Constitution

PREAMBLE

This is the Constitution of First Baptist Church Ministries. It is based upon Biblical principles and is in no way intended as an addition to the Word of God. It is simply a systematic review of the truths found in God's Word concerning His church. Its purpose is to guide members regarding certain doctrines, methods, procedures, and organizations as clearly taught in the New Testament. The goal is to always practice, with God’s help, Biblical Christianity in every activity.

ARTICLE I - NAME AND ORGANIZATION

This organization is known as the First Baptist Church of Aston, Inc. (also doing business as and hereafter referred to as First Baptist Church of Aston; First Baptist Church Ministries; and First Baptist Church.

ARTICLE II - OBJECTIVES

Section 1 - Teaching and Preaching the Bible, God's Holy Word

First Baptist Church believes the Bible is the inspired Word of God and is the ONLY authority for faith and practice. Because we believe this, we feel it is our purpose:

A. To maintain regular services for public worship;

B. To seriously proclaim the Bible’s gospel message and to urge its personal acceptance, both privately and publicly;

C. To promote systematic Bible study and teaching for Christian service and soul winning;

D. To participate enthusiastically, by prayer, giving and service, in the effort to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world;

E. To pray for one another that we may always live according to the will of God, as revealed in His Word;

F. To promote Christian friendship and fellowship;

G. To promote Christian primary and secondary education.

Section 2 - Evangelism

Winning souls is the primary objective of First Baptist Church. Evangelism, in its most complete meaning, is the most important and constant responsibility of every local church.

First Baptist Church has the obligation to our community to boldly proclaim the truth of the Bible in the power of the Holy Spirit. To do this, we maintain an on-going program of New Testament evangelism and visitation. There is no other way the gospel can be taken "to every creature."

We also promote the concept of “planting” (starting) local Baptist churches. These churches may be anywhere: nearby in our own community, in Pennsylvania, in the United States, or in any country.

We support evangelism worldwide. We do this by sending missionaries from our own church family and supporting missionaries from other like-minded churches. We prefer that the main focus of our missionaries be the planting and development of indigenous local Baptist churches.

Section 3 - Truth and Apostasy

First Baptist Church teaches and preaches Biblical truths as Independent Fundamental Baptists have through the years, e.g.:

A. the sufficiency and supremacy of the Bible in all things regarding faith and practice;

B. the autonomy of the local church;

C. the individual liberty of each soul;

D. a saved, baptized membership and the Lord’s Supper for church members;

E. the priesthood of every believer;

F. the offices of Pastor and Deacon;

G. the separation of church and state.

First Baptist Church especially emphasizes the need for Bible doctrine, fellowship, discipline, and organization; holy living for every believer; and the disclosure of the religious apostasy which continues to engulf and pollute Christianity. First Baptist Church supports and teaches what the Bible reveals. First Baptist Church is a place for the discussion and resolution of all sorts of problems, with the Bible and its principles applicable to these problems. This church will never cooperate or unite with any type of apostasy (II Corinthians 6).

ARTICLE III - THE MEMBER'S COVENANT

As a member of First Baptist Church I make these promises and commitments that comprise my personal covenant. I enter into this covenant because I have:

1. Received Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior;
2. Publicly professed my faith;
   
3. Been scripturally baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

The First Baptist Church Philosophy of Ministry indicates those items to which I dedicate myself. This covenant is important because it demonstrates my willingness to make serious commitments regarding my faith in Jesus Christ. This covenant relates to First Baptist Church, my family and friends, fellow church members, missions, and the unsaved.

Regarding First Baptist Church, I promise, with the help of the Holy Spirit:

1. to work together in Christian love;
   
2. to strive for the advancement of this church;
   
3. to promote its prosperity and spirituality;
   
4. to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline and doctrines;
   
5. to give it precedent over all organizations of human origin;
   
6. to cheerfully and consistently tithe and give my offerings according to God’s Word.

Regarding my family, friends, and the unsaved I promise:

1. to maintain family and private devotions;
   
2. to Biblically educate my children;
   
3. to seek the salvation of my family members and acquaintances;
   
4. to walk cautiously in the world; to be honest in my dealings, to be faithful in my responsibilities and ideal in my behavior;
   
5. to avoid all gossip, slander, and excessive anger;
   
6. to be passionate in my efforts to advance the Kingdom of my Savior.

