Friendship Baptist Church: A Vision for the Future

It is important for every church to have a clear vision of where the Lord wants to take them. Otherwise, they will flounder about and accomplish little for God. Our vision is clear:

1. Friendship Baptist Church has a vision for purchasing property and building a suitable church building of her own. We believe that the Lord would be honored if we were to proceed as He provides the funds; in his time, debt free.
2. Friendship Baptist Church has a vision for becoming a self supporting Baptist Church that is able to support its own Pastor without any outside help.
3. Friendship Baptist Church has a vision for becoming a generous missionary sending church both in supporting more and more missionaries and in sending missionaries out from our own church family.
4. Friendship Baptist Church has a vision for founding a Christian Academy to train elementary and secondary students for Christian service.
5. Friendship Baptist Church has a vision for becoming a church planting hub, using the men and women of Friendship to plant new Baptist churches in needy communities; following the example of Paul in the book of Acts.

Contact Pastor Sprecher

When Pastor Sprecher first met with an interested group of people about his desire to plant a new Baptist Church in Star Valley, he presented a fourteen point series of Founding Goals and Purposes. They may help to understand Friendship Baptist Church.

Goals & Purposes

1. An evangelistic/soul-winning church, balanced with an emphasis on Bible teaching and edification.
2. A church whose purpose is to equip the saints to do the work of the ministry—maximum membership involvement.
3. A church with pastoral leadership based on love, respect, and God’s calling—“shepherd”ship
   not dictatorship.
4. A church that positively stands for truth and righteousness and that is separate from false doctrine and worldliness.
5. A church where fellowship is warm and sincere.
   • Fellowship among believers
   • Fellowship with churches of like faith
6. A compassionate church.
   • Having compassion for the unsaved.
   • Having compassion for faltering saints.
   • Having a willingness to accept people where they are and to help them become what they should be.
7. A church with standards of Godliness expected of those in positions of leadership.
8. A church that has traditional/conservative Christ-honoring music in the music program.
9. A church that exhibits Christian liberty in non-essentials.
10. A church that is built on the preaching/teaching of God’s Word, not a following of the current fads that please the multitude.
11. A church that has a willingness to think “outside of the box” for unique and effective ways and places to share the Gospel and minister to people.
12. A church that depends on the power of the Holy Spirit called down by prayer rather than on human strength.
13. A church that , in God’s time, will have:
    • Youth and children’s ministries
    • A Christian school
    • A strong emphasis on missions
14. A church that will work under the auspices of Northwest Baptist Missions as a mission church until church maturity is gained.

Contact Pastor Sprecher

I. CHURCH ORDER

A.  RECEPTION OF MEMBERS

1.  Any person professing faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, giving evidence of a change of heart, and adopting the views of faith and practice held by this church as set forth in this document, may upon baptism by immersion be received into its membership.

2.  Members from other churches holding the same faith may be received by letter of recommendation and dismissal from their respective churches. If the person for various reasons is unable to secure a letter, he may be received by a statement of faith.

3.  Any member, who has been excluded from church membership, may upon making satisfactory explanation to the church be restored to full membership.

4.  All candidates for membership shall be examined by the Pastor and then be presented before the members of this church for reception during the invitation of any service of the church.  This will be by a voice confirmation. Three-fourths must vote in favor of reception.

B.  REMOVAL OF MEMBERS

Members may be removed upon three-fourths vote of the members of this church in one of the following ways:

a. By death of the member.  This shall be so recognized.
b. By request of the member
c. By transfer to another church
d. By church discipline

1. Definition:  Discipline is that procedure including Christian teaching, training,
   admonition and rebuke both private and public, with the view to helping the individual grow in grace, mature in the individual faith, break off from worldliness and live wholly for the Lord.  At such time that a member shall refuse to receive such help, it will be necessary for the church to exclude him from the membership.
2. Church action:
   • Unscriptural conduct or radical departure from the Articles of Faith held by the Church shall be considered sufficient grounds upon which such member may be removed from the church roll (Romans 16:17,18; I Corinthians 5:1-13; Galatians 1:8,9)  The action to remove a member from the church roll shall at all times be first recommended by the Pastor and deacons and be voted upon by a ¾ majority of those active members voting at any business meeting of the church.
   • When a member is out of fellowship as provided in subparagraph (a) above, such person  shall be dealt with in accordance with Matthew 18:15-18; he shall thereafter be notified by letter of the action of the church.
   • A member formally accused is automatically released from any office or position, and cannot speak at business meetings except at the hearing, and is deprived of his right of vote.
   • At the close of the hearing, the congregation shall vote, by ballot, to determine if the accused is found guilty. If the accused is found guilty, he must be excluded even if he repents. Statement of exclusion, including reasons and admonitions to be presented to the excluded in person or by mail.  After time has elapsed and his repentance is proven to be genuine, he may again apply for membership.
   • An excluded member can be received back into membership only after repentance and public confession of the sin(s) and following the constitutional procedure for being admitted.

