Download RBC Constitution 1998

Constitution of the Redemption
Baptist Church, Cape Coast
Ghana Baptist Convention
Redemption Baptist Church
P.O Box 734
Cape Coast. Tel. 042-33207
December 1984
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREAMBLE ....................................................................................................................................................... 4
CONSTITUTION ................................................................................................................................................... 4
ARTICLE I -NAME ............................................................................................................................................ 4
ARTICLE II -CHURCH CONVENANT ............................................................................................................ 4
2.1
FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF THIS CHURCH .............................................................................. 4
2.2
AS CHRISTIAN STEWARDS ............................................................................................................... 5
2.3
ALONE AND AT HOME ..................................................................................................................... 5
2.4
BEFORE THE WORLD ...................................................................................................................... 5
2.5
TOWARDS ONE ANOTHER ............................................................................................................... 5
2.6
WHEN WE MOVE............................................................................................................................... 5
ARTICLE III - MOTTO ...................................................................................................................................... 5
ARTICLE IV - POLITY ...................................................................................................................................... 6
ARTICLE V - DOCTRINE AND FAITH ........................................................................................................... 6
5.1
SECTION 1 - DOCTRINE ................................................................................................................... 6
5.2
SECTION 2 - FAITH ........................................................................................................................... 6
5.2.1
5.2.2
5.2.3
5.2.4
5.2.5
5.2.6
5.2.7
5.2.8
5.2.9
5.2.10
5.2.11
5.2.12
5.2.13
5.2.14
5.2.15
5.2.16
5.2.17
5.2.18
5.2.19
5.2.20
5.2.21
5.2.22
5.2.23
5.2.24
5.2.25
5.2.26
5.2.27
5.2.28
THE SCRIPTURES..................................................................................................................................... 6
GOD ............................................................................................................................................................ 6
THE TRINITY ............................................................................................................................................ 7
PROVIDENCE ............................................................................................................................................ 8
MAN............................................................................................................................................................ 8
THE MEDIATOR ....................................................................................................................................... 8
ELECTION ................................................................................................................................................. 9
SALVATION .............................................................................................................................................. 9
REGENERATION ...................................................................................................................................... 9
REPENTANCE ......................................................................................................................................... 10
FAITH ....................................................................................................................................................... 10
JUSTIFICATION ...................................................................................................................................... 10
SANCTIFICATION .................................................................................................................................. 10
GLORIFICATION .................................................................................................................................... 10
PERSEVERANCE OF THE SAINTS ....................................................................................................... 11
THE CHURCH .......................................................................................................................................... 11
BAPTISM .................................................................................................................................................. 11
THE LORD'S SUPPER ............................................................................................................................. 12
THE LORD'S DAY ................................................................................................................................... 12
THE KINGDOM ....................................................................................................................................... 12
THE SAVED AND THE UNSAVED ....................................................................................................... 12
LAST THINGS ......................................................................................................................................... 13
STEWARDSHIP ....................................................................................................................................... 13
EVANGELISM AND MISSIONS ............................................................................................................ 13
THE CHRISTIAN AND SOCIAL ORDER .............................................................................................. 14
PEACE AND WAR .................................................................................................................................. 14
RELIGIOUS LIBERTY ............................................................................................................................ 14
THE LAW OF GOD.................................................................................................................................. 15
ARTICLE VI: PURPOSE ................................................................................................................................. 15
ARTICLE I: BYE-LAWS ................................................................................................................................. 15
1.1
SECTION 1 - MEMBERSHIP ........................................................................................................... 15
1.2
SECTION 2 - ADMISSION ............................................................................................................... 15
1.3
SECTION 3 - TERMINATION .......................................................................................................... 16
1.4
SECTION 4 ....................................................................................................................................... 16
1.5
SECTION 5 - INACTIVE MEMBERSHIP ......................................................................................... 16
ARTICLE II - OFFICERS ................................................................................................................................. 16
ARTICLE III - DUTIES OF OFFICERS ........................................................................................................... 17
3.1
SECTION 1 - PASTOR ...................................................................................................................... 17
3.2
CHAIRMAN - BOARD OF DEACONS ............................................................................................. 17
3.3
SECTION 3 - VICE CHAIRMAN ...................................................................................................... 18
3.4
SECTION 4 - CLERK ........................................................................................................................ 18
3.5
SECTION 5 - ASSISTANT CLERK .................................................................................................... 19
3.6
SECTION 6 - TREASURER............................................................................................................... 19
3.7
SECTION 7 - AUDITOR ................................................................................................................... 20
3.8
SECTION 8 - MUSIC DIRECTOR .................................................................................................... 20
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3.9
SECTION 9 - CHAIRMAN OF USHERS .......................................................................................... 20
ARTICLE IV - CHURCH COUNCIL ............................................................................................................... 21
4.1
SECTION 1 - COMPOSITION .......................................................................................................... 21
4.2
SECTION 2 ....................................................................................................................................... 21
4.3
SECTION 3 ....................................................................................................................................... 21
4.4
CO-OPTED MEMBERS .................................................................................................................... 21
ARTICLE V
ROLE AND AUTHORITY OF THE CHURCH COUNCIL ................................................. 22
5.1
SECTION 1 - FUNCTIONS OF THE CHURCH COUNCIL ............................................................ 22
5.2
ELIGIBILITY FOR MEMBERSHIP ON THE CHURCH COUNCIL ................................................ 22
5.3
SECTION 3 ....................................................................................................................................... 23
5.4
SECTION 4 - FREQUENCY OF MEETING ..................................................................................... 23
ARTICLE VI - BOARD OF DEACONS........................................................................................................... 23
6.1
SECTION 1 - NUMBER OF DEACONS ........................................................................................... 23
6.2
SECTION 2 - MODE OF NOMINATION OF DEACONS ................................................................ 23
6.3
SECTION 3 – ELIGIBILITY FOR NOMINATION AS DEACON ..................................................... 23
ARTICLE VII - BOARD OF DEACONS ......................................................................................................... 24
ARTICLE VIII – FUNCTIONS OF STANDING BOARDS AND COMMITTEES ........................................ 24
8.1
SECTION 1 – EVANGELISM COMMITTEE .................................................................................... 24
Outreach Committee ................................................................................................................................................... 25
8.2
SECTION 2 – FINANCIAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE ....................................................................... 26
8.3
SECTION 3 – NOMINATING COMMITTEE.................................................................................... 26
8.4
SECTION 4 – SOCIAL AFFAIRS/PUBLICITY COMMITTEE ......................................................... 27
8.5
SECTION 5 – BOARD OF TRUSTEES/MAINTENANCE ................................................................ 27
8.6
SECTION 6 – MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE ................................................................................... 27
8.7
