The Constitution of Grace Covenant Church

Gilbert, Arizona • Last revised July 2023

Acknowledgement

The adoption of a constitution by a congregation brings upon each member the weighty responsibility to conduct himself in a manner which upholds the integrity of the constitution and of his commitment to the congregation holding that constitution. With that awareness, coupled with the keen recognition that this is at best a fallible, man-written document, we implore the all-wise and immutable God to protect this church from error and to bring it more and more into a better understanding of His infallible Word.  An enormous debt is owed to the eldership of our sister congregations, Grace Reformed Baptist Church of Palmdale, California; Heritage Baptist Church of Owensboro, Kentucky; Community Baptist Church of Fargo, North Dakota; and Emmaus Reformed Baptist Church of Hemet, California for the labors which they have put forth toward the revisions of their own constitutions and for giving us access to their labors. Any discrepancy between our work and theirs is not presented as an improvement upon their work, but rather is an attempt to behave responsibly according to the present light we possess and according to our discernment of the situation in which God has set us.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PREAMBLE

ARTICLE 1: NAME

ARTICLE 2: PURPOSE

ARTICLE 3: COVENANT

SECTION 1: OUR NEW COVENANT CONFIDENCE

SECTION 2: OUR NEW COVENANT COMMITMENTS

ARTICLE 4: CONFESSION OF FAITH

ARTICLE 5: ASSOCIATION

ARTICLE 6: MEMBERSHIP

SECTION 1: BIBLICAL WARRANT

             SECTION 2: PREREQUISITES FOR MEMBERSHIP

SECTION 3: APPLICATION

SECTION 4: INITIATION

SECTION 5: REQUIREMENTS

SECTION 6: VOTING

SECTION 7: WITHDRAWAL

SECTION 8: REMOVAL

SECTION 9: PROVISIONAL MEMBERSHIP

SECTION 10: SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

ARTICLE 7: GOVERNMENT

SECTION 1: OFFICERS

SECTION 2: APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS

ARTICLE 8: ORDINANCES

SECTION 1: BAPTISM

SECTION 2: THE LORD’S SUPPER

SECTION 3: REQUIREMENTS

ARTICLE 9: CHURCH DISCIPLINE

SECTION 1: THE AIM OF DISCIPLINE

SECTION 2: DISCIPLINE ACCORDING TO THE SCRIPTURES

SECTION 3: FORMATIVE CHURCH DISCIPLINE

SECTION 4: PUBLIC CENSURE

SECTION 5: EXCOMMUNICATION

ARTICLE 10: PROCESS OF APPEAL

ARTICLE 11: CONGREGATIONAL MEETINGS

SECTION 1: GENERAL STATEMENT

SECTION 2: NOTICE OF MEETINGS

SECTION 3: QUORUM

SECTION 4: CHAIRMANSHIP

ARTICLE 12: AMENDMENTS

ARTICLE 13: DISSOLUTION

PREAMBLE

We, the members of Grace Covenant Church of Gilbert, Arizona, do ordain and hereby establish the following articles unto which we voluntarily and solemnly submit ourselves.

ARTICLE 1: NAME 

The official name of this non-profit organization is Grace Covenant Church, and may be hereafter referred to as “GCC” or “this church.”

ARTICLE 2: PURPOSE

This church exists by the grace of God and for the glory of God, which shall be the ultimate purpose of all its activities. We seek to glorify the God of Scripture1 by promoting His worship,2 edifying and equipping the saints,3 evangelizing the nations,4 planting and strengthening churches, calling other assemblies to biblical faithfulness and purity,5 and ministering to the needy,6 thus proclaiming and defending God’s perfect law and glorious gospel of grace throughout the world.7 

1 Eph. 3:21  2 Ex. 20:3-11; John 4:23-24; 1 Cor. 3:16-17; 1 Pet. 2:5  3 1 Cor. 12:27-28; 14:12, 26  4 Acts 13:1-4; 1 Tim. 2:1-4; Matt. 28:16-20  5 Acts 11:29-30; 15:3-35, 41; 16:5  6 Acts 6:1-6; Rom. 15:26-27; Gal. 2:10; 6:10  7 Luke 24:47; Acts 20:20-21, 27; Rom. 1:15-8:39; Jude 3

ARTICLE 3: COVENANT

Section 1:  Our New Covenant Confidence

God has graciously and sovereignly entered into a New Covenant with His people.1 He has done this through the work of Jesus Christ.2 Christ’s obedience and blood infallibly secure all of the benefits of the New Covenant for His people.3 By making us members of the one body of Christ,4 the New Covenant lays upon us responsibilities, not only to God, but also to each other. In this covenant God writes His law upon our hearts and causes us to walk in His ways.5 Thus, both the direction of our obedience and our ability to obey spring from the work of Jesus Christ and are gracious gifts of God. Christ purchased for us the Holy Spirit,6 by whose gift of faith we obey, not to establish our own righteousness before God, but to express our gratitude for grace. We confess that we were guilty before God,7 that He has been gracious to us in Christ,8 and that we owe Him gratitude.9 We show Him gratitude through our obedience. GCC exists on the basis of this New Covenant and as a local expression of the power and grace of God in that covenant. In our church covenant we expressly renew the New Covenant, confessing both our joyful faith in the God of that covenant and our willing embrace of its obligations. These New Covenant obligations require that we love God supremely and our neighbor as ourselves. By the grace of that covenant and in accordance with God’s law written on our hearts, we dedicate ourselves to the following commitments as tokens of gratitude for grace lavished upon us in Christ.10 In light of these gracious realities, we the members of Grace Covenant Church do ordain and establish the following commitments, to which we voluntarily submit ourselves.

