CONSTITUTION
Preamble
We,
the members of Blythewood Baptist
Church,
for the preservation and security of the Church Covenant and Declaration of
Faith, and to the end that this assembly of baptized believers may be governed
in an orderly manner consistent with the New Testament order; we, therefore,
band ourselves together as a body of baptized believers in Jesus Christ and
hereby adopt for our government and method of labor for the Lord the following
Constitution and By-Laws.
Table of Contents. 2
Article I – Name.. 5
Article II – Affiliation.. 5
Article III – Purpose.. 5
Article IV – Church Covenant.. 5
Article V – Doctrinal Statement.. 6
Section 1 - The Holy Scriptures. 6
Section 2 -- The Doctrine of
God.. 6
The Person
and Work of God the Father. 6
The Person
and Work of Christ 6
The Person
and Work of the Holy Spirit 6
Section 3 -- Doctrine of Creation.. 7
Section 4 -- The Doctrine of
Man.. 7
Section 5 -- The Doctrine of
Sin.. 7
Section 6 -- The Doctrine of
Satan.. 7
Section 7 -- The Doctrine of
Salvation.. 7
Repentance. 8
Regeneration.. 8
Justification.. 8
Sanctification.. 8
The Eternal
Security of Believers. 8
Glorification.. 9
Section 8 -- The Church.. 9
An Organism... 9
An
Organization.. 9
Section 9 -- The Two Natures
of the Believer.. 9
Section 10 – Separation.. 9
Section 11 – Missions. 10
Section 12 -- Spiritual Gifts. 10
Section 13 – Dispensationalism... 10
Section 14 -- The Second
Advent of Christ.. 10
Section 15 -- The Eternal
State.. 10
Section 16 -- Tongues Movement.. 11
Section 17 -- Human Sexuality.. 11
Section 18 -- Family Relationships. 11
Section 19 -- Divorce and Remarriage.. 11
Section 20 -- Abortion.. 11
Section 21 -- The Role of Women in the Local Church.. 12
Section 22 -- Civil Government.. 12
Section 23 -- Music.. 12
Article VI – Membership.. 13
Section 1 -- Becoming a Member.. 13
Section 2 -- Being a Member.. 13
Section 3 -- Terminating
Membership.. 14
By Death.. 14
By Request 14
By Erasure. 14
By Exclusion.. 14
Section 4 – Inactive Members.. 15
Article VII – Discipline.. 15
Section 1 -- Identifying
Situations Requiring Discipline.. 15
Section 2 -- Responsibility
for Church Discipline.. 15
Section 3 -- Procedure For
Accomplishing Church Discipline.. 16
Section 4 -- Restoration.. 17
Article VIII – Church Government.. 17
Article IX – Church Officers / Staff / Workers. 17
Section 1 – Pastor.. 18
Qualifications. 18
Procedures of Appointment 18
Interim and Pulpit Supply. 20
Tenure of Office. 20
Procedures for Termination.. 21
Salary. 21
Leave. 21
The Person of Pastor. 21
The Work of the Pastor. 22
The Pastor As Under Shepherd.. 22
The Pastor as Elder / Bishop.. 22
The Responsibility of the Church to the Pastor. 23
Section 2 -- Associate Pastor.. 23
Section 3 -- Deacons. 23
The Office of Deacon.. 23
The Appointment of Deacons. 24
The Term of Office for Deacon.. 24
The Procedures for Dismissal of a Deacon.. 25
The Person of Deacon.. 25
The Work and Responsibilities of the Deacon.. 25
Section 4 – Trustees.. 26
Section 5 – Treasurer.. 26
Section 6 --
Staff and Workers.. 26
Article X – Meetings.. 26
Section 1 --
Regular Services (for fellowship, worship, and evangelism) 26
Section 2 --
Regular Business Meetings.. 27
Section 3 --
Special Business Meetings.. 27
Section 4 --
Annual Business Meeting.. 27
Section 5 – Moderator.. 27
Section 6 – Rules of Order.. 28
Article XI – Organization.. 28
Section 1 -- The Deacon Board.. 28
Section 2 -- The Chairman.. 28
Section 3 -- The
Deacons. 29
Section 4 -- Support staff.. 29
Section 5 -- Accountability.. 29
To the Lord Jesus Christ 29
To the Deacon Board.. 29
Article XII -- Finances. 29
Section
1 -- Budget.. 30
Section 2 -- Accounting.. 30
Section 3 -- Fiscal Year.. 30
Article XIII -- Committees.. 30
Section 1 --
Nominating Committee.. 30
Section 2 --
Other Committees.. 30
Article XIV -- Ministries. 30
Article XV -- Literature.. 30
Article XVI -- Missions.. 30
Article XVII -- Licensing and
Ordination.. 31
Article XVIII -- Administrative Matters. 31
Section 1 – Adoption and
Amendments to the Constitution.. 31
Section 2 --
Recording of Amendments.. 31
Section 3 -- Policy Statements. 31
Section 4 -- By-Laws. 32
Section 5 --
Miscellaneous.. 32
Article IX – Property, Buildings, and Equipment.. 32
Article XX -- Tax Exempt
Provisions.. 32
Article XXI -- Dissolution of
Corporation.. 32
History of Amendments. 32
The name of this organization, as
incorporated under the laws of the State of South Carolina, shall be the Blythewood
Baptist Church
of Blythewood, South Carolina. Its meeting place shall be at 101 Bass Road in Blythewood.
This church is autonomous in its
government, having no organizational or ecclesiastical relationship to other
bodies. However, it recognizes the
obligation of mutual counsel and fellowship with all other churches of like
faith and practice.
1. The purpose of this church is TO GLORIFY
GOD. Individually this involves every
thought, word, and deed.
a. What we are is reflective of what we
think. The Lord Jesus Christ said, “Out
of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh,” and Solomon said, “for as a
man thinketh in his heart, so is he.”
b. What we say is our witness unto the Lord
Jesus Christ. “Ye shall be witnesses
unto me.”
c. What we do reflects His workmanship. “For we
are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath
before ordained that we should walk in them.”
2. The purpose and ministry of this local church
is the salvation of lost souls, the edification of Christians through the
teaching of God’s Word, the administration of the ordinances of the New
Testament, the encouragement of members to do the work of the ministry, the
worldwide proclamation of God’s saving grace through the shed blood and
finished work of the Lord Jesus Christ on Calvary, the promotion of Godly
worship, the defense of the faith once delivered unto the saints (Jude 3), and
cooperation with Christian activities functioning in harmony with God’s Holy
Word, until Jesus comes for His church.
3. The purpose of this local church is to corporately
function as the Body of Christ in the local community and to glorify God by our
testimony, both verbal and active. This
involves three relationships: to God, among ourselves, and to the world. Ten specific activities are listed in
fulfilling this purpose:
a. The promotion of godly worship, both
individually and corporately,
b. Teaching God's Word; for edification unto
maturity,
c. To administer the ordinances of Baptism and
Communion,
d. To equip the saints for the work of the ministry,
e. To encourage fellowship among believers;
specifically in prayer and communion,
f. To discipline church members when necessary;
in order to maintain unity,
g. To promote the worldwide proclamation of the
Gospel,
h. To minister to both believers and
unbelievers,
i. To promote the education of children and
adults based upon the principles of God's Word,
j. To contend for the faith once delivered unto
the saints and to be set for the defense of the gospel (Philippians
1:17; Jude 3).
4. Blythewood Baptist Church shall engage in
activities and conduct ministries which may include, but are not limited to,
worship services, evangelistic meetings, prayer meetings, Sunday school, youth
activities, radio and television programs, day school, bus ministry, missionary
activities, nursing home ministry, jail ministry, Bible institute, Bible
college and/or seminary, camps, sister churches, and other means of promoting
Christ.
Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God, to
receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour, and on profession of our faith,
having been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Ghost, we do now, in the presence of God, angels, and this assembly, most
solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another, as one body in
Christ.
We believe the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments
to be the Bible, “as it is in truth, the Word of God...” (I Thessalonians
2:13). We believe in verbal, plenary inspiration in the original writings, and
God's preservation of His pure words to every generation (II Timothy 3:16,
Psalms 12:6-8). The Masoretic Text of the Old Testament and the Received Text
of the New Testament (Textus Receptus) are those texts of the original
languages we accept and use; the King James Version of the Bible is the English
translation we use and believe to be a completely accurate. The Bible is our sole authority for faith and
practice.
We believe in one triune God,
eternally existing in three persons -- -- Father, Son, and Holy Spirit -- --
co-eternal in being, co-identical in nature, co-equal in power and glory, and
having the same attributes and perfection (Deuteronomy 6:4; II Corinthians
13:14).
We believe that
God the Father exists as the First Person of the Trinity, the Father of all
creation, the Father of the eternal Son, and the Father of all who believe unto
the salvation of their souls. His work
includes: all the decrees of God,
preservation of His creation, providence in guiding the affairs of His creation,
revelation of Himself, sending His Son to reveal His grace in redemption, all
the aspects of Fatherhood of the redeemed (Matthew 3:17; John 3:16-17; John
10:30, 20:21; Ephesians 1:3).
1. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ, the
eternal Son of God, became man, without ceasing to be God, having been
conceived by the Holy Spirit, and born of the Virgin Mary, God manifest in the
flesh, in order that He might reveal God, and redeem sinful men (1 Timothy
3:16; John 1:1-3, 14; Luke 1:35).
2. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ
accomplished our redemption through His death on the cross as a representative,
vicarious, substitutionary sacrifice by the shedding of His blood for the
remission of sins (see also Section 7 -- Salvation). We also believe that our justification was
verified by His literal, physical resurrection from the dead (Romans 3:24-25; I
Peter 1:3-5; Leviticus 17:11; Matthew 26:28; Hebrews 9:22).
3. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ
ascended into heaven, and that He is now exalted at the right hand of God;
where, as our High Priest, He fulfills the ministry of Representative,
Intercessor, and Advocate (Acts 1:9-10; Hebrews 9:24, 7:25; Romans 8:34-39; I
John 2:1-2).