SECTION 7 –TEAM OF USHERS .................................................................................................... 28
8.8A SECTION 8A – GENERAL WELFARE COMMITTEE ..................................................................... 28
8.8B SECTION 8B – PASTORAL WELFARE COMMITTEE .................................................................... 28
8.9
SECTION 9 – CHRISTIAN EDUCATION COMMITTEE ................................................................. 28
ARTICLE IX – MODE OF NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS ................................................................... 29
9.1
SECTION 1 – PASTOR ..................................................................................................................... 29
9.2
SECTION 2 – TERM OF OFFICE OF PASTOR .............................................................................. 29
9.3
SECTION 3 – CHAIRMAN, BOARD OF DEACONS ....................................................................... 30
9.4
SECTION 4 – NOMINATING COMMITTEE.................................................................................... 30
9.5
SECTION 5 – CHURCH OFFICERS ................................................................................................ 30
9.6
SECTION 6 – STANDING BOARD AND COMMITTEES ................................................................ 31
9.7
SECTION 7 – VOTING ..................................................................................................................... 31
ARTICLE X – VACANCY AND REMOVAL FROM OFFICE....................................................................... 31
10.1 SECTION 1 - VACANCY ................................................................................................................... 31
10.2 SECTION 2 – REMOVAL FROM OFFICE ...................................................................................... 32
ARTICLE XI – DISCIPLINE............................................................................................................................ 32
ARTICLE XII – CHURCH FUNDS AND PROPERTY ................................................................................... 33
12.1 SECTION 1 ....................................................................................................................................... 33
12.2 SECTION 2 ....................................................................................................................................... 33
ARTICLE XIII .................................................................................................................................................. 33
13.1 SECTION 1 - BANKER ..................................................................................................................... 33
13.2 SECTION 2 - FINANCE .................................................................................................................... 33
ARTICLE XIV – THE CHURCH AND MARRIAGE ...................................................................................... 34
ARTICLE XV – CHILD DEDICATION AND BLESSING ............................................................................. 34
ARTICLE XVI – DEATH ................................................................................................................................. 35
16.1 SECTION 1 - MEMBER .................................................................................................................... 35
16.2 SECTION 2 - BENEFICIARIES ........................................................................................................ 35
16.3 SECTION 3 – FUNERAL .................................................................................................................. 36
ARTICLE XVII – CUSTOMARY RITES ........................................................................................................ 36
ARTICLE XVIII – QUORUM .......................................................................................................................... 36
ARTICLE XIX – AMENDMENT .................................................................................................................... 36
ARTICLE XX – STANDING ORDER ............................................................................................................. 37
ARTICLE XXI – AFFILIATION...................................................................................................................... 37
ARTICLE XX11 – RECOMMENDATION ..................................................................................................... 37
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PREAMBLE
Whereas there has been the need for establishing a body of this nature; and in order to
preserve and safeguard the principles of our faith;
Bearing in mind the constitution of the Ghana Baptist Convention, which seeks to gather
together and bring up-to-date in one document, all the essential, practical tenets of the New
Testament Church: and
Whereas this document wishes to provide guidance for the official formation and proper
running of this church, understanding the noble and sacred task of rendering sacred service to
our Lord and to mankind, we do declare and establish this constitution and bye-laws to
regulate its existence and functions to the end that this body may be governed in an orderly
manner with the accepted tenets of the missionary Baptist denomination, and for the purpose
of preserving the liberties inherent in each individual member of this church and the
freedom of action of this body with respect to its relation to other churches of the same faith.
CONSTITUTION
ARTICLE I -NAME
This body shall be known as REDEMPTION BAPTIST CHURCH of the Ghana Baptist
Convention.
ARTICLE II -CHURCH CONVENANT
Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God, to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our
Saviour, and on the profession of our faith having been baptised in the Name of the Father,
Son, and of the Holy Spirit, we do now in the presence of God, angels and this assembly,
most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another, as one body in Christ.
2.1
FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF THIS CHURCH
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.
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2.2
AS CHRISTIAN STEWARDS
To contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the
church, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the gospel through all nations.
2.3
ALONE AND AT HOME
We also engage to maintain family and secret devotion, to educate our children religiously, to
seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances.
2.4
BEFORE THE WORLD
To walk circumspectly in the world; to be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements
and exemplary in our department; to avoid all tattling, backbiting, and excessive anger, to
abstain from the sale and use of intoxicating drinks as a beverage and to be zealous in our
efforts to advance the kingdom of our Saviour.
2.5
TOWARDS ONE ANOTHER
We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love, to remember each other in
prayer; to aid each other in sickness and in 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 Saviour, to secure it without delay.
2.6
WHEN WE MOVE
We moreover engage that when we move from this place, we will as soon as possible unite
with some other church, where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles
of God's Word.
ARTICLE III - MOTTO
This church shall have as its motto the declaration of our Lord Jesus Christ as recorded in
John's gospel chapter nine, verse four;
"I must work the works of Him who sent me, while it is day: the night cometh when no man
can work"
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ARTICLE IV - POLITY
The government of this church shall be vested in the body of its believers who compose it. It
is subject to the control of no other religious body, but it recognises and sustains the
obligations of mutual counsel and co-operation, which are common among Baptist Churches.
Final decisions on all major matters shall be voted on by the Church at its business meetings.
ARTICLE V - DOCTRINE AND FAITH
5.1
SECTION 1 - DOCTRINE
This receives the Scriptures as its authority in matters of faith and practice. Its understanding
of Christian Truth as contained therein is in essential accord with the belief of the Redemption
Baptist Churches as indicated in the Articles of Faith laid down hereinafter.
5.2
SECTION 2 - FAITH
United by the grace of god in Christian experience, the members of this church recognise and
receive the Bible as the inspired Word of God, and agree to accept it as the only rule of faith
and practice. We believe also that it was written by men divinely led by the Holy Spirit and is
the record of God's revelation of Himself to man. We, therefore, declare our adherence to the
doctrines and teachings contained therein and state our faith and beliefs as:
5.2.1 THE SCRIPTURES
That the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments were given by inspiration of God, and are
the sufficient, certain and authoritative rule of all saving knowledge, faith and obedience. It
has God for its author, salvation for its end, and truth, without any mixture of error, for its
matter. It reveals the principles by which God judges us; and therefore is, and will remain to
the end of the world, the true centre of Christian union, and the supreme standard by which all
human conduct, creeds, and religious opinions should be tried. The criterion by which the
Bible is to be interpreted is Jesus Christ.
5.2.2 GOD
That there is one and only one living and true God. He is an intelligent, spiritual, and
personal being, the creator, redeemer, preserver and supreme ruler of the universe and all
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things. God is infinite in holiness and all others, having in and of himself, all perfection. To
him all creatures owe the highest love, reverend, and obedience.
5.2.3 THE TRINITY
That the eternal God is revealed to us as Father, Son and the Holy Spirit, each with distinct
personal attributes, but without division of nature, essence and being.
5.2.3.1 God The Father
God as Father reigns with providential care over His universe, His creatures and the flow of
the stream of human history according to the purpose of His grace. He is all-powerful, all
loving and all wise and knowing. God is Father in truth to those who become children of Him
through faith in Jesus Christ. He is fatherly in His attitude towards all men.
5.2.3.2 God The Son
Christ is the eternal and only begotten Son of God. In His incarnation as Jesus Christ, He was
conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. Jesus perfectly revealed and did
the will of God. He perfectly honoured and fulfilled the divine law by His personal
obedience. After His death on the cross to secure provision for the redemption of man from
sin, He rose again from the dead with them before His crucifixion. Having gone to the Father,
partaking of the nature of God and man, He will return in power and glory to judge the world
and to consummate His redemptive mission. He now dwells in all believers as the living and
ever present Lord. He is the Prophet, Priest, and King of the Church and Sovereign of the
universe.
5.2.3.3 God The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God. He inspired holy men of old to write the Scriptures.
Through illumination, He enables men to understand the truth. He exalts Christ. He convicts
of sin, of righteousness and of judgement. He calls men to the Saviour, and effects
regeneration. He cultivates Christian character, comforts believers, and bestows the spiritual
gifts by which they serve God through His Church. He seals the believer unto the day of final
redemption. His presence in the believer is the assurance of God to bring the believer into the
fullness of the stature of Christ. He enlightens empowers the believer and then stature of
Christ. He enlightens and empowers the believer and the church in worship, evangelism and
service.
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5.2.4 PROVIDENCE
That God from eternity decrees or permits all things that come to pass, and perpetually
upholds, directs and governs all creatures and all events; yet He does this so as not in any
wise be the author or approver of sin nor to destroy the free will and responsibility of man.
