WEST STANLY BAPTIST CHURCH BY-LAWS
As Amended February 26 2016
PREAMBLE
For the purposes of preserving and making secure the principles of our faith in Christ, and to the end that this body be governed in an orderly manner under the lordship of Jesus Christ, and for the purpose of preserving the liberties inherent in each individual member of this Church, and to set forth the relationship of this body to other churches, we do declare and establish these By-Laws.
I. NAME
The name of this body shall be West Stanly Baptist Church and is located at HWY 24/27 West, Albemarle, Stanly County, NC 28001.
II. OBJECTIVES
The purpose of West Stanly Baptist Church is to glorify God through His Son Jesus Christ, the Only true Head of the Church, in the power of the Holy Spirit.
The basic functions of the Church, which shall enable it to accomplish its purposes, may be Summarized as follows: (1) To worship, (2) To teach, (3) To evangelize, (4) To minister, (5) To encourage stewardship, and (6) To fellowship.
-Worship is the experience of communion with the living and holy God which leads to an awareness of His holiness, majesty and grace.
-Teaching is the instruction and application of the Bible in order to build up each member to maturity in Christ.
-Evangelism is the presentation of the gospel in a clear, uncompromising way so that our communities, both local and worldwide, may come to a personal acceptance of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.
-Ministry is the meeting of spiritual and physical needs of the local church and community at large in Jesus’ name.
-Stewardship is the encouraging of each member to accept responsibility in the use of time, talents, and substance-both personal and corporate-in the service of Jesus Christ.
-Fellowship is participating with other believers in openly expressing the love of Christ.
III. STATEMENT OF FAITH
We accept the following as our doctrinal statement of faith and affirm our belief in it:
-OF THE SCRIPTURES
The Holy Bible was written by men divinely inspired, and is God’s complete and inerrant revelation to man. It reveals the principles be which God will judge us and therefore is and shall remain to the end of the world, the true center of Christian union and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions should be tried.
-OF THE TRUE GOD
There is one, and only one, living and true God, an infinite, intelligent spirit, whose name is Jehovah, the Maker and Supreme Ruler of heaven and earth, inexpressibly glorious in holiness, worthy of all possible honor, confidence and love. In the unity of the Godhead there are three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, equal in every divine perfection and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of redemption.
“God is a spirit, infinite, eternal, unchangeable, in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness and truth.” The Westminster Shorter Catechism.
-OF GOD THE FATHER
God as Father reigns with providential care over His universe, His creatures, and the flow of the stream of human history according to the purposes of His grace. He is all-powerful, all loving, and all wise. God is Father in truth to those who become children of God through faith in Jesus Christ. He is fatherly in His attitude toward all men.
-OF GOD THE SON
Christ is the eternal Son of God. In His incarnation as Jesus Christ He was conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. Jesus perfectly revealed and did the will of God, taking upon Himself the demands and necessities of human nature and identifying Himself completely with mankind yet without sin. He honored the divine law by His personal obedience, and in His death on the cross He made provision for the redemption of men from sin. He was raised from the dead with a glorified body and appeared to His disciples as the person who was with them before His crucifixion. He ascended into heaven and is now exalted at the right hand of God where He is the One Mediator, partaking of the nature of God and of man, and in whose Person is effected the reconciliation between God and man. He will return in power and glory to judge the world and to consummate His redemptive mission. He now dwells in all believers as the living and ever present Lord.
-OF GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT
The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God. He inspired holy men of old to write the Scriptures. Through illumination He enables men to understand truth. He exalts Christ. He convicts of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment. He calls men to the savior, and effects regeneration. He cultivates Christian character, comforts believers, and bestows the spiritual gifts by which they serve God through His church. He seals the believer unto the day of final redemption. His presence in the Christian is the assurance of God to bring the believer into the fullness of the stature of Christ. He enlightens and empowers the believer and the church in worship, evangelism, and service.
-OF THE FALL OF MAN
Man was created in holiness, under the law of his Maker; but by voluntary transgression fell from that holy and happy state. In consequence of which all of mankind are now sinners, not by constraint, but by choice, being by nature utterly void of that holiness required by the Law of God, positively inclined to evil, and therefore under just condemnation to eternal ruin without defense or excuse.
-OF THE WAY OF SALVATION
Salvation of sinners is wholly of grace 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, honored the divine law by His personal obedience and by His death made a full atonement for our sins. Having risen from the dead He is now enthroned in heaven and uniting in His wonderful person the tenderest sympathies with divine perfections, He is in every way qualified to be the one unique, suitable, compassionate, and all-sufficient Savior.
-JUSTIFICATION
The great gospel blessing which Christ secures to such as believed in Him is justification. Justification includes the pardon of sin and the promise of eternal life on principles of righteousness. It is bestowed, not in consideration of any works of righteousness, which we have done, but solely through faith in the Redeemer’s blood. By virtue of which faith His perfect righteousness is freely imputed to us of God and secures every other blessing needful for time and eternity.
-OF THE FREENESS OF SALVATION
The blessings of salvation are made free to all by the gospel. It is the immediate duty of all to accept them by a cordial, penitent, and obedient faith and nothing prevents the salvation to the greatest sinner on earth but his own inherent depravity and voluntary rejection of the gospel, which rejection involves him in an aggravated condemnation.
