Bylaws

The name of this Congregation shall be Liberty Bible Church Inc., operating as Liberty Bible Church and hereinafter called “the Congregation.” It is a non-profit corporation duly created by the Secretary of State of Kentucky.

The principal office of the Congregation is at 115 South Main Street, Crittenden, Kentucky, 41030. It may have such other offices and locations either within or without the State of Kentucky as the Pastors may determine from time to time. Any such change of address shall be noted herein but shall not constitute an amendment to these bylaws.

2 Purpose

The Congregation shall exist as a church exclusively for religious, charitable, and educational purposes within the meaning of section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) of 1986, for such purposes including, but not limited to, the worshiping God, proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ, promoting the spiritual growth of believers, and meeting critical needs.

3 Mission

The Congregation is committed to the ministry of the Word of God through authentic relationships so all would mature in Jesus Christ to the glory of God.

4 Standards of Christian Faith and Conduct

To preserve the function and integrity of the Congregation as a part of the local Body of Christ and to provide a biblical role model to our community, we believe it is imperative that all members of the Congregation shall affirm annually in writing their shared belief and agree with, abide by, and reflect the principles of our bylaws and the following affirmation, which comprises the Standards of Christian Faith and Conduct for the Congregation:

4.1 The Bible

The Bible is the 66 canonical books of the Old and New Testaments, which were inspired by God in the original writings. The Bible is inerrant, infallible, reliable, consistent within itself, preserved, relevant, sufficient, and is the final authority for matters of thought, affection, word, and deed for all people.

4.2 Creation

God directly and immediately created all things by His powerful word in the six 24-hour days of creation, approximately 4,000 years before the birth of Christ. Adam and Eve as male and female were directly created by God in His image and bear innate dignity and value. All human life is sacred from the moment of fertilization to natural death. Complementary sexual identity as male or female is established at fertilization and cannot be altered. From the beginning of creation, marriage is a covenantal companionship of one adult man and one adult woman as designed and decreed by God, protected by the faithfulness and purity of each spouse, and advanced by the husband’s loving leadership and the wife’s submissive respect. God entrusts children as blessed gifts to the care of their parents who are to instruct and exemplify godliness to them.

4.3 The Triune God

There is but one living and true God, perfect in all His attributes, one in essence, eternally existing in three distinct and ordered Persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God has revealed Himself in Scripture with masculine identity, names, and titles; and His perfections include His sovereignty, self-existence, holiness, goodness, knowledge, power, omnipresence, immutability, and infinity. Each person of the triune God works distinctly and harmoniously in the works of creation, providence, and salvation, and each person is worthy of worship by all creation.

4.4 God the Father

God the Father is the first person of the triune God and He orders all things by the counsel of His will. He is the Father of all creation, the Father of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the adoptive Father of those who believe. He has decreed all things which shall come to pass yet without bearing any responsibility for the sins of humanity or limiting the exercise of human will. He sent His Son into the world to purchase redemption for His people and He sent His Spirit to indwell believers.

4.5 God the Son

Jesus Christ is God the Son, the second person of the triune God who is prophet, priest, and king. Though being eternal and immutable He took on human flesh to become truly God and truly man as the only begotten Son of God, Son of Man, and Son of David. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, and lived a sinless life doing all things in obedience to the Father and in the power of the Holy Spirit. He died by crucifixion as a substitutionary sacrifice to satisfy the Father’s wrath and to purchase the redemption of His people, was buried, and rose bodily from the dead on the third day. He ascended to heaven where He intercedes on behalf of His people and He will come again to rule the earth, to judge the ungodly, and to deliver His kingdom to God the Father.

4.6 God the Spirit

God the Holy Spirit is the third person of the triune God who convicts the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment. He regenerates penitent and believing sinners, baptizes into the body of Christ, grants gifts for the building up of the church, sanctifies the saints, and grants assurance of salvation. He carried the human authors of Scripture to write the Scriptures as God’s word and illuminates the understanding of those who humbly receive His word.

4.7 Sin

Sin is the violation of the command of God. Sin entered the world through the disobedience of Adam, which also brought disease, corruption, physical and spiritual death, and alienation from God. All humans are born with a sinful nature which displays itself in lawless and rebellious thoughts, affections, words, and deeds. Apart from God’s intervention, all humanity is unable to please God or to escape His wrath.

4.8 Salvation

Salvation is the gracious work of God whereby a sinner is born again by the Holy Spirit to repent and confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, resulting in forgiveness, the imputation of Christ’s righteousness, and the baptism of the Holy Spirit. This work is wholly an act of God by grace based on the redemption of Jesus Christ and is not based on human merit or works. Believers are to be baptized as a testimony to their new life in Christ. All the redeemed are kept by God’s power and are thus secure in Christ forever. This salvation is evidenced by forsaking sin, performing good works, and growing in holy living.

4.9 Church

All who place their faith in Jesus Christ are immediately placed by the Holy Spirit into the church, the united spiritual body of Christ. These believers are to associate with autonomous local churches under the care of pastors for corporate instruction, prayer, fellowship, worship, discipleship, and accountability. The Lord Jesus Christ commands the church to proclaim the message of salvation to all people and to urge each one to repent and believe the gospel unto salvation. The New Testament prescribes at least six ordinances for the church: baptism, the Lord’s Supper, preaching, Scripture reading, prayer, and singing. Baptism by immersion and the Lord’s Supper are distinct from the other ordinances in that they are visible signs of spiritual realities.

4.10 Future Events

The Lord Jesus Christ will return bodily to earth in glory and will resurrect all those who have died: the unrighteous shall be judged and cast into everlasting punishment with the devil and his angels; the righteous shall enjoy everlasting life in the presence of God in the new heavens and new earth.

5 Statement of Faith

This Statement of Faith summarizes the doctrinal distinctives taught within the Congregation. The inspired and infallible Word of God speaks with final authority concerning truth, morality, and the proper conduct of mankind and is the sole and final source of all that we teach. We do believe, however, that this Statement of Faith, though not exhaustive in content, accurately represents the teachings of the Bible. For purposes of the Congregation’s faith, doctrine, practice, policy, and discipline, the Pastors are the final interpretive authority on the Bible’s meaning and application.

All publications, whether print or electronic, produced by the Congregation shall agree with this Statement of Faith. All activities permitted or performed in any facilities rented, leased by, or owned by the Congregation, or engaged in by any member of the Congregation staff (volunteer or paid), and all decisions of the administration of the Congregation shall not conflict with this Statement of Faith.

5.1 The Holy Scriptures

We teach that the Bible is God’s written revelation to man, and thus the 66 books of the Bible given to us by the Holy Spirit constitute the plenary (inspired equally in all parts) Word of God (1 Corinthians 2:7–14; 2 Peter 1:20–21).

