Constitution and Bylaws
HERITAGE Bible Church
of
PEARL RIVER
Constitution
and
By-Laws
Adopted May, 2006
Table of Contents
CONSTITUTION OF HERITAGE BIBLE CHURCH OF PEARL RIVER_______________________
PREAMBLE_________________________________________________________________________
ARTICLE I: NAME___________________________________________________________________
ARTICLE II: PURPOSE_______________________________________________________________
ARTICLE III: STATEMENT OF FAITH__________________________________________________
ARTICLE IV: FORM OF GOVERNMENT________________________________________________
ARTICLE V: CORPORATION STATUS__________________________________________________
ARTICLE VI: AFFILIATIONS__________________________________________________________
ARTICLE VII: MEMBERSHIP__________________________________________________________
ARTICLE VIII: CHURCH OFFICERS____________________________________________________
SECTION 1: ELDERS_______________________________________________________________________________
SECTION 2. DEACONS_____________________________________________________________________________
ARTICLE IX: CHURCH DISCIPLINE____________________________________________________
ARTICLE X: ADDITIONAL HERITAGE BIBLE CHURCH DOCUMENTS_______________________
ARTICLE XI: DISSOLUTION__________________________________________________________
ARTICLE XII: AMENDMENTS_________________________________________________________
STATEMENT OF FAITH HERITAGE BIBLE CHURCH OF PEARL RIVER____________________
GOD_______________________________________________________________________________
THE BIBLE_________________________________________________________________________
SALVATION________________________________________________________________________
MAN’S NEED_____________________________________________________________________________________
GOD’S PROVISION________________________________________________________________________________
MAN’S RESPONSE TO GOD’S GRACE_______________________________________________________________
THE CHURCH______________________________________________________________________
LAST THINGS_______________________________________________________________________
BY-LAWS OF HERITAGE BIBLE CHURCH OF PEARL RIVER_____________________________
ARTICLE I: MEMBERSHIP PROCEDURES_______________________________________________
SECTION 1. QUALIFICATIONS______________________________________________________________________
SECTION 2. TRANSFER OF MEMBERSHIP___________________________________________________________
SECTION 3. RESPONSIBILITIES_____________________________________________________________________
SECTION 4. DUAL MEMBERSHIP___________________________________________________________________
SECTION 5. ANNOUNCEMENTS CONCERNING DEPARTING MEMBERS_______________________________
ARTICLE II: CHURCH MEETINGS____________________________________________________
ARTICLE III: CHURCH ORDINANCES_________________________________________________
SECTION 1. BAPTISM____________________________________________________________________________
SECTION 2. THE LORD’S SUPPER__________________________________________________________________
ARTICLE IV: CHURCH DISCIPLINE___________________________________________________
SECTION 1. GENERAL____________________________________________________________________________
SECTION 2. OFFENSES ADDRESSED_______________________________________________________________
SECTION 3. PROCESSES USED____________________________________________________________________
ARTICLE V: FINANCES_____________________________________________________________
SECTION 1. COLLECTIONS________________________________________________________________________
SECTION 2. PAYMENTS__________________________________________________________________________
SECTION 3. DESIGNATED GIVING_________________________________________________________________
SECTION 4. MONTHLY PROCEDURES______________________________________________________________
SECTION 5. ANNUAL PROCEDURES_______________________________________________________________
SECTION 6. SALARY COMPENSATION_____________________________________________________________
ARTICLE VI: ELDER BOARD DECISION?MAKING POLICY_______________________________
SECTION 1. POLICY______________________________________________________________________________
SECTION 2. NON?DISCIPLINE ISSUES______________________________________________________________
SECTION 3. DISCIPLINE AND REMOVAL ISSUES____________________________________________________
ARTICLE VII: APPOINTMENT OF CHURCH OFFICERS__________________________________
SECTION 1. QUALIFICATIONS_____________________________________________________________________
SECTION 2. PROCEDURE_________________________________________________________________________
We, the Elders of Heritage Bible Church of Pearl River, establish and approve the following Articles.
The name of this local body of Christ shall be the Heritage Bible Church of Pearl River (hereinafter “Heritage Bible Church”).
God’s purpose in establishing this local expression of the body of Christ is that His manifold wisdom, which He demonstrated in Christ Jesus our Lord, shall be made known (Ephesians 3. 10). In response, we purpose to glorify the Lord God in the following mutually supportive ways as directed by the Holy Scriptures:
a. By gathering together for worship and prayer in the unity of the Spirit (Acts 2.42);
b. By the exercising of spiritual gifts for the edification, maturing, and equipping of God’s people for service to God (1 Corinthians 12.4-7; 2 Timothy 3.16,17);
c. By proclaiming the gospel of God’s saving grace in Jesus Christ to the world through word and practice (Acts 1.8; Matthew 5.13-15).