-OF GRACE IN REGENERATION
In order to be saved, sinners must be regenerated or born again. Regeneration consists of giving a holy disposition to the mind. It is effected, in manner above our comprehension, by the power of the Holy Spirit in connection with divine truth so as to secure our voluntary obedience to the gospel. Its proper evidence appears in the Holy fruits of repentance and faith and newness of life.
-OF REPENTANCE AND FAITH
Repentance and faith are sacred duties and also inseparable graces, wrought in our souls by the regenerating Spirit of God. Whereby, being deeply convinced of our guilt, danger, and helplessness, and of the way of salvation by Christ, we turn to God with unfeigned contrition, confession, and supplication for mercy. At the same time, heartily receiving the Lord Jesus Christ as our Prophet, Priest, and King and relying on Him alone as the only and all-sufficient Savior.
-OF GOD’S PURPOSE OF GRACE
Election is the eternal purpose of God, according to which He graciously regenerates, saves, and sanctifies sinners. Being perfectly consistent with the free agency of man, it comprehends all the means in connection with the end. It is a most glorious display of God’s sovereign goodness, being infinitely free, wise, holy, and unchangeable. It utterly excludes boasting and promotes humility, love, prayer, praise, trust in God, and active initiation of His mercy. It encourages the use of means in the highest degree. It may be ascertained by its effects in all who truly believe the gospel. It is the foundation of Christian assurance and to ascertain it with regard to ourselves demands and deserves the utmost diligence.
-OF SANCTIFICATION
Sanctification is the process by which, according to the will of God, we are made partakers of His holiness. It is a progressive work. It is begun in regeneration and it is carried on in the hearts of believers by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, the Sealer, and Comforter, in the continual use of the appointed means, especially the work of God, self-examination, self-denial, watchfulness, and prayer.
-OF THE PERSEVERANCE OF SAINTS
Such only are real believers as endure unto the end. Their persevering to Christ is the grand mark which distinguishes them from superficial professors. A special Providence watches over their welfare, and they are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.
-OF HARMONY OF THE LAW AND THE GOSPEL
The law of God is the eternal and unchangeable rule of His moral government. It is holy, just, and good and the inability which the Scriptures ascribe to fallen men to fulfill its precepts arises entirely from their love of sin. To deliver them from that sin, and to restore them through a Mediator to unfeigned obedience to the Holy Law, is one great end of the gospel, and of the means of grace connected with the establishment of the visible church.
-OF THE GOSPEL CHURCH
A visible church of Christ is a congregation of baptized believers, associated by covenant in faith and fellowship of the gospel, observing the ordinances of Christ, governed by His laws, and exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by His work. Its only scriptural officers are Elders and Deacons whose qualifications, claims and duties are define in scripture.
-BAPTISM
Baptism is an ordinance of the Lord Jesus, obligatory upon every believer, wherein he is Immersed in water in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as a sign of His fellowship with the death and resurrection of Christ, of remission of sins, and of his giving Himself up to God, to live and walk in newness of life. It is perquisite to church membership.
-THE LORD’S SUPPER
The Lord’s Supper is an ordinance of the Lord Jesus Christ, to be administered with the elements of bread and the fruit of the vine, and to be observed by His churches till the end of the world. It is in no sense a sacrament, but is designed to commemorate His death, to confirm the faith and other graces of Christians to be a renewal of their communion with Him, and a time of self-examination.
-THE LORD’S DAY
The Lord’s Day is a Christian institution for regular observance, and should be employed in corporate worship and spiritual devotion.
-OF CIVIL GOVERNMENT
Civil government is of divine appointment, for the interests and good order of society. Government officials are to be prayed for, honored and obeyed except in things opposed to the Word of God.
-OF THE RIGHTEOUS AND THE WICKED
There is a radical and essential difference between the righteous and the wicked. Only those who through faith are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and sanctified by the Spirit of our God, are truly righteous in His esteem. While all those who continue in impenitence and unbelief are in His sight wicked, and under the curse, and this distinction holds among men both in life and after death.
-OF THE WORLD TO COME
We believe in the imminent (I Thes 5:2) pretribulational return of the Lord Jesus Christ to Rapture the church (I Cor 15:51-53; I Thes 4:13-18; 5:9)and His premillennial Second Coming in order to establish a literal one thousand year millennial kingdom (Rev. 19:11-21; Rev. 20:1-5). We are dispensational in our interpretation of the Scriptures.
-OF MARRIAGE AND SEXUALITY
A. We believe that term “marriage” has only one meaning and that is marriage sanctioned by God which joins one natural born man and one natural born woman in a single, exclusive union, as delineated in Scripture.
OF THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH
We believe it is the mission to go into all the world and make disciples of all nations (Matt. 28:19; Mk 16:15; Lk 24:46-48; Acts 1:8). By this is meant that the Church is debtor to the whole world, that is, that the Church is under obligation to give the whole world an opportunity to hear the Gospel and to accept Christ (Matt. 9:38; Phil 4:15-18; Acts 13: 1-4).
IV. CHURCH COVENANT
Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord, and on the profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, we do now, in the presence of God, and this assembly, most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another as one body in Christ.
We engage, therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit to walk together as a local body in Christian love, in knowledge, holiness and spirituality; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline, and doctrines; to contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the church, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the gospel through all nations.
