church members shall vote on granting membership during a Sunday service or regular business meeting.

Section 2. Dismissal

A member may be dismissed as a member only upon the occurrence of one or more of the following:

A. Death

B. Request, provided however, any member that wishes to transfer to another church of like faith and order shall be granted a letter or recommendation upon vote of the church in a regular business meeting;

C. Removal to the inactive roll if any member is habitually absent for a period of six (6) months without due cause, but only after efforts have been made to restore the member to faithfulness. (No person on the inactive roll shall be entitled to vote, to hold office, to teach. or to take official part in the public services: e.g., to provide special music.);

D. Erasure, by uniting with another church to which a letter of recommendation cannot be granted for reasons of unlike faith or practice;

E. Dismissal, as a result of apostasy, heresy, or becoming an offense to the church by reason of flagrant non-Christian conduct without repentance. (Dismissal may occur only in accordance with the provision of section 3 below)

Section 3. Discipline

A. Recommendation.

There must be a recommendation for dismissal. Such a recommendation may be made only by the pastor or at least one (1) deacon and it must be in writing to the body constituted of the pastor and the deacons. The recommendation shall describe the actions justifying the recommendation of dismissal with reasonable specificity and the specific spiritual means of persuasion and prayer used to draw the errant member back to acceptable behavior.

B. Pastor and deacons’ determination

Upon receipt of a recommendation for dismissal the pastor and deacons shall, by majority vote, make a determination that all reasonable spiritual means of persuasion and prayer have not effected a change in the errant member’s actions and that the conduct of the errant member justifies dismissal. Upon making such determination the deacons shall recommend to the members the dismissal of the errant member from the membership of the church. If such a determination is not made the matter shall be dropped and any written record of a recommendation for dismissal shall be destroyed.

C. Notice to errant member

The chairman of the deacons or the pastor shall then notify the errant member of the determination, recommendation, and the date and time the church members will vote on disciplinary action. This notification must be at least one (1) week before the day of the church business meeting in which the dismissal is to be brought before the members.

D. Content of deacons’ recommendation to the membership

The deacons’ recommendation shall include only the grounds necessary to justify dismissal.

E. Membership vote on dismissal

Only voting members may be present during consideration of disciplinary dismissal, and passage of the dismissal shall require an affirmative three-fourths (3/4) vote of a quorum. If the voting members fail to vote for dismissal all written records of the actions taken leading to the vote (including but not limited to the initial recommendation, the determination, and the deacons’ recommendation for dismissal to the membership) shall be destroyed.

F. Consideration of dismissed member

The church shall lovingly regard any individual dismissed from membership, endeavoring by prayer and invitation to restore the errant individual back into fellowship with Christ and the church.

Section 4. Restoration

Upon confession to God personal offenses that resulted in removal, erasure, or dismissal, giving satisfactory evidence of repentance and demonstrating the desire for restoration as a member, the individual that has been dismissed from the membership may be restored to membership by a majority vote of the members at a Sunday service of the church. following recommendation by the pastor and deacons.

Section 1. Regular Services

Regular Services (for instruction, worship, evangelism, and fellowship) shall include the following:

A. Sunday services, morning and evening

B. Midweek prayer and Bible study;

C. Baptismal services when needed, usually in conjunction with other regular services.

D. The Lord’s Supper, at least once per quarter, usually during a Sunday service; and

E. Special emphasis meetings such as missionary conferences, Bible conferences, revival services, as the pastor senses the Lord’s leading informs the deacons of such meetings.

Section 2. Business Meetings

A. Regular Business Meetings

Regular business meetings of the church shall be held in September, December, March, and June, unless otherwise voted by a majority of members of the church at a regular or special business meeting. The time and place of the business meeting shall be announced from the pulpit on at least two (2) Sundays prior to the meeting. Written notice shall be posted in a prominent place in the church during regular services from the date of the first announcement until the meeting.

B. Special Business Meetings

Special business meetings shall be called for by the pastor or upon a majority of the deacons at any time, provided notice is given in the manner required for regular business meetings.

C. Budget Meetings

Budget meetings for adopting the proposed budget or other necessary business shall be held during the regular business meeting in December or at a specially called meeting for that purpose prior to January 1 of the year the budget is to go into effect. The church fiscal year shall begin January 1 and conclude December 31.