We teach that the Word of God is an objective, propositional revelation (1 Thessalonians 2:13; 1 Corinthians 2:13), verbally inspired in every word (2 Timothy 3:16), inerrant in the original documents, infallible, and God-breathed.

We teach that the Bible is true in all its claims and constitutes the only sufficient and infallible rule of faith and practice (Matthew 5:18; 24:35; John 10:35; 16:12–13; 17:17; 1 Corinthians 2:13; 2 Timothy 3:15–17; Hebrews 4:12).

We teach that God spoke in His written Word by a process of dual authorship. The Holy Spirit so superintended the human authors that, through their individual personalities and different styles of writing, they composed and recorded God’s Word to man (2 Peter 1:20–21) without error in the whole or in the part (Matthew 5:18; 2 Timothy 3:16).

We teach that, whereas there may be several applications of any given passage of Scripture, there is but one true interpretation. The meaning of Scripture is to be found as one diligently applies the literal grammatical-historical method of interpretation under the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit, affirming that the Scripture’s interpretation of Scripture is our final interpretive guide (John 7:17; 16:12–15; 1 Corinthians 2:7–15; 1 John 2:20). It is the responsibility of believers to ascertain the true intent and meaning of Scripture, recognizing that proper application is binding on all generations. Yet the truth of Scripture stands in judgment of men; never do men stand in judgment of it.

5.2 Creation

We teach that the doctrines of God as Creator and His creation as found in the historical narrative of Genesis are fundamental to a proper understanding of the gospel of Jesus Christ, since these doctrines explain the origin of sin and death and the promise of a Deliverer.

We teach that physical and spiritual death for both man and beast entered the world because of Adam’s sin (Romans 5; 8).

We teach that the opening chapters of Genesis present creation in six literal days (Genesis 1:31; Exodus 20:11; 31:17), with the special creation of Adam and Eve as God’s final act of creation (Genesis 1:26–27; Matthew 19:4).

We teach that God’s work of creation took place approximately 4,000 years before Christ’s birth.

We teach that the revelation of God in creation is sufficient such that man is without excuse to acknowledge His existence (Psalm 19:1–6; Romans 1:18–23), but that this general revelation is insufficient to bring man to salvation by faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ (Psalm 19:7–14; Romans 10).

5.2 God

We teach that there is but one living and true God (Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 45:5–7; 1 Corinthians 8:4), an infinite, all-knowing Spirit (John 4:24), perfect in all His attributes, one in essence, eternally existing in three Persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14)—each equally deserving worship and obedience.

5.2.1 God the Father

We teach that God the Father, the first Person of the Trinity, orders and disposes all things according to His own purpose and grace (Psalm 145:8–9; 1 Corinthians 8:6). He is the Creator of all things (Genesis 1:1–31; Ephesians 3:9). As the only absolute and omnipotent Ruler in the universe, He is sovereign in creation, providence, and redemption (Psalm 103:19; Romans 11:36). His fatherhood involves both His designation within the Trinity and His relationship with mankind. As Creator He is Father to all men (Ephesians 4:6), but He is spiritual Father only to believers (Romans 8:14; 2 Corinthians 6:18). He has decreed for His own glory all things that come to pass (Ephesians 1:11). He continually upholds, directs, and governs all creatures and events (1 Chronicles 29:11). In His sovereignty He is neither the author nor approver of sin (Habakkuk 1:13; John 8:38–47), nor does He abridge the accountability of moral, intelligent creatures (1 Peter 1:17). He has graciously chosen from eternity past those whom He would have as His own (Ephesians 1:4–6); He saves from sin all who come to Him through Jesus Christ; He adopts as His own all those who come to Him; and He becomes, upon adoption, Father to His own (John 1:12; Romans 8:15; Galatians 4:5; Hebrews 12:5–9).

5.2.2 God the Son

We teach that Jesus Christ, the second Person of the Trinity, possesses all the divine excellencies, and in these He is coequal, consubstantial, and coeternal with the Father (John 10:30; 14:9).

We teach that God the Father created according to His own will, through His Son, Jesus Christ, by whom all things continue in existence and in operation (John 1:3; Colossians 1:15–17; Hebrews 1:2).

We teach that in the incarnation the eternally existing second Person of the Trinity accepted all the essential characteristics of humanity and so became the God-Man (Philippians 2:5–8; Colossians 2:9).

We teach that, in the incarnation, the second Person of the Trinity laid aside His right to the full prerogatives of deity and took on an existence appropriate to a servant while never divesting Himself of His divine attributes, either in degree or kind (Philippians 2:5–8).

We teach that Jesus Christ represents humanity and deity in indivisible oneness (Micah 5:2; John 5:23; 14:9–10; Colossians 2:9).

We teach that our Lord Jesus Christ was virgin born (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:23, 25; Luke 1:26–35); that He is God incarnate (John 1:1, 14); and that the purpose of the incarnation was to reveal God, redeem men, and rule over God’s kingdom (Psalm 2:7–9; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:29; Philippians 2:9–11; Hebrews 7:25–26; 1 Peter 1:18–19).

We teach that our Lord Jesus Christ accomplished our redemption through the shedding of His blood and sacrificial death on the cross and that His death was voluntary, vicarious, substitutionary, propitiatory, and redemptive (John 10:15; Romans 3:24–25; 5:8; 1 Peter 2:24).

We teach that based on the efficacy of the death of our Lord Jesus Christ, the believing sinner is freed from the punishment, the penalty, the power, and one day the very presence of sin; and that he is declared righteous, given eternal life, and adopted into the family of God (Romans 3:25; 5:8–9; 2 Corinthians 5:14–15; 1 Peter 2:24; 3:18).

We teach that our justification is made sure by His literal, physical resurrection from the dead, and that He is now ascended to the right hand of the Father, where He now mediates as our Advocate and High Priest (Matthew 28:6; Luke 24:38–39; Acts 2:30–31; Romans 4:25; 8:34; Hebrews 7:25; 9:24; 1 John 2:1).

We teach that in the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the grave, God confirmed the deity of His Son and gave proof that God has accepted the atoning work of Christ on the cross. Jesus’ bodily resurrection is also the guarantee of a future resurrection life for all believers (John 5:26–29; 14:19; Romans 1:4; 4:25; 6:5–10; 1 Corinthians 15:20, 23).

We teach that Jesus Christ will return to receive the church, which is His Body, unto Himself at the rapture, and returning with His church in glory, will establish His millennial kingdom on earth (Acts 1:9–11; 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18; Revelation 20).