C. INACTIVE MEMBERS

A member shall be considered inactive if such person has not attended any service for more than three (3) months in succession without just cause. An inactive member cannot hold office nor vote in a business meeting of the church. All questions herein will be decided by the Pastor and Deacons.

D. OUR GOAL IN MEMBERSHIP

1. That we strive to have a Regenerated church membership (John 3:16)
2. That we strive to have a Spiritual church membership (Matthew 5:48; Romans 8:1-9)
3. That we strive to have a Separated church membership (John 17:14,15; I John 2:15)
4. That we strive to have a Compassionate church membership (John 20:21)

E. DUTIES OF MEMBERS

1. The government of this church is by its members
2. To work towards the acquisition of Scriptural knowledge, constant progress in grace and spirituality, consistency in conduct, and the control of unholy temper.
3. To pray for their Pastor, to manifest a tender regard for his reputation, and also to pray for the work of the church, that many souls will be saved, and that those who are saved might be rooted and grounded and built up in the faith.
4. All members should bring themselves to the realization that we are a part of the body of our Lord Jesus, that we are of the household of faith, and that in God’s sight we are brothers and sisters. It is therefore our duty to love each other as such, to love and pray for our church as our earthly home, and to strive to honor our Lord in all we do, say, or act, bearing in mind that we are epistles of Christ, known and read by men.
5. To contribute according as God has prospered toward the maintenance of the church and its missionary program; and in general, assist in bearing expenses and sharing the duties and services of this congregation.

F. MEETINGS OF THIS CHURCH

1. The congregation shall meet regularly every Lord’s Day for public worship.
2. The congregation shall meet at least once in each week for prayer service.
3. The ordinance of the Lord’s Supper shall be observed at least once each quarter.
4. Regarding business meetings:
   1. Regular business meetings are to be held quarterly (April, July, October, and January)
   2. Special meetings may be called, when necessary, providing two weeks notice has been given.
   3. An emergency business meeting may be called at any regular service by the Pastor or acting moderator, with the consent of three-fourths of the voting members present. This business meeting must have a specific agenda set and no new items of business may be brought up at this meeting.
   4. These meetings shall be conducted in a decent and orderly way
      • Every business meeting shall be opened and closed by prayer
      • No second motion shall be entertained until the one under consideration has been disposed of, except a motion of amendment, adjournment, or “puts the question.”
      • Any speaker who introduces any matter foreign to the subject under discussion shall be ruled out of order.
      • Discourteous language or remarks meant to injure the reputation or feelings of any member shall be ruled out of order and shall forfeit the speaker’s right to the floor.
      • The moderator may speak upon any subject under discussion.
      • Every active member wishing to speak shall rise and respectfully address the moderator.
      • Every proposition presented for action of the church must be introduced by motion of one member and seconded by another.
      • No member shall speak more than twice upon the same subject.
      • All questions shall be decided by a majority vote of the active members present unless otherwise specified in the constitution.
      • All active church members 18 years of age and over are eligible to vote.

II. OFFICERS OF THE CHURCH

We believe the scriptures require only two (2) offices in the church: The Pastor and Deacons, and we accept them as God-given.

A. THE PASTOR

1. Calling of a Pastor
   • The Pastor is to be chosen and called by the church whenever a vacancy occurs. His election shall take place at a regular meeting called for that purpose, of which at least one week’s public notice shall be given. The Deacons of the church shall be the pulpit committee to seek out a suitable pastor, and their recommendation will constitute a nomination. The committee shall bring to the consideration of the church only one man at a time.
   • Election shall be by ballot, an affirmative vote of three-fourths of those present and voting being necessary to a choice. A quorum of 30% of the voting membership must be present at this meeting. The Pastor thus elected shall serve until the relationship is terminated for some reason. The Pastor’s term of office shall be indefinite.
2. Termination of Pastoral Relationship
   • The pastoral relationship may be terminated by the Pastor, after having given the church 30 days written notice of his desire to close his pastorate.
   • The pastoral relationship may be terminated by the church, after it has given the pastor 30 days notice of its desire to close his pastorate. The church may give notice if the majority of members at a regular or called business meeting vote to terminate the ministry.
3. Duties of the Pastor
   • It shall be the duty of the Pastor to preach at the meetings of the church; to administer the ordinances of the gospel; to act as moderator at business meetings; to have in charge the welfare and oversight of the church. The Pastor will be responsible for any speakers in the church for any regular meeting of the church, or for any protracted meeting, or a missionary conference, or an evangelistic campaign. The Pastor shall be responsible for the selection of the pianist and musical program. The Pastor shall be an “ex-officio” member of any board. He shall be the Sunday School Superintendent and may appoint an Assistant Sunday School Superintendent. The Sunday School Superintendent will appoint Sunday School
     teachers, department heads, and has authority to dismiss them if necessary.
   • The Pastor shall be the President of the Corporation. The Pastor shall be the moderator of the church; he may call the Deacons or the church together for special meetings to transact the business of the church; He shall devote his time and energies to the welfare of the church; he shall receive such compensation as the church may decide.