Regarding members of First Baptist Church, I promise:

1. to watch over one another in brotherly love;
   
2. to remember each other in prayer;
   
3. to help each other in sickness and distress;
   
4. to be courteous and thoughtful;
   
5. to be slow to take offense, but always be ready for reconciliation, and attentive to obtain it without delay.

Regarding missions, I promise:

1. to faithfully support, through faith promise giving, the spread of the gospel throughout the whole world;
   
2. to regularly pray for missions and missionaries;
   
3. to enthusiastically welcome and encourage missionaries that visit First Baptist Church;
   
4. to encourage and promote the missionary call of First Baptist Church members.
   

Finally, I promise that if I move from this community I will attempt to locate and join another church where I can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of God's Word.

ARTICLE IV - ARTICLES OF FAITH

This section contains the First Baptist Church Articles of Faith. This is our doctrinal statement. It clearly states our position on key, fundamental truths and provides scriptural support. Every reader should know that First Baptist Church is a Fundamental Baptist Church. As Fundamental Baptists we believe in a many Biblical items that are clearly supernatural. These items include the Bible itself as well as many aspects related to Jesus Christ such as His birth, miracles, life, death, resurrection, and future return.

Section 1 - The Bible

We believe that the Bible was written by men inspired by God. The Bible is truth without any error. The Bible is the ONLY revelation of the will of God to man. The Bible is eternal and will always remain God’s standard by which all human conduct, creeds and opinions should be tested.

A. By "The Bible" we mean the collection of sixty-six books, from Genesis to Revelation, which as originally written does not only contain and communicate the Word of God, but IS the very Word of God.

B. By "inspiration" we mean that the books of the Bible were written by men of old, as they were moved by the Holy Spirit, in such a definite way that their writings were supernaturally and verbally inspired and free from error.

C. The English Text Of The Scripture

• We believe that the Bible in its original languages was inspired by God.
  
• We believe that our church is upheld by our faith in the Word of God.
  
• We believe that the King James Version is God’s Word kept intact for the English-speaking people.

Note: This statement regarding the English text does not preclude the study of the individual Greek and Hebrew words in the original languages for the clarity of meaning.

II Tim. 3:16-17; II Pet. 1:19-21; Acts 1:16; Acts 28:25; Psa. 119:89, 105, 130, 160; Luke 24:25-27; 44-45; John 17:17; Prov. 30:5-6; Rom. 3:4; I Pet. 1:23; Rev. 22:19; John 12:48; Isa. 8:20; Eph. 6:17; Rom. 15:4; John 5:45-47; John 5:39; Luke l6:3l; Psa. l9:7-11.

Section 2 - The True God

We believe that there is one, and only one, living and true God. God is infinite and omniscient, the Maker and Supreme Ruler of heaven and earth. It’s impossible for us to understand or express the holiness of God. He is worthy of all honor, confidence, and love. In the unity of the godhead there are three persons, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. They are equal in every divine perfection, executing distinct yet consistent functions in the work of redemption.

Ex. 20:2-3; Gen. 17:1; I Cor. 8:6; Eph. 4:6; John 4:24; Psa. 147:5; Psa. 83:18; Psa. 90:2; Jer. 10:10; Ex. 15:11; Rev. 4:11; I Tim. 1:17; Rom. 11:33; Mark 12:30; Matt. 28:19; John 15:26; I Cor. 12:4-6; I John 5:7; John 10:30; John 17:5; Acts 5:3-4; I Cor. 2:10-11; Phil. 2:5-6; Eph. 2:18; II Cor. 13:14.

Section 3 - God the Father

God the Father is a divine person, equal and of the same nature with God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. We believe that the fatherhood of God is revealed in four distinct aspects:

• God as the Father of all creation;
  
• God the Father by intimate relationship;
  
• God the Father of the Lord Jesus Christ;
  
• God as the Father of all who believe in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.

James 1:17; Job 38:7; Mal. 2:10; Acts 17:21; Ex. 4:22; 2 Sam. 7:14; Psa. 103:13; Eph. 1:3; John 3:16; Isa. 9:6; Col. 1:15; John 1:14; Mt. 3:17; Mt. 8:29; John 1:12; Gal. 3:26; Eph. 2:19; Rom. 8:16, 17; I Pet. 1:4; John 20:17

Section 4 - God the Son

God the Son is a divine person, equal and of the same nature with God the Father and God the Holy Spirit. God the Son is the Lord Jesus Christ. We believe that Jesus Christ is at the same time perfectly human and perfectly divine. The Bible reveals that Jesus is a man among men who was born, who lived, who suffered, and who died. Scripture is equally clear that Jesus is eternally pre-existent, was active in creation, was entirely sinless in his human life, and sacrificed Himself for the sins of the whole world. The Son of God indicated His divine power through His resurrection and ascension into heaven.