We also engage to maintain family and secret devotions; to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances; to walk circumspectly in the world; to be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements and exemplary in our conduct; and zealous in our efforts to advance the kingdom of our Savior.
We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love; to remember one another in prayer; to aid one another in sickness and distress; to cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and Christian courtesy in speech; to be slow to take offense, but always ready reconciliation and mindful of the rules of our Savior to secure it with our delay.
V. ORDINANCES
Section 1. Baptism
Only those having publicly professed Christ as Savior shall, by the pastor or some other person authorized by the church, be immersed in water as soon as possible after salvation in accordance with the Scriptures. Rom. 6:4.
Section 2. Lord’s Supper
To this table shall be invited all who are born again and in fellowship with the Lord. Membership shall have no bearing.
VI. CHURCH DISCIPLINE
Section 1. Matters of offense between members shall be dealt with in accordance with the scriptures found in Matthew 18: 15-17
Section 2. If a member is suspected of open sin, he or she shall be visited by the pastor and one or two deacons. At this time, the particular sin will be discussed and an invitation given to the accused to repent, if guilty. If not guilty of the accused sin, and it seems appropriate, his or her innocence shall be made known to the congregation.
Section 3. If the individual is guilty and does not repent, he or she shall be notified that the matter will be brought before the congregation on a given date, and that if repentance is not made, he or she will be dismissed from the membership of the church by a majority vote of the membership present at a duly-called business meeting of the church.
VII. MEMBERSHIP
Section 1. The membership shall be composed of individuals, who give public testimony acknowledging themselves as sinners before God, having received Christ as personal Savior, and having been scripturally baptized by immersion. All members are received by a majority vote of active members and should support the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of this church.
Section 2. Former members who have been dismissed from this church may be restored upon confession of their errors, giving evidence of their repentance, and requesting membership.
Section 3. Members, without good cause or except when due to unavoidable circumstances, who have not attend or participated in the life of this church for a period of three (3) months, shall be placed on an inactive status. Persons in inactive status shall not be eligible to hold office or vote in church sessions. If the member does not become active within the subsequent three-month period he or she shall be dropped from the church roll. To implement this provision, the deacons shall review the membership roll of the church and after prayerful and careful consideration prepare a list of those for whom inactive status would be appropriate.
Section 4. Persons may be returned to active status after their attendance and participation in the church has been reviewed and favorably considered.
Section 5. In addition to Section 3, above, membership in this church shall be terminated in the following ways:
VIII. DUTIES OF MEMBERS
Section 1. Each member shall maintain a Christian testimony by: (a) attendance at regular appointed meetings; (b) living a separated life as the Bible teaches; (c) sharing his faith with others.
Section 2. Each member shall support his church in every phase: (a) prayerfully; (b) financially, with his tithes and offerings; (c) willingly helping within his qualifications when asked to do so; (d) showing a Christian concern for the brethren; (e) saying only favorable things about the church, the pastor, the church officers, fellow members, and all church policies.
Section 3. No member of the church can abridge the right to speech, assembly or association.
IX. MEETINGS
Section 1. Worship. This church shall hold regular meetings for worship, teaching, training and fellowship.
Section 2. Business Meetings.
X OFFICERS
No one may hold office in the church under the age of eighteen (18) and all officers must be members and the duties of all officers are considered a ministry of the church.
Pastor
Section 1. Qualification of the Pastor: Before a candidate shall be considered, the deacon board shall investigate the man according to his education, his business affairs, his previous pastorates, his qualifications in accordance with I Tim 3:1-7. They shall seek to determine his doctrinal beliefs, and his spiritual, emotional, and moral stability. The candidate shall in their presence, affirm his belief concerning the Articles of Faith and constitution of West Stanly Baptist Church. After having preached as a candidate, the Pastor shall be called for an indefinite term by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of members present at an officially called business meeting and the candidate shall be notified of the action within seven (7) days after a decision has been reached. Note: Only ONE candidate shall be considered at a time.
Section 2. Duties of the Pastor: He shall be in charge of the welfare and oversight of the church. He shall be an ex-officio member of all committees or groups. Subject to the approval of the deacons and on the condition that they shall become a member of the church upon assuming their duties. All church staff, whether paid or volunteer, shall be under the supervision of the pastor. The pastor shall be the sole authorized counselor for the church.
Section 3. Dismissing the Pastor: A pastor can be dismissed by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of members present at an officially called business meeting after the deacons have discussed the matter and they deem it necessary to vote on the matter. Any complaint against the pastor shall be submitted to the chairman of the deacon board in writing. The two reasons for dismissal are: (1) conduct unbecoming to a minister; (2) preaching or teaching false doctrine.
Deacons
Section 1. Qualifications: These shall be the same as we find in I Tim 3:8-13 and Acts 6:1-8. Each person considered must also be a member of good standing in the church for at least one (1) year.
Section 2. Number: The church shall elect from its male membership not less than three (3) men to serve as deacons. Deacons shall serve on a three-year rotational basis. After serving for three years, a deacon will not be eligible for reelection for at least one (1) year unless other qualified men are not available within the church membership. There shall always be an uneven number of active deacons.
Section 3. Election: The Pastor and active deacons shall recommend to the church the need for new or additional deacons. Active church members may nominate men to be considered as deacons. The Pastor and the deacons, after prayerful and careful consideration of all nominees, shall submit to the congregation the names of qualified men for the purpose of selecting new deacons. At a duly called business meeting, active members shall then vote for those whom they desire to serve as deacons. Upon voting, those receiving the highest number of votes shall be elected.