B. THE DEACONS

1. There shall be two or more deacons (the maximum number determined by Pastor and Deacons) whose term of office shall be one (1) year. These men shall be recommended by the Pastor and incumbent Deacons, and voted on by the church at each annual meeting.
2. It shall be a duty of the Deacons to meet with the Pastor at least once each quarter. They may select a chairman and a secretary from among their own number. The secretary shall keep a record of the minutes and proceedings of all meetings. The chairman shall act as Moderator of the church in the absence or removal of the Pastor. The Pastor and Deacons shall constitute a standing committee for the purpose of examining questionable applications for membership and to which all matters of discipline shall be referred. The Pastor and Deacons shall act as a nominating committee for Church Clerk and Treasurer. It shall be a duty of the Deacons to seek out such members of the church who need pecuniary assistance and to use the alms of the
   church for their relief, to visit the sick, to prepare and distribute the elements of the Lord’s Supper and to assist the Pastor in the performance of his duties. Pastor and the Deacons shall recommend the Pastor’s remuneration and all items of missionary payments to the church. The Deacons shall act in an advisory capacity concerning all matters of church business, and in the employing and dismissing of staff members.
3. When the church is a self-supporting church, the Trustees shall be composed of two Deacons (or more) selected annually by the Pastor and Deacons and approved by the church. The Trustees shall act in an advisory capacity in all matters concerning legal transactions and church properties. The chairman of the Deacons will act as chairman of the Trustees. (This item was eliminated by amendment 9/26/07).

C. DUTIES OF OFFICERS

1. The clerk shall keep a complete record of all the official acts of the church. He shall affix the church seal to, and certify all documents upon order of the church. He shall keep a complete and accurate registry of the active, inactive, and erased membership.
2. It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to receive all monies from the Deacons. He shall keep an accurate account of all such monies received and disburse them only by the approval of the church. He shall give a report of the treasury at the regular business meetings of the church, all of which shall be kept on file. No designated funds shall be diverted from their purpose, except by vote of the church.
3. It shall be the duty of the Assistant Treasurer to serve under the direction of Treasurer in any or all matters pertaining to the office of Treasurer.
4. It shall be the duty of the Deacons and Assistant Treasurer to receive all offerings, to count the money together, to keep a record of the same, and to deposit the same to the account of the church.
5. The record of all the officers, boards, and committees shall be delivered to the properly elected successor.
6. The officers enumerated in paragraph C shall serve for one year, and shall be voted upon at the annual business meeting, unless there is a vacancy that needs to be filled.
7. Three men shall be elected to serve as trustees of the church. They shall be godly men of character. These men shall serve a one-year term and shall be recommended to the congregation by the Pastor and incumbent deacons, and shall be voted on by the church at each annual business meeting. The trustees will hold in trust the church property. They have no power to buy, sell, mortgage, lease, or transfer any property without the specific vote of the church authorizing such action. They will sign all legal papers as needed for the church under direction of the congregation. They will act in an advisory capacity in all matters concerning legal transactions and church properties. The trustees may be called upon to meet with the Pastor and deacons for advice and council on church business at the quarterly meetings. (Added by amendment on 9/26/07).

III. ORGANIZATIONS

A. The church regards as integral parts of itself all organizations formed to carry out its activities and which use the facilities of the church. The Pastor and Board of Deacons will have general oversight over such organizations, and may ask for written reports whenever desired.

B. Organizations may be formed upon the approval of the Pastor and Deacons and must conform to the spirit, policy, and teachings of the church.

C. Officers of all organizations of the church, including sponsors of children, youth, and adult activities, shall be members in good standing and be approved by the Pastor and Deacons.

IV. AMENDMENTS

This Constitution and By-Laws may be amended at any regular or special meeting of the church by a two-thirds vote of the members present and voting, provided that the amendments do not conflict with the Articles of Incorporation. Notice of intention to amend with proposed amendment or amendments shall be made in writing and announced from the pulpit at all church worship services on the two Sundays immediately preceding the meeting. The Articles of Faith are irrevocable.