We teach that the Lord Jesus Christ is the One through whom God will judge all mankind (John 5:22–23), including the following:

Believers (1 Corinthians 3:10–15; 2 Corinthians 5:10),
The living inhabitants of the earth at His glorious return (Matthew 25:31–46), and
The unbelieving dead at the Great White Throne (Revelation 20:11–15)

As the Mediator between God and man (1 Timothy 2:5), the Head of His Body the church (Ephesians 1:22; 5:23; Colossians 1:18), and the coming universal King who will reign on the throne of David (Isaiah 9:6; Luke 1:31–33), He is the final Judge of all who fail to place their trust in Him as Lord and Savior (Matthew 25:14–46; Acts 17:30–31).

5.2.3 God the Holy Spirit

We teach that the Holy Spirit is a divine Person, eternal, underived, possessing all the attributes of personality and deity, including intellect (1 Corinthians 2:10–13), emotions (Ephesians 4:30), will (1 Corinthians 12:11), eternality (Hebrews 9:14), omnipresence (Psalm 139:7–10), omniscience (Isaiah 40:13–14), omnipotence (Romans 15:13), and truthfulness (John 16:13). In all the divine attributes He is coequal and consubstantial with the Father and the Son (Matthew 28:19; Acts 5:3–4; 28:25–26; 1 Corinthians 12:4–6; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Jeremiah 31:31–34 with Hebrews 10:15–17).

We teach that it is the work of the Holy Spirit to execute the divine will with relation to all mankind. We recognize His sovereign activity in creation (Genesis 1:2), the incarnation (Matthew 1:18), the written revelation (2 Peter 1:20–21), and the work of salvation (John 3:5–7).

We teach that the work of the Holy Spirit in this age began at Pentecost, when He came from the Father as promised by Christ (John 14:16–17; 15:26) to initiate and complete the building of the Body of Christ, which is His church (1 Corinthians 12:13). The broad scope of His divine activity includes convicting the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment; glorifying the Lord Jesus Christ and transforming believers into the image of Christ (John 16:7–9; Acts 1:5; 2:4; Romans 8:29; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Ephesians 2:22).

We teach that the Holy Spirit is the supernatural and sovereign Agent in regeneration, baptizing all believers into the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:13). The Holy Spirit also indwells, sanctifies, instructs, empowers them for service, and seals them unto the day of redemption (Romans 8:9; 2 Corinthians 3:6; Ephesians 1:13).

We teach that the Holy Spirit is the divine Teacher, who guided the apostles and prophets into all truth as they committed to writing God’s revelation, the Bible (2 Peter 1:19–21). Every believer possesses the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit from the moment of salvation, and it is the duty of all those born of the Spirit to be filled with the Spirit (John 16:13; Romans 8:9; Ephesians 5:18; 1 John 2:20, 27).

We teach that the Holy Spirit administers spiritual gifts to the church. The Holy Spirit glorifies neither Himself nor His gifts by ostentatious displays, but He does glorify Christ by implementing His work of redeeming the lost and building up believers in the most holy faith (John 16:13–14; Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 12:4–11; 2 Corinthians 3:18).

We teach, in this respect, that God the Holy Spirit is sovereign in the bestowing of all His gifts for the perfecting of the saints today, and that speaking in tongues and the working of sign miracles in the beginning days of the church were for the purpose of pointing to and authenticating the apostles as revealers of divine truth, and were never intended to be characteristic of the lives of believers (1 Corinthians 12:4–11; 13:8–10; 2 Corinthians 12:12; Ephesians 4:7–12; Hebrews 2:1–4).

5.3 Man and Sin

We teach that man was directly and immediately created by God in His image and likeness. Man was created free of sin with a rational nature, intelligence, volition, self-determination, and moral responsibility to God (Genesis 2:7, 15–25; James 3:9).

We teach that all human life is sacred beginning from fertilization until natural death. In the womb, each child is a distinct, living human being and must be honored. Individuals who have yet to be born, who are physical and/or mentally handicapped, and the aged are all distinct, living human beings those lives must be defended and honored.

We teach that God’s intention in the creation of man was that man should glorify God, enjoy God’s fellowship, live his life in the will of God, and by this accomplish God’s purpose for man in the world (Isaiah 43:7; Colossians 1:16; Revelation 4:11).

We teach that in Adam’s sin of disobedience to the revealed will and Word of God, man lost his innocence, incurred the penalty of spiritual and physical death, became subject to the wrath of God, and became inherently corrupt and utterly incapable of choosing or doing that which is acceptable to God apart from divine grace. With no recuperative powers to enable him to recover himself, man is hopelessly lost. Man’s salvation is thereby wholly of God’s grace through the redemptive work of our Lord Jesus Christ (Genesis 2:16–17; 3:1–19; John 3:36; Romans 3:23; 6:23; 1 Corinthians 2:14; Ephesians 2:1–3; 1 Timothy 2:13–14; 1 John 1:8).

We teach that, because all men were in Adam, a nature corrupted by Adam’s sin has been transmitted to all men of all ages, Jesus Christ being the only exception. All men are thus sinners by nature, by choice, and by divine declaration (Psalm 14:1–3; Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 3:9–18, 23; 5:10–12).

5.4 Marriage, Family, Sexuality, and Gender

We teach that God created the first humans Adam and Eve in His own image, separate from the animal world (Genesis 1:26–27; 2:18–25). Though equal before God as persons, man and woman are distinct from and complementary to one another as male and female, fulfilling separation functions in the home and the church (1 Corinthians 11:7–9; Ephesians 5:22–35; 1 Timothy 2:8–15; 3:4–5, 12). These two distinct, unchangeable genders together reflect the image and nature of God, and the rejection of one’s biological gender is a rejection of the image of God within that person.

We teach that God provided marriage by His design and His decree so that an adult male and an adult female, as their genders were determined at fertilization, enter a relationship of exclusive covenantal commitment one to another for exclusive companionship, sexual intimacy, and the bearing and raising of children (Genesis 2:18–25; 18:19; Malachi 2:15; Matthew 19:4–5). Marriage forms the fundamental human relationship and basis of society and must be entered in a public, formal, and official event.

We teach that the marriages of believers are to illustrate the loving relationship of Christ and His church, with the husband loving his wife as Christ loves the church and the wife responding to her husband’s loving leadership as the church responds to Christ (Ephesians 5:18–33). A Christian should only marry another Christian (1 Corinthians 7:39; 2 Corinthians 6:14–18).

We teach that marriage was given by God as part of His common grace from the beginning of creation, and that it has no meaning other than as He has provided (Genesis 2:18–24; Mark 9:6–9). Though marriage is subject to the curse of the Fall, this curse does not change the definition of marriage established at creation (Matthew 19:1–9).