Section 4. Duties:
Secretary/Clerk
Shall be elected for a period of one (1) year and keep a complete record of all the official acts of the church. The secretary shall also keep a complete list of those who are members of the church and their current address. The secretary shall also perform such duties as prescribed by the deacons.
Sunday School Superintendent
Shall be elected for a period of one (1) year and shall be in charge of the Sunday School program, including the appointment of teachers under the direction of the Pastor and with the approval of the deacons.
Treasurer
The treasurer shall be elected for a period of one (1) year. He shall be responsible for the counting and depositing of all church funds. He shall be responsible for the proper payment of the church bills and accounting of all funds.
Chairman of Ushers
He shall be elected for a period of one (1) year. He may appoint as many aides as he needs. He shall be responsible for seating the people comfortably, and preventing all interruptions and disturbances. He shall receive, through supervision, the offerings at all services.
XI CHURCH FINANCES
Section 1. Budget. The treasurer shall prepare and submit to the church for approval an inclusive budget, indicating by items the amount needed and sought for all local and other expenses.
Section 2. Accounting Procedures. Monies shall be properly counted and deposited by the Counting Committee accounted for by the Treasurer, and shall be administered in keeping with the instruction of the church and be properly recorded on the books of the church. A system of accounting that will adequately provide for the handling of all funds shall be maintained.
Section 3. Expenditures and Receipts of Funds. Designated funds shall be discouraged, but when received shall be expended as so designated. When the purpose for which funds were designated ceases to exist, the donor shall be contacted and advised accordingly. If the donor does not provide specific instructions as to the use of any remaining funds within thirty (30) days, such funds shall be deemed part of the general funds of the church and transferred from any trust account as required.
XII COMMITTEES XII COMMITTEES
Any committee that may be needed for the operation of the church shall be made up at a business meeting of the church. All meetings requiring a two-thirds majority vote will have a one-week prior notice. The Pastor and deacons will call any necessary business meeting.
XIII CHURCH POLICIES
Upon recommendation of the Deacons, the Church Membership may adopt at any business meeting by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of members present such policies and procedures not inconsistent with the Articles of Incorporation or these Bylaws.
XIV AMENDMENTS
These By-Laws may be amended at any business meeting by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of members present, providing notice of such proposed amendment shall have been given in writing at a previous business meeting.
Approved and voted in favor of this 24th day of August, 2014.
Church Clerk
Any committee that may be needed for the operation of the church shall be made up at a business meeting of the church. All meetings requiring a two-thirds majority vote will have a one-week prior notice. The Pastor and deacons will call any necessary business meeting.
XIII CHURCH POLICIES
Upon recommendation of the Deacons, the Church Membership may adopt at any business meeting by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of members present such policies and procedures not inconsistent with the Articles of Incorporation or these Bylaws.
XIV AMENDMENTS
These By-Laws may be amended at any business meeting by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of members present, providing notice of such proposed amendment shall have been given in writing at a previous business meeting.
Approved and voted in favor of this 24th day of August, 2014.
Church Clerk
As Amended February 26 2016
PREAMBLE
For the purposes of preserving and making secure the principles of our faith in Christ, and to the end that this body be governed in an orderly manner under the lordship of Jesus Christ, and for the purpose of preserving the liberties inherent in each individual member of this Church, and to set forth the relationship of this body to other churches, we do declare and establish these By-Laws.
I. NAME
The name of this body shall be West Stanly Baptist Church and is located at HWY 24/27 West, Albemarle, Stanly County, NC 28001.
II. OBJECTIVES
The purpose of West Stanly Baptist Church is to glorify God through His Son Jesus Christ, the Only true Head of the Church, in the power of the Holy Spirit.
The basic functions of the Church, which shall enable it to accomplish its purposes, may be Summarized as follows: (1) To worship, (2) To teach, (3) To evangelize, (4) To minister, (5) To encourage stewardship, and (6) To fellowship.
-Worship is the experience of communion with the living and holy God which leads to an awareness of His holiness, majesty and grace.
-Teaching is the instruction and application of the Bible in order to build up each member to maturity in Christ.
-Evangelism is the presentation of the gospel in a clear, uncompromising way so that our communities, both local and worldwide, may come to a personal acceptance of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.
-Ministry is the meeting of spiritual and physical needs of the local church and community at large in Jesus’ name.
-Stewardship is the encouraging of each member to accept responsibility in the use of time, talents, and substance-both personal and corporate-in the service of Jesus Christ.
-Fellowship is participating with other believers in openly expressing the love of Christ.
III. STATEMENT OF FAITH
We accept the following as our doctrinal statement of faith and affirm our belief in it:
-OF THE SCRIPTURES
The Holy Bible was written by men divinely inspired, and is God’s complete and inerrant revelation to man. It reveals the principles be which God will judge us and therefore is and shall remain to the end of the world, the true center of Christian union and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions should be tried.
-OF THE TRUE GOD
There is one, and only one, living and true God, an infinite, intelligent spirit, whose name is Jehovah, the Maker and Supreme Ruler of heaven and earth, inexpressibly glorious in holiness, worthy of all possible honor, confidence and love. In the unity of the Godhead there are three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, equal in every divine perfection and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of redemption.