Gen 3:15; John 1:14; I Tim 3:16; Heb. 2:14-17; Isa. 9:6; John 1:1; Rom. 14:7-12; Titus 1:3; Heb. 1:8; I John 5:20; Micah 5:2; John 6:33-35; John 17:5; Gal. 4:4; Col. 1:16-17; Rev. 1:11; 1 Cor. 8:6; John 1:48; John 18:6; Isa. 7:14; Mt. 1:25; Luke 1:26-35; John 10:27-28, 30; I Cor. 15:20-22; John 5:28-29; Matt. 1:16-23; Phil. 2:6-8; Acts 1:9-11; Heb. 7:25

Section 5 - God the Holy Spirit

God the Holy Spirit is a divine person, equal and of the same nature with God the Father and God the Son. He was active in the creation. He is related to the unbelieving world in that He restrains Satan until God's purpose is fulfilled. He convicts of sin, judgment and righteousness. He bears witness to the Truth of the Gospel in preaching and testimony. He is the agent in the new birth. His baptism immerses us into the body of Jesus Christ. He seals, sustains, guides, teaches, witnesses, sanctifies and helps the believer.

John 14:16-17; Matt. 28:19; Heb. 9:14; Luke 1:35; Gen. 1:11-3; II Thess. 2:7, John 16:8-11; John 15:26-27; Acts 5:30-32; John 3:5-6; Eph. 1:13-14; Matt. 3:ll; Mark l:8; Luke 3:l6; John l:33, Acts ll:l6; Luke 24:49; John 16:13; John 14:26; Rom. 8:l4; Rom. 8:16; II Thess. 2:l3; I Pet. l:2; Rom. 8:26-27; I Cor. 12:13.

Section 6 - The Devil, or Satan

God created the devil (or Satan), who was originally named Lucifer. He once enjoyed heavenly honors. But because of his pride and ambition to be like God, he sinned and convinced a host of angels to follow him. He is now the malicious prince of the power of the air and the unholy god of this world. We believe that Satan tempts man to sin. He is the enemy of God and Jesus Christ and the accuser of christians. He is the author of all false religions and the leading instigator of all apostasy. Satan will ultimately be defeated by Jesus and condemned to the judgment of eternal lake of fire, a place prepared for him and his angels.

Isa. 14:12-17; Ezek. 28:14-17; Rev. 12:7-10; Jude 6, 9; II Pet. 2:4; Eph. 2:2; John 14:30; I Thess. 3:5; Matt. 4:1l-3; I Pet. 5:8; I John 3:8; Matt. 13:25, 37:39; Luke 22:3-4; II Cor. ll:13-15; Mark 13:21-27; I John 4:3; II John 7; I John 2:22; Rev. l3:l3-l4; II Thess. 2:8-11; Rev.19:20; Rev. 20:1-3; Rev. 20:10; Matt. 25:41.

Section 7 - Creation

We believe in the literal Genesis account of creation. Creation did not occur allegorically or figuratively. Man was created directly in God's own image and after His own likeness. We reject the theory of man’s evolution. Man’s creation was not a matter of evolution, evolutionary change of species, or development through endless periods of time from lower to higher form. All life was made directly by God. God's established law was that life should bring forth only “after their kind.” Since God created mankind into genders distinctly male and female, we believe that the only legitimate marriage is that between a man and a woman. He has commanded that no intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of marriage. We believe that any form of homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, bestiality, incest, fornication, adultery, or pornography is a sinful perversion of God’s gift of sex. We believe that God rejects any attempt to alter one’s gender by surgery or appearance.
Gen. 1:1; Ex. 20:ll; Acts 4:24; Col. l:l6-17; Heb. ll:3; John l:3; Rev. 10:6; Rom. l:20; Acts l7:23-26; Jer. 10:12; Neh. 9:6; Gen. l:26-27; Gen. 2:21-23; Gen. l:24; 1 Cor. 8:6; Col. 1:16-17

Section 8 - The Fall of Man

We believe that man was created by God in innocence. However, he voluntarily sinned and fell from his sinless and joyful condition. The consequence of that sin is that all mankind are now sinners, not by coercion or force, but by choice. Therefore, man is under just condemnation without defense or excuse.

