Constitution
THE PROGRESSIVE BETHEL BAPTIST CHURCH
l
The constitution
THE PRE-AMBLE
Whereas
God called us into being part of His body the church Universal both militant and triumphant through the message of the cross.
AND
Whereas
By our conviction and persuasion we have become members of the Baptist family and in particular the Baptist Convention of South Africa
AND
Whereas
Through circumstance beyond our control, which we yet believe to be God’s own providence;
We have voluntarily resolved to be a local fellowship of Baptist believers covenanted together under the Headship of Christ, accepting the Scriptures in their original writing to be authoritative in all matters of faith life and practice.
1. THE NAME
The name of the church shall be the PROGRESSIVE BETHEL BAPTIST CHURCH hereinafter referred to as THE CHURCH
2. AFFILIATION
The church shall be affiliated to the Baptist Convention of South Africa and any other body as the members of the church shall deem necessary in a properly constituted meeting. Two-thirds majority of members present in that meeting shall be required in order for that decision to be effected.
3. STATEMENT OF FAITH.
The statement of faith shall be that contained in the Constitution of the Baptist Convention of South Africa as long as two thirds majority of the church accepts the statement of faith as being in line with the teaching of scripture.
4. DEFINITIONS
Unless otherwise stated the following words shall bear the meaning given hereto in the constitution and by-laws
4.1 A Church
Shall mean a fellowship of baptized believers voluntarily associated together and constituted as a Baptist church. Accepting the supreme and final authority of the Holy Scriptures in all matters of faith and practice. Living under the Lordship of Christ, whether meeting in one place or more in the same area having a common membership roll and duly elected deacons and church officials.
4.2 The Convention
Shall mean the Baptist Convention of South Africa.
4.3 The Delegate
Shall mean a person duly so elected and mandated at a properly constituted church meeting to represent the church in a gathering to which the church wishes to be represented and at the convocation or assembly of the Convention.
4.4 The Department
Shall mean the wing of the church having it own guidelines in harmony with the constitution of the church. The church shall have three departments, namely the Men’s the Women’s and the Youth departments.
4.5 The Ministry
Shall mean the work in which the church purports to be engaged in to achieve its goals and fulfill its mission. The ministries of the church shall be Evangelistic, educational and social ministries; and those, which the church may from time to time deem necessary to engage in. Each ministry shall have its own operational guidelines not in conflict with the church’s own constitution and by laws
4.6 The Executive Board
Shall mean the Pastor(s) the senior elder, the treasurer, the secretary and four elected deacons.
4.7 The Executive Council
Shall mean members of the executive board, committee members of departments and ministries.
4.8 The Officers
Shall mean the Pastor(s) Secretary and treasurer.
4.9. The Conference
Shall mean the convocation of churches in the region in which the church is situated.
4.10 The Assembly
Shall mean the national convocation of all member churches of the Convention.
5. THE CHURCH GOVERNANCE.
The church acknowledges the Lord Jesus Christ as the Supreme Head of the church and undertakes to manage its affairs according to the teaching of the New Testament and recognizes and accepts the sole authority of the Bible in all matters of faith and conduct.
6. THE OBJECTIVES
6.1 To advance the Kingdom of God
6.2 To promote Christian love among members and people in general
6.3 To maintain Religious liberty, freedom of conscience and separation of the church from the state.
6.4 To co-operate with the Convention local Baptist Churches and other like minded bodies in matters of mutual concern.
6.5 To promote reconciliation and upholding of functional human rights.
6.6 To maintain the authority of Scripture and the autonomy of the local Baptist Church.
7. THE CHURCH MEMBERSHIP
Persons may become members of the church after an application has been lodged with Secretary in one of the following ways.
7.1 By Baptism
After having heard the testimony as to their conversation and change of life and being satisfied therewith as well as general Christian character the church shall receive those into membership after baptism by immersion
7.2 By Letter of Transfer (The Removal Note)
These must be from a church of the same faith and order as Baptists and the person must be born again.
7.3 By Profession of Faith
Persons who have been members or not members of any other denomination and seek to be Baptists by conviction having been born again may be received into membership.
Should any member object to the reception of a candidate such a reception may be deferred for further inquiry. Under no circumstances should anybody be received except by vote of seventy-five percent (75%) of members present at the meeting.