1 Jer. 31:31-34; 32:40; Heb. 8:7-13; 10:16-17; 13:20-21 2 Heb.  3 Rom. 3:20-26; Heb. 13:20-21  4 Rom. 12:4-5; 

1 Cor. 12:12-27  5 Jer. 31:33; Ezek. 36:25-27  6 LBC 7.2  7 Eph. 2:1-3  8 Eph. 2:4-10  9 Col. 1:12  10 Eph. 1:7-8  

Section 2:  Our New Covenant Commitments

1. We agree to worship the one true and living God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), who has revealed Himself to us in the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments.1 We will declare His glory to the nations and have no other Gods before Him.2

1 Gen. 4:26b; Ex. 20:1-3; 2LCF 22.1; Deut. 6:4  2 1 Chron. 16:23-27

2.  We agree to worship the Triune God in His appointed way,1 only through the mediation of His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ,2 by the enabling power of the Holy Spirit,3 excluding from our worship anything that He has not appointed,4 observing the New Covenant ordinances,5 not forsaking but carefully and conscientiously attending all the stated meetings of the church except where providentially hindered,6 regularly practicing private devotions as well as family worship,7 and uniting with another faithful church when we move from this place.

1 Gen 4:3-8; Lev. 10; 1 Sam. 15:20-23; John 4:23-24 2 Heb. 8:6; 10:19-22; 12:24; 1 Tim. 2:5-6; 2LCF 22.2 

 3 John 16:13; Rom. 8:26-27; 2LCF 22.3  4 Deut. 12:32; Ex. 20:4-6; 1 Kings 12:26-30; 2LCF 22.1  5 Acts 2:37-42; 1 Cor. 11:23-26; Rom. 6:3-11; Col. 3:16; 2LCF 22.5  6 Heb. 10:24-25; Matt. 18:20; 2LCF 22:8  7 Deut. 6:6-7; Josh. 24:15; Acts 10:2, 33; Eph. 6:4; 2LCF 22.6

3.  We agree to a holy and reverent use of God’s name,1 not to use it flippantly, carelessly taking it upon ourselves,2 nor to miscommunicate,3 defile, profane, or abuse4 God’s divine character, but rather to adorn5 the triune name of God that we have taken upon ourselves in baptism6 and to labor with zeal for the glory of His name and gospel.  

1 Ex.‬ 20:7; Mal. 2:2‬  ‬2 Lev.‬ 19:12‬  ‬‬3 2 Tim. 4:3-4; Ezek. 36:16-21  4 BC Q.59-60; Rom.‬ 2:24 ‬ 5 1 Tim.‬ 6:1‬  6 Col. 2:12; 2LCF 29.3

4.  We agree to cease from our own works, words, and thoughts1 on the Lord’s Day (the Christian Sabbath2 - the first day of the week3), unless they are works of necessity or mercy,4 and to sanctify the Day by consistently attending the stated meetings of the church,5 fellowshipping with one another, and engaging in personal devotion and family worship.6 

1 Ex.‬ 20:8-11; Isa.‬ 58:13-14 ‬ 2 Heb.‬ 4:9-10; Rev.‬ 1:10;‬ LBC 22.7 ‬ 3 Acts‬ 20:7; 4 Matt.‬ 12:1-14  5 Heb. 10:24-25 ‬ 6 2LCF 22.6

5.  We agree to honor and obey, within the bounds of Scripture, all our superiors, whether in family, church, state, or business;1 and, if we be superiors, to deal reasonably and lovingly with our subordinates and thus to teach them by word and example to follow the Lord Jesus Christ.2  We promise to resist the spirit of our age, especially with regard to the ordinance of marriage (marriage is biblically defined as between one man and one woman)3–as wives, respectfully submitting to our husbands as the church submits to Christ and, as husbands, tenderly loving our wives as Christ loved the church.4 We agree as parents bringing our children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.5

1 Ex. 20:12; Eph. 6:1-3; 1 Pet. 2:13-14; Titus 3:1; 1 Pet. 5:5; Rom. 13:1-10; Heb. 13:17-18; 2LCF 24.1-3; 26.12-13  2 1 Pet. 5:1-4; Titus 2:1-8  3 Matt. 19:5-6   4 Eph. 5:22-28; 2LCF 25.3  5 Eph. 6:4

6.  We agree to avoid whatever tends to destroy our testimony and to engage vigorously in all lawful endeavors to preserve our own lives and the lives of others,1 walking together in brotherly love,2 caring for one another,3 bearing one another’s burdens,4 watching over each other,5 faithfully admonishing one another,6 promptly repenting when we have sinned against one another,7 and not abusing our Christian liberties to our own harm or that of our brethren.8