Gen. 3:1-6; Rom. 5:12, 9; Rom. 3:10-19; Eph. 2:l, 3; Rom. l:l8; Ezek. l8:19-20; Rom. l:18, 20, 28, 32; Gal. 3:22.

Section 9 - The Virgin Birth

We believe that Jesus Christ was conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of a virgin. He is both the Son of God, and God, the Son. The Old Testament clearly predicts the virgin birth and the New Testament records the accounts of the virgin birth. The deity and virgin birth of the Lord Jesus Christ cannot be separated. Had Jesus come forth by natural processes He could not have been God and therefore could not have been the Savior.

Gen. 3:15; Isa. 7:14; Matt. l:18-25; Luke l:27, 35; Mark 1:1; John l:l4; Psa. 2:7; Gal. 4:4; I John 5:20; I Cor. l5:47.

Section 10 - The Atonement for Sin

We believe that the salvation of sinners is entirely by God’s grace through the mediation of the Son of God. Jesus was appointed by the Father and freely took upon Himself our sin nature. Yet Jesus is without sin; He honored His Father by His personal obedience. Through Jesus’death He made a full and vicarious atonement for our sins.

We do not believe that Jesus’death was merely the example of a martyr. We believe His death was the voluntary substitution of Himself in the sinner's place; the just dying for the unjust. Jesus Christ the Lord took our sins in His own body on the cross. His blood sacrifice and death paid the penalty for our sins. Now, having risen from the dead, He is on His throne in heaven. He is in every way qualified to be a suitable, compassionate and all-sufficient Savior.

Eph. 2:8; Acts l5:ll; Rom. 3:24-25; John 3:l6; Matt. l8:ll; Phil. 2:7-8; Heb. 2:l4; I John 4:10; II Cor. 5:21; John l0:18; Gal. 1:4; I Pet. 2:24; I Pet. 3:18; Heb. l2:2; I Cor. l5:3, 20; Isa. 53:4-7, 11-12; Heb. 9:l2-l5; Heb. 7:25; I John 2:2.

Section 11 - Faith and Repentance

Faith consists in receiving what God has revealed, trusting in the God of the scriptures, and trusting in Jesus Christ whom He sent. We believe that saving faith includes and implies a change of mind in respect to sin, to God, and to self. This change of mind is called repentance. True faith and repentance results in a desire to obey God’s Word.

Acts 20:21; Matt. 4:17; 9:13; Mark l:l5; Acts 2:37-38; Luke l8:l3; Rom. l0:l3; Psa. 5l:l-4, 7; Isa. 55:6-7; Luke l2:8; Rom. l0:9-ll; Heb. 11:39.

Section 12 - The New Birth

We believe that in order to be saved, sinners must be born again. To be ”born again” means to be instantaneously changed from a state of spiritual death to spiritual life. New birth is a new creation in Jesus Christ . In the new birth the one who was dead in trespasses and sins is made a partaker of the divine nature and receives eternal life, the free gift of God. The new birth is entirely and exclusively by the power of the Holy Spirit. New birth results in a desire to obey God’s Word. Evidence of new birth appears in the fruits of repentance, faith, and newness of life.

John 3:3, 6-7; Luke 5:27; I John 5:l; Acts 2:41; II Peter l:4; Rom. 6:23; Eph. 2:l;
II Cor. 5:17-19; Col. 2:l3; John l:l2-l3; Gal. 5:22; Eph. 5:9; Titus 3:5

Section 13 - Justification

We believe that a redeemed sinner is “justified” because Jesus, who bore our sins on the cross, has been “made unto him righteousness.” (1 Cor. 1:30). Justification is a judicial act of God where He justly declares as righteous the person who believes in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Justification is often remembered by the simple phrase “just as if we’d never sinned.” Justification includes the pardon of sin and the gift of eternal life. Righteousness is declared by God not because of any works of righteousness which we have done, but exclusively through faith in the blood of Jesus Christ.

Acts l3:39; Isa. 53:ll; Zech. l3:l; Rom. 8:l; Rom. 5:1, 9; 1 Cor. 1:30; Titus 3:5-7; Rom. l:l7; Hab. 2:4; Gal. 3:ll; Rom. 4:1-8; Heb. l0:38.