The Holy Bible, consisting of the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments, is the only authority in all matters of faith and practice. Appendix A to this Constitution contains the official Statement of Faith for Heritage Bible Church. The “Baptist Confession of Faith of 1689″ contains a more detailed expression of beliefs and is recommended for further study with the following qualifications:
a. The following is to be read in place of Chapter 22, Paragraphs 7?8: “God has established a one in seven pattern of work and rest from creation. This principle was expressed under the Old Covenant through the fourth commandment. Under the New Covenant, Sunday is the special day of corporate worship, in memory of the Resurrection. In addition, believers are to imitate God’s pattern of work and rest in their own lives, and to grant rest to others.”
b. Chapter 26, Paragraph 4: While the authority of the Pope of Rome is in no way acknowledged, the matter of the identity of the Antichrist is an open question subject to the unfolding of the last days.
c. Chapter 26, Paragraph 9: The participation of the congregation in the calling of the officers of the church is defined in Article VIII of this Constitution.
d. Chapter 26, Paragraph 10: The Biblical terms for the office commonly referred to as Pastor are Bishop (Overseer) and Elder (Presbyter). Some may be fully supported in this ministry, while others earn a living outside of the church. They are all, however, equal in authority and office, yet may be gifted differently.
The government of this church shall be under the headship of Jesus Christ and in obedience to the word of God (Colossians 1.17-18). Under Christ’s leadership, Heritage Bible Church shall have Elders (pastors) to undershepherd, administer, and oversee the affairs of this church in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution and associated By-laws. Authority to carry out these responsibilities is shared equally by all the Elders. In addition, Heritage Bible Church shall have Deacons who will primarily minister to the physical needs of the church, both corporately and individually (1 Timothy 3.1-17; 1 Peter 5.2,3; Titus 1.5-9).
Heritage Bible Church is a religious corporation as filed with the State of Louisiana and is not organized for the private gain of any person. It is organized under the Nonprofit Religious Corporation Law exclusively for religious purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
No substantial part of the activities of this corporation shall consist of carrying on political propaganda, attempting to influence legislation, participating or intervening in any political campaign (including the publishing or distribution of statements) on behalf of any candidate for public office.
The property of this corporation is irrevocably dedicated to religious purposes, and no part of the net income or assets shall be used for the personal benefit (private gain) of any officer, member, or private person. (This is not to be understood to preclude salaries paid to staff.)
The government of Heritage Bible Church may not be subordinated by affiliation to that of any other organization. Heritage Bible Church may, however, cooperate with other organizations of like mind and purpose and may even affiliate with the same as long as the right of withdrawal is reserved.
The membership process allows a means of maintaining the purity of Heritage Bible Church and ensuring the administration of pastoral care (1 Peter 1.15,16).
Any person desiring to become a member of Heritage Bible Church may do so by indicating that desire to any Elder at any time, and by fulfilling all membership requirements. These requirements include a profession of belief in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, a willingness to submit to the authority of Scripture, a desire to participate in ministry, and an understanding and acceptance of the authority and leadership of the Elders of Heritage Bible Church as they submit to God (Romans 3.21-26; 1 Corinthians 12.4-7; Hebrews 13.17).
It is not required that a prospective member accept all tenets of the Heritage Bible Church Statement of Faith in order to become a member, although personal and corporate study of these tenets is greatly encouraged. In addition, it is not required that a person be re-baptized to become a member. However, if the prospective member was baptized as an infant, or for some reason there is a question about the validity of the original baptism, the prospective member shall be be baptized in conformity with a walk of obedience to God.
A list will be maintained of all current members of Heritage Bible Church, as well as all those who are routine attendees, so that watchcare responsibilities can be facilitated (for detailed procedures see the By-laws).
The officers of this church shall consist of men in the position of Elders and Deacons. The process of appointing church officers is addressed in the By-laws.
Elders shall be men called of God who are qualified according to I Timothy 3.1-7, Titus 1.6-9, and 1 Peter 5.2,3, and have accepted the Heritage Bible Church Statement of Faith. Unless providentially hindered, there shall be no less than two Elders at any given time, and up to as many as the Lord calls to the undershepherding role. Each Elder will serve as long as he remains Biblically qualified, available, and desires to continue to serve.
The duty of Elders is to provide oversight of all ministry areas, including:
a. Attending to the ministry of the Word, which takes place through teaching and preaching
b. Carrying on watchcare and oversight responsibilities relating to the flock entrusted into their care
c. Ministering to the body through persistent corporate and individual intercessory prayer
d. Instructing, edifying, encouraging, and admonishing the body
e. Implementing church discipline, as needed
f. Approving and overseeing all other leadership positions and ministries of the body
g. Establishing policies and practices relating to church matters that are not explicitly covered by this Constitution and By-laws
h. Providing information to the body on a routine basis on all significant matters relating to the life of the church
i. Ensuring Biblically sound doctrine is the basis for all teaching, preaching, and ministry within the church, whether performed through members or guests
j. Overseeing the recognized ordinances of the church – Baptism and the Lord’s Supper
k. Providing oversight of the acquisition or disposal of church property
l. Conducting open, monthly business meetings to address affairs of the church.