8. THE DUTIES OF MEMBERS.
8.1 To practice private prayer and reading of the Scriptures
8.2 To attend devotional services, Heb. 10:25 and any other meeting of the church and to help one another to good works. I Thes. 5:1 Heb.3:13
8.3 To dedicate their lives and their children to God and to train them in the fear and admonition of the Lord and to promote the observance of family devotions.
8.4 To seek the salvation of the unconverted by testimony and consistent Christian life.
8.5 To support the church and its work by cheerful giving for the maintenance of a faithful ministry. No one failing to tithe or leaves in breach of the covenant of the church shall hold office in the church
8.6 To help the poor, the aged and the sick
9. THE DISCIPLINE
Every member shall be subject to discipline in the case of: -
9.1 Private Offences
These are offences of one member against another person. These shall be dealt with in the manner prescribed by our Savior in Matthew 5:23-24; 18:15-17.
9.2 Public Offences
Such offences as are of a reproach or injury to the church or to the reputation of Christianity and the good name of our Lord Jesus Christ cannot be overlooked.
When such occur facts must be ascertained before the matter is brought to the church which then shall direct the course of discipline as seems wisest in each case.
Should the offending member not submit to the discipline of the church, it shall be the duty of the church to seek to win the offender until the offender leaves the church of own volition.
In the case of flagrant morality by which the Christian name is scandalized the hand of fellowship may be withdrawn for a time notwithstanding any confession or promise of repentance.
All discipline must be conducted in a spirit of Christian meekness and love with the desire to remove the offence and win the offender. It should be carried out under the deep sense of responsibility to maintain the honor of Christ’s Name, the purity of His church and the integrity of His Word.
9.3 Divorce Polygamy and Polyandry
The church shall exercise discretion with regard to the admission of such persons into membership. No one shall be married to more than one person will be permitted to hold any office in the church or is permitted to preach in an official capacity.
9.4 Unchristian Practices and Customs
These are practices that are in conflict with the teaching of Scripture. No member is permitted to institute or participate in such practices. Married women obliged to do so by their marriage vows may use their discretion in this regard as are guided by the Holy Spirit and Scripture.
10. THE TRANSACTION OF BUSINESS
The church shall function through its executive board which shall act as directed by the church in its properly constituted meetings and in accordance with the church’s own constitution and by-laws.
The executive board shall be accountable to the church for the proper implementation of all acts and for the proper administration of all church funds.
11. THE MEETINGS
The church shall hold quarterly general meetings that are preceded by the executive board meetings during the year, or as often as the business of the church requires.
Only duly admitted and bonafide members of the church shall have a right to vote. Any resolution passed by the majority of the members, unless otherwise specified, shall be binding upon members of the church as well as the members of the executive board, unless and until such a resolution is rescinded.
The simple majority of members present in a meeting may decide whether others who are not members present, may remain in a business meeting.
The national executive board or committee of the Convention or its delegation with proper credentials shall have a right to intervene if it should perceive that an ongoing dispute may injure the overall Baptist witness.
Forty percent of the members of the church or any body or structure of the church shall constitute a quorum.
Special call meetings may be convened by the executive board upon a request signed by fifteen members qualified to vote in that meeting. Only items specified in the agenda of the call meeting shall be discussed.
The meetings shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of order referred to in the by-laws.
12 THE FINANCES
A proper account of all funds collected in the name of the church shall be kept.
The church shall open and perpetuate bank accounts of whatever nature is deemed necessary.
The convention shall have a right to require an audited statement of finances if twenty percent of members have appealed for the convention’s intervention in this regard.
There shall at all times be an internal audit by the Pastor or senior church official. The treasurer and the secretary, or the finance committee where one exists, or other members of the executive board shall always handle funds.
There shall be an annual external audit.
13 THE CHURCH PROPERTY
All property of the church whether movable or immovable shall be held in trust by the Convention. All copies of deed shall be kept in the safe of the Convention.
Upon dissolution of the church all property whether movable or immovable shall become property of the Convention.
Should the church decide to leave the Convention the church shall pay the Convention its contribution to the properties.