Section 14 - The Church

The church is a local, visible body of baptized believers. First Baptist Church is a family of baptized believers associated by a covenant of faith and fellowship of the gospel. We observe the ordinances of Christ and are governed by His laws, exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by His Word. We believe the true mission of the church is found in the Great Commission. We believe the local church has the absolute right of self-government, free from the interference of any hierarchy of individuals, organizations, or government. We believe that Jesus Christ is the head of the local church.

We believe that men and women are spiritually equal in position before God. Additionally, God has ordained distinct and separate spiritual functions of men and women in the home and in the church. The husband is to be the leader of the home and men are to hold leadership positions in the church. Accordingly, only men are eligible of licensure and ordination for pastor by the church.

We believe it is scriptural for First Baptist Church to fellowship with other Baptist churches, primarily in the Baptist Bible Fellowship. These churches are of like faith and practice, contending for the faith and the advancement of the Gospel. First Baptist Church is itself the only judge of the measure and method of its fellowship.

Acts 2:41, 42; I Cor. ll:2; Eph. l:22-23; Eph. 4:ll; I Cor. l2:4, 8-ll; Acts l4:23; Acts 6:5-6; Acts l5:22-23; Acts 20:17-28; I Tim. 3:l-l3; Matt. 28:19-20; Col. l:18; Eph. 5:23-24; I Pet. 5:l-4; Jude 3:4; II Cor. 8:23-24; I Cor. l6:l-2; Mal. 3:10; Lev. 27:32;
I Cor. 6:l-3; I Cor. 5:ll-l3.

Section 15 - Baptism and The Lord’s Supper

Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are the two church ordinances ordained by God. We believe that Biblical baptism is the immersion in water of a believer in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Baptism conducted under the proper authority of a local baptist church is required for church membership. It is done to demonstrate saving faith in the crucified, buried, and risen Savior.

The Lord’s Supper is for members of First Baptist Church. Through the use of bread and the fruit of the vine, we commemorate together the love of Christ through His death, preceded always by strong, sober self-examination. We do not believe that the bread and the fruit of the vine are the actual body and blood of Jesus Christ.

Acts 8:36-39; Matt. 3:6, 16; John 3:23; Rom. 6:3-5; Matt. 28:19; Col. 2:l2; Acts 2:41-42; Matt. 28:20; I Cor. ll:23-28.

Section 16 - Spiritual Gifts

We believe that every believer possesses a spiritual gift or gifts. A spiritual gift is a ministry of the Holy Spirit. Gifts are given by God and cannot be sought by man. The purpose of spiritual gifts is to provide a means for every believer to minister in and through the local church. It is important that all believers discover, develop, and use their gifts to the glory of God. In the early church some gifts were given that continue to the present; others (tongues and healing) were sign gifts that were transitory, limited in operation, and ceased after the first generation of christians.

I Cor. 12:4-13; Rom. 12:3-8; I Pet. 4:10; I Cor. 15:58; Eph. 4:12; I Thess. 2:13;
I Cor 13:8-10

Section 17 - Tithes and Offerings

One of the ways we worship God and demonstrate obedience to His Word is through tithes and offerings. We are commanded to bring our tithes and offerings into the church on the first day of the week. The tithe belongs to the Lord. The tithe is one tenth. In addition to the tithe we believe we are responsible to give offerings. Scriptural giving proves that we sincerely love God. In addition, we fully promote the biblical practice of faith promise giving to support missions.

Gen 14:20; II Cor. 8:7; I Cor. l6:2; Heb. 7:2-4; Matt. 23:23; Lev. 27:30; Mal. 3:10; Acts 4:34; 35, 37

Section 18 - The Perseverance of the Saints

We believe true believers endure; they continue to trust the sovereignty of God no matter what the circumstances. Their steadfast, resolute, on-going attachment to Christ is the mark which distinguishes them from false professors. God watches over their welfare and they are kept by the power of God through faith throughout all eternity.

John 8:3l-32; Col. l:21-23; I John 2:l9; Matt. l3:19-21; Rom. 8:28, 35-39; Matt. 6:20; Psa. l2l:3; Heb. l:l4; I Pet. l:5; Phil. l:6; John l0:28-29; John l6:8.

Section 19 - The Righteous and the Wicked

There is an extreme and basic difference between the righteous and the wicked. The righteous are justified through faith in the name of the Lord Jesus, sanctified by the Spirit, and righteous in His eyes. Those who continue in sin and unbelief are wicked in His sight and under the curse. This condition exists before and after physical death; either the everlasting joy of the righteous in heaven or the everlasting conscious suffering of the wicked in hell.