Deacons shall be men called of God who are qualified according to 1 Timothy 3.8-13 and have accepted the Heritage Bible Church Statement of Faith. Unless providentially hindered, there shall be no less than two Deacons at any given time, and as many as the Lord calls to this ministering role. Each Deacon will serve as long as he remains Biblically qualified, available, and desires to continue to serve.
The duty of Deacons is to assist the Elders by:
a. Dispensing benevolence funds according to the physical and spiritual needs of the body
b. Exercising caretaker and stewardship responsibilities over all church properties
c. Exercising oversight of financial matters of the church, including: all expenses throughout the year; the annual review of the church budget, staff salaries, and financial needs of those whose ministries the church supports
d. Acquiring or disposing of all church property of any kind (subject to Article XI)
e. Providing oversight of all items relating to the logistical aspects of church services
f. Remaining aware of the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the body
g. Conducting routine, open meetings to address temporal affairs of the church
h. Establishing policies and practices relating to Deaconal ministry areas that are not explicitly covered by this Constitution and By-laws.
It is the aim of Heritage Bible Church to vindicate the integrity and honor of Christ by maintaining the local church government that He prescribed (Matthew 18.15?18; Romans 16.17; 1 Corinthians 5; 2 Thessalonians 3.6-15; 1 Timothy 5.20, 6.3; Titus 1.13, 2.15, 3.10) and thereby the purity of the local church and her worship (I Corinthians 5.6-8). To that end it is the aim of Heritage Bible Church to apply consistently Biblical principles in order to restore offenders (Matthew 18.18; 1 Corinthians 5.5; Galatians 6.1) and deter others from sin (I Timothy 5.20).
Church discipline may be applied to any member of Heritage Bible Church as well as any person who has been routinely attending services. Members cannot avoid the possibility of church discipline by removing their name from the membership roles (for detailed procedures see By-laws Article IV).
All policy statements, position papers, or ministry guidelines approved by the Elder Board are to be in agreement with this Constitution and By-laws. Should contradictions be found, this Constitution and associated By-laws are to take precedence until the discrepancies are corrected either by formal changes to this document or to the other documents in question. All policy statements, position papers, or ministry guidelines approved by the Elder Board are to be made readily available to the church at large.
Additional documents generated by Heritage Bible Church may include the following:
a. Heritage Bible Church Policy Statements. Policies that are specifically intended for wide distribution and represent the position for the entire church. These policies are intended to govern decisions and actions of all members and routine attendees of Heritage Bible Church.
b. Heritage Bible Church Elder Board Policy Statements. Policies that are used primarily by the Elder Board to govern decisions. Although intended for Elder Board use, they may be used as a pattern by other Heritage Bible Church leadership to guide decisions.
c. Elder Board Position Papers. Position papers present current Elder Board understanding relative to matters of Biblical doctrine, belief, or Christian living not specifically addressed in the Statement of Faith. These papers are intended for wide distribution.
d. Heritage Bible Church Ministry Guidelines. Guidelines that provide specific guidance relative to a particular ministry area of the church. They are intended only to ensure constancy of purpose, approach, and continuity without restricting flexibility and creativity in the accomplishment of the ministry area.
In the event of the dissolution of Heritage Bible Church by the Elder Board, no member, officer of the church, or private individual shall be entitled to share in the distribution of any assets. Upon dissolution, assets of the church shall first be used to pay any outstanding debts. Following this, the remaining assets of the corporation shall be given to a nonprofit corporation of like faith and practice and/or to missionaries supported by the church.
The selection of recipients, as well as the timing of the actual transfers, will be determined by vote of the Elder Board with consideration given to recommendations made by the Board of Deacons. Actions required to carry out the dissolution will be performed by the Deacon Board, who will seek out legal assistance (if necessary) to complete the process.
Amendments to this Constitution shall be approved by the Elder Board at a regularly scheduled Elder Board meeting. Notice of proposed amendments must be made to the membership of Heritage Bible Church for at least 30 days prior to formal approval and incorporation by the Elder Board to solicit comments and recommendations.
We believe the LORD God, as revealed in the Bible, is the one and only living and true God. He is the holy, just, sovereign, self-existent and self-sufficient One (Deuteronomy 6.4; John 5.39, Isaiah 43.10, 11; Isaiah 6.3; Psalm 135.6; Exodus 3.14).
This God reveals Himself to us in the Trinity as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, each equal in His nature, essence, and being, yet each possessing distinct personal characteristics suitable to His person and work (Matthew 28.19; 2 Corinthians 13.14; 1 Peter 1.2).
He is Creator of all things, visible and invisible, physical and spiritual. Out of nothing, by the power of His Word, He called all that exists into being and sustains it according to His desire and power (Genesis 1; Hebrews 11.3; Psalm 104; Colossians 1.16,17).