5.2.5 MAN
5.2.5.1 His Innocence and Free Will
That man was created by the special act of God, in His own image, and is the crowning work
of His creation. He was charged and with the responsibility to be fruitful, multiply, and
replenish the earth and subdue it; whilst he was to have dominion and given stewardship
responsibility of taking care of every living thing that moveth upon the earth. Made in the
likeness of His creator, he was bestowed with an innate being to serve the purpose of His
creator by having holy fellowship with him. In the beginning man was innocent of sin and
was endowed by His Creator with freedom of choice. By his free choice, man sinned against
God and brought sin into the human race.
5.2.5.2 His Fall
That man was originally created free from sin, but by his own will through the temptation of
Satan, he transgressed the command of God and fell from his original innocence, holiness and
righteousness; whereby his posterity inherit a nature and environment inclined toward sin and
wholly opposed to God and His law, and under condemnation, without hope in his sin, and as
soon as they are capable of moral action, become actual transgressors. Only the grace of
God can bring him into His holy fellowship and enable him into His holy fellowship and
enable him to fulfil the creative purpose of God. The sacredness of human personality is
evident in the fact God created man in His own image, and in that Christ died for man;
therefore every man possesses dignity and is worthy of respect and Christian love.
5.2.6 THE MEDIATOR
That Jesus Christ, the second person of the Trinity, is the divinely appointed mediator
between God and man. Having taken upon Himself the demands and necessities of human
nature and identifying Himself completely with mankind yet without sin, He suffered and
died upon the cross for the salvation of sinners. He was buried and rose again on the third
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day, and ascended to His Father in heaven and is now exalted at the right hand of God, here
He ever liveth to make intercession for His people. He is the only one Mediator in whose
Person is effected the reconciliation between God and man.
5.2.7 ELECTION
That the elect of God are those who have responded to His call to repentance and to
everlasting life through faith in His Son, in consequence of which choice they are called,
justified and glorified. It is the gracious purpose of God, and is consistent with the free
agency of man, and comprehends all the means in connection with the end. It is a glorious
display of God's sovereign goodness and is infinitely wise, holy, and unchangeable.
excludes boasting and promotes humility.
It
5.2.8 SALVATION
a.
That salvation of sinners is wholly of God's grace alone through the work of God's
Son, who by His own obedience, even in death paid for our sins. It involves the
redemption of the whole man, and is offered freely to all who accept Jesus Christ as
Lord and Saviour who by own blood obtained eternal redemption for the believer.
b.
That the great blessings which Christ offers and secures to those who believe is
complete fellowship with God. We are forgiven of sin and made righteous before
God by our faith in our redeemer's blood and brought into blessing peace and favour
with God. We have every blessing needful for time and eternity.
That the blessings of salvation are made free to all by the Gospel. Nothing keeps any
man from being saved except his own rejection of the Gospel. His rejection of Christ
condemns him to eternal punishment. In its broadest sense, salvation includes
regeneration, sanctification, and glorification.
c.
5.2.9 REGENERATION
That regeneration, or the new birth, is a work of God's free and special grace alone whereby
believers become new creatures in Christ Jesus. It is a change of heart wrought (or brought
about) by the Holy Spirit, who quickeneth the dead in trespasses and sins, enlightening
their minds spiritually and availing to understand the word of God, and renewing their whole
nature, so that they love and practice holiness, that is, through conviction of sin by the Holy
Spirit, the sinner responds in repentance toward God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
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5.2.10 REPENTANCE
That repentance is a genuine turning from sin toward God. It is an evangelical grace wherein
a person being made aware of the sinful condition of his nature, by the Holy Spirit, humbles
himself for it, with godly sorrow with the purpose and endeavour to walk with God so as to
please Him in all things.
5.2.11 FAITH
That saving faith is the acceptance of Jesus Christ and commitment of the entire
personality of Him as Lord and Saviour. It is the belief, on God's authority, of whatever is
revealed in His Word concerning Christ; accepting and resting upon Him alone for
justification, and eternal life. It is wrought in the heart by the Holy Spirit, and is
accompanied by all other saving graces, and leads to a life of holiness.
5.2.12 JUSTIFICATION
That justification is God's gracious act and full acquittal of sinners, who believe in Christ,
from all sin, through the satisfactory work that Christ has made; not for anything wrought in
them or done by them but on account of the principles of God's righteousness based upon
Christ obedience and atonement. Justification brings the believer into a relationship of peace
and favour with God.
5.2.13 SANCTIFICATION
That those who have been regenerated are also sanctified by God's Word and Holy Spirit
dwelling in them. It is the experience, beginning from regeneration, by which the believer is
set apart to God's purposes from the world and made partaker of His holiness. This
sanctification is progressive toward moral and spiritual perfection through the supply of
Divine strength, by the presence and power of the indwelling Holy Spirit; which all saints
seek to obtain, pressing after a heavenly life in cordial obedience to all Christ's commands.
5.2.14 GLORIFICATION
That glorification is the culmination of salvation, in the process of the bodies of the saints
shall be changed to the likeness of their glorified Christ. It is the final and blessed abiding
state of the redeemed.
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5.2.15 PERSEVERANCE OF THE SAINTS
That all true believers endure to the end. Those whom God has accepted in the Beloved, and
sanctified by his Spirit, will never fall away from the state of grace, but shall persevere to the
end: and though they may fall, through neglect and temptation, into sin, whereby they grieve
the Spirit, impair their graces and comforts, bring reproach the cause of Christ, and temporal
judgements on themselves, yet they shall be renewed again unto repentance, and be kept by
the power of God through faith unto salvation.
5.2.16 THE CHURCH
a.
b.
That the Lord Jesus who is composed of all His true disciples irrespective of
denomination, and in Him is invested supremely all power for its government. It
includes all of the ages.
That according to His commandment, Christians are to associate themselves into
particular societies or churches; and to each of these churches he hath given needful
authority for administering that order, discipline and worship which he hath
appointed, that is, this church is autonomous body, operating through democratic
processes under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. In such a congregation members are
equally responsible. Its scriptural or regular offices are Bishops or Elders (pastors),
and Deacons. That a local (New Testament) church is a body or congregation of
baptised believers who are voluntarily associated by covenant in the faith and
fellowship of the gospel, observing the two ordinances of Christ, committed to
teachings, exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by seeking the
gospel to the ends of the earth.
5.2.17 BAPTISM
That Christian baptism is an ordinance of the Lord Jesus Christ, obligatory upon every
believer, wherein he is immersed in water in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of
the Holy Spirit. It is a sign of fellowship with and an act of obedience symbolising the
believer's faith, a crucified, and risen Saviour, the believer's death to sin, the burial of the old
life and the resurrection to walk in newness of life in Christ Jesus. It is a prerequisite to the
privileges of church membership and to the participation in the Lord's supper. It is not a
means of salvation.
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5.2.18 THE LORD'S SUPPER
That the Lord's Supper is a symbolic act of obedience whereby members of the church,
through partaking of the bread and the fruit of wine, memorialise the dying love of Christ and
anticipate His second coming. Being an ordinance of the Lord Jesus Christ, it is to be
observed by His churches till the end of the world. It is no sense a sacrifice, but is designed
not only to commemorate His death, but to confirm the faith and other graces of Christians,
and to be a bond, pledge and renewal of their communion with Him, and of their church
fellowship. Only baptised believers can take part in it. However, church members and
visiting believers are commended to examine their lives before participating.
5.2.19 THE LORD'S DAY
That the first day of the week is the Lord's day. It is a Christian institution for regular
observance. It commemorates the resurrection of Christ from the dead and should be
employed in exercises of worship and spiritual devotion, both public and private and by
refraining from worldly amusements, and resting from secular employment, works of
necessity and mercy only being excepted.
