Constitution & By-Laws

Although there are many good reasons for a church to have clearly defined doctrinal positions and articles of faith and practice, it must be acknowledged that these documents, although useful, will have no benefit apart from the presence and power of the Holy Spirit in the Church. It is with this understanding of our absolute dependence upon our gracious and merciful God that this Constitution is set forth.

We, the members of Sovereign Grace Baptist Church, do ordain and establish the following Articles, to which we voluntarily submit ourselves.

NAME

The name of this church shall be Sovereign Grace Baptist Church (hereafter referred to as SGBC). We have chosen this name as descriptive of our doctrinal convictions. Sovereign, because there are no limits to His rule. Grace, for we are saved by His gracious hand. We take the name Baptist, indicating that we are this in organization and practice. 

NON-PROFIT STATUS

SGBC is organized and shall be operated exclusively for religious, charitable, and educational purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of the United States. 

MISSION

SGBC exists to glorify God by raising up mature believers in Christ who know God, love God, and obey God.

PURPOSE & DOCTRINE

The purpose of this church is to glorify the God of the Bible. We do this by promoting His worship, both corporately and individually, evangelizing sinners, and by edifying His saints (Philippians 3:3; 1 Peter 2:4; Matthew 28:18-20). We are, therefore, committed to the proclamation of God’s perfect Law and the glorious Gospel of His Grace through all the world to the defense of that “faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 3).

We believe that the Holy Bible is the inspired, infallible, and inerrant Word of God, and it is the basis for all statements of faith and practice. They are sufficient for all areas of life and practice. They give us guidance to sound doctrine, proper knowledge of God and ourselves, and of the redemption that comes from God and is freely given by His grace alone, through faith alone, by the atonement of Christ alone, for the glory of God alone.

We adopt as the fullest expression of our faith the London Baptist Confession of Faith of 1689. The ultimate authority in all matters of faith, order, and morals are and must be the Bible alone, which truth is clearly set forth in the opening article of the Confession itself. This historic document is, however, an excellent summary of “the things most surely believed among us,” and we find it to be assistance in controversy, a confirmation in faith, and a means of edification in righteousness. In addition to the London Confession, we also accept the Abstract of Principles, the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy, and the Cambridge Declaration as further and supplemental expressions of our faith and practice.

ORDINANCES

The ordinances of SGBC shall be Baptism by immersion and the ordinance of the Lord’s Supper which shall be celebrated on a regular basis as determined by the pastors.

POLITY AND RELATIONSHIPS

We will acknowledge no ecclesiastical authority other than our Lord Jesus Christ, who is the head of the church (Ephesians 1:21-23, 5:23), and who directs the affairs of the church through elders chosen and ordained according to the precepts of Holy Scripture (Acts 14:21-23; 1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9). The elders themselves at all times and in all their activities stand under the authority of the Holy Scriptures (Acts 16:4; 1 Corinthians 7:17; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). The church may and does cooperate with other like-minded churches in matters of special concern to us (2 Corinthians 8:18-24), but the decision of no other church or group of churches shall at any time be acknowledged as binding of this church. One special kind of fellowship and cooperation with other churches is formal membership in an association of churches. Upon recommendation of the Elders, such affiliations may be entered into and withdrawn from with the expressed consent and approval of the congregation. The Elders shall review annually such affiliations entered and shall, based on their findings recommend continuation or withdrawal from such affiliations.

CHURCH GOVERNMENT

The Lord Jesus Christ is the Lord and head of His Church. He governs His Church by the Word of God. His government is exercised in particular churches through the leadership of elders who have been set apart by the church to teach the Word of God and to lead the flock (1 Timothy 5:17; Titus 1:9; Hebrews 13:17; Acts 6:4).

The government of SGBC shall be an elder rule with authority invested in the Board of Elders. The Board of Elders, as under-shepherds to the Great Shepherd of the sheep, are to govern according to His Word, by His Spirit, and to His glory and for the edification of His people. Deacons are appointed to care for the administrative and practical affairs of the church (1 Tim. 3:8-10; Acts 6:1-4). 

If SGBC, through the providence of God comes to have no elders, then the deacons shall assume leadership in order to seek out a  like-minded church with an established plurality of elders. Once this relationship is established, the selected church shall assist SGBC in the selection of elder(s) for SGBC. This relationship between the churches should be maintained until such time as elder(s) are again appointed. 