God has a purpose and plan for all things in heaven and on earth which will be accomplished according to His eternal decrees for His glory. In this, His manifold attributes, including His wisdom, power, love, and faithfulness are revealed to us (Isaiah 46.10-13; Ephesians 1.3-5, 11; Matthew 24.35; 1 Corinthians 10.31; Romans 1.20).
We believe the Bible, as it was composed in the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, to be the only inspired, inerrant, infallible, and authoritative Word of God. This Bible, which in English translations is made up of the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments, is completely sufficient concerning all matters of belief and living (Proverbs 30.5a; 2 Peter 1.20,21; Deuteronomy 8.18; Hebrews 4.12,13; 2 Timothy 3.16,17).
Man’s belief in the authority of Scripture comes from the inward work of the Holy Spirit who works in the mind, heart, and will of man. The Spirit and the Scriptures work in us to draw us into a personal saving knowledge of God in Christ, to establish the content of our belief or faith, and to direct us in the conduct of our daily lives (John 6.44; 1 Corinthians 2.12-14; Romans 6.17; John 16.13-15; 2 Timothy 3.16,17).
Nothing is to be added to or taken away from the Scriptures in any way, such as new revelation or traditions of men. It is the standard by which all knowledge is tested (Deuteronomy 4.7, 12.32; Revelation 22.18,19; Galatians 1.8; Colossians 2.8).
Each of us is called to correctly handle the Word of God. Thus, we are to discern its true, intended, and plain meaning. We establish meaning by context, by recognizing the basic unity of all Scripture, and therefore, by following the basic rule of all Biblical interpretation – Scripture must be used to interpret Scripture (i.e., Genesis 12.7 with Galatians 3.16; Joel 2.28-32 with Acts 2.16-24; Genesis 15.6 with Romans 4.1-3; 2 Timothy 2.15; 2 Peter 3.15,16; 2 Corinthians 4.2; Romans 4.1-3,13).
We believe that in the beginning all God’s creation, including man, was good. Mankind, male and female, was righteous, walking closely with God. Man fell from that position of fellowship with God into disgrace, deserving condemnation to Hell, through unbelief and rebellion. Everyone has inherited Adam’s sinful nature and is totally unable to do anything that is pleasing to God. All are dead in their sin and cannot in themselves respond to the gospel for salvation (Genesis 1, 2, 3; Romans 3.10-12, 5.12-21, 8.6-8; Ephesians 2.1-9).
And this is the gospel, that Jesus Christ, being fully God and fully man, was sent by the Father and came willingly to be the only mediator between God and man. He was born of a virgin and lived a perfect life of obedience to His Father, observing all His commands and fulfilling all His purposes. In doing so, He revealed to man the glory, mercy, grace, and truth of God, teaching man the new way of life (Hebrews 1.1-3; John 1.14; Acts 2.23,36; 1 Timothy 2.5; Luke 1.26-28; 1 Peter 2.21,22; John 14.6, 17.4).
Jesus Christ gave up His life by death on the cross at the hands of sinful men according to God’s sovereign purpose. Christ, being without sin, did this in order to pay God’s just penalty for sin on behalf of those whom the Father had chosen to redeem from the effects of sin. He then rose bodily from the dead, removing the power of the curse of death from His people forever (Acts 2.23; Romans 3.23-26; 1 Peter 1.18-2 1; John 20.25,27; 1 Corinthians 15.54-58).
After Christ ascended into heaven, the Holy Spirit was sent to make the Savior known to those whom God the Father had chosen. The Holy Spirit works in God’s people by making them spiritually alive and enabling them to freely receive the free gift of eternal life as offered in the gospel through faith in Jesus Christ. Jesus, the Lord of His people, now dwells in the Father’s presence, interceding on their behalf and enabling them to grow more and more in living obedience to Himself (Acts 1.8,9; John 16.7-13; Ephesians 2.4-8; Romans 3.21-26; Colossians 1.18; Ephesians 1.18-2 1; Hebrews 7.24,25; 2 Corinthians 10.5).
All who respond by faith to the gospel promises are declared righteous before God by means of the righteousness of Christ credited to them. They are reconciled to God through the forgiveness of sin by Christ’s substitutionary death on their behalf. Thus reconciled, believers have passed from judgment, wrath, and death to life and have received a spirit of adoption as beloved children who know God as Father (Romans 3.21-26; 2 Corinthians 5.21; 1 Peter 2.24; Romans 6.23; Romans 5.9-11).
Growth in conformity to the image and likeness of God by obedience is a vital and necessary part of the life of the believer. Thus believers, having been re-created to do good works, will grow increasingly in the grace of God, turning from their sin and following Jesus Christ as Lord (2 Corinthians 3.17,18; Ephesians 4.11-13; Ephesians 2.10; Romans 6.1,2, 11-14; 2 Peter 3.18; 1 Peter 3.15a).
All those whom God has chosen and redeemed will most certainly be preserved by God and will persevere in their saving faith until that time when God chooses to take them to be with Him forever (John 10.28,29; Philippians 1.6; John 14.1-3).