4. We believe in the imminent coming of Jesus
Christ for the saints just prior to the beginning of the tribulation
period. We believe in the physical and
literal return of Jesus Christ after the seven years of tribulation and will
reign on earth as King of kings for one thousand years; and that he will judge
evil works of darkness at the end of that time.
(1 Corinthians 15:50-52; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Revelation 20:4-15)
1. We believe that the Holy Spirit is a person
who convicts the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment; and that He
is the supernatural agent in regeneration, indwelling, and sealing them unto
the day of redemption (John 14:16-17, 16:8-11; Romans 8:9; I Corinthians
12:12-14; II Corinthians 3:6; Ephesians 1:13-14, 4:30; Titus 3:5).
2. We believe that He is the Divine Teacher, who
guides believers into all truth; that He intercedes for believers according to
the will of God; and, that it is the privilege and duty of all the saved to be
filled with the Spirit (John 16:13; Romans 8:26; Ephesians 5:18; I John 2:20, 27).
3. We believe that He bestows spiritual gifts to
the members of the body of Christ for their mutual edification (Romans 12:6-8;
I Corinthians 12:1-21).
4. We believe He produces the fruit of the
Spirit in the life of the believer (Galatians 5:22-23).
1. We believe the Genesis account of creation is
neither allegory nor myth, but rather, a literal historical account of the
direct immediate creative acts of God without any evolutionary process; that
man (spirit, soul, and body) was created by a direct work of God (Genesis
1-2:25; John 1:3,10; Colossians 1:16, Hebrews 11:3).
2. We believe in a
literal six twenty-four hour day creation period and reject the notion that
creation took place over a long period of time.
To believe otherwise would violate the principles of literal
interpretation of Scripture and the doctrine of verbal, plenary inspiration by
shaping the scriptural record to harmonize with evolutionary theory.
3. The evolutionary
theory has so pervaded our society that those who hold to a literal six
twenty-four hour day creation are often regarded as being intellectually
simplistic, uninformed, and unscientific.
This attitude has in many cases resulted in organizations, churches, and
individuals attempting to maintain respectability through their accommodation
of evolutionary theories claiming that creation took place over a long period
of time. Such accommodation violates the
principles of literal interpretation of Scripture and the doctrine of a verbal,
plenary inspiration by shaping the scriptural record to harmonize with
evolutionary theory. This compromised
position could serve as the initial catalyst for doctrinal deviation and
further interpretational distortion.
4. Blythewood Baptist
Church does reaffirm our
belief that the proper method of interpretation is to take all Scripture in its
natural and literal sense.
We believe that man was created by
God in His image and likeness, being sinless and innocent, but through Adam's
disobedience, sin entered into the world, and death by sin. Therefore, the entire race fell away from
God; the image was marred, and man inherited a sinful nature and became
alienated from God. Man through choice
and an inherited evil nature is totally depraved, and if not saved after the
age of accountability will endure eternal punishment in the lake of fire
(Genesis 1:26-27, 2:7-3:24; 2 Samuel 12:33; Psalm 51:5; Matthew 18:10-14;
Romans 5:12, 6:23; 8:5-8; 1 Corinthians 15:45; Galatians 5:17; Revelation
20:14-15)
We believe that sin is the
transgression of the Law of God; we believe in the universality of sin; that it
separates man from God; that there is no remission of sin apart from the shed
blood of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and man’s repentance. (Luke 24:46-47;
Romans 3:10-26, 6:23, 7:23-24; 1 John 3:4).
We believe that Satan is a person,
the author of sin and the cause of the fall; that he is the open and declared
enemy of God and man; that he is presently the god of this world, the accuser
of the brethren, the prince of the power of the air, and that he shall be
eternally punished in the Lake of Fire (Job 1:6-7; Isaiah 14:12-17; Matthew
4:2-11, 25:41; Revelation 20:10).
We believe that salvation of
sinners is only of grace through faith, a free gift of God in the person of
Jesus Christ; that salvation is received individually by a repentance from sin
and a personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; that through the mediatorial
offices of the Son of God, who by the appointment of the Father freely took
upon Him our nature, yet without sin, He honored the divine law by His personal
obedience, and by the shedding of His blood and death made a full and vicarious
sacrifice for our sins, for He is the propitiation for our sins: and not for
ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. He is in every way an all-sufficient Saviour
(John 1:12; Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8-9; Hebrews 9:24-25, 10:19, 12:24; 1
Peter 1:18-19; 1 John 2:2; Revelation 1:5).
1. We believe that repentance and faith are
necessary for biblical salvation, therefore repentance and remission of sins
should be preached in His name among all nations, since Christ came not to call
the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
Repentance and faith are distinct operations of the Holy Spirit and
responses of the sinner being saved, yet are intimately connected and cannot
necessarily be separated in time.
“Repentance is not faith, and faith is not repentance. Repentance is denying (negative); faith is
affirming (positive). Repentance looks
within, faith looks above. Repentance
sees our misery, faith our Deliverer.
Repentance is hunger, faith is the open mouth, and Christ is the living
food.” Stewart (Luke
2:47; Acts 20:21, 26:20; 1 Thessalonians 1:9).
2. We believe that God is not willing that any
should perish, but that all should come to repentance. The call to repentance is universal and to be
preached to all nations. Therefore we do not believe that Christ died only for
the elect’s sake.
3. We believe that repentance is not a work of
salvation. It is not reforming, or doing
penance. Repentance is not merely
acknowledging sin or a confession, it is not merely turning from unbelief to
belief, and it is not simply changing our minds or automatically included in
believing. Repentance is not merely
sorrow or remorse. “Godly sorrow worketh
repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world
worketh death.” We recognize that there
is a godly true repentance and a worldly false repentance. The outward fruit or
evidence of genuine repentance is one's faith towards Jesus Christ. If there is
a change of heart and mind toward sin, this then is evidence of saving
faith. If there is no change of heart or
mind, there is no salvation (Matthew 9:13; Luke 24:46-47; Acts 26:20; 2 Peter
3:9; 2 Corinthians 7:10).
We believe that in order to
be saved, sinners must be born again. In the new birth, the one dead in
trespasses and in sins is made a partaker of His divine nature and receives
eternal life, the free gift of God.
Proper evidence of salvation appears in the holy fruit of repentance and
newness of life (John 3:33; 2 Peter 1:4; Ephesians 2:1; Romans 6:23; 2
Corinthians 5:19; Colossians 2:13; John 3:8).
We believe that justification is
the judicial act of God whereby He declares us to be righteous by faith in
Christ Jesus; that justification includes the pardon of sin and the imputation
of God’s righteousness; that it is bestowed, not by any work which we have
done, but solely through faith in the Redeemer’s blood sacrifice (Acts 13:3,9;
2 Corinthians 5:18-25; Romans 5:1, 8-9; Ephesians 1:7; Romans 8:11).
We believe that sanctification is
an act and a process whereby God sets apart all believers unto holiness. He then conforms them to the image of Christ,
completing the process of sanctification at the return of Christ for His saints
(Romans 8:29; Ephesians 1:3-4; 1 John 3:2).
1. We believe that all the redeemed, once saved,
are kept by God's power, and are thus secure in Christ forever. At the same time, we must be diligent to make
our calling and election sure. Scripture
gives no assurance to those who profess salvation yet whose lives are
characterized by continued sin.
2. We believe that it is the privilege of
believers to rejoice in the assurance of their salvation through the testimony of
God's Word; which, however, clearly forbids the use of Christian liberty as an
occasion to the flesh (John 6:37-40, 10:27-30; Romans 8:1, 38, 39, 13:13-14; I
Corinthians 1:4-8; Galatians 5:13; Titus 2:11-15; I Peter 1:5; 2 Peter 1:10; 1
John 3:7-10).
We believe that when Christ comes for the Church,
all believers will be changed in the “twinkling of an eye” and will become like
Christ at His appearing; that our mortal bodies will become immortal; that our
corruptible bodies will become incorruptible (1 Corinthians 15:51-54; 1 John
3:2).
We believe that the church exists in two aspects:
We believe that
the Church, which is the body and the espoused bride of Christ, is a spiritual
organism made up of all born again persons. We
believe that Christ gave Himself for the church, and that He is its only true
Head. (Ephesians 1:20-23; 3:3-11;
5:25-27; Colossians 1:18; I Corinthians 12:12-14; II Corinthians 11:2).
1. We believe that the establishment and
continuance of local churches are clearly taught and defined in the New
Testament Scriptures. We believe that
the church as an organization is an assembly of baptized believers, voluntarily
associated by covenant in the faith for fellowship, worship, and service; that
its mission is the spread of the gospel to all men, and to earnestly contend
for the faith.
2. We believe that its officers are pastors and
deacons whose qualifications, claims, and duties are clearly defined in the
Scriptures. We hold that the local
church has the absolute right of self-government, free from the interference of
any hierarchy of individuals or organizations; and that its only superintendent
is Christ through the Holy Spirit; that it is scriptural for true churches to
cooperate with each other in contending of the faith and for the furtherance of
the Gospel; and that each local church is the sole judge of the measure and
methods of its cooperation.
3. On all matters of membership, policy,
government, discipline and benevolence, the will of the local church is final.
(Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 14:27, 20:17, 28-32; 1 Corinthians 3:9-17, 16:19; 2
Corinthians 1:1; Galatians 1:2; I Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-11; Revelation
2:3).
4. We believe in the autonomy of the local
church, free of any external authority or control (Acts 13:1-4, 15:19-31,
20:28; Romans 16:1, 4; I Corinthians 3:9, 3:16, 5:4-7, 5:13; I Peter 5:1-4).
5. We believe the ordinances of water baptism
and the Lord's Supper are a scriptural means of testimony for the church in
this age (Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 2:41-42, 18:8; I Corinthians 11:23-26).
We believe that every saved person
possesses two natures, with provision made for victory of the new nature over
the old nature through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit; and that all
claims to the eradication of the old nature in this life are unscriptural
(Romans 6:13, 8:12-13; Galatians 5:16-25; Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:10; I
Peter 1:14-16; I John 3:5-9).