CHURCH OFFICERS

Section 1: Church Officers 

The officers of SGBC shall consist of elders and deacons. The Board of Elders shall submit nominations for all officers to the congregation. The Board of Elders must first approach the potential candidate for office and give him sufficient time to make a prayerful and thoughtful decision. Upon gaining his assent for the responsibility, the Board of Elders shall then present his nomination to the congregation for their evaluation at least three weeks before the Board of Elders meets to vote for confirmation or denial. This interlude gives the congregation adequate time for giving feedback to the Board of Elders and the candidate. Only such men qualify who can and will conscientiously affirm and uphold the Scriptures and the Constitution and By-Laws of SGBC. 

The corporate officers of SGBC shall be church officers. 

The SGBC Treasurer shall be appointed by the elders. They shall serve under the authority of the elder board. It shall be the duty of the SGBC Treasurer to receive, bank, and disburse all church funds as authorized by the Board of Elders; make a report to the congregation at the annual business meeting and additional reports as requested by the Board of Elders, and render the account of the church as called for by the Board of Elders. They shall be willing to submit the books for auditing each year and shall turn them over to the Board of Deacons, as directed by them or to the successor when elected, all monies, documents (electronic or paper), and papers belonging to the church.

Section 2: Elders 

Elders shall be men who meet the qualifications of God’s Word as found in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1, who wholeheartedly subscribe to the LBCF, and are able to do the work of the ministry as under-shepherds of Christ. Within the Board of Elders, parity (equality of rank) and mutual respect of each elder’s authority will be practiced so that the Board of Elders speaks with unity to the congregation (1 Peter 5:1-3; Acts 20:28). There should be mutual subjection among them and they should function together in harmony. Within the plurality of the Board of Elders, the men possess gifts that differ (Rom. 12:6; 1 Cor. 12:4). These gifts will be considered by the Board of Elders in assigning responsibilities. 

The pastor or pastors are the ordained elders of SGBC who, in response to God’s call, have devoted their lives to the ministry of the Word and prayer in the service of the church of Christ. They shall receive an appropriate monetary remuneration by the congregation as is fitting for those who live by the gospel (1 Cor. 9:1-12; 1 Tim. 5:17). It is the responsibility of the pastor(s) to give leadership to the Board and to fill the pulpit and feed the flock from God’s Word. 

An elder may step down from his office due to providential circumstances or be removed due to the discipline of the church. 

Elders may be added, according to the confirmation procedure in Section 1, as the Board of Elders sees fit to carry on the ministry to SGBC. However, every effort shall be made to maintain a minimum of three men serving on the Board of Elders as long as there are available men both qualified and willing to serve. 

Section 3: Deacons 

Deacons shall be men who meet the qualifications given in God’s Word in 1 Timothy 3:8-13, who wholeheartedly subscribe to the LBCF and have the heart to do the work of this ministry. The Board of Elders will either receive nominations for deacon from the Board of Deacons, and either confirm or deny the candidate for deacon after due process. Upon Elder approval, the Board of Elders shall then present those nominations to the congregation for their evaluation at least three weeks before the Board of Elders meet to vote for confirmation or denial. They can be installed as deacons after their confirmation, as soon as convenient. Additions to the Board of Deacons can be made as the need arises as determined by the Board of Deacons upon approval by the Board of Elders. The Board of Elders shall appoint one of the deacons as Chairman of the Board of Deacons whose responsibility it will be to give leadership to the deacons. As in the case of the elders, every effort shall be made to maintain a minimum of three deacons as long as there are available men both qualified and willing to serve. 

A deacon may step down from his office due to providential circumstances or be removed due to the discipline of the church.

BOARD OF ELDERS

Section 1: Board of Elders 

The Board of Elders shall consist of all the duly confirmed elders of SGBC. Every Elder is a pastor. The chairman of the Board of Elders shall be what is commonly referred to as “the first among equals.” Generally speaking, he would be known as the Senior Pastor.

Section 2: Responsibility of the Board of Elders 

The Board of Elders shall have the general oversight of all SGBC affairs. The conduct of all church business and the work of all church organizations shall be subject to its supervision and government. 