A decision to leave the Convention shall be effected only by vote of ninety percent of all the members of the church.
14. THE ALTERATION TO THE CONSTITUTION
No alteration to this constitution shall be effected except at a properly constituted meeting of the church after three months notice had been given in writing to the members. The amendments shall have to be passed by eighty percent of those present with a right to vote. Such alterations shall not be in force unless and until they have received the approval of the executive of the Convection
MEMBERSHIP:
Eastern Cape Baptist Churches
Baptist Convention of SA
Adopted May 11 1995
Approved by the Convention September 1995.
THE BY-LAWS TO THE CONSTITUTION
1. THE CHURCH COVENANT
Having been led, as we believe, by the Holy Spirit of God to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour and upon 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, His holy Angels and this church most solemnly and joyfully enter into this covenant with God and one another.
We engage therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit to walk together in Christian love.
To strive for the advancement of this church in knowledge, holiness and comfort;
To promote its prosperity and spirituality;
To sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline and doctrines;
To give it a sacred pre-eminence over all institutions of human origin;
To contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of 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 devotion;
To educate our children in the ways of the Lord;
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 deportment;
To avoid all tattling backbiting and excessive anger
To abstain from all things that bring dishonour to the Great Name of our Lord and
Savior Jesus Christ and to be zealous in our efforts to advance the Kingdom of
Our Saviour.
We further engage to watch over one another in Christian love.
To remember each other in prayer;
To aid each other in times of sickness and distress;
To cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and courtesy in speech.
To be slow to take offence but always ready for reconciliation, and mindful of the
Rules of our Savior to secure it without delay.
We moreover engage that when we move from this place will as soon as possible
Unite with some other church where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant
And principles of the word of God
2. THE CALL THE DUTIES AND THE POWERS OF THE PASTOR
The church shall call its own senior pastor after due consultation with the regional executive and the Convention executive where necessary; and that such an appointment shall be contingent upon the pastor being in one of the accredited list of the convention. In the event of the church being subsidised by a grant from the Region or Convention to remunerate the pastor, the church shall enter into negotiations with the region or the convention (whatever the case may be) and seek the relevant approval before the pastoral change is made. Under no circumstances shall the church because of any church dispute hold the pastor's remuneration. The church shall pay the pastor the tithes as by agreement between the church and the pastor.
The Church shall elect a call committee of five persons who will interview three candidates recommended by the church and bring one recommended name, which will be voted upon by the church. Should such a recommend name be refused by the church, the second name will them be recommended until the right name is voted for.
An agreement between the pastor and the church shall be terminable by three months written notice by either party; unless otherwise mutually agreed.
The pastor shall have matric and shall have graduated from a theological college or university whose curriculum is recognized by the convention with a minimum of a Diploma in theology. The pastor shall have in any event completed a course in Baptist principles and practices.
The duties of the pastor are to preside over all business meetings of the church unless the pastor is under discussion in which case a temporary chairperson shall be elected; or unless the pastor chooses not to preside over a specific matter.
The pastor shall minister to the spiritual needs of the flock upon which the Holy Spirit has made him overseer.
The pastor shall take full responsibility of the pulpit ministry and teach the church “the whole counsel of God.” And train leaders for the work of the ministry.
The pastor may appoint elders only after being satisfied of their fitness for the duty, and ordain them for this task.
The pastor shall also take full responsibility for the internal audit and administration of the church in general in fulfillment of his managerial duties.
The pastor shall serve as the chief executive of the church.
The pastor shall appoint all staff members serving in the pastoral ministry and shall preside over all recruitment sessions.
The pastor shall have a right to certify any documentation of the church including the constitution, by laws and minutes to which full faith and credence shall be given.
The pastor shall take full charge of the funds of the tithes (salaries account) and will be expected by the church to give at least an annual report of the remuneration of the staff.
The pastor shall be a visionary who leaves so close to the Lord the supreme Head of the church and the Great shepherd of the flock, that he would be the first to know when it is time for him to move. He should act accordingly
3. THE CHURCH DISPUTES
Should there be any dispute that cannot be amicably resolved in the church the same shall be referred to the court of arbitration consisting of three or five persons as may be agreed upon by the parties involved in the dispute. Each party and the third in the case of three shall appoint Fifty percent of two in the case of three and of four in the case of five, both parties shall agree upon the fifth in the case of five. The convention’s chief executive officer or his duly authorized representative shall have the right to attend and participate in the proceedings without a power to decide the course of action. The said court shall meet at a place date and time agreed upon by both parties. The decision of this court is final and binding to both parties.