1. We believe that the Christian is commanded by
God, in the Scriptures, to separate themselves unto Christ and as much as
possible, from any participation in or endorsement of sin; from ecclesiastical
organizations and religious personalities that deny the faith or compromise its
message; from brethren that walk disorderly or who unrepentantly continue in
sin or engage in the compromise aforementioned.
2. We believe that all the saved should live in
such a manner as not to bring reproach upon their Saviour and Lord. God commands His people to separate from all
religious apostasy, all worldly and sinful pleasures, practices, and
associations, and to refrain from all immodest and immoderate appearances. Each member shall seek to live a holy life;
separating himself from and forsaking all that might weaken his personal
testimony, dishonor God, or cast discredit on God’s cause. (Romans 12:1-2; 14:13; 2 Corinthians 6:14-
7:1; Ephesians 2:8-10; 2 Timothy 3:1-5; 2 Thessalonians 3:11-12; 1 Peter
1:15-16; 1 John 2:15-17; 2 John 9-11; 1 Corinthians 6:10-20).
We believe that it is the
obligation of the redeemed to witness by life and by word to the truths of Holy
Scripture; and to seek to proclaim the Gospel to all mankind by financial
support, by prayer support, and by personal involvement (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark
16:15; Luke 24:46-49; John 20:21-23; Acts 1:8; II Corinthians 5:19-20).
1. We believe that there are gifts of the Spirit
given to each believer for ministry within the body of Christ, and for the
building up of the body. However, we
believe these gifts are to be exercised in balance with the fruit of the
Spirit, and that they are in fact ineffectual without the corresponding fruit
of the Spirit (Romans 12:6-8; I Corinthians 12:8-10, 13:1-13; Ephesians 4:11; I
Peter 4:10; Galatians 5:22-23).
2. We believe that certain of the gifts
mentioned in Scripture were sign gifts given to authenticate the ministry of
the apostles and were thereby temporary in nature (I Corinthians 1:22, 13:8-10,
14:22; Hebrews 2:2-4).
We believe that the Scriptures,
interpreted in their natural, literal sense, reveal divinely determined
dispensations or rules of life that define man's responsibilities in successive
ages. These dispensations are not ways
of salvation, but rather divinely ordered stewardships by which God directs man
according to His purpose. Three of
these--the age of law, the age of the Church, and the age of the millennial
kingdom--are the subjects of detailed revelation in Scripture (John 1:17; I
Corinthians 9:17; II Corinthians 3:9-18; Galatians 3:13-25; Ephesians 1:10,
2:7, 3:2).
We believe in that "Blessed
Hope," the personal, imminent, pre-tribulation, and pre-millennial coming
of the Lord Jesus Christ for His redeemed ones. We also believe in His
subsequent return to earth with His saints to establish His millennial kingdom
(I Thessalonians 4:13-18; Zechariah 14:4-11; Revelation 19:11-16; 20:1-6; I
Thessalonians 1:10, 5:9; Revelation 3:10).
1. We believe in the bodily resurrection of all
men; the saved to eternal life, and the unsaved to judgment and everlasting
punishment (Matthew 25:46; John 5:28-29, 11:25-26; Revelation 20:5-6, 12-13).
2. We believe that the souls of the redeemed are
at death absent from the body and present with the Lord, where in conscious
bliss they await the first resurrection, when spirit, soul, and body are
reunited to be glorified forever with the Lord (Luke 23:43; Revelation 20:4-6;
II Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:23, 3:21; I Thessalonians 4:16-17)
3. We believe that the souls of unbelievers
remain after death in conscious misery until the second resurrection, when the
soul and body reunited shall appear at the Great White Throne Judgment, and
shall be cast into the Lake
of Fire; not to be
annihilated, as some teach, but to suffer everlasting.
We stand irrevocably opposed to the present day “Tongues
Movement,” believing it not to be of God.
We will not permit its teaching, either directly or by inference, in the
church, Sunday school, or any other meeting sponsored by this church (Acts
2:7-11; 1 Corinthians 13:8-10).
1. We believe that God has commanded that no
intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of a marriage between a man and
a woman. We believe that any form of
homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, bestiality, incest, fornication,
adultery, and pornography are sinful perversions of God’s gift of sex. We believe that God disapproves of and
forbids any attempt to alter one’s gender by surgery or appearance. (Genesis 2:24; 19:5,13; Leviticus 18:1-30;
Romans 1:26-29; 1 Corinthians 5:1; 6:9; 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8; Hebrews 13:4). While we view pre-marital sex, extra-marital sex, and
homosexuality as sin, we do view those engaged in such practices as objects of
the grace of God to be reached and won to the Lord Jesus Christ, the great
Saviour of sinners.
2. We believe that the only legitimate marriage
is the joining of one man and one woman.
(Genesis 2:24; Romans 7:2; 1 Corinthians 7:10; Ephesians 5:22-23).
3. We believe that men and women are spiritually
equal in position before God but that God has ordained distinct and separate
spiritual functions for men and women in the home and the church. The husband is to be the leader of the home
and men are to be the leaders (pastors and deacons) of the church. Accordingly, only men are eligible for
licensure and ordination by the church (Galatians 3:28; Colossians 3:18; 1
Timothy 2:8-15; 3:4-5,12).
1. We believe that that God has ordained the
family as the foundational institution of human society. The husband is to love his wife as Christ
loves the church. The wife is to submit
herself to the scriptural leadership of her husband as the church submits to
the leadership of Christ. Children are a
heritage from the Lord (1 Timothy 3:4,5).
2. We believe parents are responsible for
teaching their children spiritual and moral values and leading them through
consistent lifestyle example and appropriate discipline, including scriptural
corporal correction (Genesis 1:26-28; Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Psalm
127:3-5; Proverbs 19:18; 22:15; 23:13-14; Mark 10:6-12; 1 Corinthians 7:1-16;
Ephesians 5:21-33; 6:1-4; Colossians 3:18-21; Hebrews 13:4; 1 Peter 3:1-7).
We believe that God hates divorce and intends marriage to
last until one of the spouses dies.
Although divorced and remarried persons or divorced persons may hold
positions of service in the church and be greatly used of God for Christian
service, they may not be considered for the offices of pastor or deacon
(Malachi 2:14-17; Matthew 19:3-12; Romans 7:1-3; 1 Timothy 3:2, 12; Titus 1:6).
We believe that human life begins at conception and that the
unborn child is a living human being.
Abortion constitutes the unjustified, inexcusable taking of a human
life. Abortion is murder. We reject any teaching that abortion of
pregnancies due to rape, incest, birth defects, gender selection, birth or
population control, or the mental well-being of the mother are acceptable (Job
3:16; Psalm 51:5; 139:14-16; Isaiah 44:24; 49:1, 5; Jeremiah 1:5; 20:15-18;
Luke 1:44).
1. We believe that
since the age in which we live is one in where society's attitudes toward women
are in a state of change, this has created a growing uncertainty and
misunderstanding regarding the ministry of women in the local church; and their
role in God’s divine order. Secular and
Evangelical Feminism and other similar movements have erred in their efforts to
redefine the role of women in the church and, in fact, have succeeded in
leading many away from the biblical teaching regarding the distinction between
the roles of men and women.
2. We believe that
God has given women significant ministries, roles and involvement in the local
church. We also recognize the God-given
resource they are to the church and show a proper respect and appreciation for
their sacrifice and service in the common faith.
3. We believe that
the Holy Spirit gives spiritual gifts to men and women of God (1 Cor. 12:7-11),
and the Scripture teaches that men and women are to use those spiritual gifts
in ministry which is edifying to the body of Christ. As such, their ministry is crucial to the
effective functioning and growth of the local church (1 Peter 4:10; 1 Cor.
12:12-26).
4. We believe that
according to the scriptures, God does not provide for a woman to serve in the
office of pastor or deacon (or any office of equivalent authority). Nor are women to teach men in the
congregation or other public Bible or church study functions (1 Tim. 2:11,12; 1
Cor. 14:34; Eph. 5:24). This prohibition
is not by reason of some inferiority, but by reason of God's ordained order
pertaining to leadership in the church (1 Tim. 2:11-14; 3:2,12; Gal.
3:28).
5. We believe that
this is consistent with the woman’s role, both in the church and at home. The wife is to be in subjection to her own
husband (Eph. 5:23-26; 1 Cor. 11:3).
We believe that God has ordained and created all authority
consisting of three basic institutions: 1) the home; 2) the church; and 3) the
state. Every person is subject to these
authorities, but all (including the authorities themselves) are answerable to
God and governed by His Word. God has
given each institution specific biblical responsibilities and balanced those
responsibilities with the understanding that no institution has the right to
infringe upon the other. The home, the
church, and the state are equal and sovereign in their respective biblically
assigned spheres of responsibility under God (Romans 13:1-7; Ephesians 5:22-24;
Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 2:13-14).
1. Worship has been defined as "reverent
devotion and allegiance pledged to God." It usually is extended to include
the rites or ceremonies by which our devotion and allegiance are expressed. Our
English word worship is basically the same word as worth. Worship is really
"worth-ship" and denotes that God is worthy of receiving the praise
and honor we bring to Him. The Bible
makes it clear that the worship of God must be in Spirit and in truth (Jn.
4:24, Phil. 3:3). We believe that God
must be worshipped in an attitude of holiness.
"Give unto the Lord, O ye
mighty, give unto the Lord glory and strength. Give unto the Lord the glory due
unto his name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness." (Psalm
29:1-2) This worship is to be spiritual
and sincere (John 4:24). It is not to
degenerate into a mere mechanical, ritualistic, or liturgical form (Matt.
15:8).
2. We do not believe that so-called contemporary
services, using Rock’n Roll music or dance music glorifies God. Church worship is not traditional or
contemporary; it is either biblical or false.
The church will not be divided by two standards of music. The admonition of Blythewood Baptist
Church is that we are to prove all things and hold fast that which is
good (1 Thess. 5:21). At no time
will any services of this church, Sunday school, youth group or other church
related functions use music that is not in keeping with the standards described
in this article.