V. INDEPENDENT, FUNDAMENTAL BAPTIST CHURCH

This church, now, or in the future, shall never in any manner be officially connected with any convention or association, but shall remain as an Independent, Fundamental Baptist Church.

VI. AUTHORIZED VERSION

The Authorized Version (KJV) shall be the official text of this church, and shall be used in the Sunday School classes and church services.

VII. STATEMENT ON MORALITY

Be it resolved that the policy of this church is to be opposed to all forms of sexual immorality and abuse, including, but not exclusive to homosexuality, fornication, adultery, incest, pornography, or bestiality. Additionally, we believe that God disapproves and forbids any attempt to alter one’s gender by surgery or appearance. (Gen. 3:12; Gen 19: 5, 13; Gen 26l.8-9; Lv. 18: 1-30; Rom. l:26-29; I Cor. 5:1,6-9; I Thess. 4:1-8; Heb. 13:4) (The last sentence and verses added by unanimous vote of the congregation April 22, 201 5).

Further be resolved that we believe in the literal interpretation of Scriptures within the Bible which condemn these acts, materials, or relationships. To be consistent with this position, we could not, therefore, knowingly place into leadership positions, or receive into church membership any person actively practicing (or condoning) these sexual perversions. Any person found to be violating Scripture in this area would be subject to dismissal from any leadership position and possible removal from church membership if there is not proper repentance and restoration.

Further be resolved that the moral corruption of sexual sin can be fully forgiven through repentance and faith in Christ’s atoning work (I Corinthians 6:9-1 1; I John 1:9), but physical and psychological scars caused by sexual sin cannot always be erased in this life. Thus we affirm that God fully forgives all who repent of sexual sin. We believe that relationships broken by sexual sin can be restored through genuine repentance and faith. We deny that there is any sort of sexual sin God cannot forgive. We oppose the idea that victims of sexual infidelity or abuse should never forgive those who have sinned against them.

Further be it resolved that we believe the Bible defines marriage as a God-ordained union between one man and one woman. Therefore we recognize that same-sex marriage and polygamy are in violation of Scripture. (Gen. 2:24; Rom.7:2; l Cor. 7:10; Eph.5:22-23) (Verses added by unanimous vote 04/2212015).

VIII. CHURCH AGREEMENT

By this article the Church Agreement is incorporated into this document and supersedes the articles that address the selection of a Pastor, Deacon, Trustees, and certain financial transactions. This article is voided upon termination of the New Church Agreement.

NORTHWEST BAPTIST MISSIONS
CHURCH AGREEMENT
AND ARTICLE VIII OF THE CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS

BETWEEN

FRIENDSHIP BAPTIST CHURCH
AND
NORTHWEST BAPTIST MISSION’S
EXECUTIVE BOARD

The purpose of this agreement is to ensure credibility and consistency in the establishment of this mission church, to provide general watch care and guidance for this church and to establish a level of accountability and responsibility with this mission church and Missionary-Pastor. Furthermore, the intent is to protect the Christian witness in the eyes of the local community and to provide a medium of fellowship.

The Friendship Baptist Church of Star Valley, Wyoming will be a mission church under the watch care of the Berean Baptist Church of Idaho Falls, Idaho. (herein referred to as the mother church) and the Executive Board of Northwest Baptist Missions.

Jay Sprecher, the pastor of this mission church is an approved Missionary-Pastor with Northwest Baptist Missions. Both he and this church have voted to accept and uphold this new church agreement as stated herein, and the constitution and by-laws as presented to him as a Missionary-Pastor with the Mission and as accepted by the people desiring to start this new church.

If possible, the mission church is to elect one to three trustees whose responsibility is to work with the pastor of this church and to work to maintain a harmonious relationship with the mother church and the Executive Board of Northwest Baptist Missions. The pastor of the mother church and the Executive Board of the Mission will serve to advise this new church and its pastor, as required.

The watch care of the mother church and of the Mission involves at least the following:

1. These trustees and Missionary-Pastor need to consult with the Executive Board of the Mission regarding an indebtedness or the acquisition of property or the construction of a new building.
2. Should there be a pastoral change while this church is still in mission status, any candidate for the pastorate of this church must first be approved by the Executive Board of the Mission and the trustees of this local church before candidating. The pastor is to be called by a 75% vote of the qualified voting members of the church.
3. While this church is a mission church, it will submit an annual financial statement to the Mission office.