The pastor and or the church shall have a right to appeal to the region or the Assembly should either of them feel unjustly treated.
4. THE DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE EXECTIVE BOARD.
The executive board shall act only as directed by the church and always in the interest of the church. Should there be an emergency in which the Executive board is unable to consult the church for a specific mandate the executive board may meet together and approve an action provided they have constituted a quorum.
The executive board shall have a right to recommend matters to the church but may not make decisions on behalf of the church unless otherwise agreed, or acting in an emergency in the interest of the church. Such actions must be reported to the church not later than the next business meeting day; or if the if the matter warrants it, a special call meeting shall be arranged.
The executive board shall have a right to fill in vacancies occurring in the board between elections. Such persons shall only serve until the next election and may be elected as if it is the first time in that position. The board shall advise the church in its next business meeting of such an action.
5 THE ELECTIONS
Church elections shall be held every two years unless otherwise so directed by the church in its properly constituted meeting or in the case of a vote of no confidence. The church’s fiscal year shall commence in March and end in February. Nominations for the positions in the executive Board and chairpersons of departments and ministries, with the exception of the pastor(s) shall be in the hands of the church secretary at least three weeks before the election date. The church shall seek the face of God as well as the willingness of the nominees to stand before the names are brought to the church for a vote. A simple majority for every position shall be deemed sufficient.
6. APPOINTMENT OF LAY PREACHERS AND ELDERS
The lay preachers and elders shall be appointed by the Pastor(s) in consultation with the executive board after due training and attestation to the fitness by the church. The elders shall serve in as assistants to the pastors in terms of the biblical pointer revealed in the pastoral epistles; while deacons will be concerned with the day to day running of the church affairs. Once the aspiring preachers have satisfied their training requirements as to their ability and spiritual fitness to serve acceptably in this way, they shall be ordained as lay preachers by the church at a service set for this purpose.
7. THE AUTONOMY OF THE CHURCH
This shall be the soul privilege of the church to govern itself according to the revealed will in Scripture and the Holy Spirit. The church further understands that love, humility and understanding are cardinal virtues in individual Christian life and therefore they are equally essential if an autonomous church is to realize the full freedom and blessing from God.
In this regard the church accepts that autonomy is not absolute independence or isolation, as no church can be completely independent or isolated. The church accepts that the law of love forbids this. As we the church, are members individually of one another so are member churches of the body of Christ. The church accepts that it is by bearing one another’s burden that the law of Christ is fulfilled. The church further undertakes in the spirit of love to accept all decisions and resolutions taken by the assembly in a proper and constitutional manner as binding upon the church.
8. INCLUSIONS
All agreements procedures and strategies agreed upon by the church shall be deemed incorporated in the by laws notwithstanding any official amendment effected.
9. It is especially recorded that members shall adhere to the covenant of the church as detailed in the by-laws. Should a member fail to attend and be part of services for two months without a valid reason; be in material and serious breach of the covenant; fail to tithe for three (3) months; such membership shall be deemed to have been terminated; provided that the periods described above have been used for pastoral care by elders/pastor(s) or anyone authorized to do so by the church. A new application for membership shall be necessary in the event of the above situation becoming a reality.
10. ALTERATIONS TO THE BY-LAWS
No alterations to the by laws shall be made except at a properly constituted meeting. A notice to effect an amendment shall be given in writing one month before the date of the meeting in which the amendment is to be considered. 70% of the members present with the right to vote shall be required to effect the amendment. Such an alterations shall not be in force unless and until they have received the attention and the approval of the executive committee of the Convention.
THE VISION
Whereas
God called us into being part of His body the church Universal both militant and triumphant through the message of the cross.
AND
Whereas
By our conviction and persuasion we have become members of the Baptist family and in particular the Baptist Convention of South Africa
AND
Whereas
Through circumstance beyond our control, which we yet believe to be God’s own providence;
We have voluntarily resolved to be a local fellowship of Baptist believers covenanted together under the Headship of Christ, accepting the Scriptures in their original writing to be authoritative in all matters of faith life and practice.