Any person is eligible to become a
member of Blythewood Baptist
Church
who has by faith received the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Savior.
1. Upon presenting himself for membership to the
Pastor, the candidate for membership must satisfy the inquiry of the Pastor as
to his salvation experience by giving personal testimony of salvation. The candidate will have an opportunity to ask
any questions concerning the church constitution, policies and order, to their
satisfaction. The candidate may also be
asked to give a satisfactory account as to their present walk with the Lord and
doctrine (see also Article V -- Doctrinal Statement).
2. Upon satisfactory completion of this
interview with the Pastor and provided the candidate subscribes to the
Constitution along with the Covenant and Declaration of Faith, the candidate is
then presented to any regular assembly of the church to be received into
membership. This is an excellent time for the congregation to hear the
candidate's testimony, which public testimony is considered optional--not
mandatory.
3. Should the candidate for membership not yet
have been baptized by immersion subsequent to his experience of salvation, he
shall be required to do so at the next baptismal service of the church; such
baptismal service being made available not less than quarterly.
4. A letter of recommendation will be requested
from the previous church (if being of like faith and order), for those
transferring membership.
5. Associate members will be received based on
two additional considerations. First,
they must be in fellowship with their home church; and, second, the associate
membership is of a temporary nature.
This temporary nature restricts the ability to hold office. However, missionaries and former pastors may
serve in an advisory capacity to the Pastor as he deems necessary.
6.
Children are assumed to be a part of Blythewood Baptist Church
under the enrollment of their parent(s)’ or guardian’s membership. Children are encouraged to participate in all
spiritual life, activities, functions and ministries of the church as
appropriate. However, children are not
eligible to vote in church matters until they become 18 years of age. At that time, as a young adult, they must
make a request to the pastor for their individual membership as an adult. Membership is granted provided the individual
does meet all existing membership requirements.
As members, they are then eligible to vote in church business matters.
The member and the church have
entered into a mutual commitment to each other.
The member, in requesting membership and proceeding with the interview
and full acceptance into membership by the church, implies a commitment on his
part to the church body. The church, by
receiving the individual into membership, implies a certain commitment to that
member.
1. Each member is understood to have entered
into a covenant relationship with the other members of the church for the
purpose of mutual edification. Realizing
that the accomplishment of the Christian goals for life requires a high level
of commitment and involvement from each one, each member is expected to pursue
those goals for themselves and for the church in general. To accomplish the spiritual growth and
desired maturity, commitments include:
a. Regular attendance at and participation in
the services and activities of the church (Hebrews 10:24-25).
b. Regular financial support, as he is able, and
as God has prospered, through his offerings to the church and to the support of
missions (I Corinthians 16:2; II Corinthians 8-9; Galatians 6:6-10).
c. Contributing the use of his spiritual gifts
and abilities as he has opportunity (Romans 12:6-8; I Corinthians 12; Ephesians
4:11-12; I Peter 4:10).
d.
Living a life that is characterized by godliness (Matthew 5:13-14; Philippians
2:14-16; Titus 2:11-12).
e.
Avoiding ungodliness and worldly lusts (Titus 2:11-12; I John 2:15-17).
2. In addition to the commitment each member
makes to the church, the church also makes a commitment to him for spiritual
guidance, edification, counsel, and fellowship. This commitment includes the
providing of instruction from the Word of God to supplement his own study of
the Word; to encourage, exhort, admonish, and even rebuke him when necessary to
accomplish the fulfillment of God's Word in his life; to share the life of the
Lord Jesus Christ together. In short, to
hurt when he hurts and to rejoice when he rejoices, to provide an opportunity
for developing his spiritual gifts and abilities in an atmosphere of acceptance
and love; and to minister to the needs of his family as much as is possible.
3. We realize that perfection is a goal. It is
not an accomplished reality. Therefore, we agree to be accepting of each other
at whatever stage of maturity we may be. The member is not expected to have
reached perfection, and he must not expect that the church will be perfect.
However, both the member and the church must evidence a positive attitude
toward the things of the Lord and the active seeking of spiritual growth and
fellowship in general.
1. Any member who personally wishes to withdraw
from the fellowship of the church (No letter is granted).
2. Any member moving from this location to
another and desiring to terminate his membership in this local fellowship for
the purpose of uniting with another fellowship of believers of like precious
faith may do so by notifying the church either in person or by letter. If a letter of commendation to the new
fellowship is desired, it may be given based upon that member's present
standing in the church.
Any member who unites with another
church to which a letter of recommendation could not be granted for reasons of
unlike faith or practice will be dismissed.
By Exclusion
1. Any member who fails to participate in the
activities of the church without communicating a valid reason for his absence
will, after six months, be automatically removed from membership and a letter
of such action will be sent to his last known address. Upon good cause being shown to the pastor,
this provision for removal may be waived in the case of any individual member
at the discretion of the pastor.
2. Any member, including pastor and staff
members, who becomes an offense to the church and to its good name by reason of
immorality, non-Christian conduct, or by persistent breach of covenant vows,
may be dismissed from the membership of this church after proper church
discipline has been observed.
3. A member may be removed from membership by
action of the church. When all other attempts to restore fellowship with a
member have failed, the only course of action left may be dismissal from
membership. This process is discussed more fully in the article on church
discipline (See Article VII below).
Section 4 –
Inactive Members
1. Any member who habitually absents himself
from the services of this church for a period of three consecutive months,
without notifying the pastor or deacons of just cause, shall be placed on the
inactive membership list.
2. Inactive members, desiring to be reinstated
on the active membership roll may do so by attending services on at least four
consecutive Sundays. At this time,
voting rights will be reestablished.
Church discipline seems to have a negative aspect in the
minds of many. This is something that we
would like to correct from the outset of this article. Our view of church
discipline and the teaching of Scripture are that church discipline is a good
thing. It is the means of restoring a believer to fellowship and growth from
the place of sin and rebellion.
If he is out of fellowship with God and the church through
his sin, he is already on a downward course from which he needs to be rescued.
Love and concern for his welfare require that we seek to accomplish just that,
his restoration to fellowship.
Various cases requiring discipline are mentioned in the Word
of God. Some of these are:
1.
Disputes between brethren (Matthew 18:l5-l7, 5:23-24).
2.
The believer who sins (1 Timothy 1:l9-20; II Corinthians 13:2; I
Corinthians 5:4,5,11; II Corinthians 2:6-11).
3. Teachers of false doctrine (II John 10-11; II
Corinthians 13:2; Romans 16:17; Galatians 5:10-12; II Thessalonians 3:6; I
Timothy 6:3-5; Titus 1:10-11,13; Titus 3:10)
4.
One who is rebellious (II Thessalonians 3:6,14,15; I Timothy 6:l-6).
5.
The weak brother (Romans 14:1-23, 15:1; Galatians 6:l).
6.
The pastor that commits grievous sins (I Timothy 5:l9-20).
7.
The believer’s lack of separation from worldliness (II Corinthians
6:14-l5; I Corinthians 7:39).
1. In every case, it is the congregation's
responsibility to enforce church discipline. However, the responsibility falls
upon those in leadership--specifically the pastor and deacons--to initiate the
required action.
2. The extremes are generally observed in the
exercise of church discipline. The first is a laxness in enforcing
discipline--specifically in excluding false teaching and practice--which
laxness results in corruption in the church. The second is harshness in
enforcing discipline--specifically in the area of lack of knowledge on the part
of the member--which practice results in division within the body. Both of
these extremes need to be avoided.
A member who falls into sin, or who teaches false doctrine,
must be dealt with according to the principles and procedures given in Matthew
5:23-24, 18:15-20; I Corinthians 5:l-6, 11,13; I Timothy 1:20, 5:19-20; Titus
3:10.
1. The situations exist in which a member is
required to initiate the action to accomplish the reconciliation or repentance
of a sinning brother.
a. The first is knowledge of a problem that
exists between that brother and himself (Matthew 5:23-24).
b. The second is knowledge of a brother's
sinning when that sin was not specifically against the one observing or having
knowledge of the sin (Galatians 6:1).
2. Two private attempts at reconciliation and
repentance must be made before bringing the matter to the church (Matthew
18:15-16).
a. The first attempt is a personal and private
effort to effect a solution to the problem.
b. The second attempt is required when the first
fails. This involves taking one or two others with you on a second attempt to
restore the sinning member to fellowship.
3. When the second attempt fails,
the matter must then be brought to the church (Matthew 18:l7).
a. It would however, be inappropriate to make a
public announcement of the matter to the congregation at this time.
b. The matter is first brought to the church by
informing the pastor and deacons of the problem, since they represent the
church in their position of leadership.
c. The pastor then properly confronts the
individual(s) (admonish, Romans 15:l4) with the fact of his sin, the fact of
the attempts to accomplish a reconciliation, and the fact of impending
disciplinary action by the church (Matthew 18:17).
d. The pastor and deacon(s) speak to him for the
church. "But if he fails to hear the church" implies an attempt by
the church as the third effort toward restoration.
4. If he fails to hear the church, he must then
be treated as if he were an unsaved individual -- "let him be unto thee as
a heathen man and a publican" (Matthew 18:l7).
a. A decision
for disciplinary action may be initiated only within the committee of the
pastor and deacons. A public
recommendation to consider termination of membership shall be made only by the
pastor and deacons.
b. When every effort has failed to restore such
a member, the pastor and deacons shall, by majority vote, recommend to the
congregation disciplinary discharge from the membership of the church.
c. The member in question shall then be notified
by letter, forwarded by the chairman of the deacons and the pastor, as to the
nature of the offenses and outlining the steps of restoration that were
made. This letter is not to be
circulated publicly and any copies are to be kept as confidential records and
stored in a secured location.
5. A letter of recommendation from the committee
shall be presented to the church membership, being read to the assembled
membership of the church, stating the facts and nature of the discipline,
action taken and recommendations.
a. Members of the church shall be notified at
least one week in advance of the actual meeting to recommend disciplinary
discharge. The letter shall not include
any more information than that which is necessary to indicate clearly
sufficient grounds for disciplinary discharge.