“God is a spirit, infinite, eternal, unchangeable, in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness and truth.” The Westminster Shorter Catechism.
-OF GOD THE FATHER
God as Father reigns with providential care over His universe, His creatures, and the flow of the stream of human history according to the purposes of His grace. He is all-powerful, all loving, and all wise. God is Father in truth to those who become children of God through faith in Jesus Christ. He is fatherly in His attitude toward all men.
-OF GOD THE SON
Christ is the eternal Son of God. In His incarnation as Jesus Christ He was conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. Jesus perfectly revealed and did the will of God, taking upon Himself the demands and necessities of human nature and identifying Himself completely with mankind yet without sin. He honored the divine law by His personal obedience, and in His death on the cross He made provision for the redemption of men from sin. He was raised from the dead with a glorified body and appeared to His disciples as the person who was with them before His crucifixion. He ascended into heaven and is now exalted at the right hand of God where He is the One Mediator, partaking of the nature of God and of man, and in whose Person is effected the reconciliation between God and man. He will return in power and glory to judge the world and to consummate His redemptive mission. He now dwells in all believers as the living and ever present Lord.
-OF GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT
The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God. He inspired holy men of old to write the Scriptures. Through illumination He enables men to understand truth. He exalts Christ. He convicts of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment. He calls men to the savior, and effects regeneration. He cultivates Christian character, comforts believers, and bestows the spiritual gifts by which they serve God through His church. He seals the believer unto the day of final redemption. His presence in the Christian is the assurance of God to bring the believer into the fullness of the stature of Christ. He enlightens and empowers the believer and the church in worship, evangelism, and service.
-OF THE FALL OF MAN
Man was created in holiness, under the law of his Maker; but by voluntary transgression fell from that holy and happy state. In consequence of which all of mankind are now sinners, not by constraint, but by choice, being by nature utterly void of that holiness required by the Law of God, positively inclined to evil, and therefore under just condemnation to eternal ruin without defense or excuse.
-OF THE WAY OF SALVATION
Salvation of sinners is wholly of grace 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, honored the divine law by His personal obedience and by His death made a full atonement for our sins. Having risen from the dead He is now enthroned in heaven and uniting in His wonderful person the tenderest sympathies with divine perfections, He is in every way qualified to be the one unique, suitable, compassionate, and all-sufficient Savior.
-JUSTIFICATION
The great gospel blessing which Christ secures to such as believed in Him is justification. Justification includes the pardon of sin and the promise of eternal life on principles of righteousness. It is bestowed, not in consideration of any works of righteousness, which we have done, but solely through faith in the Redeemer’s blood. By virtue of which faith His perfect righteousness is freely imputed to us of God and secures every other blessing needful for time and eternity.
-OF THE FREENESS OF SALVATION
The blessings of salvation are made free to all by the gospel. It is the immediate duty of all to accept them by a cordial, penitent, and obedient faith and nothing prevents the salvation to the greatest sinner on earth but his own inherent depravity and voluntary rejection of the gospel, which rejection involves him in an aggravated condemnation.
-OF GRACE IN REGENERATION
In order to be saved, sinners must be regenerated or born again. Regeneration consists of giving a holy disposition to the mind. It is effected, in manner above our comprehension, by the power of the Holy Spirit in connection with divine truth so as to secure our voluntary obedience to the gospel. Its proper evidence appears in the Holy fruits of repentance and faith and newness of life.
-OF REPENTANCE AND FAITH
Repentance and faith are sacred duties and also inseparable graces, wrought in our souls by the regenerating Spirit of God. Whereby, being deeply convinced of our guilt, danger, and helplessness, and of the way of salvation by Christ, we turn to God with unfeigned contrition, confession, and supplication for mercy. At the same time, heartily receiving the Lord Jesus Christ as our Prophet, Priest, and King and relying on Him alone as the only and all-sufficient Savior.
-OF GOD’S PURPOSE OF GRACE
Election is the eternal purpose of God, according to which He graciously regenerates, saves, and sanctifies sinners. Being perfectly consistent with the free agency of man, it comprehends all the means in connection with the end. It is a most glorious display of God’s sovereign goodness, being infinitely free, wise, holy, and unchangeable. It utterly excludes boasting and promotes humility, love, prayer, praise, trust in God, and active initiation of His mercy. It encourages the use of means in the highest degree. It may be ascertained by its effects in all who truly believe the gospel. It is the foundation of Christian assurance and to ascertain it with regard to ourselves demands and deserves the utmost diligence.
-OF SANCTIFICATION
Sanctification is the process by which, according to the will of God, we are made partakers of His holiness. It is a progressive work. It is begun in regeneration and it is carried on in the hearts of believers by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, the Sealer, and Comforter, in the continual use of the appointed means, especially the work of God, self-examination, self-denial, watchfulness, and prayer.
-OF THE PERSEVERANCE OF SAINTS
Such only are real believers as endure unto the end. Their persevering to Christ is the grand mark which distinguishes them from superficial professors. A special Providence watches over their welfare, and they are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.
-OF HARMONY OF THE LAW AND THE GOSPEL
The law of God is the eternal and unchangeable rule of His moral government. It is holy, just, and good and the inability which the Scriptures ascribe to fallen men to fulfill its precepts arises entirely from their love of sin. To deliver them from that sin, and to restore them through a Mediator to unfeigned obedience to the Holy Law, is one great end of the gospel, and of the means of grace connected with the establishment of the visible church.