1. THE NAME
The name of the church shall be the PROGRESSIVE BETHEL BAPTIST CHURCH hereinafter referred to as THE CHURCH
2. AFFILIATION
The church shall be affiliated to the Baptist Convention of South Africa and any other body as the members of the church shall deem necessary in a properly constituted meeting. Two-thirds majority of members present in that meeting shall be required in order for that decision to be effected.
3. STATEMENT OF FAITH.
The statement of faith shall be that contained in the Constitution of the Baptist Convention of South Africa as long as two thirds majority of the church accepts the statement of faith as being in line with the teaching of scripture.
4. DEFINITIONS
Unless otherwise stated the following words shall bear the meaning given hereto in the constitution and by-laws
4.1 A Church
Shall mean a fellowship of baptized believers voluntarily associated together and constituted as a Baptist church. Accepting the supreme and final authority of the Holy Scriptures in all matters of faith and practice. Living under the Lordship of Christ, whether meeting in one place or more in the same area having a common membership roll and duly elected deacons and church officials.
4.2 The Convention
Shall mean the Baptist Convention of South Africa.
4.3 The Delegate
Shall mean a person duly so elected and mandated at a properly constituted church meeting to represent the church in a gathering to which the church wishes to be represented and at the convocation or assembly of the Convention.
4.4 The Department
Shall mean the wing of the church having it own guidelines in harmony with the constitution of the church. The church shall have three departments, namely the Men’s the Women’s and the Youth departments.
4.5 The Ministry
Shall mean the work in which the church purports to be engaged in to achieve its goals and fulfill its mission. The ministries of the church shall be Evangelistic, educational and social ministries; and those, which the church may from time to time deem necessary to engage in. Each ministry shall have its own operational guidelines not in conflict with the church’s own constitution and by laws
4.6 The Executive Board
Shall mean the Pastor(s) the senior elder, the treasurer, the secretary and four elected deacons.
4.7 The Executive Council
Shall mean members of the executive board, committee members of departments and ministries.
4.8 The Officers
Shall mean the Pastor(s) Secretary and treasurer.
4.9. The Conference
Shall mean the convocation of churches in the region in which the church is situated.
4.10 The Assembly
Shall mean the national convocation of all member churches of the Convention.
5. THE CHURCH GOVERNANCE.
The church acknowledges the Lord Jesus Christ as the Supreme Head of the church and undertakes to manage its affairs according to the teaching of the New Testament and recognizes and accepts the sole authority of the Bible in all matters of faith and conduct.
6. THE OBJECTIVES
6.1 To advance the Kingdom of God
6.2 To promote Christian love among members and people in general
6.3 To maintain Religious liberty, freedom of conscience and separation of the church from the state.
6.4 To co-operate with the Convention local Baptist Churches and other like minded bodies in matters of mutual concern.
6.5 To promote reconciliation and upholding of functional human rights.
6.6 To maintain the authority of Scripture and the autonomy of the local Baptist Church.
7. THE CHURCH MEMBERSHIP
Persons may become members of the church after an application has been lodged with Secretary in one of the following ways.
7.1 By Baptism
After having heard the testimony as to their conversation and change of life and being satisfied therewith as well as general Christian character the church shall receive those into membership after baptism by immersion
7.2 By Letter of Transfer (The Removal Note)
These must be from a church of the same faith and order as Baptists and the person must be born again.
7.3 By Profession of Faith
Persons who have been members or not members of any other denomination and seek to be Baptists by conviction having been born again may be received into membership.
Should any member object to the reception of a candidate such a reception may be deferred for further inquiry. Under no circumstances should anybody be received except by vote of seventy-five percent (75%) of members present at the meeting.
8. THE DUTIES OF MEMBERS.
8.1 To practice private prayer and reading of the Scriptures
8.2 To attend devotional services, Heb. 10:25 and any other meeting of the church and to help one another to good works. I Thes. 5:1 Heb.3:13
8.3 To dedicate their lives and their children to God and to train them in the fear and admonition of the Lord and to promote the observance of family devotions.