We teach that God has commanded that no intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of marriage as defined herein. We believe that any other type of sexual activity, identity, or expression that lies outside of this definition of marriage, including those that are becoming more accepted in the culture and the courts, are contradictory to God’s natural design and purpose for sexual activity (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 5:28; 15:18–20; 1 Corinthians 6:9–10, 18; 7:2–5; 1 Thessalonians 4:1–8; Hebrews 13:4).

We teach that God has ordained the family as the foundational institution of human society. The husband is to love his wife as Christ loves the Congregation. The wife is to submit herself to the spiritual leadership of her husband as the Congregation submits to the headship of Christ. Children are a wonderful gift and heritage from the Lord. Parents are responsible for teaching their children spiritual and moral values through consistent lifestyle example and appropriate training and discipline (Genesis 1:26–28; Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 6:4–9; Psalm 127:3–5; 22:15; Mark 10:6–12; 1 Corinthians 7:1–16; Ephesians 5:21–6:4; Colossians 3:18–21; 1 Peter 3:1–7).

We teach that God entrusts parents with responsibility for their children, and church activities and Christian schools by design operate on behalf of the parents. These responsibilities include but are not limited to decisions regarding church attendance, education, healthcare, discipline, and a variety of other life choices. God instructs parents to train their children consistent with their faith (Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 4:6; 6:6–9; Psalm 127:3–5; Proverbs 4:20–23; 19:18, 22:6; Ephesians 6:4).

We teach that God hates divorce, permitting it only where there has been unrepentant sexual sin (Malachi 2:14–16; Matthew 5:32; 19:9) or desertion by an unbeliever (1 Corinthians 7:12–15). Where a valid marriage has been established prior to coming to faith in Christ, the couple should remain married (1 Corinthians 7:24). Although divorced and remarried persons or divorced persons may hold positions of service in the Congregation and be greatly used of God for Christian service, they may not be considered for the offices of Pastor or Deacon (1 Timothy 3:2, 12; Titus 1:6).

5.5 Sanctity of Life

We teach that humans bear the image of God (Genesis 1:26–27; 9:6; James 3:9) and are such persons from the moment of fertilization until natural death as directly recognized by God (Psalm 22:10; 139:13; Isaiah 49:1; Jeremiah 1:5; Luke 1:41–44; Romans 9:10–11; Galatians 1:15). God does not differentiate between murder in or outside of the womb (Exodus 21:12, 22–25). Therefore, any form of abortion is murder, a defiant act against the God of life (Exodus 20:13; 23:7; Matthew 5:21; John 5:26) and against children whom He cares about (Matthew 18:10) and gives as blessings (Psalm 127:3).

We teach that those created in the image of God must be treated with dignity (Genesis 9:6; Luke 13:15–16; James 3:9) and that this must include persons in the womb, the elderly, those who are physically or mentally challenged, in all ages, stages, and conditions. The direct taking of an innocent human life is a moral evil, including an act or omission which, of itself or by intention, causes death to eliminate suffering. We do not believe that discontinuing medical procedures that are extraordinary or disproportionate to the expected outcome violates this principle.

5.6 Love

We teach that we should demonstrate love for others, not only toward fellow believers, but also toward those who are not believers, those who oppose us, and those who engage in sinful actions. We are to deal graciously, humbly, gently, and patiently with those who oppose us. God forbids the stirring up of strife, the taking of revenge, or the threat or use of violence as a means of resolving personal conflict or obtaining personal justice. Although God commands us to abhor sinful actions, we are to love and pray for any person who engages in such actions. (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 5:44–48; Luke 6:31; John 13:34–35; Romans 12:9–10; 17–21; 13:8–10; Philippians 2:2–4; 2 Timothy 2:24–26; Titus 3:2; 1 Peter 3:8–9; 1 John 3:17–18).

5.7 Lawsuits Within the Congregation

We teach that Christians are prohibited from bringing civil lawsuits within the Congregation. However, we teach that a Christian may seek compensation for injuries from another Christian’s insurance company if the claim is pursued without malice or slander (1 Corinthians 6:1–8; Ephesians 4:31–32).

5.8 Protection of Children

We teach that children are from the Lord and must be absolutely protected within the Congregation from any form of abuse or molestation. The Congregation has zero tolerance for any person, whether paid staff, volunteer, member, or visitor, who abuses or molests a child (Psalm 127:3-5; Matthew 18:6; 19:14; Mark 10:14).

5.9 Salvation

We teach that salvation is wholly an act of God by grace based on the redemption of Jesus Christ and the merit of His shed blood and is not based on human merit or works (John 1:12; Ephesians 1:7; 2:8–10; 1 Peter 1:18–19).

5.9.1 Regeneration

We teach that regeneration is a supernatural work of the Holy Spirit by which the divine nature and divine life are given (John 3:3–7; Titus 3:5). It is instantaneous and is accomplished solely by the power of the Holy Spirit through the instrumentality of the Word of God (John 5:24) when the repentant sinner, as enabled by the Holy Spirit, responds in faith to the divine provision of salvation. Genuine regeneration is manifested by fruits worthy of repentance as demonstrated in righteous attitudes and conduct. Good works are the proper evidence and fruit of regeneration (1 Corinthians 6:19–20; Ephesians 2:10) and will be experienced to the extent that the believer submits to the control of the Holy Spirit in his life through faithful obedience to the Word of God (Ephesians 5:17–21; Philippians 2:12b; Colossians 3:16; 2 Peter 1:4–10). This obedience causes the believer to be increasingly conformed to the image of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18). Such a conformity climaxes in the believer’s glorification at Christ’s coming (Romans 8:17; 2 Peter 1:4; 1 John 3:2–3).

5.9.2 Election

We teach that election is the act of God by which, before the foundation of the world, He chose in Christ those whom He graciously regenerates, saves, and sanctifies (Romans 8:28–30; Ephesians 1:4–11; 2 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Timothy 2:10; 1 Peter 1:1–2).

We teach that sovereign election does not contradict or negate the responsibility of man to repent and trust Christ as Savior and Lord (Ezekiel 18:23, 32; 33:11; John 3:18–19, 36; 5:40; Romans 9:22–23; 2 Thessalonians 2:10–12; Revelation 22:17). Nevertheless, since sovereign grace includes the means of receiving the gift of salvation as well as the gift itself, sovereign election will result in what God determines. All whom the Father calls to Himself will come in faith, and all who come in faith the Father will receive (John 6:37–40, 44; Acts 13:48; James 4:8).

We teach that the unmerited favor that God grants to totally depraved sinners is not related to any initiative of their own part or to God’s anticipation of what they might do by their own will but is solely of His sovereign grace and mercy (Ephesians 1:4–7; Titus 3:4–7; 1 Peter 1:2).