-OF THE GOSPEL CHURCH
A visible church of Christ is a congregation of baptized believers, associated by covenant in faith and fellowship of the gospel, observing the ordinances of Christ, governed by His laws, and exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by His work. Its only scriptural officers are Elders and Deacons whose qualifications, claims and duties are define in scripture.
-BAPTISM
Baptism is an ordinance of the Lord Jesus, obligatory upon every believer, wherein he is Immersed in water in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as a sign of His fellowship with the death and resurrection of Christ, of remission of sins, and of his giving Himself up to God, to live and walk in newness of life. It is perquisite to church membership.
-THE LORD’S SUPPER
The Lord’s Supper is an ordinance of the Lord Jesus Christ, to be administered with the elements of bread and the fruit of the vine, and to be observed by His churches till the end of the world. It is in no sense a sacrament, but is designed to commemorate His death, to confirm the faith and other graces of Christians to be a renewal of their communion with Him, and a time of self-examination.
-THE LORD’S DAY
The Lord’s Day is a Christian institution for regular observance, and should be employed in corporate worship and spiritual devotion.
-OF CIVIL GOVERNMENT
Civil government is of divine appointment, for the interests and good order of society. Government officials are to be prayed for, honored and obeyed except in things opposed to the Word of God.
-OF THE RIGHTEOUS AND THE WICKED
There is a radical and essential difference between the righteous and the wicked. Only those who through faith are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and sanctified by the Spirit of our God, are truly righteous in His esteem. While all those who continue in impenitence and unbelief are in His sight wicked, and under the curse, and this distinction holds among men both in life and after death.
-OF THE WORLD TO COME
We believe in the imminent (I Thes 5:2) pretribulational return of the Lord Jesus Christ to Rapture the church (I Cor 15:51-53; I Thes 4:13-18; 5:9)and His premillennial Second Coming in order to establish a literal one thousand year millennial kingdom (Rev. 19:11-21; Rev. 20:1-5). We are dispensational in our interpretation of the Scriptures.
-OF MARRIAGE AND SEXUALITY
A. We believe that term “marriage” has only one meaning and that is marriage sanctioned by God which joins one natural born man and one natural born woman in a single, exclusive union, as delineated in Scripture.
- We believe that God intends sexual intimacy to only occur between a man and a woman who are married to each other. 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 sexual immorality, such as adultery, fornication, homosexuality, bisexual conduct, bestiality, incest, pornography or any attempt to change one’s sex, or disagreement with one’s biological sex, is sinful and offensive to God.
- We believe that in order to preserve the function and integrity of the church as the local Body of Christ, and to provide a biblical role model to the church members and the community, it is imperative that all persons employed by the church in any capacity, or who serve as volunteers, should abide by and agree to this Statement on Marriage and Sexuality and conduct themselves accordingly.
- We believe that God offers redemption and restoration to all who confess and forsake their sin, seeking His mercy and forgiveness through Jesus Christ.
- We believe that every person must be afforded compassion, love, kindness, respect, and dignity. Hateful and harassing behavior or attitudes directed toward any individual are to be repudiated and are not in accord with scripture nor the doctrines of the church
OF THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH
We believe it is the mission to go into all the world and make disciples of all nations (Matt. 28:19; Mk 16:15; Lk 24:46-48; Acts 1:8). By this is meant that the Church is debtor to the whole world, that is, that the Church is under obligation to give the whole world an opportunity to hear the Gospel and to accept Christ (Matt. 9:38; Phil 4:15-18; Acts 13: 1-4).
IV. CHURCH COVENANT
Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord, and on the profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, we do now, in the presence of God, and this assembly, most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another as one body in Christ.
We engage, therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit to walk together as a local body in Christian love, in knowledge, holiness and spirituality; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline, and doctrines; to contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the church, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the gospel through all nations.
We also engage to maintain family and secret devotions; to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances; to walk circumspectly in the world; to be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements and exemplary in our conduct; and zealous in our efforts to advance the kingdom of our Savior.
We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love; to remember one another in prayer; to aid one another in sickness and distress; to cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and Christian courtesy in speech; to be slow to take offense, but always ready reconciliation and mindful of the rules of our Savior to secure it with our delay.
V. ORDINANCES
Section 1. Baptism
Only those having publicly professed Christ as Savior shall, by the pastor or some other person authorized by the church, be immersed in water as soon as possible after salvation in accordance with the Scriptures. Rom. 6:4.
Section 2. Lord’s Supper
To this table shall be invited all who are born again and in fellowship with the Lord. Membership shall have no bearing.
VI. CHURCH DISCIPLINE
Section 1. Matters of offense between members shall be dealt with in accordance with the scriptures found in Matthew 18: 15-17
Section 2. If a member is suspected of open sin, he or she shall be visited by the pastor and one or two deacons. At this time, the particular sin will be discussed and an invitation given to the accused to repent, if guilty. If not guilty of the accused sin, and it seems appropriate, his or her innocence shall be made known to the congregation.
Section 3. If the individual is guilty and does not repent, he or she shall be notified that the matter will be brought before the congregation on a given date, and that if repentance is not made, he or she will be dismissed from the membership of the church by a majority vote of the membership present at a duly-called business meeting of the church.