Section 3: Membership and Discipline 

The Board of Elders shall interview applicants for church membership and apply discipline to offending members. The Elders shall watch over the souls of the flock as “those who must give an account” (Hebrews 13:17). They must be persistent in prayer for, visitation of, and instruction of the membership and its families. 

Section 4: Pulpit Supply 

It shall be the duty of the Board of Elders to supply the pulpit with men whose ministry to SGBC shall be consistent with the Scripture and hold to the SGBC Statement of Faith. 

Section 5: Grievances or Suggestions 

The Board of Elders shall receive, consider and deal with any grievance, suggestion, or recommendation by any member or group within SGBC.

BOARD OF DEACONS

Section 1: Board of Deacons 

The Board of Deacons shall consist of all duly confirmed deacons of SGBC. The Board of Deacons shall be subject to the Board of Elders and shall work with the Elders in its assigned duties. 

Section 2: Ministry of Mercy 

The ministry of mercy in our church and community is a special responsibility of the deacons. They shall minister the Word of God, administer the church’s benevolence funds, and give counsel to those in need of help. The Board of Deacons shall see that the sick, the sorrowing, the aged, the impaired, widows, and orphans receive spiritual and physical comfort. They shall be on the lookout for opportunities to minister and serve, especially to those who are of the body of Christ. 

Section 3:General Affairs 

The duty of caring for and maintaining the church’s properties shall belong to this Board. The deacon who is tasked with all building and maintenance has the ability to spend the appropriate monies to complete the tasks at hand provided it is in the approved budget, there is money to be utilized, and he has notified the appropriate Elder.

Section 4: Representation at Meetings 

The Board of Deacons shall inform the Board of Elders of all their meetings so a representative from the elders may be present if so desired by the elders. 

Section 5: Officers of the Board of Deacons 

The two officers of the Board of Deacons are the Chairman, who is appointed from the Board of Deacons by the Board of Elders, and a clerk. The clerk’s duties will be to take the official minutes of the deacon’s meetings. 

CHURCH MEMBERSHIP

The members of SGBC shall be made up of those who profess repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 2:37-42, 5:14, 8:12), manifest a transformed life by the power of Christ (1 Corinthians 1:1-2, 6:11), are scripturally baptized upon profession of faith (Matthew 18:18-20), and are willing to submit to the teaching, government, and discipline of the church (1 Corinthians 1:10; Hebrews 13:17). 

Specific Requirements:

1. Credible testimony of repentance toward God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as one’s only hope of salvation.
2. Belief in every point (as far as one understands) of the Abstract of Principles, which is the minimal statement of belief for membership.
3. A complete reading of the 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith, informing the elders of any questions or disagreements.
4. A completed reading of the Constitution and a willingness to submit to it.
5. Evidence of good standing with a previous church in case of transfers.
6. In cases of professions of faith in Christ, submit to baptism by immersion at the first opportunity.
7. Agreement to make diligent use of the means of Christian growth (see Article XII – Responsibilities of Members)

Receiving Members: 

1. Petition for Membership: Any person desiring membership must petition the Elders in writing (using the form supplied).
2. Interview with Elders: Having reviewed the petition for membership, the Elders will interview the candidate to answer any questions the candidate may have and to ensure that the candidate has a credible profession of faith and is in agreement with the beliefs and practices of the church.
3. Approval of the Congregation: If the elders are satisfied that the candidate meets all membership requirements, they will present the candidate to the church for approval. The members of the congregation will have two weeks to voice any concerns or ask any questions concerning the candidate. Such concerns and questions are to be presented to the Elders for consideration. If questions and/or concerns are raised, the candidate will not be received into the membership of the church until the elders are satisfied that the questions and/or concerns are resolved and the candidate is suitable for membership.

Releasing Members:

Any partner shall cease to be a member of this church for any of the following reasons:

1. By Death: When a member of the church is removed from our midst by death, their name shall be transferred to the file of former members.
2. By Transfer:
   1. In Good Standing: If a church member in good standing whose conduct does not warrant corrective discipline desires to leave the membership of this church, he is strongly urged to leave in an orderly way by privately indicating that desire to the Elders along with their reasons for leaving. The Elders will provide for a transitional period which will allow the departing member to decide where the letter should be transferred. Such a transitional status will be allowed to continue as long as the departing member maintains regular contact with the Elders, does not unnecessarily prolong the transitional process, and does not engage in conduct requiring the exercise of church discipline.
   2. Letter: When it is so requested, the elders may transfer a departing member of good standing to the fellowship of another church. A letter of transfer will be sent to the appropriate officer(s) of the church to which the member wishes to transfer. No such letter may be given to a member who is at the time under the corrective discipline of this church. The elders may refuse to grant a letter of transfer to any church which is in their judgment disloyal to “the faith which was once for all delivered unto the saints” or which does not exercise godly care over its members.
   3. Exclusion: If a member ceases to faithfully attend the stated meetings of the church without showing just cause, or if upon relocation ceases to maintain a vital connection with the church, they may be excluded from the membership at the discretion of the elders. In such cases, the elders shall try to contact the person to rectify and resolve the situation (Hebrews 13:17). If these efforts are ineffective, the elders shall inform that person (when possible) and the congregation that they are no longer a member. If a person is not guilty of heresy, scandalous immorality, or divisiveness, either renounce his/her commitment to keep any of the requirements of membership listed in “Responsibilities of Members – Article XII”, or ceases, without just cause, to participate any of them as a pattern of life, and yet wishes to remain in membership, refusing to resign voluntarily, they may be excluded, but only after repeated admonitions from the elders (2 Timothy 2:24-26). In such cases the elders announce to the congregation at a stated meeting their intention to exclude the person. Time will be allowed for objections or questions to be raised privately with the elders by any member. If no objection is raised which the elders consider valid, the person will be excluded by action of the elders. The congregation and the person shall be informed of this action.
   4. Resignation: Membership in this church is entered into and initiated jointly, by voluntary commitment from the individual applicant and acceptance by the church. Accordingly, members cannot terminate their membership unilaterally under all circumstances. As a general rule, a member may voluntarily resign from membership in this church. A resignation offered to frustrate or thwart the procedures of corrective discipline is not valid, and the church may proceed with public censure, imposition of strictures, or excommunication in accordance with the procedures outlined in Article 13 and the Appendix.
   5. Excommunication: (also see Article 13 and the Appendix). According to the teaching of the Bible, a congregation must cut off from its fellowship any person(s) who:
      1. Teachers and/or persistently holds false heretical doctrine.
      2. Blatantly and persistently conducts himself in a way inconsistent with his Christian profession.
      3. Persists in disturbing the unity or peace of the church.
      4. Persists in neglecting his membership responsibilities.

Records of Membership:

The Elders shall keep a file of all past and present members. This file shall have two divisions: members and former members. The file of former members shall include a date and reason church membership was terminated, as well as any other necessary information.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF MEMBERS

All who come into the membership of this church are expected to walk worthy of the Lord, that His Name is not blasphemed but rather His excellencies be displayed through us, and that the good name of the church is not damaged but rather enhanced. Therefore, every member is expected to cultivate godliness in the following areas:

Section 1: Growing in Grace

Each member is expected to walk personally with the Lord, making use of all the public and private means of grace available to him, including daily and habitual prayer (Psalm 55:17; 88:9; Daniel 6:10; Matthew 6:5-11; Colossians 4:2), daily and habitual reading and meditating on God’s Word (Psalm 1:2; 119:11,97), continual maintenance of a good conscience with judgment day honesty (Acts 24:16; 1 Timothy 1:19; Hebrews 10:22; 13:18), periodic and wholesome self-examination, prayerfully conducted by the standard of God’s Word (Psalm 139:23,24; 2 Corinthians 13:5; 2 Peter 1: 10, 11; 1 John 5:13), and careful and spiritual observance of the Lord’s Day (Genesis 2:1-3; Exodus 20:8-11; Isaiah 58:13,14; Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:2; Revelation 1:10).

Section 2: Financial Support

Because it is clearly taught in the Scriptures that Christians should financially support the work of the Lord by systematic, sacrificial, cheerful, and proportionate giving through the local church, all the members of this church are expected to conform to this rule of Scripture.

Section 3: Christ-like Attitude

Inasmuch as the church is represented in Scripture as a body having many members, each of the members having its own function and yet having a concern for the health and protection of the whole, this church expects that each of its members will strive for the good of the entire body. As members of this church, we must actively seek to cultivate acquaintance with one another and maintain mutual transparency and honesty so that we may be better able to pray for one another, love, comfort, and encourage one another, and help one another materially as necessity may require. In addition, we must discreetly confess our faults one to another, faithfully admonish and encourage one another, and refrain from all backbiting and gossip. The Elders may determine that some matters of congregational business are so sensitive that the members may be expected to keep such matters confidential.