Mal. 3:l8; Rom. 6:l6-l8, 23; Prov. ll:3l; I Pet. l:l8; Rom. l:l7; I Cor. l5:22; Acts l0:34-35; I John 2:7, 29; I John 5:19; Gal. 3:l0; Rom. 7:6; Romans 6:23; Prov. l4:32; Luke l6:25; Matt. 25:34, 4l; John 8:21; Luke 9:26; John l2:25; Matt. 7:l3-l4.

Section 20 - The Return of Christ and Related Events

We believe that Jesus Christ is coming again. We are looking forward, with great anticipation, to His return. He will first, immediately preceding a seven-year tribulation period, appear in the sky and take believers back to heaven. Subsequent to the tribulation, Jesus will return to earth with the believers. At that time Jesus Christ will reign a thousand years in righteousness. One last rebellion by Satan will be crushed, a new heaven and earth will be created, and sinless eternity will begin.

Matt. 28:6-7; Luke 24:2-6, 39, 5l; John 20:27; I Cor. l5:4, 25, 42-44, 51-53; Mark l6:6; Acts l:9, 11; Mark l6:6, 19; Rev. 3:21; Heb. 8:l, 6; Heb. l2:2; I Tim. 2:5; I John 2:l; Heb. 2:17; Heb. 5:9-l0; John l4:3; I Thess. 4:l6, 17; Matt. 24:27, 42; Heb. 9:28; Luke l:32; I Cor. l5:25; Isa. ll:4-5; Psa. 72:8; Rev. 20:l-4; Rev. 20:6.

Section 21 - Missions

First Baptist Church believes it is our responsibility to preach the gospel to every person. "The mission of the church is missions.” Every member should actively participate in world-wide evangelism. The major thrust of the First Baptist Church mission program is the establishment of local churches at home and abroad. This follows the pattern that Jesus prescribed for evangelizing the world. Thus, our missionaries are dedicated to the ministries of evangelism and planting local Baptist churches. The method of financing the First Baptist Church missions program is faith promise giving as directed by God's Word.
Mt. 28:18-20; Mk. l6:15; Lk. 24:47; John 20:21; Acts 1:8; Rom. l0:l3-l5; I Cor. 16:1-3; II Cor. 8-10.

Section 22 - Pastors

A number of Biblical terms are used for “pastor.” These are “elder,” “bishop,” and “pastor.” We believe the Bible teaches that the titles, elder, bishop, and pastor, all refer to the ministry of one and the same man (or men). The different titles were used to indicate different types of functions. The pastors of New Testament churches were men with the "shepherd heart.” They had the gift of sharing the love of the Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ, as they expressed deep concern for the individual needs of people. In short, the pastor is a man in charge of all aspects of the entire ministry. While New Testament churches were headed by a single pastor, other pastors also ministered as assistants.

Acts 11:30; 14:23; 15:2, 4, 6, 22: 16:4; 20:17; 21:18; I Timothy 5:17, 19; Titus 1:5; I Peter 5:1, 5; Acts 20:28; Philippians 1:1; I Timothy 3:2, Titus 1:7; John 21:16; Acts 20:28; Ephesians 4:11; I Peter 5:2; II Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:4-9.

Section 23 - Deacons

The deacon is, by definition, a man who serves, i.e., a ministering servant. He is responsible for the secular and social cares of the church, as directed by the pastor. We believe that deacons support and supplement the efforts of the pastor. Deacons are most useful through supporting the pastor and “freeing him up” so he can be as effective as possible in conducting his ministry. The deacons in the Jerusalem church were men of "honest report, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom.” Deacons at First Baptist Church are expected to be the same.

Acts 6:1-7; Philippians 1:1; Ephesians 4:12; II Timothy 4:5; I Timothy 3:8-13.

Section 24 - Civil Government

Civil government is divinely appointed for the interests and order of human society. Government officials should be prayed for and conscientiously honored and obeyed. The only grounds for opposing civil government are when the government opposes the Word of God. We believe the “separation of church and state” is a manmade issue designed to keep government from interfering with church business or worship. In no way is the historical separation of church and state a means to exclude God from the governmental process.