8.4 To seek the salvation of the unconverted by testimony and consistent Christian life.
8.5 To support the church and its work by cheerful giving for the maintenance of a faithful ministry. No one failing to tithe or leaves in breach of the covenant of the church shall hold office in the church
8.6 To help the poor, the aged and the sick
9. THE DISCIPLINE
Every member shall be subject to discipline in the case of: -
9.1 Private Offences
These are offences of one member against another person. These shall be dealt with in the manner prescribed by our Savior in Matthew 5:23-24; 18:15-17.
9.2 Public Offences
Such offences as are of a reproach or injury to the church or to the reputation of Christianity and the good name of our Lord Jesus Christ cannot be overlooked.
When such occur facts must be ascertained before the matter is brought to the church which then shall direct the course of discipline as seems wisest in each case.
Should the offending member not submit to the discipline of the church, it shall be the duty of the church to seek to win the offender until the offender leaves the church of own volition.
In the case of flagrant morality by which the Christian name is scandalized the hand of fellowship may be withdrawn for a time notwithstanding any confession or promise of repentance.
All discipline must be conducted in a spirit of Christian meekness and love with the desire to remove the offence and win the offender. It should be carried out under the deep sense of responsibility to maintain the honor of Christ’s Name, the purity of His church and the integrity of His Word.
9.3 Divorce Polygamy and Polyandry
The church shall exercise discretion with regard to the admission of such persons into membership. No one shall be married to more than one person will be permitted to hold any office in the church or is permitted to preach in an official capacity.
9.4 Unchristian Practices and Customs
These are practices that are in conflict with the teaching of Scripture. No member is permitted to institute or participate in such practices. Married women obliged to do so by their marriage vows may use their discretion in this regard as are guided by the Holy Spirit and Scripture.
10. THE TRANSACTION OF BUSINESS
The church shall function through its executive board which shall act as directed by the church in its properly constituted meetings and in accordance with the church’s own constitution and by-laws.
The executive board shall be accountable to the church for the proper implementation of all acts and for the proper administration of all church funds.
11. THE MEETINGS
The church shall hold quarterly general meetings that are preceded by the executive board meetings during the year, or as often as the business of the church requires.
Only duly admitted and bonafide members of the church shall have a right to vote. Any resolution passed by the majority of the members, unless otherwise specified, shall be binding upon members of the church as well as the members of the executive board, unless and until such a resolution is rescinded.
The simple majority of members present in a meeting may decide whether others who are not members present, may remain in a business meeting.
The national executive board or committee of the Convention or its delegation with proper credentials shall have a right to intervene if it should perceive that an ongoing dispute may injure the overall Baptist witness.
Forty percent of the members of the church or any body or structure of the church shall constitute a quorum.
Special call meetings may be convened by the executive board upon a request signed by fifteen members qualified to vote in that meeting. Only items specified in the agenda of the call meeting shall be discussed.
The meetings shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of order referred to in the by-laws.
12 THE FINANCES
A proper account of all funds collected in the name of the church shall be kept.
The church shall open and perpetuate bank accounts of whatever nature is deemed necessary.
The convention shall have a right to require an audited statement of finances if twenty percent of members have appealed for the convention’s intervention in this regard.
There shall at all times be an internal audit by the Pastor or senior church official. The treasurer and the secretary, or the finance committee where one exists, or other members of the executive board shall always handle funds.
There shall be an annual external audit.
13 THE CHURCH PROPERTY
All property of the church whether movable or immovable shall be held in trust by the Convention. All copies of deed shall be kept in the safe of the Convention.
Upon dissolution of the church all property whether movable or immovable shall become property of the Convention.
Should the church decide to leave the Convention the church shall pay the Convention its contribution to the properties.
A decision to leave the Convention shall be effected only by vote of ninety percent of all the members of the church.
14. THE ALTERATION TO THE CONSTITUTION
No alteration to this constitution shall be effected except at a properly constituted meeting of the church after three months notice had been given in writing to the members. The amendments shall have to be passed by eighty percent of those present with a right to vote. Such alterations shall not be in force unless and until they have received the approval of the executive of the Convection
MEMBERSHIP:
Eastern Cape Baptist Churches
Baptist Convention of SA
Adopted May 11 1995
Approved by the Convention September 1995.