D. Election Meetings

Election meetings for the election of officers and workers shall be held during the quarterly business meeting in September. Officers and workers shall assume the responsibility for their positions on the first Sunday in October. The church year for officers, workers, classes, and committees shall commence and end with the first Sunday in October. The church operations year shall begin on October 1 and conclude on September 30.

E. Moderator

The pastor shall moderate all meetings described in this section 2. In his absence the chairman of the deacons or a person appointed by the pastor shall serve as moderator pro tern.

F. Quorum

In all business meetings, the presence of twenty-five percent (25%) of the members shall be considered a quorum. A quorum shall be required for the validity of all actions that require the vote or approval the members.

G. Rescheduling

Meetings may be rescheduled by the pastor in consultation with the deacons or by a majority vote of the congregation.

H. Voting

Generally all members of the church in good standing and present in person may vote on matters of business that are properly presented at any business meeting. However, only members eighteen (18) years and older may vote on the following:

1. the call or dismissal of a pastor;

2. the incurring of indebtedness that exceeds ten percent (10%) of the annual budget or ten percent (10%) of the book value of all church property;

3. the disposal of church property;

4. changes in the Constitution and By-Laws; or

5. the dissolution of the corporation, along with the distribution of its assets.

I. Rules of Order

In matters not covered by this constitution, Robert’s Rules of Order shall be the authorized procedure for all church business meetings.

J. Unauthorized Meetings. Action taken at a meeting called or held in a manner other than as set forth in this article is void.

Officers and workers are in positions of respect and example. All those elected or appointed to offices or positions as workers must conscientiously endeavor to live faithfully to the Lord. All officers and workers must be church members living in dedication to the Lord. They shall:

A. Abstain from the use of alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and the abuse of drugs;

B. Abstain from worldly practices and amusements that hinder their own spiritual life and testimony or that set a poor example for young Christians;

C. Be faithful in personal Bible study and prayer, soul-winning efforts, stewardship responsibilities, and attendance at all regular church services unless providentially hindered and

D. Set the example in all matters of Christian conduct as set forth in, but not limited to, the church covenant.

The officers and workers of the church shall be installed when the need arises and under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Section 1. Pastor

A. Qualifications

The pastor shall be a male having been called of God to preach and meeting the scriptural qualifications set forth in I Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-11. He must believe and unqualifidably adhere to the Word of God, the constitution and by-laws, the articles of faith, the spiritual and moral standards set forth in this document, and be uncompromising in preaching these truths.

B. Call

A pulpit committee composed of three (3) deacons and two (2) other spiritually minded male members elected by the church at a business meeting shall unanimously recommend a qualified man to pastor the church. After careful examination of his person, family, ministry, doctrine, and character, they shall bring him to preach at all Sunday services as a candidate and have him interviewed by the congregation.

The committee shall inform the congregation of his credentials prior to his visit. They shall have already informed him about the proposed call, the pastoral responsibilities, tenure, and financial stipulations, along with all other matters pertaining to the church’s ministry and stand. Upon proper announcement by the pulpit committee, the membership shall vote on the candidate’s call to the pastorate by secret ballot. Voting shall take place at a business meeting called for that purpose. He shall be elected by no less than a three-fourths (3/4) majority of the qualified members present. The church shall notify the candidate in writing whether they have voted to extend a call to him or not. The candidate shall notify the church in writing whether he accepts the church’s call or not. Only one man shall be considered at a time. Each must be voted on prior to another being permitted to be a candidate for the position. Only when the need occurs and the membership is notified in a regular service shall the pulpit committee act.

C. Responsibilities

The pastor, as under-shepherd responsible to Jesus Christ, shall preach the Word and administer the ordinances of the church. He shall be the spiritual leader of the church and shall advance the spiritual life of the congregation. He is the overseer of all phases of the church work. He is at liberty to schedule special gatherings such as Bible conferences, revivals, missionary conferences, and special guest speakers as he is led of the Lord and in consultation with the deacons. The pastor is the ex officio member of every committee and organization of the church.

D. Salary

The pastor’s salary and allowances shall be set prior to the time of election and may be changed at any business meeting of the church (special or regular), provided that the usual two (2) week public notice has been given. The amount to be voted on shall have been determined and approved by the budget committee.