We believe that all those who have faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord are united by the indwelling Holy Spirit into one spiritual and physical body called the church, of which Jesus Christ is the head. This church is made manifest in each local church that recognizes Jesus as Lord and Savior and serves Him according to the Scriptures (e.g., 1 Corinthians 1.1,2; Romans 12.5; 1 Corinthians 12.12-27; Ephesians 1.13b-14; Colossians 1.18).
God’s purpose in establishing His church is to glorify Himself by making known His manifold wisdom, which He demonstrated in Jesus Christ. This is accomplished when believers:
a. Gather together in the power and unity of the Holy Spirit for worship by the proclamation of the Word, praise, prayer, and participation in the ordinances of the church (Hebrews 10.25; Acts 2.42-47);
b. Mutually exercise the gifts of the Holy Spirit for the edification, equipping, and growth of the members for works of service (Ephesians 3.10,11; 4.11-13; 1 Corinthians 12.4-7; 1 Peter 4.10);
c. Proclaim the good news of God’s saving grace in Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world (Matthew 28.19,20);
d. Are salt and light in all of our various callings (Matthew 5.13-16).
God has established two ordinances for the church to observe: baptism, which is undergone once as a sign of the new life in Christ after a person has confessed faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and the Lord’s Supper, which is to be observed regularly to call into remembrance the redemptive work of Jesus Christ on our behalf, until He returns (Acts 2.38,42; 1 Corinthians 11.23-26).
All. believers are priests within the household of God. All possess a common dignity, calling, and privilege of communion before and with God. All are called to offer sacrifices of themselves, praise and thanksgiving to God. With our various gifts and callings, we serve God and one another. Within this household, Jesus Christ appoints elders (pastors) as undershepherds to serve His people by administering the activities of His church and providing watchcare over the spiritual needs of its members. Deacons minister to the physical needs of the church, both corporately and individually (1 Peter 2.9, 10; Romans 12.1,2; 1 Corinthians 12.7; Acts 20.28; 1 Timothy 3.1-13; Titus 1.5-9).
The final authority by which all. disputes within the church are to be settled is Scripture, being interpreted by the guidance and illumination of the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 3.16,17; John 14.26, 16.13a).
We believe that God has appointed a day when Jesus Christ will visibly return in glory to judge the world in righteousness. His justice will be displayed in the resurrection to eternal punishment of all unbelievers, who will be cast into Hell to experience His wrath and separation from God forever. His mercy will be displayed by the gathering of all believers in resurrected and glorified bodies to everlasting life and fullness of joy in the presence of the Lord (Matthew 24.36; John 5.28,29; Matthew 25.31; Revelation 21.3; Mark 13.26,27; 2 Thessalonians 1.7-10; Revelation 21.8).
Any person desiring to become a member of Heritage Bible Church may indicate that desire to any elder at any time. At the earliest convenient time two or more elders will interview the prospective member(s) and discuss the following membership requirements:
a. Belief in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior (Romans 3.21-26);
b. A willingness to submit to the authority of Scripture;
c. A desire to share in the ministry of this local church family by using the spiritual gift(s) God has given (1 Corinthians 12.4-7);
d. A willingness to submit to the leadership and authority of the Elders of this local body as they submit to God and the authority of Scripture (Hebrews 13.17).
Upon acceptable understanding and a positive acceptance of the above requirements, the person will be considered a member of Heritage Bible Church. This confirmation of membership will be announced at the earliest convenient time to the church body at one of its regularly scheduled meetings.
Recognizing the need for orderly transfer of membership, it may be necessary to determine whether a transfer from another church body is in order and based upon Biblical grounds. If any outstanding difficulties are uncovered, the Elders shall work with the prospective member for their resolution.
For those members of this local body who wish to transfer to another church, a letter of transfer shall be submitted to the accepting church should it be desired by those transferring. When such letter is granted, membership in this church shall be considered terminated.
All members are expected to attend the Sunday morning worship service of Heritage Bible Church. In addition, they shall earnestly pursue the application of their spiritual giftedness and natural abilities and talents to ministries of Heritage Bible Church (Hebrews 10.24,25; Romans 12). Each member is also expected to be familiar with the contents of the Heritage Bible Church Statement of Faith, Constitution, and By-Laws.
Any person who is currently a member of another church, yet through a temporary relocation has routinely been in attendance at Heritage Bible Church, shall be encouraged to have dual membership status. This status shall facilitate proper watchcare and oversight while the person is under the care of Heritage Bible Church.
Upon departure of a member from Heritage Bible Church an appropriate announcement will be made to the congregation at a subsequent service. Discretion must be used when giving the reason for leaving, therefore, general agreement among the Elders will be reached before the reason is given in a public announcement.
Heritage Bible Church holds service every Sunday morning and the elders may schedule additional regular meetings or special meetings as appropriate. Heritage Bible Church acknowledges families (which includes singles, widows, divorcees, grandparents, etc.) as God’s building blocks of the church, and maintains family-integrated rather than family-segregated meetings.