We teach that election should not be looked upon as based merely on abstract sovereignty. God is truly sovereign, but He exercises this sovereignty in harmony with His other attributes, especially His omniscience, justice, holiness, wisdom, grace, and love (Romans 9:11–16). This sovereignty will always exalt the will of God in a manner totally consistent with His character as revealed in the life of our Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 11:25–28; 2 Timothy 1:9).

5.9.3 Justification

We teach that justification before God is an act of God (Romans 8:33) by which He declares righteous those who, through faith in Christ, repent of their sins (Luke 13:3; Acts 2:38; 3:19; 11:18; Romans 2:4; 2 Corinthians 7:10; Isaiah 55:6–7) and confess Him as sovereign Lord (Romans 10:9–10; 1 Corinthians 12:3; 2 Corinthians 4:5; Philippians 2:11). This righteousness is apart from any virtue or work of man (Romans 3:20; 4:6) and involves the imputation of our sins to Christ (Colossians 2:14; 1 Peter 2:24) and the imputation of Christ’s righteousness to us (1 Corinthians 1:30; 2 Corinthians 5:21). By this means God is enabled to “be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus” (Romans 3:26).

5.9.4 Sanctification

We teach that every believer is sanctified unto God by justification and is therefore declared to be holy and is therefore identified as a saint. This sanctification is positional and instantaneous and should not be confused with progressive sanctification. This sanctification has to do with the believer’s standing, not his present walk or condition (Acts 20:32; 1 Corinthians 1:2, 30; 6:11; 2 Thessalonians 2:13; Hebrews 2:11; 3:1; 10:10, 14; 13:12; 1 Peter 1:2).

We teach that there is also, by the work of the Holy Spirit, a progressive sanctification by which the state of the believer is brought closer to the standing the believer positionally enjoys through justification. Through obedience to the Word of God and the empowering of the Holy Spirit, the believer can live a life of increasing holiness in conformity to the will of God, becoming more and more like our Lord Jesus Christ (John 17:17, 19; Romans 6:1–22; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 1 Thessalonians 4:3–4; 5:23).

In this respect, we teach that every saved person is involved in a daily conflict—the new creation in Christ doing battle against the flesh—but adequate provision is made for victory through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. The struggle nevertheless stays with the believer all through this earthly life and is never completely ended. All claims to the eradication of sin in this life are unscriptural. Eradication of sin is not possible, but the Holy Spirit does provide for victory over sin (Galatians 5:16–25; Ephesians 4:22–24; Philippians 3:12; Colossians 3:9–10; 1 Peter 1:14–16; 1 John 3:5–9).

5.9.5 Security

We teach that all the redeemed, once saved, are kept by God’s power and are thus secure in Christ forever (John 5:24; 6:37–40; 10:27–30; Romans 5:9–10; 8:1, 31–39; 1 Corinthians 1:4–8; Ephesians 4:30; Hebrews 7:25; 13:5; 1 Peter 1:5; Jude 24).

We teach that it is the privilege of believers to rejoice in the assurance of their salvation through the testimony of God’s Word, which, however, clearly forbids the use of Christian liberty as an occasion for sinful living and carnality (Romans 6:15–22; 13:13–14; Galatians 5:13, 25–26; Titus 2:11–14).

5.9.6 Separation

We teach that separation from sin is clearly called for throughout the Old and New Testaments, and that the Scriptures clearly indicate that in the last days apostasy and worldliness shall increase (2 Corinthians 6:14–7:1; 2 Timothy 3:1–5).

We teach that, out of deep gratitude for the undeserved grace of God granted to us, and because our glorious God is so worthy of our total consecration, all the saved should live in such a manner as to demonstrate our adoring love to God and so as not to bring reproach upon our Lord and Savior. We also teach that separation from all religious apostasy and worldly and sinful practices is commanded of us by God (Romans 12:1–2, 1 Corinthians 5:9–13; 2 Corinthians 6:14–7:1; 1 John 2:15–17; 2 John 9–11).

We teach that believers should be separated unto our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Thessalonians 1:11–12; Hebrews 12:1–2) and affirm that the Christian life is a life of obedient righteousness that reflects the teaching of the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:2–12) and a continual pursuit of holiness (Romans 12:1–2; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Hebrews 12:14; Titus 2:11–14; 1 John 3:1–10).

5.10 Israel

We teach that God made an unconditional covenant with the physical descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Genesis 12:1–3; 15:9–21; 17:1–8; 26:2–5; 28:13–15; 35:11–13; Romans 11:28–29). This covenant is based on God’s choice and not human merit (Deuteronomy 7:6–8; 10:15) and includes the promise of land, a national identity, and a source of blessing to all nations through the redemption available in Jesus Christ.

We teach that God made certain unconditional covenants with ethnic Israel which depend ultimately upon His own work to fulfill. Just as God literally fulfilled His warnings and judgments against Israel, so will He also literally fulfill His other promises.

We teach that God intended Israel as a witness to the nations of His glory (Exodus 19:6; Isaiah 43:10–13). Because they rejected Jesus as Messiah, God has given a hard heart to much of the nation until He returns (Zechariah 12:10–14; Romans 11:25–27), though a believing remnant has always been present among the descendants of Israel according to God’s gracious election (Isaiah 10:20–22; Romans 9:6–29).

We teach that all those physical descendants of Israel alive at the return of Jesus Christ will be saved. During the 1,000-year reign of Christ on the throne of David in Jerusalem, all of God’s unconditional promises to Israel will be fulfilled (2 Samuel 7:6–16; Psalm 105:6–10; Isaiah 43:1–7; Jeremiah 31:23–40; Romans 9–11; Galatians 3:6–4:7).

5.11 The Church

We teach that all who place their faith in Jesus Christ are immediately placed by the Holy Spirit into one united spiritual Body, the church (1 Corinthians 12:12–13), the bride of Christ (2 Corinthians 11:2; Ephesians 5:23–32; Revelation 19:7–8), of which Christ is the Head (Ephesians 1:22; 4:15; Colossians 1:18).

We teach that the formation of the church, the Body of Christ, began on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1–21, 38–47) and will be completed at the coming of Christ for His own at the rapture (1 Corinthians 15:51–52; 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18).

We teach that the church is thus a unique spiritual organism designed by Christ, made up of all born-again believers in this present age (Ephesians 2:11–3:6). The church is distinct from Israel, while sharing in the spiritual blessings God promised to Israel, yet the church has not supplanted Israel in God’s purposes (1 Corinthians 10:32; Ephesians 3:1–6; 5:32).

We teach that the establishment and continuity of local churches is clearly taught and defined in the New Testament Scriptures (Acts 14:23, 27; 20:17, 28; Galatians 1:2; Philippians 1:1; 1 Thessalonians 1:1; 2 Thessalonians 1:1) and that the members of the one spiritual Body are directed to associate themselves together in local assemblies (1 Corinthians 11:18–20; Hebrews 10:25).