The above arrangement will provide direction and stability for this new church for at least two years, or until the following is in place:

1. When the church is a self-supporting church, and is able to pay a pastor a livable salary and to pay all its own expenses, apart from outside support and when the church has two men who are scripturally qualified and elected by the church to be deacons.
2. When the above conditions are manifested in this new church, as recognized by the Executive Board of the Mission, the pastor of the mother church and the local trustees, this church shall be an indigenous church and this church agreement at that time will be made void, unless for some reason, the local church requests a continuing arrangement with Northwest Baptist Missions.

This church agreement is Article VIII of the constitution and by-laws and therefore some parts of the constitution of this church are temporarily superseded by this church agreement.

It is the Mission’s desire to maintain a harmonious relationship with the mission church and Missionary-Pastor. This document shall be in effect until this church is a particular (autonomous, self-governing and self-supporting) church; unless the respective parties of this agreement do not comply with agreement, then the official relationship between the parties would be severed.

When this church becomes a self-supporting church, the Mission is always available for advice or help at any time (as requested).

Copies of this document shall be filed with the secretary of this mission church and shall be in the business meeting minutes of the mission church. Copies shall also be on file with the mother church and with the Mission.

Contact Pastor Sprecher

I. THE SCRIPTURES

A. STATEMENT

We believe that the Holy Bible was written by men supernaturally inspired; that it has truth without any admixture of error for its matter; and therefore is, and shall remain to the end of the age, the only complete and final revelation of the will of God to man; the true center of Christian union and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions should be tried.

B. DEFINITION

1. By “The Holy Bible,” we mean that collection of sixty-six books, from Genesis to Revelation, which as originally written, does not only contain and convey the Word of God, but IS the very Word of God.
2. By “inspiration,” we mean that the books of the Bible were written by holy men of old, as they were moved by the Holy Spirit, in such a definite way that their writings were supernaturally and verbally inspired and are free from error, as no other writings have ever been or ever will be inspired (Psalm 19:7-11; Psalm 119:89, 105, 130, 160; Proverbs 30:5,6; Isaiah 8:20; Luke 16:31; Luke 24:25-27, 44, 45; John 5:39, 45-47; John 12:48; John 17:17; Acts 1:16; Acts 28:25; Romans 3:4; Romans 15:4; Ephesians 6:17; II Timothy 3:16, 17; I Peter 1:23; II Peter 1:19-21; Revelation 22:19).

II. THE TRUE GOD

We believe there is one, and only one, living and true God; an infinite, intelligent Spirit, the Maker and Supreme Ruler of heaven and earth; inexpressibly glorious in holiness and worthy of all possible honor, confidence and love; that in the unity of the God head there are three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, equal in every divine perfection, and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of redemption. (Genesis 17:1; Exodus 15:1; Exodus 20:2, 3; Psalm 83:18; Psalm 90:2; Psalm 147:5; Jeremiah 10:10; Matthew 28:19; Mark 12:30; John 4:24; John 15:26: Romans 11:33-36; I Corinthians 8:6; I Corinthians 12:4-6; Ephesians 4:6; I Timothy 1:17; Revelation 4:11)

III. THE LORD JESUS CHRIST

The second Person of the Triune God is the Son, Whose name is the Lord Jesus Christ. He existed eternally with the Father, and at the time of His incarnation, without change in His deity, became a man through the miracle of His divine conception and virgin birth. He lived a sinless, impeccable life, died a substitutionary death for all men; was buried and arose from the grave physically the third day. He ascended into Heaven; is presently fulfilling His intercessory and mediatorial ministry; and has promised to return to rapture the church prior to the Tribulation, at the conclusion of which He will institute His Davidic reign over Israel and the nations. (Matthew 1:20-25; Matthew 17:5; Luke 1:26-35; John 8:28; John 14:3; I Corinthians 15:4; I Thessalonians 4:13-18; Hebrews 4:15; Hebrews 9:24; Hebrews 10:12; I John 2:2)

IV. THE HOLY SPIRIT

We believe that the Holy Spirit is a divine person; equal with God the Father and God the Son and is of the same nature; that He was active in the creation; that in His relation to the unbelieving world, He restrains the Evil One until God’s purpose is fulfilled; that He convicts of sins, of righteousness, and of judgment; that He bears witness to the Truth of the Gospel in preaching and testimony; that He is the agent in the New Birth; that He seals, baptizes, endues, guides, teaches, witnesses, sanctifies, and helps the believer. (Genesis 1:1-3; Matthew 3:11; Matthew 28:19; Mark 1:8; Luke 1:35; Luke 3:16: Luke 24:49; John 1:33; John 3:5,6; John 14:16,17,26; John 15:26,27; John 16:8-11,13; Acts 5:30-32; Acts 11:16; Romans 8:14,16,26,27; Ephesians 2:13,14; II Thessalonians 2:7,13; Hebrews 9:14: I Peter 1:2)