5.2.20 THE KINGDOM
That the Kingdom of God includes both His general sovereignty over the universe and His
particular kingship over men who will fully acknowledge Him as king. Particularly the
Kingdom is the realm of salvation into which men enter by trustful, childlike commitment to
Jesus Christ. Christians ought to pray and labour that the Kingdom may come and God's
will be done on earth. The full consummation of the Kingdom awaits the return of Jesus
Christ and the end of the age.
5.2.21 THE SAVED AND THE UNSAVED
That there is a great difference between the saved and the unsaved and therefore, only those
who have shown faith in the Lord Jesus Christ are saved and made righteous. Those who
remain away from God or Christ will remain lost in this life and in the life to come.
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5.2.22 LAST THINGS
5.2.22.1
Christ Return
That God, in His own time and in His own way, will bring the world to its appropriate end.
According to His promise, Jesus Christ will return personally and visibly in glory to the earth.
5.2.22.2
The Resurrection
That the bodies of men after death return to dust, but their spirits return immediately to God the righteous to rest with Him; the wicked, to be reserved under darkness to the judgement.
5.2.22.3
The Judgement
That God has appointed a day, wherein He will judge the world by Jesus Christ, when
everyone shall receive according to his deeds; the unrighteous (wicked) will be consigned to
Hell, the place of everlasting punishment; the righteous in their resurrection and glorified
bodies will receive their reward and go endless joy of life, dwelling forever in Heaven with
the Lord.
5.2.23 STEWARDSHIP
That God alone is the source of all blessings, temporal and spiritual: all that we have and are
we owe to Him. Christians have a spiritual debtorship to the whole world, a holy trusteeship
in the gospel, and a binding stewardship in their possessions. They are therefore under
obligation to serve Him with their time, talent, and material possessions and should recognise
all those as entrusted to them to use for the glory of God and for helping others. According to
the Scriptures, Christians should contribute of their means cheerfully, regularly,
systematically, proportionately and liberally for the advancement of the Redeemer's cause on
earth.
5.2.24 EVANGELISM AND MISSIONS
That it is the duty and privilege of every follower of Christ and every church of the Lord Jesus
Christ to endeavour to make disciples of all nations. The new birth of man's spirit by God's
Holy Spirit means the birth of love for others. Missionary effort on the part of all rests thus
upon a spiritual necessity of the regenerated life, and is expressly and repeatedly commanded
in the teachings of Christ. It is the duty of every child of God to seek constantly to win the
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lost for Christ by personal effort and by all other methods in harmony with the gospel.
5.2.25 THE CHRISTIAN AND SOCIAL ORDER
That every Christian is under obligation to seek to make the will of Christ supreme in his own
life and in human society. Means and methods used for the improvement of Society and the
establishment of righteousness in the regeneration of the individual by the saving grace of
God in Christ Jesus. The Christian should oppose in the spirit of Christ every form of greed,
selfishness, and vice. He should work to provide for the orphan, the needy, the aged, the
helpless, and the sick. Every Christian should seek to bring industry, government, and society
as a whole under the sway of the principles of righteousness, truth, and brotherly love. In
order to promote these ends, Christians should be ready to work with all men of good will in
any cause, always being careful to act in the spirit of love without compromising their loyalty
to Christ and His Truth.
5.2.26 PEACE AND WAR
That it is the duty of Christians to seek peace with all men on principles of righteousness. In
accordance with the spirit and teaching of Christ they should do all in their power to put an
end to war. The true remedy to the war spirit is the gospel of our Lord. The supreme need of
the world is the acceptance of His teaching in all the affairs of men and nations, and the
practical application of His law of love.
5.2.27 RELIGIOUS LIBERTY
5.2.27.1
Liberty of Conscience
That God alone is Lord of the conscience, and He has left it free from the doctrines and
commandments of men which are in anything contrary to His Word or not contained in it.
Civil law or government being ordained of God, it is the duty of Christians to render loyal
obedience thereto in all things not contrary to the conscience sake.
5.2.27.2
Liberty of the Church and State
That the Church and the State should be separate. The State owes to every Church protection
and full freedom in the pursuit of its spiritual ends. In providing for such freedom no
ecclesiastical group or denomination should be favoured by the State more than others. The
Church should not resort to civil power to carry on its work. The gospel of Christ
14
contemplates spiritual means alone for the pursuits of its ends. The state has no right to
impose taxes for the support of any form of religion. A free church in a free state is the
Christian ideal, and this implies the right of free and unhindered access to God on the part of
all men, and the right to form and propagate opinions in the sphere of religion without
interference by the civil power.
5.2.28 THE LAW OF GOD
That the law of God is the external rule of moral government. This role never changes, and it
is holy, just, perfect and good. Obedience to His holy law is possible only by the power of
God through faith in Jesus Christ.
ARTICLE VI: PURPOSE
The purpose of this church shall be the advancement of the Kingdom of Christ Jesus. It shall
seek to attain this end through the public worship of God, the preaching of the gospel,
consistent Christian living by its members as revealed and taught in the New Testament,
personal evangelism and visitation.
ARTICLE I: BYE-LAWS
1.1
SECTION 1 - MEMBERSHIP
The membership of this church shall consist of persons who have made a profession of their
faith in Christ as Saviour and Lord who desire to be numbered among His disciples, who have
experienced the baptism by immersion, who are in sympathy with the faith and practices of
this church and have given evidence of their full endorsements of the church covenant to the
satisfaction of the Pastor of the church.
1.2
SECTION 2 - ADMISSION
Membership in the church may be obtained as follows:
1.
2.
3.
By the ordinance of Baptism by immersion after profession of faith in Christ Jesus
either by Baptist Church or
By letter from any church of Baptist faith and order.
By restoration to the church roll after having been dropped or after exclusion by two15
thirds vote of the church members in a business meeting.
1.3
SECTION 3 - TERMINATION
Membership in the church shall end as follows:
1.
2.
By letter of transfer
By dropping from the rolls (that is, absenting oneself from the church for more than
two months without notice and after several attempts to bring such a member back
fail.).
1.4
SECTION 4
The terms and conditions of admission and termination of membership in the church are
hereby prescribed in the bye-laws.
1.5
SECTION 5 - INACTIVE MEMBERSHIP
A member who travels out of town for a period between one and twelve months may maintain
his/her membership on the church roll, but as an inactive member. Such a member shall
receive from the Pastor, a letter of recommendation to the church that he/she intends to
affiliate with.
ARTICLE II - OFFICERS
The Officers of this Church shall be as follows:
1.
The Pastor
2.
3.
4.
5
6.
7.
8.
The Board of Deacons
The Clerk
The Treasurer
The Music Director
The Auditor
The Trustees
The Chairman of Ushers
In addition to these officers, other officers of the Church shall be heads of the various church
organisations or committees.
16
ARTICLE III - DUTIES OF OFFICERS
3.1
SECTION 1 - PASTOR
1.
The Pastor shall seek to perform the duties of that office with all loyalty, to preach
statedly on the Lord's Day, to administer the ordinance as commanded by the New
Testament.
He shall conduct the week-days devotional exercises of the church.
He shall show hospitality, visit the members of the church as often as possible, and
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
perform such other duties as usually pertaining to that office.
It shall be his duty to teach, counsel, train and equip leaders for the church and new
churches.
He shall pursue peace and reconciliation with and among all members of the church.
He shall take the initiative to encourage and to attend to the spiritual needs of all the
organisations of church.
He should satisfy the requirements of a pastor as set forth in 1Timothy 3:1-7, Titus
1:5-9 and 1Peter 5:1-4.
He shall, after consultation with various departments of the Church, advise the
departmental heads on what to do.