VII. MEMBERSHIP
Section 1. The membership shall be composed of individuals, who give public testimony acknowledging themselves as sinners before God, having received Christ as personal Savior, and having been scripturally baptized by immersion. All members are received by a majority vote of active members and should support the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of this church.
Section 2. Former members who have been dismissed from this church may be restored upon confession of their errors, giving evidence of their repentance, and requesting membership.
Section 3. Members, without good cause or except when due to unavoidable circumstances, who have not attend or participated in the life of this church for a period of three (3) months, shall be placed on an inactive status. Persons in inactive status shall not be eligible to hold office or vote in church sessions. If the member does not become active within the subsequent three-month period he or she shall be dropped from the church roll. To implement this provision, the deacons shall review the membership roll of the church and after prayerful and careful consideration prepare a list of those for whom inactive status would be appropriate.
Section 4. Persons may be returned to active status after their attendance and participation in the church has been reviewed and favorably considered.
Section 5. In addition to Section 3, above, membership in this church shall be terminated in the following ways:
- By Death. The church clerk shall remove the name of any member from the church roll upon notification of the death of that member.
- By Letter. Letters of dismissal may be granted to any church of like faith and order for members in good standing. When letters are granted, membership in this church will be terminated.
- By Exclusion. The church, upon compliance with Article VI Church Discipline, above, may terminate the membership of persons who fail to fulfill the obligations of the church covenant, and of persons whose conduct is of such a nature that it hinders the work of the church and Christ’s Kingdom.
- By Erasure. Upon receipt of reliable information that a member has joined another church, the clerk shall remove the person from the membership rolls of this church.
VIII. DUTIES OF MEMBERS
Section 1. Each member shall maintain a Christian testimony by: (a) attendance at regular appointed meetings; (b) living a separated life as the Bible teaches; (c) sharing his faith with others.
Section 2. Each member shall support his church in every phase: (a) prayerfully; (b) financially, with his tithes and offerings; (c) willingly helping within his qualifications when asked to do so; (d) showing a Christian concern for the brethren; (e) saying only favorable things about the church, the pastor, the church officers, fellow members, and all church policies.
Section 3. No member of the church can abridge the right to speech, assembly or association.
IX. MEETINGS
Section 1. Worship. This church shall hold regular meetings for worship, teaching, training and fellowship.
Section 2. Business Meetings.
- Annual Meeting. The annual meeting for the election of officers shall be held during September.
- Special Called Meetings.
- The Pastor may call for an immediate business conference to act upon matters of business those being the reception of members, appointment of messengers to conferences, the granting of letters, and the annual church letter.
- Special business meetings may be called by the Pastor of the Board of Deacons or any twenty members requesting such in writing. The time and place of any such special business meeting, and matters to be considered, shall be stated in the call, and public announcement made at the Sunday morning service preceding the special business conference. Only the business matters announced in the call may be proper matters for the special business meeting.
- In the event of an emergency, the pastor or chairman of the deacons may, with consent of three-fifths of the deacons call an emergency meeting without full notice to the members. Such notice as is possible will be given to the membership, and action is limited to the items requiring the emergency meeting. No meeting under this provision my be called in regard to personnel matters,
- Moderator. The Pastor will serve as moderator, or, in his absence, or upon his request, or on any motion concerning his compensation or tenure, the Chairman of the Deacons, or in the absence of both, the Clerk shall call the meeting to order and a person shall be designated as Moderator Pro Tem by the body of the church in session.
- Procedure. Except where specific provisions are made herein, Robert’s Rules of Order shall be the rule and guide in matter of procedure in all business meetings of this church, except that the moderator may, absent objection or with the consent of the majority, deviate from such rules in the interests of full discussion and harmony.
X OFFICERS
No one may hold office in the church under the age of eighteen (18) and all officers must be members and the duties of all officers are considered a ministry of the church.
Pastor
Section 1. Qualification of the Pastor: Before a candidate shall be considered, the deacon board shall investigate the man according to his education, his business affairs, his previous pastorates, his qualifications in accordance with I Tim 3:1-7. They shall seek to determine his doctrinal beliefs, and his spiritual, emotional, and moral stability. The candidate shall in their presence, affirm his belief concerning the Articles of Faith and constitution of West Stanly Baptist Church. After having preached as a candidate, the Pastor shall be called for an indefinite term by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of members present at an officially called business meeting and the candidate shall be notified of the action within seven (7) days after a decision has been reached. Note: Only ONE candidate shall be considered at a time.
Section 2. Duties of the Pastor: He shall be in charge of the welfare and oversight of the church. He shall be an ex-officio member of all committees or groups. Subject to the approval of the deacons and on the condition that they shall become a member of the church upon assuming their duties. All church staff, whether paid or volunteer, shall be under the supervision of the pastor. The pastor shall be the sole authorized counselor for the church.
Section 3. Dismissing the Pastor: A pastor can be dismissed by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of members present at an officially called business meeting after the deacons have discussed the matter and they deem it necessary to vote on the matter. Any complaint against the pastor shall be submitted to the chairman of the deacon board in writing. The two reasons for dismissal are: (1) conduct unbecoming to a minister; (2) preaching or teaching false doctrine.