E. Leaving the Field

The pastor shall be entitled to an annual vacation of two (2) weeks after one (1) year of service; three (3) weeks after three (3) years; and four (4) weeks after five (5) years. More time may be arranged at the discretion of the deacons. The pastor shall consult with the deacons regarding being absent from any of the regular services of the church for purposes such as speaking at special services and conferences elsewhere. Consideration shall be given to him for missionary trips and attendance at conferences or framing sessions that benefit him and the church. As funds are available, the church shall assist in paying for such professional expenses. Any other absences also need to be arranged with the deacons so that the church functions continue properly.

F. Tenure

Having been properly elected, the pastor shall serve until he resigns his office or the church requests him to do so by a three-fourths (3/4) majority vote in a special meeting called for that purpose and announced in advance. The notice requirements of Article VI (Meetings) section 2 for special meetings shall be modified to four (4) Sundays, instead of two (2), and the announcement shall be made by the chairman of the deacons at each Sunday service before the special business meeting required by this paragraph 1 F.

G. Deacon’s Recommendation of Termination for Cause

Upon submission of evidence of immorality, apostasy, heresy, unfaithfulness to his duties, departure from the articles of faith, constitution, or by-laws, or if he no longer agrees with the uncompromising stand of this church, by three (3) witnesses (The deacons shall accept no accusation against the pastor without three (3) witnesses, I Timothy 5:19.) to the satisfaction of three-fourths (3/4) of the deacons, the deacons shall make a determination to recommend the pastor’s termination to the members. After making such determination the chairman of the deacons shall notify the pastor to cease pastoral duties immediately. Upon receipt of such notice the pastor shall immediately cease such duties. Thereafter the procedure for terminating the pastor’s tenure shall be the same as set forth in paragraph 1 F above.

Section 2. Staff

In order to meet the needs of the congregation adequately, the pastor is at liberty to fill positions, salaried and unsalaried, with spiritually qualified personnel equipped for the various tasks, including but not limited to church secretaries, youth leaders, music directors, and assistant pastors.

The congregation must allocate the funds in the budget for a salaried position before voting on who will fill it. Since any assistant pastor will be helping the pastor in the spiritual oversight of and care for the church, he must meet the Scriptural qualifications of a pastor. The pastor is entrusted with the responsibility of dismissing staff members that violate the standards required of church officers or that are remiss in their duties. He will keep the deacons informed of all aspects of any termination.

Section 3. Deacons

A. Qualifications

Deacons shall be male and shall meet the scriptural qualifications of the office set forth in I Timothy 3:8-13, having been active members of the church for at least six (6) months.

B. Election and Tenure

The pastor and present deacons shall present a list of nominees for the office to the congregation at he annual business meeting The congregation shall elect the deacons by ballot. Deacons shall serve a term of three (3) years, and may be reelected after being out of office one (1) year. The needs of the church and the number of men scripturally qualified to serve shall determine the number of deacons. New deacons shall be installed during a dedication service following their election.

C. Responsibilities

The deacons shall assist the pastor in carrying on the work of the church, as is illustrated in Acts 6. They shall relieve the pastor of the responsibilities he delegates to them in order to better meet the needs of the church. They also shall be vitally active in the soul-winning activities of the church and shall assist in the ordinances of the church. The chairman and other officers shall be elected at the first deacons’ meeting of the church year. Deacons’ meetings shall be monthly. The pastor shall be the moderator for all deacons’ meetings. Special deacons’ meetings may be called by the pastor as needed. No deacons’ meetings may be held without the pastor’s presence or his consent to meet without him.

D. Dismissal

Upon submission of evidenced of any deacon’s immorality, apostasy, heresy, unfaithfulness to his duties, departure from the articles of faith, constitution, or by-laws, or if he no longer agrees with the uncompromising stand of this church, the pastor with the concurrence of three-fourths (3/4) of the deacons shall recommend to the members that the errant deacon be dismissed form his position as a deacon at a special business meeting. At the pastor’s sole discretion, a special election may be called to fill the dismissed deacon’s position.

Section 4. Trustees

The pastor and deacons shall determine the number of trustees according to the need of the church. They shall be responsible for the maintenance and safekeeping of the church’s legal papers and valuables. Entry into the church’s safety deposit box must be specifically authorized by the pastor and deacons and shall require at least two (2) trustees to be present. The trustees must maintain proper records of the contents of the safety deposit box and shall submit them to the recording secretary so that an accounting can be given at any time. The trustees shall serve as the officers of the corporation at the direction of the pastor and deacons and, when constitutionally necessary, of the congregation. They shall be elected by the congregation at the annual election meeting to serve a three (3) year term. The trustees may also be deacons.