Copies of this letter are not to be circulated but kept as confidential
and stored in a secured location.
b. Only voting members will be present during
the church meeting, and a majority vote of eligible voting members present and
voting shall be required for passage of the recommendation.
6. The discipline of the church then is not
optional. The individual thus refusing repentance and reconciliation must be:
a. Regarded by everyone as a "heathen"
and a "publican" (Matthew 18:17).
b. He must be denied fellowship in any form --
"with such an one no not to eat" (I Corinthians 5:11).
c. His exclusion goes beyond that of an unsaved
individual in that he once participated and now is excluded. Therefore, no
member may associate himself with the excluded member (I Corinthians 5:9-l3).
7. During the various steps of this procedure,
agreement in prayer must be sought prior to any action. The context of Matthew
18:l5-20 includes the statement of "if two of you shall agree on earth as
touching anything that they shall ask...." Therefore, a consensus in
prayer is essential to the accomplishment of these actions.
8. The person discharged for disciplinary
reasons shall be regarded lovingly by the church. The church shall endeavor by prayer and
invitation to win him back into fellowship with Christ, hoping constantly for
restoration with the church.
Upon confession to God of personal offenses and having given
satisfactory evidence of repentance, those who have been excluded from the
membership of the church may have their membership restored by a majority vote
at a regular service of the church, following recommendation by the pastor and
deacons.
1. The congregation functions not as a pure
democracy, but as a body under the headship of the Lord Jesus Christ and the
direction of the pastor as the undershepherd with the counsel of the
deacons. Determination of the internal
affairs of this church are ecclesiastical matters and shall be determined
exclusively by the church’s own rules and procedures. The pastor shall oversee and/or conduct all
aspects of this church. The deacons
shall give counsel and assistance to the pastor as requested by him.
2. By action of the church in electing its
officers, the immediate direction of spiritual and temporal affairs of the
church shall be committed to said officers during the term of office as further
provided elsewhere in this constitution.
3. This church, as a corporation, shall be
non-profit, and an exclusively religious corporation. It shall not as a church 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.
1. The Lord Jesus Christ is the Head of the
Church. Therefore, He is the one to direct its activities. But while He is the
Chief Shepherd, there are under shepherds who are charged with the
responsibility of "feeding" and "tending" His
"sheep", even as He instructed Peter in John 21.
2. Shortly following Pentecost, it became
necessary to appoint others to a specific ministry of service. The Apostles,
who were the elders in Jerusalem,
would have been required to leave their ministry of prayer and the Word in
order to deal with the problem. Instead they appointed others who could take
care of that need. These later came to be known as Deacons. (Acts 6:l-6).
3. Later as Paul went about establishing
churches in every place, he ordained elders (pastors) in every church, and he
wrote to Timothy and Titus about ordaining elders to oversee the work of the
ministry (Acts 14:23; I Timothy 3:l; Titus 1:5).
4. So we conclude that under the headship of the
Lord Jesus Christ, there are two specific offices and leaders in the local
church: The pastor is also called the overseer, elder, or bishop (See Section
1, Work of the Pastor). There is also
the server or servant, who is called the deacon.
5. In Article IX, these two church leaders in
respect to the office, the person, and the work will be reviewed and explained.
There are many Scriptures that pertain to the pastor in
reference to his qualifications and responsibilities, both as an elder and as
the under shepherd. Here we list a few key ones; John 21:15-l7; Acts 20:l7-32;
Ephesians 4:7-15; I Timothy 3:l-7, 14-l5; Titus 1:5-9; and I Peter 5:l-4.
1. The pastor shall be a male called of God to
preach and meet the scriptural demands and requirements set forth in 1 Timothy
3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-11. He must believe
and unqualifiedly adhere to the Word of God, the Constitution/By-laws, Articles
of Faith, spiritual and moral standards as set forth in this document, and be
uncompromising in the preaching, declaring “all the counsel of God.”
2. There is no higher calling on the face of the
earth than to the place of under shepherd of the Lord Jesus Christ. Someone has
said of pastoring, “If God calls you into the ministry, don't stoop to be
President of the United
States.”
Paul said, "Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of
double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine" (II
Timothy 5:17). While this refers specifically to financial remuneration, the
aspect of honor is inherent.
a. The author of Hebrews says. "Remember
them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the Word of God:
whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation (way of life)"
(Hebrews 13:7).
b. Again in Hebrews, "Obey them that have
the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as
they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief:
for that is unprofitable for you" (Hebrews 13:l7).
c. It is clear that the office of pastor is one
of honor and prestige as well as authority and responsibility. It is not a
position of honor that a person assumes unto himself, but rather honor which
comes to him as a result of making himself a servant of all (Mark 10:43-45).
The following procedures are
established as to appointment, term of office, and termination of the pastor.
1. When the church finds itself in the position
of having to call a pastor, the functions of a pulpit committee will be
performed by the active deacon board without forming a separate committee for
that purpose. The Chairman of the
deacons will have the oversight of the pulpit committee. Should there be less than three active deacons
in the church at the time, inactive deacons may be temporarily instated to
assist in the task. Furthermore, the
pulpit committee will select, by consensus, two other spiritually minded men,
in good standing and faithful members of the church (for at least one year), to
sit on the pulpit committee. Once a
pastor has been selected, the pulpit committee will be terminated.
2. Locating the candidate. Procedures for selecting an interim pastor or
pulpit supply, refer to section; “Interim and Pulpit Supply” below. The pulpit committee will avail themselves of
whatever means or sources of information they deem suitable to learn of the
availability of, and to make contact with any potential candidate.
3. When an interest is expressed by an
individual, whom the initial information indicates may be qualified to meet the
church’s needs and desires, the chairman of the deacon board will require of
him:
a. A written
doctrinal statement
b. A resume of
education, experience, and other information pertinent to his qualification
c. A
recommendation from other pastors, school officials, teachers, or churches
previously served, etc.
4. Upon receiving the written information, the
pulpit committee will make the determination to either extend to him an
invitation for a personal interview with the committee; or to not pursue his
candidacy further, in which case he must be notified promptly that he is no
longer being considered.
5. If there is complete agreement among the
members of the committee to continue the interview process with the candidate,
a future meeting will be arranged with the candidate. Careful examination by the committee will be
made of his person, doctrine, family, ministry, performance, and if being in
full agreement with the church's doctrinal position and philosophy of ministry
outlined in this constitution, the committee must come to a consensus before
proceeding.
6. The committee must be in agreement to extend
an invitation to the candidate and to give him an opportunity to preach at a regular
morning and evening service.
7. The pulpit committee shall inform the
congregation of his credentials prior to his appearing. The candidate should be informed by the
committee concerning the proposed call, responsibilities, tenure, financial
stipulations, and all facets of the church’s ministry, prior to visiting.
8. When sufficient opportunity to get to know
the candidate has occurred, and the candidate has preached during a scheduled
morning and evening service, a vote will be scheduled and announced.
9. Upon proper announcement by the committee,
the membership shall vote by ballot the following Wednesday or Sunday on his
being called to the pastorate. A meeting
will be called after the regular scheduled services for this explicit
purpose. He shall be elected by a
three-fourths (3/4) majority of those eligible voting members present and
voting, provided there is a quorum. A
quorum for this purpose shall consist of a simple majority of the eligible voting
membership.
10. At no time will more than one person be
considered at a time. Each individual
must be considered on his own merits without being compared to someone else.
This will avoid being involved in voting on attractive personalities as in a "beauty
contest." The decision must be based on the conviction that this is God's
man for us. If that conviction is absent, then the church does not yet have a
pastor.
11. The candidate must be assured of the Lord’s
leading, as well as the church’s approval, before accepting and assuming the position.
12. Once a pastor
has been chosen, the position of interim pastor will be terminated. The pulpit committee will be terminated. The new pastor will chair the deacon board as
outlined by the constitution and assume all the responsibilities of the pastor.
Interim and Pulpit Supply
Any time a church is without a
pastor, it is important that the spiritual needs and ministries of the church
are not unduly interrupted, or that spiritual leadership, organization and
harmony are not compromised. Too often,
in these circumstances, churches suffer because procedures are not clear for
selecting a new pastor in an orderly and godly manner. The following order is to be followed during
the vacancy of the office of the pastor.
1. Upon the vacancy of the office of the pastor,
and if there is no associate pastor, the Chairman of the deacon board will form
a pulpit committee as stated above “Procedures for Appointment.” He will be responsible for moderating the
deacons’ meeting and conducting the church business meetings and vote, in
accordance to this constitution.
2. If there is an associate pastor, he will
serve in the office of the senior pastor and chair the deacon board meetings,
and organize the pulpit committee for the purpose of finding a pastor. If the associate pastor believes he is called
to be the senior pastor, the board of deacons will give first consideration to
his appointment. However, it will
require a vote of the church members as outlined above.
3. The board of deacons will be responsible for
selecting an interim pastor in the event there is no associate pastor. The deacon board will be responsible for the
pulpit supply in the event an interim pastor is not necessary. They will be responsible for scheduling all
pulpit speakers for the appointed times of services until the office of the
pastor has been filled. In the event an
interim pastor is required, the board of deacons will be responsible to approve
and appoint an interim pastor until such time when the church has selected a new
pastor.
4. If an interim pastor is deemed necessary, he
must meet the requirements and qualifications of a pastor. As interim, he must agree not to seek the
office of the pastorate, nor advise, or chair the deacon board meetings, or in
any way (as a non-church member) influence the process as the church seeks for
a pastor.
5. The interim pastor may not have any policy
changing powers, or participate in the church business affairs, or vote, unless
he is an active member of Blythewood
Baptist Church. The Chairman of the deacon board will conduct
the business meetings of the church as moderator until a pastor has been
selected.
6. If at some point the interim pastor believes
he is called to candidate for the position of pastor, he will relinquish his
position as interim. He will be given
consideration under the same procedures as outlined above (Procedures of
Appointment).