THE BY-LAWS TO THE CONSTITUTION
1. THE CHURCH COVENANT
Having been led, as we believe, by the Holy Spirit of God to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour and upon 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, His holy Angels and this church most solemnly and joyfully enter into this covenant with God and one another.
We engage therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit to walk together in Christian love.
To strive for the advancement of this church in knowledge, holiness and comfort;
To promote its prosperity and spirituality;
To sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline and doctrines;
To give it a sacred pre-eminence over all institutions of human origin;
To contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of 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 devotion;
To educate our children in the ways of the Lord;
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 deportment;
To avoid all tattling backbiting and excessive anger
To abstain from all things that bring dishonour to the Great Name of our Lord and
Savior Jesus Christ and to be zealous in our efforts to advance the Kingdom of
Our Saviour.
We further engage to watch over one another in Christian love.
To remember each other in prayer;
To aid each other in times of sickness and distress;
To cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and courtesy in speech.
To be slow to take offence but always ready for reconciliation, and mindful of the
Rules of our Savior to secure it without delay.
We moreover engage that when we move from this place will as soon as possible
Unite with some other church where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant
And principles of the word of God
2. THE CALL THE DUTIES AND THE POWERS OF THE PASTOR
The church shall call its own senior pastor after due consultation with the regional executive and the Convention executive where necessary; and that such an appointment shall be contingent upon the pastor being in one of the accredited list of the convention. In the event of the church being subsidised by a grant from the Region or Convention to remunerate the pastor, the church shall enter into negotiations with the region or the convention (whatever the case may be) and seek the relevant approval before the pastoral change is made. Under no circumstances shall the church because of any church dispute hold the pastor's remuneration. The church shall pay the pastor the tithes as by agreement between the church and the pastor.
The Church shall elect a call committee of five persons who will interview three candidates recommended by the church and bring one recommended name, which will be voted upon by the church. Should such a recommend name be refused by the church, the second name will them be recommended until the right name is voted for.
An agreement between the pastor and the church shall be terminable by three months written notice by either party; unless otherwise mutually agreed.
The pastor shall have matric and shall have graduated from a theological college or university whose curriculum is recognized by the convention with a minimum of a Diploma in theology. The pastor shall have in any event completed a course in Baptist principles and practices.
The duties of the pastor are to preside over all business meetings of the church unless the pastor is under discussion in which case a temporary chairperson shall be elected; or unless the pastor chooses not to preside over a specific matter.
The pastor shall minister to the spiritual needs of the flock upon which the Holy Spirit has made him overseer.
The pastor shall take full responsibility of the pulpit ministry and teach the church “the whole counsel of God.” And train leaders for the work of the ministry.
The pastor may appoint elders only after being satisfied of their fitness for the duty, and ordain them for this task.
The pastor shall also take full responsibility for the internal audit and administration of the church in general in fulfillment of his managerial duties.
The pastor shall serve as the chief executive of the church.
The pastor shall appoint all staff members serving in the pastoral ministry and shall preside over all recruitment sessions.
The pastor shall have a right to certify any documentation of the church including the constitution, by laws and minutes to which full faith and credence shall be given.
The pastor shall take full charge of the funds of the tithes (salaries account) and will be expected by the church to give at least an annual report of the remuneration of the staff.
The pastor shall be a visionary who leaves so close to the Lord the supreme Head of the church and the Great shepherd of the flock, that he would be the first to know when it is time for him to move. He should act accordingly
3. THE CHURCH DISPUTES
Should there be any dispute that cannot be amicably resolved in the church the same shall be referred to the court of arbitration consisting of three or five persons as may be agreed upon by the parties involved in the dispute. Each party and the third in the case of three shall appoint Fifty percent of two in the case of three and of four in the case of five, both parties shall agree upon the fifth in the case of five. The convention’s chief executive officer or his duly authorized representative shall have the right to attend and participate in the proceedings without a power to decide the course of action. The said court shall meet at a place date and time agreed upon by both parties. The decision of this court is final and binding to both parties.
The pastor and or the church shall have a right to appeal to the region or the Assembly should either of them feel unjustly treated.