He shall be the chairman of the church, and shall attend the council's meetings upon
mutual consent with the council or at the invitation of the council, or at the Pastor's
own request.
His vote shall be equal to the final decision of the Board of Deacons and as the church
council. However, the church shall have the final say on any matter.
He shall be the Moderator of the Church.
He shall have the liberty to withdraw from church activities for the purpose of
spiritual upliftment on their services outside the church.
13.
He shall lead in the devotional aspect of the church Business Meeting and at other
church conferences and preside over such meeting.
3.2
SECTION 2 - CHAIRMAN OF BOARD OF DEACONS
1.
The Chairman of the Board of Deacons shall preside over the meeting of the board of
Deacons.
He shall confer with the Pastors regularly, and before and after every meeting of the
Board of Deacons (or the Church Council).
He shall confer with his vice on the Board of Deacons, and with the Church Clerk on
2.
3.
17
4.
5.
6.
7.
the Church Council, for the preparation of the agenda for meeting and for the wellbeing of the respective bodies.
He shall act as the moderator of the Church in the absence or inability of the Pastor or
when the church is without a Pastor.
He shall be a member of the Pastoral Welfare Committee.
He shall work under the direction of the Pastor.
He shall be the chairman at the church regular business meetings and the church
annual conference and at other church business meetings.
Note: The review made in 1994 states that the Pastor shall be the Chairman of the Board of
Deacons. However its full implications and relation with other responsibilities, authority was
not spelt out.
3.3
SECTION 3 - VICE CHAIRMAN
1.
He shall be the secretary to the Board of Deacons and shall act as chairman to the
Board of Deacons in the absence of the chairman.
He shall assist the Pastor in administering the ordinances of the church.
He shall collate all activities of the deacons for the meetings of the Deacons and shall
2.
3.
4.
be a member of the Membership Committee.
He shall in consultation with the Chairman of the Board of Deacons, prepare the
agenda of and convene the meetings of the Board of Deacons. (See note under
chairman Board of Deacons)
3.4
SECTION 4 - CLERK
1.
The Clerk of the church shall keep in a suitable book a record of all the actions of the
church, except as otherwise herein provided.
2.
He shall keep a register of the names of members, with dates of admission, dismissal,
or death, together with a record of Baptisms.
He shall also notify all officers, members of committees and delegates of their election
or appointment. He shall issue letters of dismissal of appointment.
He shall issue letters of dismissal voted by the church.
He shall preserve on file all communications and written official reports, and give
legal notice of all meetings where such notice is necessary, as indicated in these byelaws.
He shall prepare quarterly and annual reports of his activities to the church.
He shall be the Secretary to the Church Council and at all other meetings of the
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
18
church. He shall feed the Chairman of the Church with all Council necessary
information. And assist him in preparing and publishing of the agenda of the
meetings of the church council and of the church.
3.5
SECTION 5 - ASSISTANT CLERK
1.
2.
3.
He shall be in charge of all notices of the church.
He shall compile all announcements of and for the church, collect and dispatch letters
and correspondence of the church.
He shall work in collaboration with the clerk and act in his absence.
3.6
SECTION 6 - TREASURER
1.
The Treasurer shall receive, preserve and pay out upon receipt, of vouchers all money
or things value paid or given to the church, keeping at all times an itemised account of
all receipts and disbursements. Payment of bills for local work and expense shall be
made promptly by cheque or cash.
It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to receive, hold and disburse all cheques, monies,
or funds of any kind for all departments of the church as directed by the church.
2(i).
(ii)
3.
4(i)
(ii)
5(i)
(ii)
6.
7.
He shall keep separate account book for each department but shall keep all such
monies, in the Bank Accounts of the church.
All monies should be placed in the bank and be removed by cheque, which should be
signed by the Treasurer and countersigned by the Chairman of the Board of Deacons
or the church clerk. He shall bank all monies within 24 hours after receipt.
It should be the duty of the Treasurer to render to the Church Council at each regular
monthly meeting, an itemised report of receipts and disbursements for the preceding
month.
The Treasurer shall also present to the Church Council an audited statement of
receipts and expenditure for every quarter of the year and such reports shall be read to
the church at its regular business meetings.
Within thirty days after the end of each fiscal year, the Treasurer shall render to the
church council and to the Church and annual report showing the financial position of
the church as at 31st December of the preceding year.
This report shall first be audited by the church auditor before representation.
Upon rendering the annual audited accounts at the end of its fiscal year and its
acceptance by the church, the same shall be delivered by the Treasurer to the church
clerk who shall keep and preserve it as part of the permanent records of the church.
The treasurer shall keep an accurate account of all pledges, payments and donations of
19
8.
9.
10.
all contributors to the treasury.
He shall serve as the chairman of the Financial Affairs Committee of the church and
shall be professionally qualified and constantly faithful in discharging his/her duties.
He shall consider it a part of his responsibility to promote in every proper way
scriptural giving on the part of the entire membership of the church.
Where the Treasurer is an illiterate in accountancy the Financial Committee shall be
made up of at least one professionally qualified person as member.
3.7
SECTION 7 - AUDITOR
1.
There shall be panel of auditors to audit the church accounts of the treasurer's books
from time and make an accurate report of their findings to the church council at its
regular monthly meetings.
There shall be an external auditor who shall be a Baptist but not a member of this
church. He shall audit the accounts of the church once a year, for the annual
conference of the church.
The panel of auditors shall also present a report to the church on its regular quarterly
meetings.
The chairman of the panel of auditors shall be a member of the financial committee of
2.
3.
4.
the church
3.8
SECTION 8 - MUSIC DIRECTOR
The music director shall be charged with responsibility to provide worshipful music for all
services and departments of the church, and shall have general oversight and direction of the
music.
He is to direct the choir or choirs in practice and public singing, and is to co-operate with the
pastor and other leaders in the selection of suitable music and the devising of appropriate
musical programmes for all occasions where such services are needed.
3.9
SECTION 9 - CHAIRMAN OF USHERS
The Chairman of ushers together with the rest of the team of ushers shall care for and be
responsible for:
1.
2.
The direction of church members and visitors to their appropriate Bible Classes.
The arrangement, seating and comfort of the congregation.
20
3.
4.
5.
The collection of offering and the like during worship services.
The notification and introduction to the Pastor before/after worship service any visitor
or visitors on a mission other than for worship service.
The prevention of interruptions and distractions and similar needed services.
ARTICLE IV - CHURCH COUNCIL
4.1
SECTION 1 - COMPOSITION
The church council shall be composed of:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
The Pastor, who shall be the (honorary) Chairman.
The Clerk.
The Treasurer.
Chairman, Board of Deacons - who shall be the Vice - Chairman and (see note under
Chairman - Board of Deacons.)
The Chairman Maintenance and Development Committee.
The Music Director.
The Sunday School Superintendent.
h.
i.
j.
k.
l.
Chairman of the Evangelism Committee.
The Women Missionary Union Leader.
Men's Fellowship Leader.
The Chairman of the Board of Ushers
Chairman Home Ministry Board.
4.2
SECTION 2
Other leaders or chairman of other committees or organisations shall become members of the
church council unless otherwise voted on by the church on recommendation of the church
council.
4.3
SECTION 3
The Chairman of the church council shall have a deciding vote.
4.4
CO-OPTED MEMBERS
1.
Any committee or body in the church's organisation structure has the mandate to co21
2.
opt a resource person for a particular task undertaken.
The co-opted person shall be a Christian of like faith; in cases involving professional
services where Christian persons are not available or are not competent, an advice can
be sought from an unbeliever but not constituting the church's gospel ministry shall be
open only to Christians. The accepted codes are e.g. legal profession etc.