We teach that the one supreme authority for the church is Christ (1 Corinthians 11:3; Ephesians 1:22; Colossians 1:18) and that church leadership, gifts, order, discipline, and worship are all appointed through His sovereignty as found in the Scriptures. The biblically designated officers serving under Christ and over the assembly are pastors (also called bishops/overseers and elders; Acts 20:28; Ephesians 4:11) and deacons, both of whom must meet biblical qualifications (1 Timothy 3:1–13; Titus 1:5–9; 1 Peter 5:1–5).

We teach that these leaders lead or rule as servants of Christ (1 Timothy 5:17–22) and have His authority in directing the church. The congregation is to submit to their leadership (Hebrews 13:7, 17). The pastors provide the final human interpretation of Scripture for each local church.

We teach the importance of discipleship (Matthew 28:19–20; 2 Timothy 2:2), mutual accountability of all believers to each other (Matthew 18:5–14), as well as the need for discipline of sinning members of the congregation in accord with the standards of Scripture (Matthew 18:15–22; Acts 5:1–11; 1 Corinthians 5:1–13; 2 Thessalonians 3:6–15; 1 Timothy 1:19–20; Titus 1:10–16).

We teach the autonomy of the local church, free from any external authority or control, with the right of self-government and freedom from the interference of any hierarchy of individuals or organizations (Titus 1:5). We teach that it is scriptural for true churches to cooperate with each other for the presentation and propagation of the faith. Each local church, however, through its pastors and their interpretation and application of Scripture, should be the sole judge of the measure and method of its cooperation. The pastors should determine all other matters of membership, policy, discipline, benevolence, and government as well (Acts 15:19–31; 20:28; 1 Corinthians 5:4–7, 13; 1 Peter 5:1–4).

We teach that the purpose of the church is to glorify God (Ephesians 3:21) by building itself up in the faith (Ephesians 4:13–16), by instruction of the Word (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16–17), by fellowship (Acts 2:47; 1 John 1:3), by keeping the ordinances (Luke 22:19; Acts 2:38–42) and by advancing and communicating the gospel to the entire world (Matthew 28:19; Acts 1:8; 2:42).

We teach the calling of all saints to the work of service (1 Corinthians 15:58; Ephesians 4:12; Revelation 22:12).

5.11.1 Spiritual Gifts

We teach the need of the church to cooperate with God as He accomplishes His purpose in the world. To that end, He gives the church spiritual gifts. He gives men chosen for the purpose of equipping the saints for the work of the ministry (Ephesians 4:7–12), and He also gives unique and special spiritual abilities to each member of the Body of Christ (Romans 12:5–8; 1 Corinthians 12:4–31; 1 Peter 4:10–11).

We teach that there were two kinds of gifts given the early church: miraculous gifts of divine revelation and healing, given temporarily in the apostolic era for the purpose of confirming the authenticity of the apostles’ message (Hebrews 2:3–4; 2 Corinthians 12:12); and ministering gifts, given to equip believers for edifying one another. With the New Testament revelation now complete, Scripture becomes the sole test of the authenticity of a man’s message and confirming gifts of a miraculous nature are no longer necessary to validate a man or his message (1 Corinthians 13:8–12). Miraculous gifts can even be counterfeited by Satan to deceive even believers (1 Corinthians 13:13–14:12; Revelation 13:13–14). The only gifts in operation today are those non-revelatory equipping gifts given for edification (Romans 12:6–8).

We teach that no one possesses the gift of healing today, but that God does hear and answer the prayer of faith and will answer in accordance with His own perfect will for the sick, suffering, and afflicted (Luke 18:1–6; John 5:7–9; 2 Corinthians 12:6–10; James 5:13–16; 1 John 5:14–15).

5.11.2 Ordinances

We teach that two ordinances have been committed to the local church: baptism and the Lord’s Supper (Acts 2:38–42). Christian baptism by immersion (Acts 8:36–39) is the solemn and beautiful testimony of a believer showing forth his faith in the crucified, buried, and risen Savior, and his union with Him in death to sin and resurrection to a new life (Romans 6:1–11). It is also a sign of fellowship and identification with the visible Body of Christ (Acts 2:41–42).

We teach that the Lord’s Supper is the commemoration and proclamation of His death until He comes and should be always preceded by solemn self-examination (1 Corinthians 11:28–32). We also teach that, whereas the elements shared are only representative of the flesh and blood of Christ, participation in the Lord’s Supper is nevertheless an actual communion with the risen Christ, who indwells every believer, and so is present, fellowshipping with His people (1 Corinthians 10:16).

5.11.3 Missions

We teach that God has given His church a great commission to proclaim the gospel to all nations so that there will be a great multitude from every nation, tribe, ethnic group, and language group who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:19–20; Luke 24:46–48; John 20:21; 2 Corinthians 5:20).

5.12 Angels

We teach that God created an innumerable host of beings known as angels, seraphim, and cherubim.

5.12.1 Holy Angels

We teach that angels are created beings and are therefore not to be worshiped. Although they are a higher order of creation than man, they are created to serve God and to worship Him (Luke 2:9–14; Hebrews 1:6–7; 2:6–7; Revelation 5:11–14; 19:10; 22:9). A particular task of angels is serving the saints (Hebrews 1:14).

5.12.2 Satan

We teach that Satan is a created angel and the author of sin. He incurred the judgment of God because of his pride by rebelling against his Creator (Isaiah 14:12–17; Ezekiel 28:11–19), by taking numerous angels with him in his fall (Matthew 25:41; Revelation 12:1–14), and by introducing sin into the human race by his temptation of Eve (Genesis 3:1–15).

We teach that Satan is the open and declared enemy of God and man (Isaiah 14:13–14; Matthew 4:1–11; Revelation 12:9–10); that as the prince of this world he is active in propagating disobedience and deception (Genesis 3:1–7; Romans 5:19; Ephesians 2:2; 5:6; 1 Timothy 2:14; Revelation 20:3).

We teach that Satan has been defeated through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Romans 16:20) and that he shall be eternally punished in the lake of fire (Isaiah 14:12–17; Ezekiel 28:11–19; Matthew 25:41; Revelation 20:10).

5.12.3 Fallen Angels

We teach that a great company of angels joined Satan’s rebellion against God. Some of these actively carry out Satan’s unholy purposes (Mark 3:22; Ephesians 6:12), while others are kept in bondage until the final judgment (Jude 6).

5.13 Last Things

We teach that God has decreed what will happen in the last days for individuals and for all creation.