During the Sunday morning meetings, the preaching of the Word will predominantly be expository in nature. The teaching or preaching during other meetings may normally be topical in nature.
Any meeting is intended to complement the Sunday morning service such that the body will be provided with a balance of those elements essential to Christian worship (e.g., corporate prayer, teaching, preaching, sharing, mutual edification, praise, singing, Christian ordinances, exercising of spiritual gifts, etc.).
Throughout the week there may be smaller, group meetings for specific purposes, such as: home fellowship, discipling, etc.
There shall be at least one formal Elder Board meeting each month for the conduct of business associated with oversight of Heritage Bible Church. This meeting shall be open to the entire body to attend, however, only Elders may vote when a vote is required. Other meetings may be called by the Elders (with limited attendance) to address sensitive shepherding issues not appropriate for public exposure, extended times of prayer, and mutual shepherding.
There shall be at least one annual Heritage Bible Church meeting for conduct of business that affects the entire body. This meeting will be held in the December time period and will include presentation of the budget for the next year.
In addition, other meetings may be called or established for worship, fellowship, or business, as required. These additional meetings are to be approved by the Elder board and may be requested by anyone associated formally or informally with Heritage Bible Church.
Heritage Bible Church recognizes that the Lord has established two ordinances to be faithfully observed in the church. These are: baptism, which is to be undergone once at conversion; and the Lord’s Supper, which is celebrated regularly.
Water baptism is symbolic of the Christian’s spiritual union with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6.3,4). Upon conversion a new Christian is to be baptized at the earliest convenient time.
a. Valid baptism. Any baptism prior to conversion, including infant baptism, is not recognized as valid, since it was not a true personal expression of faith and union with Christ. Ordinarily, one who has already been baptized as a believer should not be re-baptized. If a believer was baptized in a manner other than immersion, it is left up to his conscience as to whether that baptism was valid.
b. Testing candidates for baptism.. Baptisms in Heritage Bible Church are to take place under the authority and supervision of the Elders. An individual desiring to be baptized should contact one of the Elders, who will arrange a meeting with him at the earliest convenient time. At this meeting two men, at least one of whom must be an Elder, are to interview the candidate to hear his profession of faith. The candidate for baptism should demonstrate an understanding of the concepts of sin, repentance, substitutionary atonement, and faith in the Lord Christ. Particular care should be taken to ensure that the candidate understands the meaning of baptism as an important act of obedience and outward profession, but not a condition of salvation. In addition, those conducting the interview should look for the fruit of faith and repentance as expected in the life of a young believer. If the men conducting the interview determine that some of these issues remain unclear after the first meeting, further instruction and additional meetings may be required. Children who seek baptism must meet the same requirements as adults.
c. Performing baptisms. If the one desiring baptism gives a credible profession of faith, arrangements shall be made for a public baptism service at the earliest convenient time. Baptisms will ordinarily be by immersion. Baptisms shall be conducted under the supervision of the Elders and may be performed by an Elder, or any man approved by the Elders, such as a father, or another individual who has played a significant role in the spiritual life of the one being baptized. Before the candidate is baptized, he or she is to be given opportunity to give a public profession of faith in Christ either through a testimony, or by answering questions asked by the one performing the baptism.
Because the Lord exhorted us to do this in remembrance of Him (I Corinthians 11.23), and in light of the practice of the early church (Acts 2.42, 20.7), Heritage Bible Church observes the Lord’s Supper regularly. While the service does not need to be conducted by an Elder, the ordinance shall be carried out under the supervision of the Elders. Participation in the Lord’s Supper is open to all believers in attendance, regardless of their local church affiliation, unless they are under church discipline (see Article IV of By-Laws) or have unresolved sin against God or a brother (Matthew 5.23,24; 1 Corinthians 11.28,29).
This portion of the By-laws addresses church discipline as described in Matthew 18.17,18. The disciplinary measures described below are to be exercised only against offenders who profess to be Christians; they are not to be exercised against those who make no claim to be Christians, even though they be clearly guilty of the listed offenses.
“Fair warning” is an essential of justice, and so an Elder is to advise each applicant for membership of the discipline policy of Heritage Bible Church.
If an excommunicated member withdraws from Heritage Bible Church:
a. The departee’s membership status is withdrawn and not in good standing.
b. The Elders are obliged to inform the departee’s new church, if known, of his status.
c. Reinstatement to membership in good standing requires the completion of the disciplinary procedure described below.
a. Divisiveness (e.g., Titus 3.9-11; Romans 16.17,18; Hebrews 13.17)
b. Scandalous immorality (e.g., I Corinthians 5.9-11, 6.9,10; Exodus 20.12-17)
c. Rejecting the essential doctrines of the Christian faith (e.g., 1 Timothy 1. 19,20, 6.3-5; 2 John 9-11).
a. General. The disciplinary processes mentioned below are not to be initiated by any individual Elder, but only by the Elders acting as a board. They are to be applied only in the event of proven instances of any offenses described above. Offenses that have not resulted in reconciliation in response to the second step outlined in Matthew 18.15?18 may be taken to the church. The first step in taking an issue to the church is the taking of the issue by those who have unsuccessfully sought the offender’s repentance to the Elders of the church. The Elders, in turn, are then to do everything possible to assure that the disciplinary steps described below are properly carried out.