1 Ex. 20:13  2  Ps. 133:1; Jn. 13:34-35; 15:17  3  Phil. 2:3; 1 Cor. 12:25  4 Gal. 6:2, 10  5 Phil. 2:4  6 Ps. 141:5; Luke 17:3; 1 Thess. 5:14  7  Luke 17:3-4; Matt. 5:23-24; 2 Cor. 7:10-11; LBC 15.4  8 Gal. 5:13; 1 Pet. 2:16; 2LCF 21.1-3 

7.  We agree to possess our bodies in holiness as vessels joined to Christ and indwelt by the Holy Spirit; to avoid all uncleanness of thought, speech, or action; and to bear witness against the uncleanness and sensuality of our age.1

1 Ex. 20:14; 1 Thess. 4:3-5; Rom. 13:13; 1 Cor. 6:9-10

8.  We agree to be diligent in our callings,1 in order that we may provide for our own households;2 avoid theft of time, money, or goods;3 give offerings to the church,4 provide for the needy;5 and support the advancement of the kingdom of God.6 

1 2 Thess. 3:11-12  2 1 Tim. 5:8  3 Ex. 20:15; Eph. 4:28  4 1 Cor. 16:1-2  5 Gal. 2:10  6 Phil. 4:15, 17; 2LCF 26.10

9.  We agree earnestly to promote truth among men,1 to avoid anything that would prejudice the truth or injure our neighbor's good name,2 to promote the unity of the Spirit by our words and prayers, and to avoid all gossip3 as undermining such unity.

1 Ex. 20:16; Eph. 4:25  2 Prov. 16:28; Eph. 4:3  3 Prov. 20:19; 1 Tim. 5:13; 2LCF 27.2

10. We agree to be fully content with our own condition in life,1 to delight in the advancement of our neighbor,2 to avoid envying him or coveting3 anything that is his, and to rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep.

1 Ex. 20:17; Phil. 4:11-12  2 3 John 1:2; Rom. 12:15  3 Jas. 4:1-3

ARTICLE 4: CONFESSION OF FAITH 

We confess that the Holy Scripture is the only sufficient, certain, and infallible rule of all saving knowledge, faith, and obedience,1 and is the only final authority for the church. Our understanding of the major doctrines of the Bible is summarized in The Second London Baptist Confession of Faith – 1677/89 (hereafter referred to as 2LCF). The 2LCF serves as our doctrinal statement, subordinate to the infallible authority of Scripture. This church maintains a position of full subscription to the Confession and requires the same of all its office-bearers (elders and deacons).

1 2LCF, 1:1; 2 Tim. 3:15-17

ARTICLE 5: ASSOCIATION

1. We acknowledge no ecclesiastical authority other than our Lord Jesus Christ, who is the head of the church and who directs the affairs of the church through elders chosen and ordained according to the precepts of the Holy Scripture. The elders themselves, at all times and in all their activities, stand under the authority of the Holy Scripture. 

2. Grace Covenant Church will be formally associated with other like-minded churches in matters of mutual interest, prayer, and concern, unless providentially hindered from formal association for a season of time.1  Our purpose for being in association with other churches includes: peace, increase of love, mutual edification,2 cooperative efforts in spreading the gospel, accountability, providing an avenue whereby grievances may be addressed, and reciprocal counsel.
1 Eph. 6:18; Ps. 122:6; 2LCF 26.14-15  2 Rom. 16:1-2; 3 John 8-10

3. While we may seek the assistance and counsel of these churches in matters of special concern to us, the decision of no other church or group of churches shall at any time be acknowledged as binding upon this church.1

1 2LCF 26.15

4. Delegates to such associations shall be chosen by the eldership of the church; the elders are responsible for the general oversight of all delegates and business matters.1
1 Acts 15:22-23, 25

5. The messengers from GCC shall communicate to the General Assembly of the Association any matters of business that GCC wishes to convey to the Association. The messengers are to report back to the church providing a general summary of the Assembly in a timely manner.

6. The elders and/or delegates shall communicate to the congregation before any associational General Assembly the agenda items, if there be any.

ARTICLE 6: MEMBERSHIP

Section 1:  Biblical Warrant 

The New Testament requires of all Christians formal, open, solemn, voluntary, and enduring commitment to Jesus Christ, His truth, and His people. Such a commitment to Christ, His truth, and His people ordinarily is inseparable to one’s commitment to membership in a local church. This is true for the following biblical reasons: 

1. Fulfillment of Christ's Great Commission requires church membership. According to the Great Commission of Christ,1 there is an inseparable connection between making disciples, baptizing them, and teaching them. The Apostles implemented this commission by gathering baptized disciples into local churches. It was therefore in local churches that baptized disciples were taught to observe all that Christ commanded.2 The New Testament teaches that membership in a local church is the norm for believing men and women when and where they find opportunity.3

1 Matt. 28:18-20  2 Acts 2:38-42; Titus 1:5  3 2LCF 26.12

2. Obedience to Christ's directive to observe the Lord's Table requires church membership. Since all believing men and women are required by Christ to observe the Lord's Table,1 and since the Lord's Table is clearly a local church ordinance,2 it follows that all Christians must belong to a local New Testament church in order to partake biblically.