5.13.1 Death

We teach that physical death involves no loss of our immaterial consciousness (Revelation 6:9–11), that the soul of the redeemed passes immediately into the presence of Christ (Luke 23:43; Philippians 1:23; 2 Corinthians 5:8), that there is a separation of soul and body (Philippians 1:21–24), and that, for the redeemed, such separation will continue until the rapture (1 Thessalonians 4:13–17), when our soul and body will be reunited to be glorified forever with our Lord (Philippians 3:21; 1 Corinthians 15:35–44, 50–54). Until that time, the souls of the redeemed in Christ remain in joyful fellowship with our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:8).

We teach the bodily resurrection of all men, the saved to eternal life (John 6:39; Romans 8:10–11, 19–23; 2 Corinthians 4:14), and the unsaved to judgment and everlasting punishment (Daniel 12:2; John 5:29; Revelation 20:13–15).

We teach that the souls of the unsaved at death are kept under punishment until the second resurrection (Luke 16:19–26; Revelation 20:13–15), when the soul and the resurrection body will be united (John 5:28–29). They shall then appear at the Great White Throne Judgment (Revelation 20:11–15) and shall be cast into hell, the lake of fire (Matthew 25:41–46), cut off from the life of God forever (Daniel 12:2; 2 Thessalonians 1:7–9).

5.13.2 The Rapture of the Church

We teach the personal, bodily return in the air of our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:13–18; Titus 2:13) to translate His church, both those living saints and those who had died in Christ, from this earth (John 14:1–3; 1 Corinthians 15:51–53; 1 Thessalonians 4:15–5:11) and, between this event and His glorious return with His saints, to reward believers according to their works (1 Corinthians 3:11–15; 2 Corinthians 5:10).

5.13.3 The Tribulation Period

We teach that following the removal of the church from the earth, the righteous judgments of God will be poured out upon an unbelieving world (Jeremiah 30:7; Daniel 9:27; 12:1; 2 Thessalonians 2:7–12; Revelation 16), and that these judgments will be climaxed by the return of Christ in glory to the earth (Matthew 24:27–31; 25:31–46; 2 Thessalonians 2:7–12). At the return of Christ, the surviving remnant of ethnic Israel will be saved (Zechariah 12:10; Romans 11:25–27), the Old Testament and tribulation saints will be raised, and the living will be judged (Daniel 12:2–3; Revelation 20:4–6). This period concludes the seventieth week of Daniel’s prophecy (Daniel 9:24–27; Matthew 24:15–31; 25:31–46).

5.13.4 The Second Coming and the Millennium

We teach that, at the conclusion of the tribulation period, Christ will come to earth to deliver Israel from her enemies, to occupy the throne of David (Matthew 25:31; Luke 1:31–33; Acts 1:10–11; 2:29–30), and to establish His messianic kingdom for 1,000 years on the earth (Revelation 20:1–7). During this time, the resurrected saints will reign with Him over Israel and all the nations of the earth (Ezekiel 37:21–28; Daniel 7:17–22; Revelation 19:11–16). This reign will be preceded by the overthrow of the Antichrist and the False Prophet, and by the removal of Satan from the world (Daniel 7:17–27; Revelation 20:1–7).

We teach that the kingdom itself will be the fulfillment of God’s unconditional promises to Israel (Isaiah 65:17–25; Ezekiel 37:21–28; Zechariah 8:1–17) to restore them to the land that they forfeited through their disobedience (Deuteronomy 28:15–68). The result of their disobedience was that Israel was temporarily set aside (Matthew 21:43; Romans 11:1–26) but will again be awakened through repentance to enter the land of blessing (Jeremiah 31:31–34; Ezekiel 36:22–32; Romans 11:25–29).

We teach that this time of our Lord’s reign will be characterized by harmony, justice, peace, righteousness, and long life (Isaiah 11; 65:17–25; Ezekiel 36:33–38) and will be ended with the release of Satan (Revelation 20:7).

5.13.5 The Judgment of the Lost

We teach that following the release of Satan after the 1,000-year reign of Christ (Revelation 20:7), Satan will deceive the nations of the earth and gather them to battle against the saints and the beloved city, at which time Satan and his army will be devoured by fire from heaven (Revelation 20:9). Following this, Satan will be thrown into the lake of fire and brimstone (Matthew 25:41; Revelation 20:10), whereupon Christ, who is the Judge of all men (John 5:22), will resurrect and judge the great and small at the Great White Throne Judgment.

We teach that this resurrection of the unsaved dead to judgment will be a physical resurrection, whereupon receiving their judgment (John 5:28–29), they will be committed to an eternal conscious punishment in the lake of fire (Matthew 25:41; Revelation 20:11–15).

5.13.6 Eternity

We teach that after the closing of the millennium, the temporary release of Satan, and the judgment of unbelievers (2 Thessalonians 1:9; Revelation 20:7–15), the saved will enter the eternal state of glory with God, after which the elements of this earth are to be dissolved (2 Peter 3:10) and replaced with a new earth, wherein only righteousness dwells (Ephesians 5:5; Revelation 20:15; 21:1–27; 22:1–21). Following this, the heavenly city will come down out of heaven (Revelation 21:2) and will be the dwelling place of the saints, where they will enjoy forever fellowship with God and one another (John 17:3; Revelation 21–22). Our Lord Jesus Christ, having fulfilled His redemptive mission, will then deliver up the kingdom to God the Father (1 Corinthians 15:24–28), that in all spheres the triune God may reign forever and ever (1 Corinthians 15:28).

6 Corporate Membership

The Congregation shall have no members as that term is used in Kentucky Revised Statute 273.187. Any action which would otherwise require approval by a majority of all members shall only require approval by the Pastors. All rights which would otherwise vest in the members shall vest in the Pastors.

Nothing contained in the preceding paragraph shall be construed to limit the right of the Congregation to refer to persons associated with the Congregation as “members” even though such persons are not corporate members, and no such reference in or outside of these bylaws shall constitute anyone being a member, within the meaning of Kentucky Revised Statute 273.187.

7 Church Membership

Individuals regularly attending the meetings of the Congregation are encouraged to seek membership with the Congregation for fellowship, instruction, and shepherding (Acts 2:41–47; Hebrews 10:24–25; 13:7, 17).

7.1 Qualifications

Membership shall be extended to those individuals who present to the Pastors satisfactory evidence of having been born again by the Spirit of God and of being a willing follower of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Further, candidates for membership shall be at least twelve years of age, shall have been baptized following salvation, shall be committed to growing in Christ, and shall agree with and abide by these bylaws including the Standards of Christian Faith and Conduct contained herein. They need not give full assent to the Statement of Faith contained herein but shall recognize that all teaching from the Congregation shall conform to this Statement of Faith.