Section 5. Annually Elected Officers

A. Treasurer

The treasurer shall be elected at the annual election meeting. He or she is responsible to keep an accurate account of all monetary receipts and disbursements. He or she is to post financial statements monthly and provide them at the regular and annual business meetings. Financial records are to be available to the pastor and deacons upon request, or to others authorized by the pastor, deacons, or a vote of a majority of the members at any business meeting, to examine them. The treasurer and one (1) other person designated from time to time by the pastor and deacons shall sign all checks. An assistant treasurer may be elected as the need requires. At least two (2) persons, preferably deacons, other than the treasurer shall count the offering on a rotating basis. The books of the treasurer shall be audited or examined annually, as deemed necessary by and under the direction of the pastor and deacons.

B. Donation Records Secretary

The donation records secretary shall be elected at the annual election meeting. He or she is responsible for keeping records of monetary gifts and who gave them and shall send each contributor a copy of the record of his or her contributions quarterly and/or annually. The donation records secretary shall see that offering envelopes are available to the membership and to others desiring them. Those counting the offerings will turn over the empty offering envelopes (noting the donor and donation where necessary) to the donation records secretary each week.

C. Recording Secretary

The recording secretary shall be elected at the annual election meeting. He or she shall take minutes and preserve records of the business proceedings of the church and shall report the records at the business meetings. The recording secretary shall also maintain the record of the church membership, adding or deleting the names of members at the direction of the membership, as well as the inactive roll. He or she shall issue letters of baptisms and dismissals and shall preserve on file all communication and written official reports. An assistant recording secretary may be elected when needed.

D. Sunday School Superintendent

The Sunday School superintendent is the director of the Sunday School and shall with the pastor’s counsel and supervision carry out his responsibilities. He is charged with appointing and training teachers, departmental superintendents, assistant teachers, and other Sunday school workers. He shall lead the teachers meetings under the supervision of the pastor. He shall order and distribute the Sunday school learning material. The superintendent shall supervise Sunday school visitation, placement of pupils, collection of Sunday school offerings, and keeping of Sunday school records. The superintendent shall be a male.

Section 1. Budget Committee

The budget committee shall consist of the pastor, two (2) deacons, and one (1) trustee, along with elected officers needed by virtue of their office. The budget committee shall prepare a recommended church budget for the ensuing year and submit it to the members for adoption at the annual business meeting or at a business meeting called for such specific purpose.

Section 2. Missions Committee

The missions committee shall consist of the pastor and the deacons. They shall screen all missionary applicants and make recommendations to the members for support and for the withdrawal of support.

Section 3. Nominating Committee

The nominating committee shall consist of the pastor and the deacons. They will provide a list of the offices to be filled and post the list in a prominent place in the church three (3) weeks prior to the election of officers. Members may suggest qualified persons by submitting their names to the committee. The committee will review all names submitted and add the names of any persons they wish to recommend. The committee shall contact all persons nominated to determine their qualifications and their willingness to serve if elected. The committee will then recommend all qualified and willing persons to the church for a vote. No nominations will be made from the floor. Voting for officers shall be by secret ballot.

Section 4. Other Committees and Positions

All other committees and positions shall be appointed by the pastor and deacons, who shall determine job responsibilities and qualifications. Any appointed committee chairman shall assist in selecting other committee members.

Section 5. Responsibility

All committees are responsible and answerable to the pastor and the members for carrying out their appointed responsibilities.

Section 1. General Requirements

All ministries, departments, organizations, classes, and groups of the church are subject to and shall function in harmony with the members, the pastor, and the deacons. The pastor, deacons, and members may add ministries to the church as the need and opportunity arise. None shall be promoted without the recommendation of the pastor and deacons and the approval of the members at a business meeting properly called. All workers in these ministries must meet and adhere to the standards set forth in Article VII.

Section 2. Christian School

In the event that the church should have its own Christian School, its board of directors shall be spiritual men of the church, nominated by the pastor and deacons and elected by the members. The pastor shall be board chairman. The school may have its own by-laws and organization, provided they are first approved by the pastor, deacons, and members as consistent with the spirit of the church constitution and by-laws. These stipulations do not preclude the church’s cooperation with other churches of like faith and practice in establishing and administrating a Christian school that would serve more than one church, provided the school meets the financial support and policy guidelines set forth in Article XII. Any such cooperation must be recommended by the pastor and deacons and approved by the members.