Deacons
Section 1. Qualifications: These shall be the same as we find in I Tim 3:8-13 and Acts 6:1-8. Each person considered must also be a member of good standing in the church for at least one (1) year.
Section 2. Number: The church shall elect from its male membership not less than three (3) men to serve as deacons. Deacons shall serve on a three-year rotational basis. After serving for three years, a deacon will not be eligible for reelection for at least one (1) year unless other qualified men are not available within the church membership. There shall always be an uneven number of active deacons.
Section 3. Election: The Pastor and active deacons shall recommend to the church the need for new or additional deacons. Active church members may nominate men to be considered as deacons. The Pastor and the deacons, after prayerful and careful consideration of all nominees, shall submit to the congregation the names of qualified men for the purpose of selecting new deacons. At a duly called business meeting, active members shall then vote for those whom they desire to serve as deacons. Upon voting, those receiving the highest number of votes shall be elected.
Section 4. Duties:
- In accordance with the meaning of the New Testament word and practice of the New Testament church, deacons are to be servants of the church.
- Deacons are specifically charged with the spiritual advancement and interest of the church including the watch care of its members and reclaiming of inactive members.
- Deacons are to prepare and distribute the elements of the Lord’s Supper.
- Deacons are to meet regularly with the Pastor to discuss spiritual and material welfare of the church family and to pray.
- Deacons shall cooperate with and assist the Pastor in the performance of his duties, and assist in such matters as revivals, Bible Conferences, and visitation.
- Deacons shall see that the Pastor’s material needs are met.
- Deacons shall arrange for a speaker when the church is without a pastor.
- Deacons shall visit the sick. They shall seek out members of the church that are in material need and use alms of the church for their relief.
- Deacons shall not disburse more than One Thousand Dollars ($1,000) for any one church expenditure without congregational approval.
- As trustees of the church, Deacons shall serve as custodians and hold in trust the real and personal property of the church and serve as signatories. Upon a specific vote of the majority of members at a duly called business meeting authorizing any action, they shall have the power to buy, sell, mortgage, lease, or transfer any church property. When the signatures of Deacons are required, they shall sign legal documents involving the sale, mortgage, purchase, or rental of property, or other legal document related to church-approved matters. Subject to the provisions of the Articles of Incorporation and the laws of the State, the Deacons shall represent the church in all its business affairs.
- Deacons may refer a matter of business to the church or to an appropriate committee for consideration.
Secretary/Clerk
Shall be elected for a period of one (1) year and keep a complete record of all the official acts of the church. The secretary shall also keep a complete list of those who are members of the church and their current address. The secretary shall also perform such duties as prescribed by the deacons.
Sunday School Superintendent
Shall be elected for a period of one (1) year and shall be in charge of the Sunday School program, including the appointment of teachers under the direction of the Pastor and with the approval of the deacons.
Treasurer
The treasurer shall be elected for a period of one (1) year. He shall be responsible for the counting and depositing of all church funds. He shall be responsible for the proper payment of the church bills and accounting of all funds.
Chairman of Ushers
He shall be elected for a period of one (1) year. He may appoint as many aides as he needs. He shall be responsible for seating the people comfortably, and preventing all interruptions and disturbances. He shall receive, through supervision, the offerings at all services.
XI CHURCH FINANCES
Section 1. Budget. The treasurer shall prepare and submit to the church for approval an inclusive budget, indicating by items the amount needed and sought for all local and other expenses.
Section 2. Accounting Procedures. Monies shall be properly counted and deposited by the Counting Committee accounted for by the Treasurer, and shall be administered in keeping with the instruction of the church and be properly recorded on the books of the church. A system of accounting that will adequately provide for the handling of all funds shall be maintained.
Section 3. Expenditures and Receipts of Funds. Designated funds shall be discouraged, but when received shall be expended as so designated. When the purpose for which funds were designated ceases to exist, the donor shall be contacted and advised accordingly. If the donor does not provide specific instructions as to the use of any remaining funds within thirty (30) days, such funds shall be deemed part of the general funds of the church and transferred from any trust account as required.
XII COMMITTEES XII COMMITTEES
Any committee that may be needed for the operation of the church shall be made up at a business meeting of the church. All meetings requiring a two-thirds majority vote will have a one-week prior notice. The Pastor and deacons will call any necessary business meeting.
XIII CHURCH POLICIES
Upon recommendation of the Deacons, the Church Membership may adopt at any business meeting by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of members present such policies and procedures not inconsistent with the Articles of Incorporation or these Bylaws.
XIV AMENDMENTS
These By-Laws may be amended at any business meeting by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of members present, providing notice of such proposed amendment shall have been given in writing at a previous business meeting.
Approved and voted in favor of this 24th day of August, 2014.
Church Clerk
Any committee that may be needed for the operation of the church shall be made up at a business meeting of the church. All meetings requiring a two-thirds majority vote will have a one-week prior notice. The Pastor and deacons will call any necessary business meeting.
XIII CHURCH POLICIES
Upon recommendation of the Deacons, the Church Membership may adopt at any business meeting by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of members present such policies and procedures not inconsistent with the Articles of Incorporation or these Bylaws.
XIV AMENDMENTS
These By-Laws may be amended at any business meeting by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of members present, providing notice of such proposed amendment shall have been given in writing at a previous business meeting.
Approved and voted in favor of this 24th day of August, 2014.
Church Clerk
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