7. The interim pastor or pulpit supply will
receive financial remuneration as agreed upon prior to serving in that capacity. This amount will be determined and agreed
upon by the board of deacons and by the approval of the church via a vote of
the active members. The board of deacons
should consider the financial needs of the interim pastor, the time and
required duties, the church budget, etc.
Guest speakers and other pulpit supply will be governed by church
policies specifying the amounts to be paid to guest speakers. Other compensations may be required, i.e.,
travel expenses, lodging and meals.
8. Once a pastor has been chosen, the position
of interim pastor will be terminated.
The duties of the pulpit committee will be terminated and the new pastor
will assume his office and chair the board of deacons as outlined by the constitution. He will assume all the responsibilities of
the pastor.
The relationship between the church
and the pastor may be terminated by either party. The following procedures are
for the benefit and protection of both.
1. Should the pastor desire to terminate the
relationship, one month's notice of such intent is considered sufficient
notification. The thirty-day notice may
be dispensed with by mutual consent of the pastor and the deacons.
2. Should the church desire to terminate the
relationship without adverse reflection upon the pastor as a minister of the
gospel, one month's notice must be given.
In addition, upon termination an additional month's salary will be due
him for the purpose of helping him to relocate.
3. Termination by church vote will require a
three-fourths majority vote of eligible voting members present and voting in a
special meeting called for that purpose, announced one week in advance, and
provided there is a quorum present. A
quorum for this purpose shall consist of a simple majority of the eligible voting
membership.
4. Should it become necessary to terminate the
relationship under adverse circumstances, the deacons will be at liberty at all
times to recommend to the church the dismissal of the pastor when circumstances
justifying this type of termination.
These may include: teaching of false doctrine, immorality and unrepented
sin, severe personality conflicts that are adversely affecting the church,
violation of his Church Covenant obligations, departure from the Declaration of
Faith, Constitution/By-Laws, or if he no longer agrees with the uncompromising
stand of the church, etc. In all such
situations there must have been first the attempt to resolve the problem (see
Article VII Church Discipline), and failing in that attempt, there must be complete
agreement among the board of deacons that this course of action is necessary.
Salary
The pastor’s salary and allowance
shall be fixed prior to the time of election and will be reviewed annually by
the Board of Deacons. The amount of
salary may be changed at any regular business meeting of the church provided
that the usual public notice of two weeks has been given previously. The amount shall be recorded by the church
treasurer.
Leave
The pastor shall be entitled to an
annual vacation for two (2) weeks after one year; for three (3) weeks after
three years of service; and four (4) weeks after five years of service. The pastor shall keep the deacons informed
concerning his absence from regular services.
Consideration shall be given to him for missionary trips and attendance
at conferences, which benefit him and the church. As funds are available, the church shall
assist in paying for expenses.
1.
The pastor must desire that office.
2.
Having the desire he must then meet specific qualifications.
a. On the negative side, he must not be
self-willed, unruly, a brawler, a striker, given to wine, rebellious, covetous,
or fond of sordid gain.
b. On the positive side, he must be a lover of
good, above reproach, self-controlled, of good behavior, patient, sober, and
vigilant.
3. He must have very high standards in his
relationships, to his family as well as to others, being the husband of one
wife, having children who believe and who are well disciplined, managing his
own house well, being hospitable, and enjoying a good reputation among those
who are not believers.
4. In his personal devotions, experience, and
abilities, he must be righteous, holy, faithful to the Word, able to teach, and
not be a novice.
1. The term pastor, elder, and bishop describe
the same office in the assembly, but referring to three different aspects of
his work, duties, and responsibilities as church leader. The terms are used to refer to the same
office (Titus 1:5,7; Acts 20: 17, 28; 1 Peter 5:2). The work of pastor falls into these three
major categories: that of pastor, as the shepherd of the flock; as elder, as to
the pastor’s maturity and spiritual example; and then as Bishop, referring to
the pastor’s authority to oversee the flock of God. This is not an attempt to
list the tasks performed by the Pastor, but rather to show the broad range of
responsibilities that are inherent upon his office.
As under shepherd the work may
logically be divided into three categories: feeding the flock of God, tending
the flock of God, and equipping the saints (John 21:15-l7; Ephesians 4:11-12).
1. Feeding the Flock of God: The pastor, as an under shepherd, is
responsible to Jesus Christ, and he 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. Preaching and teaching the
Word of God is of paramount importance.
Two specific concerns are evidenced in the Lord Jesus Christ's
commission to Peter in John 21:15-l7. The first is "feed My lambs"
that indicates a care for the newborn. His flock needs to be grounded in the
faith and taught how to feed on the Word for themselves, and other matters of
introducing them to their new life. The second concern is indicated by "feed
my sheep." Here the continuing nourishment of the mature believer is in
view.
2. Tending the Flock of God: The word POIMEN used by the Lord Jesus in
John 21:16 to indicate taking care of the flock is also used in various other
passages to show the under shepherd's responsibilities in regard to the flock:
(Matthew 2:6, 9:36, 25:32; Mark 6:34; Luke 2:8-20, 17:7; John 10:1-16, 21:16;
Acts 20:28; I Corinthians 9:17; Ephesians 4:11; Hebrews 13:20; I Peter 2:25,
5:2; Revelation 2:27, 7:17, 12:5, 19:15). In all of these, the all pervasive
picture is the responsibility in caring for sheep; whether feeding, leading,
bringing back the strays, taking care of wounds, protect the church from false
doctrine and teachings, etc. All of these things are inherent upon the pastor
in his responsibility for "tending" the flock of God.
3. Equipping the Saints: In Ephesians 4:11-12,
the pastor is listed as having the responsibility of equipping (the KJV word is
perfecting) the saints for the work of the ministry. The pastor equips, and by
example, he leads the saints to do the work of the ministry (1 Thessalonians
2). It is the word KATARTISMON, and is
the idea of equipping, mending, repairing, and getting ready for action. The
pastor's responsibility is to provide whatever is needed in preparing the
believer for his task of ministry. This involves many facets of ministering the
Word to the believer, helping to develop his specific gifts and abilities,
guiding him in the exercise of those abilities, etc.
As the pastor, he has the
responsibility for the spiritual oversight (management- supervision) of the
church. He is the overseer of all phases
of the church work (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:2).
He is at liberty to schedule special meetings such as Bible conferences,
revivals, missionary conferences, and special guest speakers as he is led of
the Lord. The pastor is the ex
officio member of every committee and organization of the church. This
responsibility includes fulfilling the Biblical aspects of supervision as well
as the principles outlined in this constitution. (Organizational information is
included in a separate article.).
1. The pastor is responsible to ensure that a
well-balanced ministry is occurring; taking steps to maintain an active
missions’ program, a vital evangelism outreach, and a dynamic fellowship among
the members. In short, to carry out the
teaching of the Word of God in daily practice, and to fulfill the broad
concepts of ministry outlined in this constitution.
2. The pastor is also responsible to train and
supervise those in leadership positions within the church, equipping them for
their specific tasks and supervising them in the accomplishment of those
tasks. The details are stated more fully
in the article on organization. The
pastor has the oversight of the flock, and in this relationship, he teaches
them by “an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in
spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12), and as to the way they are to
minister to those under their care.
The Responsibility of the Church to the Pastor
1. To esteem him highly in honor and love (1
Thessalonians 5:12-13. 1Timothy 5:17).
2. To obey his teaching and instruction
(Ephesians 4:11-12; Philippians 4:9; 2 Timothy 3:14).
3. To follow his example (Hebrews 13:7; 1 Peter
5:1-3).
4. To submit to his oversight (Hebrews 13:17).
5. Be careful about accepting or giving
accusations against him (1 Timothy 5:19).
5. To pray for him (Hebrews 13:18, 19; Ephesians
6:18, 19; Colossians 4:2, 3; 2 Thessalonians 3:1, 2).
6. To provide for his physical needs (1Timothy
5:17, 18 2 Corinthians 9:6-10).
The office, person, and work of associate pastor along with
qualifications and procedures for calling, terminating, etc., will be the same
as for the pastor. The associate pastor serves under the supervision of the
senior pastor as his assistant.
The word "deacon" is translated
"servant" and also translated "minister” into English
(Colossians 4:12; Romans 16:1; 1 Corinthians 3:5; 2 Corinthians 3:4, 6; 11:23;
Ephesians 3:7). The word
"deacon" is a transliteration of the Greek word. Therefore the actual
office or function of a deacon is service. Two primary passages of scripture
apply to the deacon (Acts 6:l-6; I Timothy 3:8-13).
Deacons shall be male and shall
meet the Scriptural qualifications of the office as set forth in 1Timothy
3:8-13. Divorced persons may not be
considered for the office of deacon.
They shall have been active members of the church for at least one
year. As spiritual leaders, they shall
be expected to adhere to the standards for spiritual leadership. Very little is
given in Scripture pertaining to the office of deacon. Practical guidelines for the appointment,
term of office, and dismissal of deacons are given in the following paragraphs.
Acts 6:l-6 gives a clearly defined
procedure or appointment of those who were to relieve the Apostles of a
secondary task in order that they (the Apostles) would be able to give
themselves fully to the ministry of the Word and prayer.
1.
The selection involved "the multitude of the disciples."
2.
They were to look among themselves for men to "appoint over this
business."
3.
They were to be:
a. Men of honest report
b. Full of the Holy Ghost
c. Full of wisdom
4. Seven were appointed, however, the number
seems to have been the perfect number according to need. A smaller congregation may not need seven and
a larger one may need more.
5. They were appointed for a specific ministry
-- "this business" (Acts 6:3). The implication is that a deacon is
appointed for a specific ministry, and when that ministry has been completed,
his office as deacon is also completed.
6. When a need for a deacon exists, the board of
deacons and pastor shall prepare a list of those active members of the church
that meet the qualifications, and who have expressed a desire to serve in that
capacity. The list of recommended candidates shall be voted on by the members
of Blythewood Baptist Church. Only those meeting the approval of the board
will be recommended to the congregation for a vote.