1 Luke 22:19; 1 Cor. 11:23-25  21 Cor. 11:17-18, 33-34

3. The New Testament presents the local church as a distinct and defined group of individuals. This defined group may be counted1 and added to.2 It may also be called upon to select leaders and representatives from among itself,3 so that it becomes an organization with recognized officers;4 may be officially gathered together;5 may observe the Lord's Table as a formal, corporate assembly;6 and may carry out church discipline by vote7 with the result that some who were within the boundaries of the church are put out.8 

1 Acts 2:41-42; 4:4  2 Acts 2:47; 5:14  3 Acts 6:1-6; 15:22; 2 Cor. 8:19, 23  4 Phil. 1:1; Acts 14:23  5 Acts 14:27; 15:22  61 Cor. 11:17-20, 33-34  7 Matt. 18:17; 2 Cor. 2:6  8 Matt. 18:17; 1 Cor. 5:12-13

Section 2:  Prerequisites For Membership

1. Any person who professes repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ according to the gospel, who maintains a credible testimony in both faith and practice, who has been baptized upon profession of faith,1 and who has read and expresses general agreement 2 with the Confession of Faith, the Constitution, and the Covenant of this church shall be eligible for membership.1 (See Section 10 of this Article for Associate Member Requirements and Responsibilities.)

1 Matt. 28:19-20; Acts 2:41, 46-47; Rom. 1:6-7; 1 Cor. 1:2; Eph. 4:1-5; Phil. 1:1  2 Amos 3:3 

2.  Full subscription of the Second London Baptist Confession is not required of any new disciple before he or she is admitted to church membership. Such a requirement would violate the order of Matthew 28:19-20, which instructs us to make disciples, baptize them, and teach them to observe all things whatsoever Christ has commanded. It is necessary, however, that any disciple applying for membership manifest a willingness to be taught and be in agreement with what he or she knows concerning the church’s doctrine and government (see Article 7). 

3.  A general understanding of the Confession of Faith with unqualified allegiance to its formulations of the doctrines of Scripture,1 the Trinity,2 the Deity of Christ,3 justification by faith alone in Christ alone,4 the Last Day judgment, resurrection, and eternal state is required.5  

12LCF 1  22LCF2  3 2LCF 8.2-3  42LCF 11  5 2LCF 31 & 32

4.  Potential church members must be willing to submit to the eldership (see Article 7) of the church.1  One who cannot intelligently and freely submit to a church's government should not become a member of that church. 

1 Heb. 13:17

5.  To be eligible for church membership, a person must not be deservedly under the corrective discipline of another church.1 Approximately six months of consistent church attendance to allow the elders and congregation time to become familiar with potential candidates. Exceptions to this general rule can be made by the elders (e.g. transferring membership from a like minded church). 

1 Matt. 18:17-18; 1 Cor. 5:11-13; 2 Cor. 2:6-8; 2 Thess. 3:6, 14-15; 3 John 9-10

6.  Potential church members will attend the membership classes (or listen to the recordings) prior to applying for membership.

Section 3: Application

1. Application or request for membership is to be given to an elder.

2. Each applicant will be responsible to write out his or her testimony to be given to the elders. 

3. The applicant(s) shall meet with the elders in order to ascertain whether he, she, or they meet the prerequisites for membership.1

1 See Constitution article 6, section 2

4. The elders shall announce to the congregation the name of the applicant(s) and make their written testimony available to the congregation. This will help the church to get to know the applicant(s) and to rejoice with them in God’s salvation.

5. Current members are encouraged to get to know applicants and discuss those applicants with the elders, thereby assisting them in their task of ascertaining the spiritual state of the applicant.1  Current members will be given a minimum of 30 days to meet, interview, and pray about each applicant’s desire to join the church, before reception into membership can be voted upon.

1  Acts 9:26-27

6. Anyone aware of serious departure from biblical standards of holiness in the life of any applicant should address the applicant concerning the matter in private.1  If the applicant refuses to deal biblically with a known sin or sins, the elders should be notified at once.2 
1Matt. 18:15-20  2 Matt. 7:12

Section 4: Initiation

Upon a positive approval from the elders the name of the applicant(s) shall be brought before the congregation at a meeting of the church. A congregational vote (see Section 6) shall be conducted to receive the applicant(s) into the membership of the church.1

1 2LCF 26.6

Section 5: Requirements

1. Regular attendance at Lord’s Day meetings1 unless providentially hindered.

1 Ex. 20:8-11; Isa. 56:1-8; 58:1-14; Jer. 31:33; Matt. 28:20; Mark 2:27-28; Acts 20:7; 1 Cor. 16:1-2; Heb. 10:24-25; Rev. 1:10

2. Joyful service in the church as opportunities or needs arise.1 Members are expected to be involved with the life and ministries of the church.2 Though it is realized that not every member can be involved with everything nor are they expected to, members will respect the ministries of the church and do their part whenever possible.