Section 4: Support of and Submission to the Leadership

Members will be expected to recognize, support, and submit to the Elders of the church. Supporting God’s servants requires praying for them, cultivating personal acquaintances with them, loving and standing by them, and not forsaking them, and defending them rather than prejudicing or damaging their good name. Submitting to Gods servants requires imitating their Christian graces, faith and godly principles as they also imitate Christ, receiving their teaching with all readiness of mind and teachableness of spirit, yet with ultimate allegiance to the Word of God, humbly heeding their Scriptural rebukes and warnings as form that appointed to watch for the souls entrusted to them and committed to labor to present them complete and mature in Christ, seeking and carefully considering their counsel as being from those counted faithful by the Lord, and lovingly embracing and abiding by their decisions regarding corporate policy in God’s house, which is His church, without creating division even when personally differing from their judgment. This submission will include willingly scheduling pastoral visit with an Elder(s) when requested.

Section 5: Family Life

The church expects its members to obey the teachings of the Scriptures concerning family life and the government of the home. As the God-appointed head of the family, the husband must rule over the household with gentleness and love, but also

wisdom and firmness (Ephesians 5:22; 1 Timothy 3:4-5). The wife must also be in subjection to her husband in all things according to the rule of Scripture (Ephesians 5:22-24; 1 Peter 3:1). The husband with the wife must nurture their children in the chastening and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:2), by setting a godly example before them, by leading them in family worship, by instructing them consistently in the Scriptures (Genesis 18:19; Deuteronomy 6:7), by praying for them (1 Chronicles 29:19), and by wise and firm discipline, including corporal punishment when it is needed (Proverbs 13:24; 22:15; 29:15; Hebrews 12:7).

Section 6: Personal Evangelism

Not all Christians have the same God-given ability to communicate the Gospel (1 Corinthians 12:4-7, 11, 14-20, 27-30), nor the same opportunity (Acts 4:33). At the same time, evangelism is not restricted to experts or professionals (Acts 11:19; 2 Corinthians 4:13). All Christians should be deeply concerned for the glory of God, the eternal welfare of lost men, and the prosperity of the church (Psalm 90:16-17; Matthew 10:32-33; Romans 9:1-3; Ephesians 3:20-21). Therefore, members are expected to pray for the extension of the Kingdom of God throughout the entire world (Ephesians 6:18-20; 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2; 1 Timothy 2:1-8), and to seek to recognize and seize every opportunity to bear witness to his faith in Christ both by consistent Christian conduct and by the testimony of the lips (Romans 1:16-17; Philippians 2:14-16; I Peter 3:14-16).

Section 7: Christian Liberty

Each member of the church is required to render in his daily life loyal obedience to all the moral precepts established by the Word of God (Romans 8:3-4). If God has not condemned or forbidden a practice in His Word, a Christian is at liberty to

participate in it. The exercise of Christian liberty, however, must at all times be governed by an earnest desire to walk in the fear of God and to glorify Him in all things (1 Corinthians 10:31; 1 Peter 1:17), loving regard for the consciences of weaker brethren

(Romans 15:1-3; 1 Corinthians 8:9), compassion for the lost (1 Corinthians 9:19-22), and zealous regard for the health of one’s own soul (Romans 13:14; 1 Peter 2:16).

CHURCH DISCIPLINE (also see Appendix)

Church Discipline is both formative and corrective:

• Formative discipline is primarily positive through the teaching of God’s Word, the example of Christian living, and the mutual ministry of the several members of the body of Christ. It has as its objective the instruction of disciples, the transformation of their lives, and their edification in love. (Ephesians 4:11-13; Romans 12:16; 1 Corinthians 12:4-27; Acts 5:29) 
• Corrective discipline is applied when any member is consistently neglectful of his or her duties or guilty of any conduct by which the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be dishonored, so opposing the welfare of the church. He or she may then be subject to the admonition of the elders and/or the discipline of the gathered church according to the principles of Scripture. (Matthew 18:15-17; Galatians 6:1-5; 1 Corinthians 5:4-5; 1 Thessalonians 5:14; 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15; 1 Timothy 5:19-20) 

The reasons for church discipline are as follows: 

To provide instruction in righteousness for the good of the body and as an example to them (Prov. 13:20; Rom. 15:14; 1 Cor. 5:11; 15:33; Col. 3:16; 1 Thess. 5:14; 1 Tim. 5:20; Titus 1:11; Heb. 10:24-25).