7. Upon proper announcement by the board, the
membership shall vote by ballot the following Wednesday or Sunday to determine
those being called to serve as deacons.
This meeting shall be called after the regular scheduled services for
this explicit purpose. Each deacon shall
be elected by a three-fourths (3/4) majority of those eligible voting members
present and voting, provided there is a quorum.
A quorum for this purpose shall consist of a simple majority of the
eligible voting membership.
8. After concluding the results of the vote,
the pastor will confirm and make a recommendation by appointing the individual
to the office of deacon.
9.
The installation of new deacons will be by a dedication service
following their election
1. The term of office for the regular deacon
will be three years, with the terms expiring on alternate years to allow for
continuity on the board. This term of
office will apply to all the regular services required of deacons.
2. Deacons may be re-elected after being out of
office one year. The pastor, at his
discretion and in individual circumstances, may waive the requirements to be
inactive for the one year period.
3. The term of office for the special deacon
will be only for the duration of the specific task for which he is appointed.
4. The number of deacons shall be determined by
the needs of the church and available men scripturally qualified to serve. .
In addition to the expiration of
his term of office, the deacon may be dismissed under the same procedures as a
pastor that are outlined in Section 1 of this Article under “Procedures for
Termination.”
The Apostles in Acts 6:1-6
mentioned three qualifications for those appointed to care for the widows.
The Apostle Paul, in his letter to
Timothy, lists ten additional requirements.
a. Honest report
b. Full of the Holy Spirit
c. Full of wisdom
d. A man of dignity (KJV: grave)
e. Not double-tongued
f. Not given to much wine
g. Not fond of sordid gain (KJV: not greedy of
filthy lucre)
h. Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure
conscience
i. Having been proven
j. Being found blameless
k. Husband of one wife
l.. Ruling well his own children
m. Ruling well his own house
1. The primary biblical passage depicting the
work of deacons is Acts 6:1-6. Deacons are men who are selected to be in a
special position of servitude to the pastor and to the church, continually
watchful and helpful in any way necessary to free the pastor for his God-given
duties; such as, the ministry of the Word and prayer. Since there has developed a certain number of
required tasks within the local church, it is possible to indicate a few of
these to give us an understanding of the work of deacons.
a. Treasurer
b. Financial Secretary
c. Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds
d. Superintendent of Ushers
e. Benevolence
f. Social works
g. Trustees
h. Sunday School Superintendent
2. The deacons shall assist the pastor, in such
manner as he shall request, in promoting the spiritual welfare of the church,
in conducting the religious services, and in carrying on the work of the
church. They shall relieve the pastor of
many responsibilities so that he can better meet the needs of the church. They shall, in cooperation with the pastor,
disburse the benevolence fund. They
shall be vitally active in the soul winning ministries of the church and assist
in the ordinances of the church. They
shall provide the pulpit supply if the office of pastor is vacant. The chairman shall be elected at the first
meeting of the church year.
3. The deacons shall have general oversight of
the finances of the church and the distribution of church funds. They shall be responsible for setting all
church employee compensation packages and benefits. Prior to the annual business meeting, the
deacons and pastor shall be responsible to prepare a recommended budget for the
church, which shall be submitted at the annual meeting and considered for
adoption for the ensuing year. All
non-budget expenditures exceeding $250 must meet the approval of the
deacons. Non-budgeted expenditures
exceeding $1,000 must be presented to the membership for a vote.
4. Deacon meetings shall be required to convene
at a minimum on a quarterly basis, however, as the need changes and in order to
conduct the business of the church, meetings may be held on a monthly
basis. The pastor shall be the moderator
for all meetings. Special meetings may
be called by the pastor as needed.
5. Any deacon who is remiss in his responsibilities
or whose life or family brings reproach to his office shall be recommended by
the pastor to the congregation for dismissal.
No deacons’ meetings shall be held without the pastor’s presence or his
consent.
6. Nowhere in the New Testament are deacons
referred to as rulers in the church or seen as ruling over the pastors. There are times when the deacons or other men
in the church must assume control.
Examples of this would be: in the absence of a pastor, or if a pastor
has sinned, or failed so seriously as to be under church discipline or
expelled. Once the deacon board and
church has chosen another God-called, qualified pastor, the leadership of the
church must once again be transferred to him.
Section 4 –
Trustees
The deacons shall serve as trustees. The number of trustees shall be three (3) or
more. If the number of active deacons
does not constitute the minimum number of trustees, the pastor and deacons shall
recommend a person or persons to temporarily fill the positions(s) until such
time as the minimum number of trustees is met by active deacons. They shall act as the legal agent of the
church. They are the guardians of the
church’s legal papers and valuables.
Upon incorporation, the trustees are the officers of this corporation in
legal matters. They act only by
direction of the congregation. If the
church has a safety deposit box, entry into the safety deposit box must be by
stipulation and then by no less than two trustees. Proper records noting the contents of the
safety deposit box must be maintained and submitted to the treasurer so that an
accounting can be given at any time.
Section 5 –
Treasurer
An active deacon will fill the position of treasurer. The treasurer shall be selected at the annual
deacon’s board meeting. He is
responsible to keep an accurate account of all monetary receipts and
disbursements. The treasurer shall
supervise the payment of all accounts consistent with the budget of the church
or special vote of the church. He is to
post financial statements quarterly and provide them as needed. Financial records are to be available to the
pastor and deacons upon request, or by others designated to examine them. The treasurer and other designated
individuals shall sign all checks. An
assistant treasurer may be elected to assist.
Individuals, appointed by the deacons, shall count the offering on a
rotating basis. At least two shall be
entrusted with this responsibility at a time.
The books of the treasurer must be available for audit or inspection at
any time the deacons may deem necessary.
Section
6 -- Staff and Workers
In order to meet the needs of the
congregation adequately, the pastor, in counsel with the Board of Deacons, is at
liberty to fill positions, salaried and unsalaried, with personnel who are
equipped for the task, meet the proper spiritual qualifications as determined
by the pastor, and subscribe wholeheartedly to the Constitution/By-Laws, Church
Covenant, and Declaration of Faith.
These positions include, but are not limited to, church secretaries,
youth and music directors, assistants, and other staff members and
workers. Salaried personnel may be hired
only after the congregation has allocated funds for that position in the
budget. The pastor is entrusted with the
responsibility of dismissing staff members and workers who violate the conduct
required of their position, or who are remiss in their duties. The pastor will keep the deacons alerted to
all aspects of the dismissal. All staff
and workers, salaried and unsalaried, shall be directly responsible to the
pastor.
Article X –
Meetings
The pastor shall moderate all business meetings; in his
absence, the chairman of the deacons shall serve as moderator, or a moderator
pro tem may be appointed by the pastor.
Section 1 -- Regular Services (for fellowship, worship, and
evangelism)
1.
Sunday Services: morning and
evening
2.
Mid-week prayer and Bible study
3.
Baptismal services: when needed,
usually in conjunction with other regular services.
4.
The Lord’s Supper, as scheduled by the Pastor
5. Special emphasis meetings such as missionary
conferences, Bible conferences, revival services, etc., as the pastor senses
the Lord’s leading.
Section 2
-- Regular Business Meetings
1. The regular business meetings of the pastor
and the board of deacons shall be held at least quarterly or more often as
needed. The time and place of the
meeting shall be announced from the pulpit or in the bulletin at least one week
in advance of the meeting. A meeting
agenda will be provided for the members of the church at least two weeks prior
to the scheduled meeting and copies will be made available during the regular
church services.
2. Minutes of the business meetings will be made
available at least one week after the meeting.
A continuous flow of information is necessary from the Pastor and church
leaders to the congregation and from the congregation to the Pastor and church
leaders. Therefore these reports will be
given in a timely manner for the purpose of passing information to the church
members.
3. The Board of Deacons agenda and minutes will
help to facilitate not only communication, but also membership participation.
Section 3
-- Special Business Meetings
1. Special business meetings shall be called for
by the pastor or upon his approval.
Special meetings may be called at any time provided notice is given in a
regular service prior to the special meeting.
If such a meeting should be called, a majority of the eligible voting
membership must be present in order to conduct business.
2. These meetings may be called to take care of
specific items of business that may arise.
In such cases adequate information must be given prior to the meeting to
ensure that the purpose of the meeting will be accomplished. Specifically, the
congregation must have adequate information and time to reflect on that
information if they are to reach any decision at a called meeting. At least two weeks notice should be given for
any called meeting. A longer time may be necessary in some instances, as
determined by the pastor.
Section 4
-- Annual Business Meeting
1. An annual meeting of the congregation will be
held on the third Wednesday night of January for the purpose of reporting to
the congregation the activities of the church for the past year, and for any
business that needs to be conducted by the entire church body.
2. In addition to
the verbal reports given in the annual business meeting, a written report will
be prepared. It will include a financial
report for the past year, a proposed budget for the
coming year, a brief summary of the church's activity for the year,
history of the church's development, and other items as deemed appropriate by
the Board of Deacons and Pastor.
Section 5 –
Moderator
The pastor shall moderate all business meetings, unless he
is personally involved; in his absence, the chairman of the deacons shall serve
as moderator, or a moderator pro tem may be appointed by the pastor.
Section 6 –
Rules of Order
1. It shall be the duty of the moderator to keep
order, and in case the church is equally divided on any question, he shall give
the deciding vote. The moderator shall
determine the rules of procedure according to his sense of fairness and common
sense, giving all eligible voting members a reasonable opportunity to be heard
on a matter. The moderator is the final
authority on questions of procedure, and his decision is final and controlling.
2.
The meeting shall be opened and closed with prayer.
3.
The order of the business shall be:
a. Reading
of the minutes of the previous meeting if called for by the moderator;
b. Reports of committees;
c. Unfinished business;
d. New business.
4. The church in conference shall entertain no
proposition for discussion that has not been presented for the consideration of
the deacons, not being listed on the agenda or minutes.
5. All motions shall be carried by the vote of
the simple majority of eligible voting members present and voting, unless
stated otherwise in this constitution.