The elders are first to conduct an investigation to determine if the accused is guilty of the charge. If the charge of the offense listed above is adequately supported by actions proved by witnesses or a confession, the Elders are to initiate admonition (defined below) (2 Thessalonians 3.14,15; 1 Timothy 5.20; 2 Timothy 4.2, 16,17; Titus 1.13, 2.15, 3.10,11). If admonition is rejected by the offender, or admonition does not lead to cessation of the unacceptable behavior, the Elders are to initiate the excommunication process (defined below) (I Corinthians 5. 11, 13). Excommunication and admonition will continue until restoration (defined below) (2 Corinthians 2. 5?11).
Disciplinary measures will be documented in writing and will include:
i. A brief history of the case
ii. A list of proven offenses
iii. A list of the corrective actions required
iv. A schedule of counseling sessions with one or more of the Elders
v. In the case of admonition, a clear statement of the consequences of failure to take the required corrective actions
vi. When the offender is successful in fulfilling all corrective actions, an acknowledgment; or, in the case of prior excommunication, a statement of full restoration.
The Elders may not receive a charge against an Elder unless the charge is supported by two or more witnesses and provided in writing. Removal from office is not, strictly speaking, disciplinary. Removal should follow, with or without discipline, whenever an office holder is found to be unqualified for his office.
b. Admonition is to include:
i. A description of the unacceptable behavior
ii. A description of the behavior that must replace the unacceptable behavior
iii. The definition of a procedure for monitoring the offender’s behavior over a period of time
iv. A warning that excommunication will follow if corrective action is not taken.
The length of the monitoring period is to be determined by the Elders. If the offender acknowledges the justice of the admonition, agrees to take the required corrective action, and agrees to submit to the monitoring, the Elders are to carry into effect the monitoring procedure that they have designed. This monitoring period will be considered successfully terminated when the end of the period has been reached and the Elders are satisfied that the offensive behavior was not repeated during the monitoring period.
c. Excommunication is:
i. The exclusion of an offender from the privilege of participation in the public services of the church
ii. The exclusion of the offender from the social meals, get togethers, and recreational activities of the church and the individual members of the church
iii. The removal from the membership roll.
When the Elders determine excommunication is appropriate, they will inform the church of the reasons behind their decision and explain to the membership the duty of all members with respect to the action.
d. Restoration is the return to the offender of the privileges that were previously withdrawn in excommunication. Restoration will be offered to the offender by the Elders when the offender has satisfied the Elders that full repentance is a reality. When the Elders determine restoration is appropriate, they will inform the church of the reasons behind their decision and explain to the membership the duty of all members with respect to the action.
In order to be above reproach before God and one another as stewards of all the Lord has entrusted to Heritage Bible Church, it is important to establish proper financial accountability (1 Timothy 6.9,10; 1 Corinthians 16.3,4). To ensure this, the Deacon Board will exercise oversight of all financial matters of the church. To support this responsibility, a Treasurer shall be assigned to account for all Heritage Bible Church finances. Upon approval by both the Elder Board and the Deacon Board, the Treasurer shall serve as long as availability and desire to continue to serve remains.
The duties of the Treasurer are to:
a. Ensure that no expenditure exceeds its annual item allocation without Deacon Board approval
b. Minister closely with the Deacon Board to ensure timely dispensing of funds when required for various physical needs of the body
c. Oversee the counting and banking of all funds collected by the church
d. Oversee the maintaining of an accurate record of funds received and dispensed by the church
e. Report the financial position of the church at the annual financial review in December
f. Submit a preliminary budget for the next year to the Deacon Board and Elder Board
g. Make available to the Elder Board and the Deacon Board a monthly, written financial statement
h. Recommend to the Deacon Board policies and practices relating to financial management that are not explicitly covered by this Constitution and By-laws.
Detailed descriptions of the procedures to be followed relative to the above responsibilities are contained in the following sections.
After each service in which collections are received, the Treasurer, or his designee, and one other person (preferably an Elder or Deacon) shall count the receipts and sign a register recording the amount. The Treasurer is responsible to ensure the deposit of all collections and to keep accurate records of each individual or family’s giving, if known.
All payments or reimbursements must be approved by either a Deacon or Elder who is not directly involved with the transaction. Benevolence payments must be approved by the Deacons prior to actual distribution.
Designated gifts shall be permitted to be contributed only to the fund accounts established by the Deacons and identified in the Heritage Bible Church chart of accounts. Disbursement of funds from fund accounts shall be in accordance with the purpose of the fund account and under the supervision and control of the Deacons.