Rom. l3:7; II Sam. 23:3; Ex. l9:2l-22; Acts 23:5; Matt. 22:21; Titus 3:l; I Pet. 2:l7; Acts 4:19-20; Dan. 3:17-18; Matt. 10:28; Matt. 23:10; Phil. 2:10-ll; Psa. 72:ll.

ARTICLE V - MEMBERSHIP

Section 1 - Church Membership and the Word of God

At First Baptist Church we prayerfully follow the simple Scriptural procedure concerning church membership as outlined in Acts 2:40-47, i.e., the preaching of the gospel of Christ, salvation by faith, baptism, church membership, and the Lord's Supper.

Section 2 - Grounds Upon Which Membership may be Established

A. By profession and baptism. Any person who:

1. Professes faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as personal Lord and Savior,
   
2. Gives evidence of regeneration, and,
   
3. Adopts the views of faith and practice as set forth in the church Constitution may, upon baptism by immersion, be received into full church membership.

B. By experience. A believer of deserving Christian character, who has previously been saved and Scripturally baptized under the proper authority of a local Baptist church, and who agrees with the views of faith and practice of First Baptist Church, may be received into full church membership upon statement of faith. Membership approval is contingent on examination by a qualified church representative (staff member or deacon).

Section 3 - Grounds Upon Which Membership may be Terminated

A. Transfer of membership to another fundamental Baptist church. A letter of commendation to any other Baptist church can be granted on request. This letter will be sent only to the requesting church.

B. Voluntary withdrawal. If a member of the church desires his/her name be removed from the membership roll of the church, the request can be granted. If a member of First Baptist Church joins any other local church without request for a letter, membership in First Baptist Church will automatically end.

C. Discipline. The church can terminate the membership of a member who becomes an offense or stumbling block to the church. This can occur because of immoral or un-Christian conduct, consistent violation of church rules or policies, or heretical beliefs.

Note that any member who has lost membership due to disciplinary reasons but has shown evidence of repentance may be restored to full membership. This restoration is based upon the recommendation of the pastor and deacons and a majority vote of the church.

Section 4 - Standing of Members

Members who do not attend or contribute and who for no known reason do not communicate with the church for a period of three months are listed by the clerk as inactive. These members names will be placed on the inactive list. The pastor will review the membership list at least twice per year to determine membership status. An inactive member cannot vote in any church membership meetings until he/she has been restored to full active membership for at least one month. Note: if the status of the pastor is under evaluation for dismissal, all membership issues are suspended by majority vote of the deacons. In the absence of a pastor, the responsibility of the membership review is done by the pulpit committee.

ARTICLE VI - CHURCH DISCIPLINE

Jesus Christ Himself states the church's duty to exercise discipline, excluding from its fellowship any member who persists in sin and disobedience to God's Word. The discipline of sinning members is necessary to maintain a strong, spiritual, victorious church. We believe that Biblical guidelines are clear regarding the process for discipline. First Baptist Church follows these guidelines. The purpose for discipline is the restoration of fellowship.

Matt. 18:15-18; I Cor. 5:1-13; I Tim 1:20; II Cor. 12:20; Titus 3:10; II Thess. 3:6,14,15

ARTICLE VII - THE SCRIPTURAL CHURCH OFFICERS

Section 1 - Introduction

The Biblical doctrine of the local church guides our concept regarding church officers. We strongly believe in the priesthood of all believers and, therefore, have no separated order of priests. In the New Testament churches there were two types of local ministries: the pastors (elders, bishops, overseers), and the deacons (ministering servants). Refer to ARTICLE IV Sections 21 and 22 of the Constitution for our doctrinal statement regarding pastors and deacons.

Section 2 - Pastors

A. Summary of Pastoral position

First Baptist Church has one Senior Pastor and a varied number of staff members who serve as assistants or Associate Pastors. The Senior Pastor is responsible for the ministry. It is his “job” to oversee all phases of the ministry. Included in his tasks are: preaching the Word of God, teaching and training all church officers and Sunday School teachers, community evangelism, visiting the sick, caring for those who are weak in the faith, the ministry of prayer, the ordination of pastors, instructing children, overseeing the ministry finances, presiding over church meetings, managing his assistants and other employees, etc. The Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church is in charge of every function, committee, and activity of the church. He is an ex-officio member of all committees and organization.

B. Procedure for calling a pastor.

1. We believe that it is the work and ministry of the Holy Spirit to call men into full-time ministry. We believe that the Holy Spirit directly leads in putting pastors in God's chosen field of service.
   