To glorify God by obedience to the commands of Scripture (Hebrews 12:6; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13; Matthew 18:17-18; Titus 3:10; 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15; 1 Timothy 5:20; 2 Corinthians 2:6).

To promote and guard the honor of Christ and his gospel in the watching world (1 Peter 1:14-16; 2:11- 18; 3:8-16; 4:1-4; 4:13-19).

To maintain the purity of the church and her worship (1 Corinthians 5:6-8; 11:27).

To seek the recovery and reconciliation of the offending brother or sister to Christ and His church. Thus, church discipline is an act of love and the motivation is love (Matthew 18:15; Galatians 6:1-2; Hebrews 12:10-13; James 5:20; 2 Thessalonians 3:14- 15).

To promote the sanctification and growth in the grace of those who seek to retrieve sinning brothers or sisters (Matthew 7:1-5; 2 Timothy 2:24-26; Galatians 6:1-2).

To protect Christ’s church from “wolves in sheep’s clothing” and to warn her members of the importance of pursuing holiness in the fear of the Lord (1 Peter 1:14-16; 1 Timothy 5:20; Joshua 7; Revelation 2:14- 25). 

To prevent giving cause for God to set himself against a local church (Revelation 2:14-25).

CONGREGATIONAL BUSINESS MEETINGS

There shall be an annual business meeting of the church for the hearing of reports and the transaction of such other business as may be brought before the meeting. The church year shall renew annually each January, at which time this meeting shall be held. At this annual meeting, the yearly budget shall be presented for the church membership to approve. Special business meetings may be called at other times at the discretion of the elders.

The decisions made by SGBC are entrusted to the elders and the body of believers who make up the membership.  All Membership Meetings shall be scheduled for furthering the progress of the church and conducting the business of the church. Membership meetings may be scheduled by the leadership, comprised of the elders, on an as-needed basis.  The church’s by-laws, statement of faith (confession), and policy and procedures will further stipulate the intricacies of polity and policy.

Section 1: Notice of the Meetings

1. Notice of all the congregational meetings shall be given at regular worship services. A minimum of seven days notice shall be given for any meeting at which official church business is to be conducted. However, in the case of an emergency, a meeting may be called on shorter notice by notifying each regular member by email or telephone of the date, time, place, and purpose of the meeting.
2. Meetings for the hearing of special reports or for seeking the counsel of the congregation may be called on shorter notice, but no vote may be taken or other business transacted at such meetings.

Section 2: Quorum

The regular members present at any properly convened congregational meeting shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.

Section 3: Chairmanship

As a general rule, the chairman of the elders/Senior Pastor shall preside at business meetings. In the case of his absence or inability to serve, the elders shall appoint another member of the Board of Elders, or, if necessary, the Board of Deacons.

Section 4: Secretary

The clerk of session, chosen by the elders, shall record the minutes and attendance of each congregational business meeting, as well as maintain the membership roll.

Section 5: Voting

All regular members who have reached eighteen years of age and are in good standing in the church may vote on any question properly brought before the congregation. All voting members should regard their presence at a duly called church meeting with the same seriousness with which they would regard their attendance at a stated service of worship. The Elders shall determine whether absentee votes will be permitted on a case-by-case basis as members make known their reason for absence. The unanimity of heart and mind under God shall at all times be sought and prayed for (Acts 6:5), but when unanimity is not realized, not less than a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting shall be required to make any resolution valid. In other matters wherein the Constitution requires a different proportionate vote, the express statements of the Constitution regarding those categories of business will override this two-thirds figure.

ORDINANCE

There are two ordinances of special significance that our Lord has commanded us to observe, namely, baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Neither of them has merit, nor is any grace imparted to the recipient through the water of baptism or through the bread and the cup of the supper. These ordinances are not means of “special grace,” but they are special “means of grace” and powerful aids to the faith of the believers who participate in them.