A monthly church expense and budget report will be prepared by the Treasurer to be presented to the Elders and Deacons. Independently, a Deacon will review the report and verify that proper procedures were followed. Each employed staff member of Heritage Bible Church who requires expense reimbursement will submit an expense reimbursement report for review by the Treasurer and a separate Deacon. The monthly expense and budget report shall be available for review by any church member on request. However, confidentiality of individual or family giving will be maintained.
The Treasurer shall compile a new calendar year budget (based upon inputs from the Elders, Deacons, and other ministry leaders) to be presented first to the Deacon Board, then the Elder Board, then the entire church prior to December each year. The annual budget is to be made available to the church for review for at least one month prior to formal adoption by the Elder Board. Whenever the Deacon and Elder Board must make significant budget adjustments (affecting 5 % or more of the total annual budget), these will be presented to the church for review prior to formal adoption by the Elder Board.
The Deacons shall appoint an individual to review the year’s financial records and report findings back to the Deacon and Elder Boards.
Salaries to be paid to Heritage Bible Church staff shall be recommended by the Treasurer and follow the same procedure for approval as the annual budget. Any person receiving compensation from the church shall not be in a position to set the amount of the salary.
The Elder Board shall earnestly strive to make all decisions by consensus. In the course of discussions between Elders and with others who may be participating, each Elder must:
a. Earnestly strive to seek God’s will and counsel (Psalm 143.10)
b. Ensure scriptural admonitions are not violated (2 Timothy 3.16,17)
c. Show mutual regard for one another (Philippians 2.2-4)
d. Submit himself one to another (Ephesians 5.21)
e. Wait patiently upon one another (Ephesians 4.2)
f. Genuinely consider one another’s interests and perspectives (Proverbs 15.22; Philippians 2.4)
g. Prefer and defer to one another and other delegated decision groups on all minor issues (Proverbs 13.10)
h. Maintain a teachable spirit (Proverbs 18.15)
If a consensus cannot be reached in a reasonable period of time on decisions not relating to church discipline, then a motion may be made (and must be seconded by another Elder) to:
a. Discuss the issue in further detail, or
b. Delay the decision for prayerful consideration and obtain more information as required, or
c. Consider delegating the discussion to another group for more thorough investigation and recommendations, or
d. Call for a vote – in which case a quorum of the Elders may vote with a simple majority needed to decide the issue.
A quorum is attained when half or more of the Elders are present. Also, when an Elder knows he will be absent, he may use his proxy vote on an issue scheduled to be decided upon.
In addition, an Elder may choose to abstain from voting. In such a case, his opportunity to vote will not be counted in the number present.
If a consensus cannot be reached in a reasonable period of time on decisions relating to application of church discipline of a member or removal of an Elder or Deacon from office, then a motion may be made (and must be seconded by another Elder) to:
a. Discuss the issue in further detail, or
b. Delay the decision for prayerful consideration and obtain more information/counsel as required, or
c. Call for a vote – in which case all Elders must be present to vote, and a two-thirds majority will be needed to decide the issue as follows:
|
Number of Voting Elders Present |
Votes to Carry |
|
1 |
N/A |
|
2 |
2?0 |
|
3 |
2?1 |
|
4 |
3?1 |
|
5 |
4?1 |
|
6 |
4?2 |
|
7 |
5?2 |
|
8 |
6?2 |
|
9 |
6?3 |
|
10 |
7?3 |
An Elder on a leave of absence will not be required to be present for a vote. Also, in decisions relating to discipline or removal of an Elder, the Elder in question will not be counted as a voting Elder and will not vote.
God is the one who calls a man to the task of Elder or Deacon as He is the one who so equips the man both with the spiritual gifts and character needed for the office (Acts 20.28, Ephesians 4.11). It is therefore the responsibility of the church to discover and evaluate those whom God has called to the office of Elder and Deacon (Acts 6.3). This evaluation shall be based upon the Biblical qualifications found in 1 Timothy 3.1-13, Titus 1.5-9, and 1 Peter 5.23.
Each Elder and Deacon will serve as long as he remains Biblically qualified, available, and desires to continue to serve.
A candidate for either office may be recommended to the Elders by any member of Heritage Bible Church. A man who believes that God is calling him may also seek the counsel of the Elders for possible candidacy (1 Timothy 3.1). It is the responsibility of all the Elders to examine the qualifications of a candidate for either office. In addition, the Deacons are to examine and approve a candidate for the office of Deacon.
If there is consensus among the Elders regarding the qualifications of a candidate, then the candidate will be presented to the membership for consideration, prayer, and a time of evaluation (1 Thessalonians 5.12; Acts 6.3-5). If consensus cannot be reached by the Elders, then the candidacy will be suspended.
A period of at least three months will be given for the membership to pray and ask questions of the candidate (or the Elders) with regard to his qualifications.
At the end of this time period, the Elders will evaluate both the responses from the membership and the status of the candidate. If there is still consensus among the Elders as to the qualifications of the candidate, he will then be brought before the membership in a worship service, in which he will be formally presented and acknowledged as one whom God has called to the task of Elder or Deacon.