ARTICLE V
5.1
ROLE AND
COUNCIL
AUTHORITY
OF
THE
CHURCH
SECTION 1 - FUNCTIONS OF THE CHURCH COUNCIL
The church council shall seek to correlate and co-ordinate the activities and organisations of
the church yet with advisory power only.
The functions of the council may be indicated by the following agenda, subject to changes as
occasion may require: a.
b.
Scripture Reading and Prayer.
Reports of Progress since last meeting.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
Calendar of Activities and Meetings for the month/quarter ahead.
Problems which need joint consideration.
Needs which should be supplied co-operatively.
Objectives which call for teamwork.
Possibilities of functions which should be prevented.
Spiritual emphasis in which all may join.
Denominational Calendar which should be taken into account.
Season of Prayer for Special objects.
5.2
ELIGIBILITY FOR MEMBERSHIP ON THE CHURCH COUNCIL
An individual should satisfy the requirement of a church officer as set forth in Acts 6:3-8,
1Peter 5:1-4, 1Timothy 3:8-13. Specifically he/she
1.
2.
3.
4.
should be a born-again Christian.
should be at least three years as a baptised member of the church.
should have proven his leadership ability in some area of service in the church.
should be one year in the church from another Baptist church or Bible believing
church.
22
5.
should be well grounded in Baptist principles.
5.3
SECTION 3
The term of office of the church council shall be one year. Individual members can however,
be re-nominated and endorsed by the church.
5.4
SECTION 4 - FREQUENCY OF MEETING
The church council shall meet once a month, and at the request of the Pastor.
ARTICLE VI - BOARD OF DEACONS
6.1
SECTION 1 - NUMBER OF DEACONS
There shall be seven deacons for the first three hundred members whose names are on the
church roll, and one additional Deacon for each additional one hundred members.
Where the member on roll is less than hundred, a minimum of three (Review 1994) Deacons
shall be ordained. They shall be seven which they shall then form the Board of Deacons.
A Deacon shall hold no other office. He must give complete attention to the work of this
office, except those offices that are solely mandated to take charge e.g. Welfare committee.
It shall be pertinent for the church to promote to honorary life membership any Deacon who
by reason of age or infirmities shall, after honourable service, be no longer able to render
active service.
6.2
SECTION 2 - MODE OF NOMINATION OF DEACONS
Nominations to the Board of the Deacons shall be made by the Nominating Committee acting
in consultation with the Pastor. The nominees shall be presented to the church for
endorsement. Voting shall be by secret ballot.
6.3
SECTION 3 – ELIGIBILITY FOR NOMINATION AS DEACON
In addition to the qualifications of a Deacon set forth in Acts 6:3-8 and 1Timothy 3:8-15, an
individual should satisfy the following requirements for nomination as Deacon:
23
a.
b.
he should at least be three years as a Baptist member including at least one year as a
member of the local church
he should have proven his leadership ability in some area of service in the church
ARTICLE VII - BOARD OF DEACONS
The following standing committees shall be elected:
1.
Evangelism Committee
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Christian Education Committee
Financial Affairs Committee
Nominating Committee
Social Affairs/Publicity Committee
Board of Trustees/Maintenance
Membership Committee
Team of Ushers
Welfare Committee (General Welfare Committee & Pastoral Welfare Committee)
Other Boards and Committees shall be established as the need arises.
ARTICLE VIII – FUNCTIONS OF STANDING BOARDS AND
COMMITTEES
8.1
SECTION 1 – EVANGELISM COMMITTEE
The Evangelism Committee shall consist of the following sub-committees herein referred to
as ministries:
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
v.
Visitation Ministry
Prison Ministry
Hospital Ministry
School Ministry
Home Mission Ministry
In general, the Evangelism Committee shall seek:
a.
to prepare and present to the church an annual programme covering all aspects of
24
b.
c.
d.
church evangelism
to see to the effective implementation of the evangelism programme adopted by the
church
to initiate measures for mobilising the entire membership of the church to be actively
involved in witnessing for Christ
to perform any other activities incidental to the mission for reaching the lost with the
Gospel of Christ
i.
Visitation Ministry
a.
it shall seek to promote visitation in the church and shall make a report and the church
secretary before church service on each Sunday of all sick members and those who are
not likely to come to church for any reason
It shall be responsible for all follow-up programmes. It shall initiate and formulate
plans and measures to involve and seek to the effective organisation and
implementation of all follow-up exercises.
b.
ii.
Prison, Hospital and School Ministries
Shall be responsible for visitation to their various units and shall seek to promote from time to
time such programmes as may be of necessity for the purpose of bringing the Gospel of Christ
to their respective areas of which each unit is involved.
iii.
Home Mission Ministry
Home Mission Ministry shall be responsible for the organisation of Home Compound or
Home Bible Study grounds and Bible Study courses. That is, they shall seek to bring to the
door-steps of the lost or otherwise those who are not willing to attend church services such
programmes as may be of help to them with the purpose of winning and bringing them to
Christ.
While seeking to explore and initiate their own avenues for the institutionalisation of such
programmes, they shall also be required to draw and collate evidence from the study of
progress of report and findings of the Visitation Ministry.
Outreach Committee
a.
Membership of the Outreach Committee shall consist of leaders of the various sub25
committees.
The Association Director of the Outreach Committee shall be Chairman for the Home
Mission Ministry who shall co-ordinate the activity and programme of he Home Bible
Studies.
Initial membership of the sub-committees shall be three in number and shall increase
as programmes are expanded
b.
c.
8.2
SECTION 2 – FINANCIAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
It shall be the duty of the Financial Affairs Committee:
a.
b.
to be responsible for the day-to-day financial transaction of the church
to count and record the collection on Sunday morning and any other times collections
are taken
to keep good records of the financial transactions of the church
to present monthly, quarterly and annually, reports of the church’s financial position to
the church and to present any other reports required by the church
to prepare and present to the church an Annual Budget
to provide for regular audit for all books and accounts of church
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
to examine and determine the emoluments of all church employees and advice the
church accordingly
Signatories to the cheque and bank transactions of the church shall be the Treasurer, the Clerk
and the Chairman of the Board of Deacons.
All transactions of the church shall be made only after approval by the Pastor.
The Financial Affairs Committee shall have a membership of five, namely:



8.3
The Treasurer
Three Deacons
The Chief Auditor
SECTION 3 – NOMINATING COMMITTEE
At the third quarterly business meeting of the church, a Nominating Committee, which shall
present its report to the Assistant Clerk for publishing on the church notice board one month
before the Annual Conference of the church.
26
After the general elections of the church are over, the Nominating Committee shall then
become a stand-by committee until such time that its services shall be called for by the
church.
No member of the church council shall serve on the committee. However, the committee
shall work in consultation with and on the advice of the Pastor. The committee shall
nominate and present to the church suitable candidates to fill the various offices as provided
in the constitution.
8.4
SECTION 4 – SOCIAL AFFAIRS/PUBLICITY COMMITTEE
a.
To draw up a programme of talks, lectures, symposia, film shows, debates etc. for the
church
To see to the proper planning and organising of weddings, outdoorings, get-togethers,
funerals and other social activities.
To be responsible for the church’s notice board (All materials meant for posting on the
church’s notice board shall be routed through the Assistant Church Clerk.
To be responsible for informing the church and the general public of the church’s
programmes.
b.
c.
d.
f.
To generate interest in the church’s programmes through effective advertising and
public relations.
In diverse ways, to present a good image of the church to the general public.
8.5
SECTION 5 – BOARD OF TRUSTEES/MAINTENANCE
a.
b.
c.
To keep proper inventory of all church property
To arrange for the proper maintenance of any church property
To be responsible for the purchase, sale, mortgage or lease of any church property on
d.
the authority of the church.
To sign any Deed on behalf of the church.