Baptism

1. Candidates: Only confessed disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ are proper candidates for baptism, and all such persons should be baptized and joined to the church.
2. Necessity for Membership: Believing that baptism in water is the God-ordained sign of the one’s personal union with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection, and the door of entrance into the visible community of the people of God, we shall receive into the membership of the church only those who have been baptized as believers “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
3. Mode: Immersion in water is the biblical mode of baptism, is necessary for its due administration, and is the only mode to be administered by this church.

The Lord’s Supper

Whereas baptism is the initiatory ordinance by which one enters the visible church and should be observed only once by each believer, the Lord’s Supper should be celebrated frequently by the assembled church. While this is a most holy ordinance and should be observed with solemnity and dignity, the bread and the cup of the supper are and remain only symbols of the broken body and the shed blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. In order to maintain the purity of this ordinance, the Elders will faithfully seek to ensure that only true believers are admitted to the table.

CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY

Extent

The Constitution, as with any other non-inspired document, is not infallible. It does, however, reflect an earnest and sincere attempt to apply the Scriptures in ordering the life of this local church. Furthermore, we as members of this church, including the Elders, have solemnly committed ourselves to follow this Constitution in ordering the life of this church. Therefore, the demands of the ninth commandment, and the sanctity of truth in general, require that the Elders and all other members of this church abide by our mutual commitment.

Limitations

Only when we must obey God rather than the provisions of this Constitution may its requirements be disregarded (Acts 5:29). If at any time a member of this church becomes aware that adherence to this Constitution would violate biblical principle he should make it known to the Elders. If the Elders conclude that biblical principle requires disregarding a provision of this Constitution, they are obligated to communicate this together with the reason(s) for their conclusion to the church within one month at a duly called meeting of the church. Furthermore, relevant amendments to this Constitution must be submitted to the church and acted upon in accordance with the provision of Article 14 within one year following this information meeting.

Amendments

If it does not infringe upon the doctrinal position of SGBC, the Constitution may be changed or amended at a duly announced meeting of the congregation providing the proposed alteration has been announced in the bulletin and/or announced from the pulpit for a period of three consecutive Sundays preceding the said meeting. Amendments must be passed by a majority of the members eligible to vote

STATEMENTS OF POSITION

From time to time, the Board of Elders may find it necessary to issue statements of position for SGBC concerning issues affecting the body of Christ locally or universally. Such positional statements will be issued after a thorough and prayerful study of the Scriptures and a unanimous vote of the Board of Elders. These statements of position are intended to guide the church as the best understanding the elders of the church possess as to the mind of Christ on the issue in question. The elders will be open to further illumination by the Holy Spirit of the Word of God on these issues.

Church Discipline Procedures

Public Reproof or Censure

Public reproof consists of a pastoral effort, before the gathered church, to call an impenitent church member to repentance for sin too serious to be covered with a blanket of love; or to deal with serious sin even where there may have been repentance. The Elders may administer public censure whenever, in their judgment either public misconduct, patterns of sin, or serious doctrinal error pose a significant threat to the godliness, unity, or testimony of the congregation. Those who humbly receive the word of public reproof, own and confess their sin, and manifest a transformed life shall afterward be publicly commended for their godly repentance. If the reproof is not heeded, further discipline may be imposed.

Suspension of Privileges

Some misconduct on the part of a member is so detrimental to the unity, holiness, and testimony of the church that the Lord required public reproof to be accompanied with the suspension of some of the privileges of membership according to the nature and gravity of the offense. In all cases of suspension, the offending person is still regarded as a brother in Christ and as a member of the church. Severe reproof is to be expressed and the suspension is to be enforced by the entire church, and not merely by the Elders representing the church. Therefore, when appropriate, the Elders shall, at a duly convened business meeting of the church, inform the church of the member’s suspension. The Elders shall specify the grounds of the discipline, the privileges to be revoked, and the stricture to be imposed. In the interest of maintaining a climate of holiness and peace, the Elders shall have the right to their sole discretion, to impose a temporary suspension upon a member during the brief interval between their determination to suspend the member and formal notification of the church. A member under suspension shall be treated by the congregation according to the specific applications of the general principle of social avoidance determined by the Elders. Those who humbly submit to the imposed discipline shall afterward be forgiven, have their privileges restored, and be publicly received back into the full fellowship of the church. The general categories of sin which require suspension are as follows:

1. A Stubborn Private Offender: When a private offense remains unresolved even after the method prescribed by our Lord in Matthew 18:15-16 has been graciously and prayerfully followed, it is considered an aggravated offense. The brethren involved shall bring the matter to the Elders who, if they judge the matter to be serious and cannot persuade the brother to repent, shall suspend the brother and report the situation to the church. If even after a period of suspension, the person remains adamant in his sin, he may be excommunicated.
2. Divisive Teaching or Behavior: When a member deliberately persists in the propagation of serious doctrinal error contrary to the Scripture or our Confession, or attempts to sow discord among the membership contrary to the Scripture or this Constitution, he may be suspended as a factious man. Since every member is responsible to help preserve the unity of the Spirit, no one is to conceal such divisive behavior, but rather to reprove it, and disclose it to the Elders. Whenever the Elders become aware of such divisive behavior, they are to confront it meekly and patiently according to the Word of God. If, even after receiving repeated admonition from the Elders, a member persists in such behavior, the Elders shall suspend the divisive brother and report the situation to the church. If, even after a period of suspension, the person remains impenitent, he may be excommunicated.
3. Disorderly Behavior: Some kinds of conduct and doctrine are categorized as disorderly. If a member deliberately persists in conduct which displays a flagrant or public disregard for the order appointed by God for all mankind in the creation ordinance, namely: work, Sabbath, and marriage, he may be suspended as a disorderly man. Similarly, a member may be suspended as a disorderly man if he deliberately persists in conduct contrary to the order established by Christ for His church in Scripture as recognized by our church in this Constitution. Whenever the Elders become aware that in spite of the admonitions of formative disciple a member is behaving disorderly, they are to confront them meekly and patiently according to the Word of God. Disorderly conduct is to be distinguished from traitorous conduct. A disorderly member is not immediately to be excommunicated. Rather hs is to be suspended in accordance with the directions of 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15 and not regarded as an enemy but admonished as a brother. However, if even after receiving such admonition from the Elders, a member persists in this behavior, the Elders shall suspend the disorderly brother and report the situation to the church. If, even after the period of suspension, the person remains impenitent, he may be excommunicated.
4. Scandalous Sin: If a member has sinned scandalously but shows hopeful signs of repentance, including submission to the Elders, excommunication would be unwarranted. However, it may still be prudent to suspend him for a time so that he may realize the gravity of the offense and clearly manifest repentance so that reproach not be brought upon the Name of Christ and the church, and so that others may not be emboldened to sin. If fruits worthy of repentance are not forthcoming, the Elders may recommend to the church at a later date that this person be excommunicated.
5. Contempt of Church Discipline: If a person is accused or suspected of an offense requiring corrective discipline, yet absents himself from the meetings of the church, or refuses to meet with the Elders so that the matter may be investigated, such a person may be suspended. The Elders may recommend to the church at a later date that this person be excommunicated.

Excommunication

Occasions Requiring: In addition to the excommunication of those who have previously suspended, some expressions of sin (ethical or doctrinal) are so gross and heinous in nature that preliminary actions like public reproof and suspension are inappropriate. In such cases, the guilty member may be immediately excommunicated by the church. This severe measure is to be employed when both aggravated lawlessness is discovered, and there are no hopeful signs of repentance. This severe measure is designed to purge the lawbreaker of his lethal attachment to his sin, unto a sincere and enduring repentance.  The Elders, therefore, having made earnest but unsuccessful efforts to bring the offender to true repentance and reformation, shall report the same to the church and recommend that the offender be excommunicated.

Church Affirmation: To be valid, an act of excommunication must be affirmed by the church at a duly convened business meeting where the elders present the necessary facts of the case and seek church affirmation. The accused member and other members of the congregation will be given the opportunity to publicly state any biblical reasons why the accused member should not be excommunicated. If the elders determine that no biblical reasons have been given, it will be assumed that the church has affirmed the elders’ decision and will be expected to uphold its biblical responsibilities in the execution of discipline. If, however, the elders determine that biblical reasons have been given and that these reasons require further investigation, the elders are to reconsider the case, and in one week report back to the congregation with their recommendation.

Restoration: The purpose of church discipline are to restore a fallen brother or sister and to keep the church pure. Therefore, it is the duty of the church to forgive and to restore to full membership a suspended or excommunicated member who gives satisfactory evidence of his repentance. This shall be done in a duly convened business meeting of the church.