1 Rom. 12:13; Gal. 6:10; Titus 3:14; 1 Pet. 4:7-11; 1 Tim. 2:1-8; 2LBC 27  2 2 Cor. 3:3; 2LCF 26.6

3. Cheerful and regular financial support of the church.1

1 Prov. 3:9-10; Mal. 3:8-10; 1 Cor. 9:1-14; 16:1-2; 2 Cor. 8:9; Gal. 6:6-8; 1 Tim. 5:3-18; 2LCF 26.10; Phil 4:14-17

4. Consistent private and family worship.2

1 Ps. 1; Prov. 8:34; Matt. 6:5-15  2 Deut. 6:6-9; Josh. 24:14-15; Jer. 10:25; John 17:17; Eph. 5:25-27; 6:4; 2LCF 22.6

5. Be available for pastoral visitation and spiritual oversight.1  

1 Acts 20:20, 28; 1 Pet. 5:2-3; 2LCF 26.10 

Section 6: Voting

The Holy Scriptures indicate that the New Testament church had a means whereby the whole congregation expressed its mind on a given issue.1 

1 Acts 6:1-3; Acts 9:26-28; Acts 15:22-23; 2 Cor. 2:6

1. We will vote on: 

  1. Officers (acceptance/separation; see Article 7.2.6);

  2. Issues of church discipline; 

  3. Church membership (acceptance/separation); 

  4. The sending out of laborers, missionaries, and church plants; 

  5. Joining/separating from an association, either local or national (2LCF 26.14); 

  6. Corporate, administrative issues such as constitutional amendments and yearly budget and financial expenditures outside the yearly budget; and

  7. Any issue determined by the elders which affects the whole body (2LCF 26.7, 9).  

2. Believing that congregational meetings ought to be conducted in order, we will use Robert’s Rules as a guide to assist with motions and voting procedures. An officer of the church will be assigned as a chairman to lead each meeting. Elders will decide whether a private or public ballot is appropriate for each vote, so as to not disturb the peace of the church. Absentee ballots need to be requested in advance.

3. All members in good standing are expected to vote. The New Testament indicates that the local church made corporate decisions by a simple majority.1  Therefore, all voting issues of this church will be considered passed by a simple majority approval unless otherwise stated in the constitution.

1 2 Cor. 2:6

4. Unanimity is desired in all church votes, though not mandatory and seldom attainable. When a majority vote is passed, Christian prudence and scripture show that the consent of the minority ought to be given to the majority.1 

1 Rom. 12:10, 16; 14:19; 2 Cor. 2:6; Eph. 5:21; 2LCF 26:13

5. In order for a vote to stand, 51% of the members in good standing must participate. All voting will take place at a properly called business meeting of the church as outlined in Article 11.      

6. If any voting member believes either the Bible, our Confession, or the Constitution has been violated in the process of a church vote, he, she, or they can begin the appeal process1 as outlined in Article 10. 

1 2LCF 26:13

Section 7: Withdrawal 

1. Any member wishing to withdraw his or her membership must provide a letter of withdrawal to the elders. Letters of withdrawal must be submitted immediately upon the desire to withdraw membership. Approval is pending the consent of the congregation.    

 2. No withdrawal shall be granted to any member while under discipline, facing discipline, or with unresolved issues with the church. 

3. Each member agrees that, upon finding that he or she is no longer in substantial agreement with the Confession or Constitution of this church, they must inform the elders, who will confer with the member and seek resolution.

Section 8: Removal

There are three ways a member may be removed from membership (death, discipline, and lack of commitment):

1. Death: When a member of the church is removed from our midst by physical death, the elders shall remove his name from the membership roll. Removal from membership due to death does not require a vote of the church.

2. Discipline: See Article 9. Removal from membership for disciplinary purposes requires a vote of the church. 

3. Non-Attendance with No Contact: The elders may suggest to the congregation the removal of any member of the church who has been absent from church meetings, without legitimate reason.1 Removal from membership for non-attendance with no contact requires a vote of the church (Article 6.5.1 & 6.6.1).1 Heb. 10:25

4. Receiving members back: When the elders have determined that genuine repentance has taken place, they may present the person to the congregation along with a report to inform and encourage the congregation to receive the individual back into fellowship. 

Section 9: Provisional Membership

A provisional membership status may be granted in certain cases. This may be necessary due to living under difficult providential circumstances and thus being unable to meet the requirements of regular membership. Some conditions which may necessitate a provisional membership include: moving to another geographic area and being unable to join a local church in good conscience; moving to another geographic area on a temporary but extended period (e.g., for work, missionary service, education, military service, incarceration, or health reasons). Those granted provisional membership are not allowed to vote. The elders will determine the specific requirements of membership for those granted this status on a case-by-case basis. Provisional membership, along with its requirements, requires a vote of the church. (See Article 6.6).