Regarding the ministry of spiritual gifts, we believe that God is sovereign in the bestowment of all His gifts; that the gifts of evangelists, pastors, and teachers are sufficient for the perfecting of the saints today; that speaking in tongues and the working of sign miracles gradually ceased as the New Testament Scriptures were completed and their authority became established (I Corinthians 12:4-11; II Corinthians 12:12; Ephesians 4:7-12)

We believe that God does hear and answer the prayer of faith, in accord with His own will, for the sick and afflicted. (John 15:7; James 5:14,15; I John 5:14-15)

V. THE DEVIL OR SATAN

We believe that Satan was once holy and enjoyed heavenly honors; but through pride and ambition to be as the Almighty, fell and drew after him a host of angels; that he is now the malignant prince of the power of the air, and unholy god of this world. We hold him to be man’s great tempter, the enemy of God and His Christ, the accuser of the saints, the author of all false religions, the chief power of the present apostasy, the lord of the anti-Christ, and the author of all the powers of darkness – destined however to final defeat at the hand of God’s Son, and to the judgment of an eternal justice in hell, a place prepared for him and his angels. (Isaiah 14:12-15; Ezekiel 28:14-17; Matthew 4:1-3; Matthew 13:25,37,39; Matthew 25:41; Mark 13:21,22; Luke 22:3,4; John 14:30; II Corinthians 11:13-15; Ephesians 2:2 I Thessalonians 3:5; II Thessalonians 2:8-11; I Peter 5:8; II Peter 2:4; I John 2:22; I John 3:8; I John 4:3; II John 7: Jude 6: Revelation 12:7-10; Revelation 13:13,14; Revelation 19:11,16,20; Revelation 20:1-3,10)

VI. THE CREATION

We believe in the Genesis account of creation, and that it is to be accepted literally, and not allegorically or figuratively; that man was created directly in God’s own image and after His own likeness; that man’s creation was not a matter of evolution or evolutionary change of species, or development through interminable periods of time from lower to higher forms; that all animal and vegetable life was made directly, and God’s established law was that they should bring forth only “after their kind.” (Genesis 1:1,11,24,26,27; Genesis 2:21-23; Exodus 20:11; Nehemiah 9:6; Jeremiah 10:12; John 1:3; Acts 4:24; Acts 17:23-26; Romans 1:20; Colossians 1:16,17; Hebrews 11:3; Revelations 10:6)

A. FALL OF MAN

We believe that man was created in innocence under the law of his Maker, but by voluntary transgression, fell from his sinless and happy state, in consequence of which all mankind are now sinners, not by constraint, but of choice; and therefore under just condemnation without defense or excuse. (Genesis 3:1-6,24; Ezekiel 18:19,20; Romans 1:18,20,28,32; Romans 3:10-19; Romans 5:12,19; Galatians 3:22; Ephesians 2:1,3)

B. THE RIGHTOUS AND THE WICKED

We believe that there is a radical and essential difference between the righteous and the wicked; that such only are justified through faith in the name of the Lord Jesus and sanctified by the Spirit of our God are truly righteous in His esteem; while all such as continue in impenitence and unbelief are in His sight wicked and under the curse. This distinction holds among men both in and after death, in the everlasting felicity of the saved and the everlasting conscious suffering of the lost. (Genesis 18:23; Proverbs 11:31; Proverbs 14:32; Malachi 3:18; Matthew 7:13,14; Matthew 25:34,41; Luke 9:26: Luke 16:25; John 8:21: John 12:25; Acts 10: 34,35; Romans 1:17; Romans 6:16-18,23; Romans 7:6; I Corinthians 15:22; Galatians 3:10; I Peter 4:18; I John 2:29; I John 3:7; I John 5:19)

VII. SALVATION

A. THE ATONEMENT

We believe that the salvation of sinners is wholly of grace through the mediatorial offices of the Son of God, who by the appointment of the Father freely took upon Him our nature, yet without sin, honored the divine law by His personal obedience, and by His death made a full and vicarious atonement for our sins; that His atonement consisted not in setting us an example by His death as a martyr, but was the voluntary substitution of Himself in the sinner’s place, the Just dying for the unjust, Christ the Lord bearing our sins in His own body on the tree; that, having risen from the dead, He is now enthroned in heaven and uniting in His wonderful person the tenderest sympathies with divine perfection. He is in every way qualified to be a suitable, a compassionate, and an all-sufficient Savior. (Isaiah 53:4-7,11,12; Matthew 18:11;
John 3:16; John 10:18; Acts 15:11; Romans 3:24,25; I Corinthians 15:3,20; II Corinthians 5:21;
Galatians 1:4; Ephesians 2:8; Philippians 2:7,8; Hebrews 2:14; Hebrews 7:25; Hebrews 9:12-15;
Hebrews 12:2; I Peter 2:24; I Peter 3:18; I John 2:2; I John 4:10)