6. Quorum:
A quorum is necessary only for the calling or dismissal of a pastor
(Article IX), special business meetings (Article X), or amendments to this
constitution (Article XVIII).
7. Rescheduling:
Meetings may be rescheduled by the pastor in consultation with the
deacons or by a majority vote of the congregation.
1. This congregation functions not as a pure
democracy, but as a body under the headship of the Lord Jesus Christ and the
direction of the pastor as the undershepherd with the counsel of the
deacons. Determinations of the internal
affairs of this church are ecclesiastical matters and shall be determined
exclusively by the church’s own rules and procedures. The pastor
shall oversee and or conduct all aspects of this church in accordance with the
articles of this constitution. The deacons shall give
counsel and assistance to the pastor as requested by him.
2. By action of the church in electing its
officers, the immediate direction of spiritual and temporal affairs of the church
shall be committed to said officers during the term of office as further
provided elsewhere in this constitution.
3. The church, as a corporation, shall be
non-stock, non-profit, and an exclusively religious corporation. It shall not, as a church, 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.
Functionally the Deacon Board will take care of the business
of the church. It will consist of the
pastor and the deacons. The board will function together to provide the
leadership for the church in all aspects of its life and activities.
The Pastor will serve as the chairman of the Deacon Board,
and will be responsible to direct the meetings and the business affairs as
needed. Duties associated with the
Chairmanship include providing the agenda for the meetings, publishing minutes
following the meetings, assigning action responsibilities and suspense dates
for projects, follow-up with persons responsible to ensure that the appropriate
actions are carried through to completion, and other duties associated with the
position of Chairman.
Collectively the Board of Deacons functions as the trustees
for the church, the auditing committee for financial matters, and in general
managing the material needs or assets of the church. The members of the Deacon
Board, in addition to their specific responsibilities as deacons, will comprise
the decision making and policy making body for the church. Each will bring to the Board specifics about
his area of supervision. Each deacon will
have an area of responsibility that is categorized as a spiritual ministry,
such as; Financial Secretary, Treasurer, Superintendent of Buildings and
Grounds, etc. The members are responsible to the Chairman for assigned
responsibilities as far as supervision and accountability are concerned, then
ultimately to the entire board as they hold each other accountable.
The pastor may recognize the need to add staff positions as
the church develops. These staff positions will be specifically assigned under
the supervision of the pastor and the deacon for whom that staff person is
added to assist. The person in charge of
that functional area will prepare Job qualifications and job descriptions.
As a faithful minister of the Lord,
each individual from the Pastor to the last member of the church is responsible
to give account to the Lord for the fulfillment of his ministry. There are two
aspects of that accountability; the first is while here on earth, and the
second is when we stand before the Bema Seat in Heaven. Each should give
account of himself so as to hear "well done thou good and faithful
servant." (I Corinthians 3:11-15; II Corinthians 5:10).
Each member of the Board of Deacons
is accountable to the Board, as an entity, for his functional area of
responsibility on a day to day basis. He
will report to the Board concerning the functioning of his area of responsibility
on a regular basis as the Board meets to conduct the business of the
church. In addition, he will prepare any
written records or reports the Board deems necessary to have for working
papers, or to file for the record.
1. The church is to be supported by the offerings
of its members. There are references in the Old Testament in which a specific
amount was designated to be given. Other places only indicate an offering
without designating an amount. Both were means of meeting the financial needs
of God's people and of God's activities in the world.
2. In the New Testament much is stated about the
attitude in giving, and toward money in general. Throughout Scripture God's
method of meeting the need was through the giving of His people. Therefore, we
believe that church bazaars, church suppers, professional fund drives, rummage
sales, etc., are not in accordance with the purposes of God in teaching His people to trust Him and to give of themselves to the work
of the ministry.
The Pastor, Financial Secretary,
Treasurer, and other deacons make up the Financial Committee for the
church. It will be their responsibility
to prepare a proposed budget to present first to the deacon board for review,
and then to the congregation at the Annual Business Meeting for approval.
1. The deacons,
other than the treasurer, shall be responsible to receive and record all moneys
received into the treasury. These moneys will then be turned over to the
Treasurer for deposit into the church's appropriate account. The recording of these moneys will be
maintained by the Financial Secretary as a separate record from that maintained
by the Treasurer.
2.
The Treasurer shall
maintain an accurate account of all funds, depositing all moneys in the proper
account at the bank; and issuing a check for all disbursements, recording the
withdrawal in the appropriate fund. He shall also prepare a monthly financial
statement for publication and distribution.
3. The deacons shall
conduct an annual audit of the financial records sufficiently in advance of the
annual meeting as to be able to give a report of the findings at that meeting.
The fiscal year of the church shall run concurrently with
the calendar year, ending on 31 December.
Article XIII
-- Committees
Section 1 -- Nominating Committee
The pastor and deacons shall serve as nominating committee
for all general elections. The committee
will recommend qualified and willing persons to the church for a vote. No further nominations will be made from the
floor.
Section 2
-- Other Committees
All other committees, including their personnel, shall be
considered, set up, and appointed as needed by the pastor and deacons. All such committees, along with their
personnel, shall be responsible to the pastor and deacons.
All ministries, departments, organizations, classes, and
groups are subservient parts of the church and shall under no circumstances be
considered as separate and apart from the church or operating independently of
the church, its pastor and the deacons.
Each group shall be careful to function in harmony with, and in
subjection to, the pastor, the deacons, and the congregation.
Article XV
-- Literature
Any literature which officially represents this church or
which is used by any ministry of this church must first be approved by the
pastor or his appointee.
Article XVI
-- Missions
The church shall maintain an active missions program; it
shall encourage its members to surrender for missionary service; it shall
support missions financially and with prayer.
The pastor and deacons shall make recommendation to the
church regarding the financial support of missionaries; they shall also make
recommendations regarding the deletion of missionaries and their financial
support according to the Missions Policy document. The church shall vote on these
recommendations.
All missionaries and mission boards will be required to read
and sign our missions policy statement prior to receiving support from this
church and shall affirm the same annually or as required.
Article XVII
-- Licensing and Ordination
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 and/or ordained to the ministry by this church. He must first state his acceptance, without
reservation, of the Constitution and By-Laws of the church, and must be
recommended by the pastor of this church.
In case of ordination, an ordination council composed of ordained
ministers whom the pastor considers wise to invite shall thoroughly examine the
candidate for ordination with regards to his doctrinal soundness, moral and
spiritual qualifications, and personal fitness.
After satisfactory examination by the council, he shall be recommended
to the church for ordination. The church
by a majority vote must agree with the recommendations of the council if the
candidate is to be ordained.
The following procedures are established to cover the
amending of the constitution, publishing policy statements, and other matters
that may later be included.
1. Upon adoption, this constitution (including
Declaration of Faith, Church Covenant, and By-Laws) bears immediate and
complete constitutional authority upon this church.
2. To amend the constitution, the proposed
re-write must be submitted to the Board of Deacons to obtain a majority
agreement on the Board that the proposed change is necessary and
appropriate. Then a final draft is
prepared, reviewed by the Board, and printed for distribution to the church
members. After sufficient time for discussion, a minimum of two weeks, giving
everyone a chance to discuss or question as they feel the need, a
congregational meeting will be scheduled to vote on the amendment.
3. Amendments to the Church Covenant,
Declaration of Faith, Constitution, and By-Laws may be made by a majority vote
of the eligible voting membership present and voting, provided that a quorum is
present at the vote and that the business meeting for this purpose was
announced (from the pulpit or in the bulletin) fourteen (14) days before the
vote is taken. A quorum for this purpose
shall be a simple majority of the eligible voting membership. A copy of the proposed amendment shall be
posted in the church or printed in the bulletin during the fourteen days before
the vote is taken.
Section
2 -- Recording of Amendments
The chairman of the deacon board
shall record all amendments to this constitution in a book solely for that
purpose. All said amendments shall be
added to later additions of the constitution with the amendment date noted.
The pastor and deacon board may publish various policy
statements adopting a specific position in regard to major issues of
concern. These need not be incorporated
into the constitution, but must have a majority of agreement of the deacon
board before being published as a "position paper" or "policy
statement" of the church. These
policy statements may include but are not limited to issues such as, on the
negative side: liberalism, neo-orthodoxy, Pentecostalism, neo-Evangelicalism,
unbiblical church renewal movements, etc.; or on the positive side: endorsement
for political action groups, programs, projects, evangelistic associations,
faith mission organizations, etc.
Decisions of the pastor and deacon board may be set forth in
writing and are determined to be the operating procedures of this fellowship of
believers. These are generally recorded in the form of minutes of the Board's
meetings and represent the decisions arrived at by a majority of agreement
among the board members.
Section 5
-- Miscellaneous
1. The King James Version of the Bible is to be
used in the pulpit and by all teachers and workers. No other version or translation is to be used
in preaching or teaching.
2. Membership in this church does not afford the
members with any property, contractual, or civil rights based on principles of
democratic governments. Although the
general public is invited to all the church’s worship services; the church
property remains private property. The
pastor (or in his absence, an individual designated by the deacons) has the
authority to suspend or revoke the rights of any person to enter or remain on
church property. If after being notified
of such a suspension or revocation, the person enters or remains on church
property, the person may, at the direction of the pastor (or in his absence, an
individual designated by the deacons); he is treated as a trespasser.
Article IX –
Property, Buildings, and Equipment
All buildings, property, and equipment shall be used only by
permission of the pastor or his appointee.
They shall be principally for the use of the church, its functions, and
related activities.
Article XX
-- Tax Exempt Provisions
No part of the net earnings of the church shall insure to
the benefit of, or be distributed to, its members, trustees, officers, or other
private persons, except that the church shall be authorized and empowered to
pay reasonable compensation for the services rendered and to make payments and
distributions in furtherance of the purposes set forth in this document.
Article XXI -- Dissolution of Corporation
In
the event of the dissolution of this church, the dissolution shall be in
accordance with the Articles of Incorporation.
Amendment to Article I -- Name June 21, 1998
The name of this church shall be
the Blythewood Baptist Church of Blythewood, South Carolina.