Section 10: Special Circumstances

The membership status of any whose relationship to the church involves abnormal circumstances preventing them from fulfilling membership requirements or responsibilities (invalids, students, members in transit, improper baptism, etc.) will be considered and determined by the elders as each case arises.  As members, they will have all the rights and responsibilities of membership but will not be able to hold the office of elder or deacon. Full voting privileges are granted, except where their non-2LCF doctrinal convictions would preclude them from voting. Such special circumstances for membership require a vote of the church. (See Article 6.6.)

ARTICLE 7: CHURCH OFFICERS 

Headship: Jesus Christ alone is head of His church.1

1 Col. 1:18; 2LCF 26.4

We believe a church consists of officers and members, and the officers appointed by Christ to be chosen and set apart by the church. GCC derives its authority to exist and function from its head, our Lord Jesus Christ.1 This authority is mediated through the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, ministered to the church by its elder(s). GCC elects its own officers and carries out its own discipline. 

1 2LCF 26.8

Officers: Jesus Christ has appointed, and in time will give the necessary gifts to, and call, certain men in order to lead and guide each local church.1 Christ has appointed offices to fulfill these tasks: that of elder, overseer, or pastor, and that of deacon.2 

1Acts 20:28; Eph. 4:11,12; 1 Tim. 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Pet. 5:1-5; 2LCF 26.5, 7  22LCF 26.8
Section 1: Officers 

1.  Elders/Overseers/Pastors

  1. Biblical Description: As set forth in Acts 11:30; 14:23; 15:2, 4, 6, 22-23; 20:17, 28; Eph. 4:11; Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:1-2; 4:14; 5:17, 19; Titus 1:5, 7; James 5:14; and 1 Pet. 5:1-5.

  1. Qualifications: Outlined in 1 Tim. 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9; and 1 Pet. 5:1-5; and full agreement with this constitution; and full subscription to the 2LCF.

  1. Number: The Scriptures indicate that local churches ought to have a plurality of elders. Though a church may exist and function with one elder (or with no elders), because of the precedent in the New Testament, prayer to Christ for a plurality of elders ought to be offered by the church until such is attained. After a plurality is obtained, we will add elders when provided by Christ.2  

1 Acts 20:28; Phil. 1:1; 1 Pet. 5:1-5  2Acts 6:1-4; Eph. 4:11

  1. Responsibilities:  

  1. Preaching and Teaching: All elders must be able and willing to teach.1 However, some elders are more equipped for preaching and public ministry than others.

1 1 Tim. 3:2; 5:17

  1. Ruling: Preservation of sound doctrine, administration of the ordinances, and the execution of church discipline as decided by the church.1 As stewards2 of the church, the elders are entrusted with oversight over all members and ministries.3

1 1 Tim. 5:17; Heb. 13:17 2 1 Cor. 4:1-2  3 Lk. 12:42; Acts 11:30.

  1. Shepherding/Oversight: All elders are responsible to give biblical guidance and counsel to church members when needed or requested. Also, all elders will be responsible to faithfully contact members of the church annually for accountability, counseling, and prayer.1     1 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 1 Pet. 5:2-3

2.  Deacons

  1. Biblical Description: As set forth in Acts 6:3-4; Phil. 1:1; and 1 Tim. 3:8-13.

  2. Qualifications: Outlined in 1 Tim. 3:8-13 and full agreement with this constitution and full subscription to the 2LCF.

  3. Number: The Scriptures indicate that the local church ought to have a plurality of deacons.1  Though a church may exist and function with one deacon (or with no deacons), because of the normative precedent in the New Testament, prayer to Christ for a plurality of deacons ought to be offered by the church until such is attained.2 After a plurality is obtained, we will add deacons as needed and provided by Christ.                          
    1 Acts 6:3-4; Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:8-13  2 Acts 6:1-4

  4. Responsibilities: As servants, deacons are responsible to administer the ordinary business and benevolent concerns of the church (Acts 6:1-7) so that the elders may devote themselves without distraction to their duties. They must fulfill the duties of their office in cooperation with and in subjection to the elders.

  1. General administration of funds: This includes keeping books on total offerings and individual offerings, as well as monthly and annual accounting, and assisting the elder(s) with the annual church budget.

  2. Oversee and coordinate the general upkeep of the church facility.

  3. Miscellaneous: Anything that would help the elders to concentrate upon more pastoral matters, to be directed under the guidance of the elders.1
      1 Acts 6:4

Section 2: Appointment of Officers

1.  Nomination

Church officers are appointed by Christ and to be chosen and set apart by the church (so called and gathered).1 A man or men may be suggested by a church member (including officers). The man or men suggested will be considered by an elder regarding basic qualifications. If the candidate is qualified and willing to serve, the elders will put the candidate(s) before the congregation for examination and vote. If a candidate is not qualified or willing to serve, the elders will discreetly inform those parties concerned. A candidate must be a member for at least twelve months (unless special circumstances dictate otherwise) before being considered for either office. 

1 2LCF 26.8; Acts 6:3 

 2.  Examination

Once nominated for office, the candidate will undergo a period of personal, domestic, and ministerial testing in accordance with 1 Timothy 3:10.