8.6
SECTION 6 – MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE
a.
b.
To be in charge of the church membership roll
To investigate all matters relating to the dismissal of members, and make
recommendations to the church.
To prepare and present to the church, detailed quarterly reports on membership
changes such as:
e.
c.
27





8.7
Number of members who have died
Number of members who have become non-resident
Number of members who attend church services irregularly
Number of members who have dropped out of church
Number of members who do not support the church financially
SECTION 7 –TEAM OF USHERS
There shall be a team of ushers to volunteer their services to the church to see to the comfort
and well-being of members of the congregation for all its services. The team shall be
nominated by the Nominating committee and finally endorsed by the church.
8.8A
SECTION 8A – GENERAL WELFARE COMMITTEE
There shall be five members on this committee and their duties shall be as hereto stated in the
duties of the board of Deacons.
All five members shall be deacons. But where there are less than 5 deacons, the deacons thus
present shall be automatic members and other members from the church council shall
complete their number. The council members shall eventually give way to deacons as more
deacons are ordained, and this shall be by the council members with the least number of years
stepping out first.
A deacon shall necessarily be the chairman of the Welfare Committee.
8.8B
SECTION 8B – PASTORAL WELFARE COMMITTEE
These shall constitute the Pastoral Committee:
i.
ii.
iii.
the chairman of the Welfare Committee who shall be the chairman
the chairman of the Board of Deacons
one other member of the Welfare Committee
8.9
SECTION 9 – CHRISTIAN EDUCATION COMMITTEE
The following shall constitute the Christian Education Committee:
a.
The Sunday School Superintendent (Chairman)
28
b.
c.
d.
The Christian Growth leader
The Men’s Fellowship leader
The WMU Leader
The Christian Education Committee shall seek:
i.
ii.
iii.
to plan for and to oversee the smooth running of the Christian Education Department
to advise the Church Council on literature for the Department of Christian education
specially see to the smooth running of the Sunday School and the Christian Growth
Session for all ages.
iv.
In diverse ways, to encourage all members of the church to participate in the
programmes of the department.
ARTICLE IX – MODE OF NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS
9.1
SECTION 1 – PASTOR
i.
A pastor shall be chosen and called by the church when a vacancy occurs. His
election shall take place at a stated meeting called for that purpose of which at least
ii.
iii.
iv.
one week public notice shall be given.
A Pastor’s Selection Committee shall be appointed by the church to seek out a suitable
pastor, and their recommendation will constitute a nomination, though any member
has the privilege of making other nomination.
The committee shall bring to the consideration of the church only one man at a time.
Election shall be by secret ballot, an affirmative vote of three-quarters of those present
being necessary to a choice, and after prayers has been offered for the guidance of
God.
9.2
SECTION 2 – TERM OF OFFICE OF PASTOR
A. i.
His term of office shall end when he or the church is convinced that separation is
necessary.
Where A (i) shall have been deemed to be necessary, either shall give the other 3
months notice, or in lieu of such notice, an amount equivalent to the pastors 3 months
salary shall be paid to the other.
The office of the Pastor thus elected shall be terminated by three-quarters of the
church members called for that purpose.
Where immorality on the part of the Pastor is concerned, separation shall be made
ii.
B.
C.
29
D.
E.
9.3
outright by a majority vote as described in (ii) above and without any such payment as
stated in A (ii)
The Pastor’s general term of office shall be 3 years, renewable for any number of
years.
At the end of the second year of each term of office, the church shall serve the Pastor
with a letter, reminding that he has one more year to complete the term he is serving.
He may the re-apply, for the church to consider approval or rejection. In such case,
section A (ii) shall not apply.
SECTION 3 – CHAIRMAN, BOARD OF DEACONS
1. The Pastor shall submit one nomination from among the deacons and the Board of
Deacons shall bring two.
2. The Chairman of the Nominating committee, who shall single-handedly supervise the
election, shall ask for secret balloting.
3. The nominees thus polling the highest and the second highest votes become the chairman
and the vice-chairman respectively.
4. The chairman thus elected becomes the chairman of the Church Council.
9.4
SECTION 4 – NOMINATING COMMITTEE
1. The Pastor shall be a member of the Nominating committee but not the Chairman thereof.
He shall also nominate one member of the congregation to serve on it.
2. The church shall then submit three additional nominees
3. The five nominees shall finally be endorsed by the church, if no changes are made in the
nominations at voting, and the highest polling nominee shall be the chairman thereof.
9.5
SECTION 5 – CHURCH OFFICERS
1. They shall be nominated by the Nominating Committee and the nominations presented to
the church for endorsement.
2. In case of the choir leader, where a member of the choir has to be elected to serve on the
church council, due to the music director not being a member of the church, the
nomination and election of the person shall be undertaken by members of the choir. The
election shall be supervised by the Nominating Committee, and the name of the elected
candidate presented to the church for endorsement.
3. A minimum of two nominations shall be presented for each post or office.
30
A nominee who fails to be elected, may upon the approval of the church, stand alongside
other nominations to contest a new office.
9.6
SECTION 6 – STANDING BOARD AND COMMITTEES
1. Members of those committees shall be nominated by the Nominating Committee. Each
committee shall consist of five members, unless otherwise stated.
2. The nominees of each of the committees shall be presented to the church for endorsement.
The nominee to poll the highest number of votes in each case shall be the chairman of that
committee.
9.7
SECTION 7 – VOTING
1. At the Annual conference in December, the chairman of the Church Council shall present
reports of the committees for study by the church. After careful study and necessary
adjustments have been made, voting shall be held for adoption of the reports.
2. In the case of nomination and election, the church may, after studying the report of the
Nominating Committee, and other nominations from the floor after secondment by two
church members for voting.
3. Members thus elected take up their duties on 1st January; however, they shall be required
to work with and under study the outgoing officers from the day of election until the final
take over.
4. Voting shall strictly be confined to members of this church only. However, born-again
Christians from sister churches and non-baptised members of this church shall have the
liberty to express their ideas on the subject matters being discussed.
5. Voting shall be by secret ballot only.
ARTICLE X – VACANCY AND REMOVAL FROM OFFICE
10.1
SECTION 1 - VACANCY
1. In case of vacancy in any office, the congregation must elect a successor at a business
meeting called upon due notice, or at the next business meeting of the church after the
vacancy has occurred.
2. In an emergency, temporary officers may be appointed by the Church Council to hold
office until the congregation elects.
31
10.2
SECTION 2 – REMOVAL FROM OFFICE
Where an officer of a board or committee member is found to be inefficient or unfaithful to
the office, the church member making the finding shall put it into writing and address the
letter to the Board of Deacons.
Investigation shall be called for by the Board of Deacons, and where the allegation is proven
true, the officer shall be informed first.
A vote of no confidence passed by two-thirds majority of members present at a business or
called meeting shall thus remove the said officer or member.
The Nominating Committee shall be called upon to present fresh nominations for vote by the
church to fill such a vacancy.
ARTICLE XI – DISCIPLINE
1.
Should any unhappy differences arise between members, the aggrieved member shall
follow the role given by the Lord in the 18th chapter of Matthew.
2i.
Should any cause of gross breach of covenant or of public scandal occur, the deacons
shall endeavour to remove the offence. Should the offender not be pleased with the
decision of the deacons, he or she may appeal to the church through the Pastor.
2ii.
3.
4.
The church shall appoint a reasonable time and place of hearing and notify the person
in question thereof, furnishing him/her with a copy of the charges.
At such hearing, the accused member may call to his/her aid any member of the
church council. If he shall not present himself at the appointed time or give
satisfactory lesson for his neglect, the church may proceed in his absence.