2. When the church needs to call a pastor, a search committee is formed. If the current pastor is available and the pastoral transition is under positive circumstances, the pastor and the chairman of the deacons choose a search committee. If the pastoral transition is under unfavorable conditions, the chairman of the deacons appoints the search committee. The deacons approve the search committee by majority vote. The search committee consists of the chairman of the deacons, the interim pastor (assistant pastor), one staff member, and one other deacon. The job of the search committee is to present potential candidates to the pulpit committee. No member of the search committee is a candidate for the pastorate. The search committee will interview current staff members and advise them regarding their candidacy for the senior pastorate. Once a suitable candidate is found and approved unanimously by the search committee, the candidate is referred to the pulpit committee.
   
3. The deacons serve as the pulpit committee. The chairman of the deacons is the chairman of the pulpit committee. The pulpit committee interviews and evaluates the candidate. The candidate must also preach (“supply pulpit”) at a regular church service. The pulpit committee must unanimously agree in order for a candidate to be submitted to the congregation for a vote.
   
4. The church membership is notified according to the bylaws that a vote to call a pastor will be taken at a special business meeting.
   
5. A seventy-five percent vote (secret ballot) of active voting members is required to offer a call to a pastor.
   
6. If the candidate is rejected, or if he refuses the call, the search committee will seek another candidate using the same process previously described.
   
7. The call of the church to a pastor is for an indefinite period.
   
8. Once a pastor has accepted the call of the church, he must become a member of the church.
   
9. A new pastor may not nominate new deacons or change the constitution/by-laws for at least three years after assuming the pastorate. Note: an exception may be made if no new deacons have been nominated for at least five years.

H. Termination of the pastoral relationship.

1. A pastor may, as he believes the Holy Spirit leads, resign his position as pastor of First Baptist Church.
   
2. Termination of the pastoral relationship should be taken only after much prayer and only for most serious reasons, e.g., immoral or unchristian conduct, heresy, or very serious dereliction of the pastoral duties. The process to terminate a pastor can be initiated only within the deacons, and must be made in writing. The matter may be taken to the church only by a two-thirds majority vote of the deacons. The pastoral relationship (and his church membership) is terminated by a seventy-five percent vote of active voting members. The church will advance the terminated pastor one (1) month's salary.
   
3. The chairman of the deacons presides at the membership meeting called for termination proceedings. The pastor will never preside over such a meeting of the membership.

Section 3 - Deacons

A. Summary of the Deacon position

We believe the overall “job” of the deacons is to support and advise the pastor. The nature of deacon's office is a means of service, designed to officially assist the pastor in conducting the various functions of the ministry. But also, deacons are responsible to be examples of spiritual character, wisdom, and integrity. All deacons must subscribe to the church constitution and by-laws. The pastor designates the duties and responsibilities of every deacon. In addition, the pastor appoints one deacon to be the chairman of the deacons. The deacons and the pastor meet regularly. The procedures for the operation of the deacons are contained in a separate document.

B. Procedure for ratification of deacons

1. Prospective deacons are nominated by the pastor to serve no longer than a two-year term as an intern. Intern nominees must be unanimously approved by all current deacons.
   
2. All interns must assent in writing to the church constitution and by-laws.
   
3. Intern deacons may not vote at deacon meetings.
   
4. Intern deacons may be elected as deacons after at least one year but not longer than two years from their appointment as interns. Election to the position of deacon must be unanimous by all current deacons.
   
5. Deacons, both newly and previously elected, are ratified by the majority vote of the membership.
   
6. The maximum number of intern deacons at any one time is two.
   
7. The number of deacons is determined by the pastor and deacons. Deacons are ratified by the church for a one year term. The number of terms is indefinite.

C. Procedure for dismissal of deacons

Due to a variety of reasons it may become necessary to ask for the resignation of a deacon. This may be done because of immoral or unchristian conduct, heresy, or other reason that negatively impacts the deacons or church. The overall dismissal process is handled within the deacons. Here is the procedure for dismissal of a deacon.

1. The pastor recommends dismissal of a deacon. The dismissal of a deacon is done through an agenda item at a regular deacon’s meeting. All deacons must be notified in writing at least two weeks in advance of the meeting.
2. A simple majority vote of deacons is required for dismissal. The pastor may vote in the case of a tie.
   
3. The church is informed about the dismissal at a business meeting.

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