3.  Confirmation

At the end of the examination period, the church shall vote on the candidate(s). Once the candidate has been voted into office, an ordination to the office will be conducted. (See Article 6.6.)

4.  Ordination

The elders ordain the man to the office(s).1  This will be conducted before the congregation with fasting, prayer, and laying on of hands. The church reserves the right to call in pastors from other churches to assist in the ordination of any of its officers.  The elder(s) or deacon(s) may propose to the congregation, or the candidate may request, an ordination council if and when the need arises.  All ordination councils composed of members outside of this church must be approved by a vote of the church. (See Article 6.6.)

1 Acts 6:1-5; 1 Tim. 4:14

5.  Duration

All appointments are indefinite. The elder(s) and deacon(s) will examine proposed resignations individually. 

6.  Disqualification

This occurs when the standards of 1 Tim. 3:1-7, Titus 1:6-9, or 1 Tim. 3:8-13 are not upheld (see Article 9.2.) or when full agreement with this constitution and full subscription to the 2LCF can no longer be affirmed (see 7.1.B and 7.2.B). 

7.  Transition

If any elder desires to serve elsewhere in a ministerial capacity, the church shall be informed at a congregational meeting. Permission to be released must be secured by a vote of the church.

8.  Voluntary Resignation

If any officer desires to voluntarily leave his office, it will first be discussed among the board of elders and the resigning officer. If the reason for the voluntary resignation involves sin, the principles of Matthew 18 and Article 9 of this document should be followed, as it would be for any member, for the purpose of repentance and reconciliation. However, if the reason for the resignation does not clearly involve sin, then the church shall accept the resignation1 while the elders seek to shepherd the resigned officer and his family as they would any other member. 

1 1 Peter 5:2

9.  Compensation 

The elder(s), with the assistance of the deacon(s) and/or steering committee, shall discuss among themselves who ought to be remunerated and the amount of that remuneration;1 see Addendum “Guidelines for Ministerial Compensation.” They shall then present a proposal to the congregation at a properly called business meeting of the church to be voted upon by the church. Any changes in remuneration will be presented to the church for discussion and vote. This will normally be done at the annual business meeting. 

1 1 Cor. 9:9-11; Gal. 6:6; 1 Tim. 5:17-18

10.  Special Situations

A.    If GCC is ever in the position of having just one pastor and no deacons, a temporary steering committee will be formed of three male members of the church. The purpose of the steering committee is for accountability for the pastor and assistance in the administration of church affairs that would normally be handled by pastors and/or deacons. The pastor will propose the committee members to the congregation at a meeting of the church. Approval of the proposed steering committee requires a vote of the church. Once the church acquires a plurality of elders or a deacon or deacons, the steering committee will be dissolved immediately.

 B.    If GCC is ever in the position of having no pastor and no deacons or no pastor and only one deacon, a temporary steering committee will be formed of three male members of the church. The purpose of the steering committee is for the administration of church affairs that would normally be handled by pastors and deacons. The steering committee will contact their regional or national association, or both, for counsel and assistance.1 The church will meet to discuss prospective committee members. Approval of the steering committee requires a vote of the church. Once the church acquires a plurality of elders or deacons, or one elder and one deacon, the steering committee will be dissolved immediately.

1 2LCF 26.15

ARTICLE 8: ORDINANCES

 

There are two Ordinances of special significance which our Lord has commanded us to observe, namely Baptism and the Lord’s Supper.1 Whereas Baptism is the initiatory ordinance by which one enters the visible church and should be observed only once by each believer, the Lord’s Supper should be celebrated frequently by the assembled church. These are the most holy ordinances and should be observed with solemnity and dignity.

1 1 Cor. 11:23-26; Matt. 28:18–20; 2 1 Cor. 11:26

Section 1: Baptism

Baptism is an ordinance of Jesus Christ instituted for His churches to be observed by them until the end of the age.1 It is an outward testimony of the inward work of grace in the heart of believers and is a sign of the believers' partaking in Christ's death, burial, and resurrection, and of being in union with Him.2 Only those who profess repentance towards God and faith in and obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ are to be baptized.3  True Christian baptism is to be performed in water and in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. The elders only, or those appointed by them, as those commissioned by Christ, are to administer baptism. Immersion, or dipping in water, is the proper mode of administering this ordinance.4 

1 Matt. 28:18-20  2 Rom. 6:3-5  3 Mark 16:16  4 Matt. 3:16; John 3:23

Section 2:  The Lord’s Supper

The Lord's Supper is also an ordinance of Jesus Christ, instituted by Him for His churches, so that all His true and loving disciples may keep a remembrance of His sufferings and death until He shall come again (1 Cor. 11:17-34). It is a means of grace to strengthen the believer and to show communion between the church and the triune God and the members with one another.  The Lord's Supper will be observed each Lord’s Day, or as the elders deem beneficial.

Section 3: Requirements 

According to the Scriptures, there are four biblical qualifications or requirements prescribed by God in order for an individual to partake of the Lord's Supper (see Matt. 26:17-30; Mark 14:16-26; Luke 22:13-23; John 13:21-31; Acts 2:41,42,47, 20:7; 1 Cor. 10:14-22; 11:17-34; also bearing on this subject is 1 Cor. 5:9-13).