B. THE GRACE OF GOD IN THE NEW CREATION

We believe that in order to be saved, sinners must be born again; that the new birth is a new creation in Christ Jesus; that it is instantaneous and not a process; that in the new birth the one dead in trespasses and in sins is made a partaker of the divine nature and receives eternal life, the free gift of God; that the new creation is brought about in a manner above our comprehension, not by culture, not by character, nor by the will of man, but wholly and solely by the power of the Holy Spirit in connection with divine truth, so as to secure our voluntary obedience to the gospel; that its proper evidence appears in the holy fruits of repentance and faith and newness of life. (Luke 5:27; John 1:12,13: John 3:3,6-8: Acts 2:41; Acts 16:30-33; Romans 6:23; II Corinthians 5:17,i19; Galatians 5:22; Ephesians 2:1 Ephesians 5:9; Colossians 2:13; II Peter 1:4; I John 5:1)

C. THE FREENESS OF SALVATION

We believe in God’s electing grace; that the blessings of salvation are made free to all by the gospel; that it is the immediate duty of all to accept them by a cordial, penitent, and obedient faith; that nothing prevents the salvation of the greatest sinner on earth but his own inherent depravity and voluntary rejection of the gospel; which rejection involves him in an aggravated condemnation (Isaiah 55:1,6,7; Matthew 11:28; John 3:15,16,18, 36; John 5:40; John 6:37; Acts 2:38; Romans 8:29,30; Romans 10:13;
I Corinthians 15:10; Ephesians 2:4,5) Colossians 3:12; I Thessalonians 1:4; I Timothy 1:15; Titus 1:1;
I Peter 1:2; Revelation 22:17)

VII. SALVATION (CONTINUED)

D. JUSTIFICATION

We believe that the great gospel blessing, which Christ secures to such as believe in Him, is justification; that justification includes the pardon of sin, and gift of eternal life on principles of righteousness; that it is bestowed, not in consideration of any works of righteousness which we have done; but solely through faith in the Redeemer’s blood is His righteousness imputed unto us. Isaiah 53:11; Habakkuk 2:4; Zechariah 13:1; Acts 13:39; Romans 1:17; Romans 4:1-8; Romans 5:1,9; Romans 8:1; Galatians 3:11; Titus 3:5-7; Hebrews 10:38)

E. REPENTANCE AND FAITH

We believe that repentance and faith are solemn obligations, and also inseparable graces, wrought in our souls by the quickening Spirit of God; thereby, being deeply convicted of our guilt, danger, and helplessness, and of the way of salvation by Christ, we turn to God with unfeigned contrition, confession, and supplication for mercy; at the same time heartily receiving the Lord Jesus Christ and openly confessing Him as our only and all-sufficient Savior (Psalm 51:1-4,7; Isaiah 55:6,7; Mark 1:15; Luke 12:8; Luke 18:13; Acts 2:37-38; Romans 10:9-11,13)

F. PERSEVERANCE OF THE SAINTS

We believe that such only are real believers as endure unto the end; that their persevering attachment to Christ is the grand mark which distinguishes them from superficial professions; that a special Providence watches over their welfare; and that they are kept by the power of God through faith unto eternal salvation. (Psalm 121:3; Matthew 6:30; Matthew 13:19-21; John 8:31,32; John 10:28-29; John 16:8; Romans 8:28,35-39; Philippians 1:6; Colossians 1:21-23; Hebrews 1:14; I Peter 1:15; I John 2:19)

VIII. THE CHURCH

We believe that a church of Christ is a congregation of baptized believers associated by a covenant of faith and fellowship of the gospel; observing the ordinances of Christ; governed by His laws; exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by His Word; that is officers are Pastors or elders and Deacons, whose qualifications, claims, and duties are clearly defined in the Scriptures. We believe the true mission of the church is found in the Great Commission; first, to make individual disciples; second, to build up the church; third, to teach and instruct, as He has commanded. We do not believe in the reversal of this order. We hold that the local church has the absolute right of self-government, free from interference of any hierarchy of individuals or organizations; and that the one and only superintendent is Christ through the Holy Spirit; that it is scriptural for true churches to co-operate with each other in contending for the faith and for the furtherance of the gospel; that every church is the sole and only judge of the measure and method of its co-operation; on all matters of discipline, of benevolence, the will of the local church is final. (Leviticus 27:32: Malachi 3:10; Matthew 28:19,20; Acts 2:41,42; Acts 6:5,6; Acts 14:23; Acts 15:22,23; Acts 20:17-28; I Corinthians 5:11-13; I Corinthians6:1-3; I Corinthians 8:11; I Corinthians 11:2; I Corinthians 12:4; I Corinthians 16:1,2; II Corinthians 8:23,24; Ephesians 1:22,23; Ephesians 4:11; Ephesians 5:23,24; Colossians 1:18; I Timothy 3:1-13; I Peter 5:1-4; Jude 3,4)