This church, as a corporation, shall be a non-stock, non-profit, and an exclusively religious corporation. It shall not as an entity become an official member of any denomination, convention, fellowship, or other religious body of a compromising nature. This church is an independent Baptist church that is totally self-governing and subject to the control of no other ecclesiastical body. This church recognizes and sustains the obligations of mutual conviction, counsel, and cooperation with other fundamental churches. It encourages fellowship with those organizations that consistently uphold the truth of God’s Word and the spirit of this constitution and by-laws. Such cooperation with churches of like mind and practice shall in no wise sanction any undue influence or jurisdiction over this local assembly.

Any literature that officially represents this church or that is used by any ministry of this church must first be approved by the pastor and deacons.

The financial needs of this church shall be met by the voluntary tithes, offerings, and contributions of its members and friends. The pastor and deacons must approve any other method of fund raising for the church or its auxiliary ministries. No sales or bazaars shall be permitted in the name of this church. The pastor and deacons may approve special offerings to be taken apart from those received in the regular services. No church support shall be given to persons or groups that do not subscribe to the Biblical stand set forth in the articles of faith and church covenant.

Any male giving evidence of a Divine call to the gospel ministry and manifesting the gifts and grace belonging to the ministry may be licensed or ordained, or both, to the ministry of this church. He must first state that he accepts without reservation the articles of faith of this church, and must be recommended by the pastor of this church. The ordination council, composed of ordained ministers (which may be members) selected or approved by the pastor, shall thoroughly examine the candidate in regard to his doctrinal soundness, moral and spiritual qualifications, and personal fitness for the ministry. After satisfactory examination by the council, he shall be recommended to the church for ordination. The candidate’s ordination shall require ratification of the recommendation of the council by the members.

Decisions relative to the acquisition or sale of real property shall require a two thirds (2/3) majority vote of the members at a properly called business meeting. All buildings, property, and equipment shall be used only by permission of the pastor and deacons. They shall be principally for the use of this church, its functions, and its related activities.

Section 1. Adoption

Upon adoption, this constitution bears immediate and complete constitutional authority upon this church.

Section 2. Procedure for Amending

This constitution may be revised or amended at any regular business meeting of the church by a three-fourths (3/4) vote of members present and voting, provided the proposed amendments have been announced at a previous business meeting and have been posted in a prominent place in the church for four (4) Sundays (before and after all services) or mailed to all members at least two (2) weeks prior to the vote of the members. No substantive amendment of any nature shall be made in Article IV without unanimous approval of members present and voting at a business meeting, provided the proposed amendments have been announced at a previous business meeting and have been posted in a prominent place in the church four (4) Sundays (before and after all services) or mailed to all members at least two (2) weeks prior to the vote of the members.

Section 3. Recording of Amendments

The recording secretary shall record all amendments to this constitution by appending such amendments to the constitution. All amendments shall be added to later editions of the constitution with the amendment date noted.

Section 1. Translations

The church believes that the measure of the value of a translation is its faithful adherence to and clear communication of the words of the original text. We hold that the exaltation of one translation to the disallowance of others for reasons besides these is misled, heretical, and divisive.

Section 2. Charismatic Movement

We reject the charismatic movement because it has made experiences rather than obedience to the Word of God the basis for and test of spirituality. Further, the tongues movement has become the rallying point for the ecumenical church, which unholy alliance we absolutely oppose.

Section 3. Neo-Evangelicalism

We oppose the Neo-Evangelical movement because of its weak stand on the inspiration of the Word of God and its belittling of Biblical separation.

In the event of the dissolution of this church as a non-profit corporation, the assets of the corporation shall be given and paid over to non-profit organizations of like faith and order, approved by the remaining membership and which would qualify under the provisions of Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, amended to February 1, 1992 (or its successor provision) and the regulations attributable thereto. None of the assets or holdings shall be divided among its members or among any individuals or groups not so qualified. The meeting to vote on dissolution shall be carried out according to the guidelines in Article VI, section 2, on business meetings.

This Constitution and By-Laws has been ratified by vote of the members on March 8, 1992.

Signed by Trustees

Amendment to Article V, Membership. Amendment approved August 21, 1994.

Section 5. Associate Membership

Associate membership shall be available to those desiring it and shall be subject to all policies governing regular membership. Because associate membership is usually temporary, associate membership shall not include the privileges of voting or of holding the office of deacon or of pastor/elder.