The four requirements are: 

1.      A credible profession of faith in Christ as Lord and Savior. 

2.      Baptism as a believer in obedience to Christ's command.   

3.      An upright life that adorns the gospel of God. 

4.      Identification (membership) with a visible body of Christ (a local church). 

Certain exceptions may be made for numbers 2 and 4. These exceptions are typically made on a short-term basis, only as deemed reasonable by the elders.

ARTICLE 9: CHURCH DISCIPLINE 

Section 1: The Aim of Discipline

Following the biblical injunctions, this church will seek to faithfully practice church discipline. Church discipline aims for the glory of God, the welfare and purity of the church, and the restoration and spiritual growth of the offender. 

Section 2: Discipline According to The Scriptures

In cases of actual or presumed private offense between members, including church officers, it is required that the rule prescribed by Christ in Matthew 18:15-17 be faithfully observed. In cases of persons holding false doctrine, or who openly persist in ungodliness,1 or who live in violation of the law or public morals, or who walk disorderly, or who persist in disturbing the unity and peace of this church, it is the duty of the church to exercise discipline according to the scriptures.2

1 1 John 2:15-17; Rom. 12:1,2; 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1  2 2 Thess. 3:6, 11, 14-15; Titus 3:10-11; 1 Cor. 5:1; Rom. 16:17-18

Section 3: Formative Church Discipline 

Formative church discipline is the church engaged in edifying and disciplining itself in love. It is the responsibility of each member to endeavor to maintain this Christian duty of mutual edification for one another.  This is done by the use of and submission to the godly counsel of those both old and young, office bearer and member, which Christ graciously gives to his church.1 

1 Rom. 12:3-8; 1 Cor. 12:12-27; Eph. 4:7-16; 1 Thess. 5:11-14; Titus 2:2-10; 1 Pet. 4:10-11

Section 4: Public Censure

Public censure, which is a public admonition, reproof or rebuke of a sinning member, is to inform the congregation that the erring member is living contrary to the scriptures in word and/or deed. Censure is determined by the severity and openness of the sin and shall be administered by the elders.1 This may result in the loss of the privilege of the Lord's Supper, involvement in church business meetings, and other sanctions as judged appropriate by the elders with the assent of the congregation. Upon evidence of genuine repentance, the member shall be publicly restored to full privileges of membership upon a properly conducted vote of the church.2  

1 Matt. 18:15-17; Gal. 2:14; Eph. 5:11; 2 Thess. 3:6-15; 1 Tim. 5:20; 2 Tim. 4:2; Titus 1:9, 13; 2:15  2Eph. 4:28; 2 Cor. 2:5-9; See Article 6. 
Section 5: Excommunication

If public censure and the above-mentioned aspects of corrective discipline fail, the congregation shall have a right to excommunicate from membership such persons by an affirmative vote of the majority of the members present and voting by a show of hands (Matt. 18:17; 1 Cor. 5:1-13). 

ARTICLE 10: APPEALS

In the case that members believe they have been treated unjustly by the church or her elder(s), either in points of doctrine or administration, or perceived deviations in doctrine or practice, appeal(s) can be made to the board of elders, the congregation, and the association according to our constitution. 

ARTICLE 11: CONGREGATIONAL MEETINGS

Section 1: General Statement

There shall be an annual business meeting of the church for the hearing of reports, voting on the budget, the election and confirmation of officers, and the transaction of other business. Special business meetings may be called at other times at the discretion of the elders. 

Section 2: Notice of Meetings

Notice of all congregational meetings shall be given at regular worship services. A minimum of seven days’ notice shall be given for any meeting at which official church business is to be conducted. However, in the case of an emergency, a meeting may be called on shorter notice by notifying each regular member of the time, place, and purpose of the meeting.

Section 3: Quorum

The regular members present at any properly convened congregational meeting shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business (see Article 6.6.5).
Section 4: Chairmanship

The elders will call the congregational meetings and an elder will preside over all business-related meetings. 

ARTICLE 12: AMENDMENTS

This constitution may be amended or repealed by a congregational vote of at least a three-fourths majority. Members are to be notified with the proposed amendment(s) or repeal no less than two weeks prior to the congregational meeting at which the vote is to take place.

ARTICLE 13: DISSOLUTION

  1. Dissolution shall be by super majority (two-thirds) vote of the members.

  2. No donor, member, officer of the church, or private individual shall be entitled to share in the distribution of any assets (including cash and the cash-value of remaining property) of the church upon dissolution. Any assets shall be given to another church(es) of like-faith and practice at the discretion of the remaining officers with the assent of the members of GCC at the time of dissolution.

  3. In the event that the remaining officers cannot reach a consensus about what to do with the assets, outside help shall be called upon according to Chapter 26 and Paragraph 15 of the 2nd London Baptist Confession.

AMENDMENT HISTORY

July 2023:

  • Article 7, Section 2, Paragraph 2

  • Article 7, Section 2, Paragraph 3

  • Article 12