All such proceedings shall be pervaded by the spirit of Christian kindness and
forbearance but should any adverse decision be reached the church may proceed to
admonish the offender or declare him/her to be no longer in the membership of the
church.
In case of grave difficulty, the church will be ready if requested, to ask the advice of
an acceptable council from neighbouring churches.
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ARTICLE XII – CHURCH FUNDS AND PROPERTY
12.1
SECTION 1
Any member entrusted with or in possession of any church funds or property shall see to take
good care and be able to account for some whenever the need arises. Such funds or properties
shall have to be handed over to the church when such member is dismissed or excluded from
the church or at any time that the church may call for such funds or property.
12.2
SECTION 2
Where a member embezzles or misuses any church funds or properties or properties, such
member shall be made to refund, replace or make good such property. Failing to refund,
replace, make good or hand over such funds or property the church shall:
i.
ii.
refer the case to the disciplinary committee of the church and the Pastor for retrieval of
such property
where this fails, the case shall be referred to the church for final decision.
ARTICLE XIII
13.1
SECTION 1 - BANKER
The Bankers of this church shall be the Ghana Commercial Bank, Cape Coast Branch.
13.2
SECTION 2 - FINANCE
1.
The source of income of this church shall be as follows:
 Tithes
 Offering
 Thanksgiving
 Donations
 Pledges etc.
These may be expected to come from members, however, well wishers, who may want to give
to support the church in diverse ways are welcome.
2.
An imprest of as may be determined by the Financial Affairs Committee quarterly and
approved by the Church Council shall be kept by the Treasurer.
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ARTICLE XIV – THE CHURCH AND MARRIAGE
A. All marriage consultation should first and foremost be referred to the pastor who will, if
necessary, refer the couple to a Deacon or a spiritually-matured church member from the
onset.
B. All persons to be married in Redemption Baptist Church shall have to see the Pastor three
months in advance of the customary engagement and shall have had at least five
consultations with him.
C. The church, in general, disapproves of divorce and remarriage, customary or civil, and
discourages her members from such practices. But where it is found to be absolutely
necessary for a couple to marry so that they will not fall into sin, no persons whose
marriage has been dissolved by divorce (customary or civil) shall be entitled to the same
privileges and benefits of a couple (male or female) who has never been married before,
unless one spouse has expired.
D. Under no circumstances shall a couple have a public wedding where the bride is obviously
pregnant.
E. Couples found to be living together before the blessing of their marriage in the church
shall forgo the rights of a full marriage ceremony and forfeit the right to hold their
wedding reception on the church premises.
F. No person who is a polygamist shall become a member of the church. Where such a
person (male or female) becomes a Christian and seeks to be part of this church, a special
counselling session shall be organised for him/her by the Pastor. If the polygamist
decides to become monogamous, he/she shall be accepted into membership of the church.
Where the polygamist insists on remaining a polygamist, he/she shall not be accepted into
church membership.
G. Persons who are born-again before they marry and become polygamists afterward shall be
excommunicated from the church after receiving advice to desist from such practices and
they fail to do so. There shall be no respect of persons.
ARTICLE XV – CHILD DEDICATION AND BLESSING
A child who is 8 days to 12 years old, and who has not yet taken Jesus as Saviour, shall be
dedicated to the Lord and blessed by the Pastor as recorded in…………………………………
The parents of each child shall seek to bring the child up in the way of Christian faith as in
Proverbs 6:22 till the child becomes responsible to himself or herself.
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ARTICLE XVI – DEATH
16.1
SECTION 1 - MEMBER
A. If a member of this church dies the church shall take full responsibility of the burial
ceremony patterned as is obtained in the pastor’s or minister’s manual.
B. (i) In the event of such occurrence the church shall meet with the deceased family to
discuss and plan for the necessary arrangements.
(ii) Where a deceased family disagrees with the church’s burial arrangement and insists on
taking burial responsibilities, the church shall have to advice itself as to what to do.
(iii) Where a deceased family fails to inform the church in the event of the death of a
member and performs everything, the church shall upon satisfactory explanation, give as
much physical help as it can. However if the explanation is found to be unsatisfactory, the
church shall advice itself on what to do.
C. Should the deceased’s employer of the church take the burial responsibilities the church
shall have to advice itself on the necessary steps or help, or otherwise to offer.
D. (i) If the church takes burial responsibilities, then burial shall be within 24 hours after the
dead body has been obtained.
(ii) The church shall provide white gown and coffin for burial, but shall however, seek to
limit itself to the lowest and simplest form of burial.
E. In the event of the death of a child who has been attending the church but has not been
baptised into membership due to age, the church shall be equally responsible for the burial
ceremony with the consent of the parents. In this case the Funeral Committee would have
to decide on what should be provided for burial.
F. A candidate in the Baptism Class shall have full benefits as a member in the event of
death.
16.2
SECTION 2 - BENEFICIARIES
A. In the event of the death of a relative of a member in good standing, the church shall give
as much physical help and financial assistance as it can.
B. Such relatives shall be father, mother, child, wife, and husband.
C. Where necessary and the need arises, general contribution shall be made in support of the
church’s representation.
D. If the deceased belongs to a group or organisation in the church, and the group wants to
contribute besides the church contribution, it shall have to see the Pastor or Church
Council and if its request be granted, shall contribute not exceeding that of the church.
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16.3
SECTION 3 – FUNERAL
A. Should burial be the full responsibility of the church, then funeral shall be observed on the
day of the burial with the consent of the bereaved family.
B. Where a bereaved family takes funeral responsibilities or fixes funeral for another
day/time, the church, after burial shall have no control over their funeral ceremony.
However, on the funeral day a church delegate shall attend and individuals shall be
encouraged to do so.
C. Should a bereaved family agree as in (A) above or invites the church to help observe the
funeral then the family would have to ensure that:
(i)
Drinks served at the funeral are only minerals. Serving of intoxicating drinks shall
not be tolerated.
(ii)
There shall be no customary drumming at the funeral. Failure to observe these
shall mean that the family no longer needs the church’s assistance and the latter
shall therefore leave the place of the funeral.
D. There shall be no thanksgiving service held.
ARTICLE XVII – CUSTOMARY RITES
Members shall refrain from all customary observation that are not in keeping with Christian
preaching.
ARTICLE XVIII – QUORUM
At the Annual, quarterly business meetings and all special meetings of the church 25% of the
total number of members on the roll shall be necessary to constitute a quorum for the
transaction of business.
ARTICLE XIX – AMENDMENT
This constitution and accompanying Bye-laws may be amended by two-thirds vote of the
members present and voting at any annual meeting of the church or at a meeting specially
called for that purpose, the proposed amendment being inserted in the call.
But no chance shall be made in “Articles of Faith” or “Covenant” except by a two-thirds vote
of all members of the church present entitled to vote, such proposed change having been laid
before the church in writing at a business meeting not less than one month before the time of
the proposed action, and read from the pulpit on the Lord’s Day next succeeding such
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proposals.
ARTICLE XX – STANDING ORDER
Anything not mentioned herein shall be determined on its merit by the church council or be
referred to the necessary committee and recommendations brought before the church for
approval and disapproval.
ARTICLE XXI – AFFILIATION
This church goes on record as being willing to co-operate with the Ghana Baptist Convention
and the Baptist Association to which the church belongs.
ARTICLE XX11 – RECOMMENDATION
We recommend that all who had received baptism by immersion and were members of this
church before the acceptance of this constitution, be accepted into membership upon
declaration of their acceptance of this constitution and bye-laws.
That the present officers and members of boards and committees already elected for 1984 be
allowed to continue in office until the end of the year.
This constitution shall be accessible to all members.
All other constitution and bye-laws of groups in the church shall be subordinate to the
REDEMPTION BAPTIST Church Constitution.
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