VIII. THE CHURCH (CONTINUED)

A. BAPTISM

We believe that Christian baptism is the immersion in water of a born-again believer, in the name of the
Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, to show forth in solemn and beautiful emblem their faith in the crucified, buried, risen, and coming Savior, with its effect in their death to sin and resurrection to a new life and that it is a prerequisite for proper church relationship and a God-blessed life. We, hereby, declare that the Church will receive into its membership those who have been truly born again, and then baptized (immersed) in obedience to the command of Christ (Matthew 3:6,16; Matthew 28:19,20; John 3:23; Acts 2:41,42; Acts 8:36-39; Romans 6:3-5; Colossians 2:12)

B. LORD’S SUPPER

We believe the Lord’s Supper to be an ordinance of the church in which born-again believers, by the sacred use of bread and juice, are to commemorate together the dying love of Christ; preceded always by solemn self-examination. We, hereby, declare that the Church invites other scripturally baptized Christians, to participate in our communion service. (Matthew 26:26-28; Mark 14:22-24; Luke 22:19,20; Acts 2:42; I Corinthians 10:16; I Corinthians 11:23-28)

IX. CIVIL GOVERNMENT

We believe that civil government is of divine appointment, for the interests and good order of human society; that magistrates are to be prayed for, conscientiously honored and obeyed; except only in things opposed to the will of the Lord Jesus Christ, Who is the only Lord of the conscience, and the coming Prince of the kings of the earth. (Exodus 18:21,22; II Samuel 23:3; Psalm 72:11; Daniel 3:17,18; Matthew 10:28; Matthew 22:21; Matthew 23:10; Acts 4:19,20; Acts 5:29; Acts 23:5; Romans 13:1-7; Philippians 2:10,11; Titus 3:1; I Peter 2:13,14,17)

X. FUTURE EVENTS

We believe that at death the spirits and souls of believers pass instantly into the presence of Christ and remain in conscious joy until the resurrection of the body when Christ comes for His own. (I Corinthians 15:50-58; II Corinthians 5:6-8; I Thessalonians 4:13-18)

The blessed hope of the believer is the imminent, personal pre-tribulational, pre-millennial appearance of Christ to rapture the church. His righteous judgments will be poured out on an unbelieving world during the Tribulation, the last half of which is the Great Tribulation. The climax of this fearful era will be the physical return of Jesus Christ to the earth in great glory to introduce the Davidic kingdom. Israel will be saved and restored to national superiority. Satan will be bound and the curse will be lifted form the physical creation. Following the Millennium, the Great White Throne judgment will occur, at which time the bodies and souls of the wicked dead shall be re-united and cast into the Lake of Fire. Jesus Christ shall reign forever and forever as Lord of Lords and King of Kings. (Isaiah 11:1,2; Matthew 24:29,30; I Thessalonians 4:13-18; II Thessalonians 2:1-12, I John 4:3; Revelation 3:10; Revelation 20:2,3,11-15)

XI. AUTHORITY OF THE ARTICLES OF FAITH

The Articles of Faith do not exhaust the extent of our Faith. The Bible itself is the sole and final source of all that we believe. We do believe, however that the foregoing Articles of Faith accurately represent the teaching of the Bible and therefore are binding upon all members. All literature used in the church shall be in complete agreement with the Articles of Faith. (Article XI added by unanimous vote 04/22/2015)

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Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God, to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior, and on the profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, 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 ChristWe engage, therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit, to walk together in Christian love; to strive for the advancement of this church, in knowledge, holiness, and comfort; to promote its prosperity and spirituality; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline, and doctrines; to 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.We also engage to maintain family and secret devotion; to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances; to walk circumspectly in the world; to be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements, and exemplary in our deportment; to abstain from all appearances of evil; and to be zealous in our effort to advance the Kingdom of our Savior.

We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love; to remember each other in prayer; to aid each other in sickness and distress; to cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and courtesy in speech; to be slow to take offense, but always ready for reconciliation and mindful of the rules of our Savior, to secure it without delay.

We moreover engage that, when we remove 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.

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