4. THE DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE EXECTIVE BOARD.
The executive board shall act only as directed by the church and always in the interest of the church. Should there be an emergency in which the Executive board is unable to consult the church for a specific mandate the executive board may meet together and approve an action provided they have constituted a quorum.
The executive board shall have a right to recommend matters to the church but may not make decisions on behalf of the church unless otherwise agreed, or acting in an emergency in the interest of the church. Such actions must be reported to the church not later than the next business meeting day; or if the if the matter warrants it, a special call meeting shall be arranged.
The executive board shall have a right to fill in vacancies occurring in the board between elections. Such persons shall only serve until the next election and may be elected as if it is the first time in that position. The board shall advise the church in its next business meeting of such an action.
5 THE ELECTIONS
Church elections shall be held every two years unless otherwise so directed by the church in its properly constituted meeting or in the case of a vote of no confidence. The church’s fiscal year shall commence in March and end in February. Nominations for the positions in the executive Board and chairpersons of departments and ministries, with the exception of the pastor(s) shall be in the hands of the church secretary at least three weeks before the election date. The church shall seek the face of God as well as the willingness of the nominees to stand before the names are brought to the church for a vote. A simple majority for every position shall be deemed sufficient.
6. APPOINTMENT OF LAY PREACHERS AND ELDERS
The lay preachers and elders shall be appointed by the Pastor(s) in consultation with the executive board after due training and attestation to the fitness by the church. The elders shall serve in as assistants to the pastors in terms of the biblical pointer revealed in the pastoral epistles; while deacons will be concerned with the day to day running of the church affairs. Once the aspiring preachers have satisfied their training requirements as to their ability and spiritual fitness to serve acceptably in this way, they shall be ordained as lay preachers by the church at a service set for this purpose.
7. THE AUTONOMY OF THE CHURCH
This shall be the soul privilege of the church to govern itself according to the revealed will in Scripture and the Holy Spirit. The church further understands that love, humility and understanding are cardinal virtues in individual Christian life and therefore they are equally essential if an autonomous church is to realize the full freedom and blessing from God.
In this regard the church accepts that autonomy is not absolute independence or isolation, as no church can be completely independent or isolated. The church accepts that the law of love forbids this. As we the church, are members individually of one another so are member churches of the body of Christ. The church accepts that it is by bearing one another’s burden that the law of Christ is fulfilled. The church further undertakes in the spirit of love to accept all decisions and resolutions taken by the assembly in a proper and constitutional manner as binding upon the church.
8. INCLUSIONS
All agreements procedures and strategies agreed upon by the church shall be deemed incorporated in the by laws notwithstanding any official amendment effected.
9. It is especially recorded that members shall adhere to the covenant of the church as detailed in the by-laws. Should a member fail to attend and be part of services for two months without a valid reason; be in material and serious breach of the covenant; fail to tithe for three (3) months; such membership shall be deemed to have been terminated; provided that the periods described above have been used for pastoral care by elders/pastor(s) or anyone authorized to do so by the church. A new application for membership shall be necessary in the event of the above situation becoming a reality.
10. ALTERATIONS TO THE BY-LAWS
No alterations to the by laws shall be made except at a properly constituted meeting. A notice to effect an amendment shall be given in writing one month before the date of the meeting in which the amendment is to be considered. 70% of the members present with the right to vote shall be required to effect the amendment. Such an alterations shall not be in force unless and until they have received the attention and the approval of the executive committee of the Convention.
lTHE BASIS OF THE CALL
lGen 35:1 "Go up to Bethel and settle there and build an altar to the God who appeared to you..."
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THE MANDATE OF THE VISION
lGo to Bethel – (The house of God)
lThe Duration – to ‘settle’ until God says otherwise
lThe purpose – To build an ALTAR not a church
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THE EXCLUSION FROM THE VISION
lThe building of the church is Christ’s function
lThe recruiting of members is not part of the equation
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EXPRESS MANDATORIES
lSurrender lives as opposed to commitment Rom 12:1
lBrokenness and contrition Ps 51:
lSacrifice of praise
lWorship and not just singing
lManifestation of His glory
lThe building of BETHEL WORSHIP TARBANACLE