7.2 Admission

All requests for membership shall be made to the Pastors. Upon making such a request, the individual shall be given an application for membership along with a copy of these bylaws. Following receipt of the application, at least two Pastors shall interview the applicant to confirm their suitability to become a member.

After the careful deliberation and unanimous approval of the Pastors, the applicant may be received as a member. The Pastors shall approve or deny membership to any candidate as they may determine. The decision made by the Pastors shall be final and there shall be no appeal to any court from that decision.

Applicants admitted to membership shall, if possible, present themselves at a worship service designated by the Pastors, at which service such applicants shall publicly affirm their membership commitment and be publicly acknowledged as members.

7.3 Responsibilities

Members in good standing shall fulfill the following responsibilities:

Love God and love others, doing good to all people (Matthew 22:36–40; Galatians 6:10; Ephesians 2:10; Titus 3:8, 14).
Grow toward maturity in life and doctrine through Bible study, prayer, worship, and fellowship (Acts 2:42; Romans 12:1–2; Colossians 2:19; 2 Timothy 3:14–17; 1 Peter 2:2–3; 2 Peter 1:19–21; 3:18; Jude 3).
Pursue holiness and abstain from sexual immorality, fleshly lusts, and every form of evil (Romans 13:11–14; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Ephesians 5:3; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:22; 1 Peter 1:13–16; 2:11).
Serve others in love (Romans 12:9–10; Galatians 5:13–15; 1 Peter 1:22; 1 John 4:9–11).
Regularly attend the meetings of the Congregation (Acts 2:42–47; Hebrews 10:24–25) and contribute time, skills, and resources to the ministry of the Congregation (Romans 12:6–7; 1 Corinthians 12; 16:1–2; 2 Corinthians 8:3–5; 1 Peter 4:10–11).
Support the ministry of the Congregation through regular attendance, service, financial giving, and prayer (Acts 2:42–47; Romans 12:3–8; 1 Corinthians 12:4–31; 2 Corinthians 8–9; 1 Thessalonians 5:17–18; Hebrews 10:24–25; 1 Peter 4:8–11).
Submit to the teaching, care, and leadership of the Pastors (1 Thessalonians 5:12–13; Hebrews 13:7, 17).
Speak the truth in love, seeking the salvation and spiritual maturity of others in the home, church, and community (Matthew 28:19–20; Ephesians 4:15–16, 29–32; 6:4; Colossian 1:28–29).
Strive to maintain the unity of the Spirit in love and in the bond of peace (John 13:34–35; Ephesians 4:3; Colossians 3:14; 1 Thessalonians 5:12–15; 1 Peter 5:5).
Do good to all people (Galatians 6:10; Ephesians 2:10; Titus 3:8, 14).
Repent of and confess sins to God and others as appropriate (Acts 19:18; Romans 8:13; James 5:16; 1 John 1:9).
Teach and counsel in the Congregation consistent to the Standards of Christian Faith and Conduct contained herein (Acts 2:42; Romans 15:14; Jude 3).
Give and receive admonition for the purpose of gracious restoration to Christ and His people (Matthew 18:15–17; 1 Corinthians 5:9–13; Galatians 6:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:14; Hebrews 12:5–11).
Be kind, humble, and gentle toward others, showing compassion and graciously forgiving each other (Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:12–15).
Affirm and abide by these bylaws.

7.4 Rights

Members may request copies of prepared financial statements and congregational meeting minutes of the Congregation, provided that the written request stating the precise records requested and the reason for the request has been submitted to the Secretary at least five business days before the requested inspection date. Requests may be denied if such request is deemed to be frivolous by the Pastors.

Meeting minutes of the Pastors as well as other information involving privacy interests including but not limited to donor records, lists of names and addresses of church members, individual benevolence, individual salaries, health information, background checks, and social security numbers, are exempt from this provision and are not subject to inspection without a court order.

Members may not copy or take digital images or records of any ministry record without authorization from the Pastors. Members agree that information obtained from any inspection of records shall be kept in the strictest confidence.

Members shall have no contract, property, or civil legal rights in the property or other ministry affairs of the Congregation.

Membership shall not be assignable by any member nor shall membership vest to any personal representative, heir, or devisee.

7.5 Meetings

The Pastors shall call regular meetings of the members at least annually for the purpose of reporting the affairs of the Congregation and transacting such business as the Pastors may determine to bring before the members. Notice of these meetings including purpose, place, and time shall be given to the members at least two successive Sundays prior to the date of the meeting. The members physically present at each meeting shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, which business shall be approved by a majority of this quorum.

Members who desire that a certain motion be made or subject matter be discussed during a meeting must file a written recommendation with the Pastors two weeks prior to the set meeting, who shall then consider the proposal and proceed according to their conscience and what they understand to be in the best interests of the Congregation. All other motions shall be presented by the Pastors unless the Pastors have delegated authority to another member to raise certain motions. No motions shall be made from the floor.

A member of the Congregation shall be entitled to vote on those matters that the Pastors may present to the membership for affirmation. Voting privileges may only be exercised by members who are at least 18 years of age, who are not under any disciplinary action, and who are physically present at the meeting. Neither absentee nor proxy votes shall be accepted.

The President or other member designated by the Pastors shall serve as moderator of these meetings. The moderator shall determine the rules of procedure according to his sense of fairness and common sense, giving all members a reasonable opportunity to be heard on a matter. The moderator is the final authority on questions of procedure, and his decision is final and controlling.

For any meeting under this article, the moderator, in his sole discretion, shall have full and unilateral authority to require nonmembers (or children, if circumstances so warrant) to leave the meeting room and to order the immediate removal of any member or other person present who is deemed by the moderator to be disruptive to the proceedings by act or presence. If the moderator determines that compliance with his order of removal is unsatisfactory, he may, in his sole discretion, revoke the disruptive person’s right to remain on the premises and treat the person as a trespasser.

7.6 Church Discipline

Church discipline toward any member or regular attender of the Congregation may commence for various reasons including but not limited to unwillingness to become reconciled to an offended brother (Matthew 18:15–17), habitual absence from assemblies (Hebrews 10:25), unwillingness to work (2 Thessalonians 3:6–15), divisiveness (Romans 16:17–18; Titus 3:10–11), sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 5:1–13), false teaching (Romans 16:17–18; 1 Timothy 1:20; 2 Timothy 2:17–18; Titus 1:13–14; Revelation 2:2, 14–16, 20), and general unrepentant sinful conduct (2 Corinthians 7:9–10; Galatians 6:1; Ephesians 5:11; 2 Thessalonians 3:6, 10–15; 2 Timothy 3:2–5; 3 John 9–10).

The goal in such admonition is to produce a return to a biblical standard of doctrine and conduct in the erring individual (hereafter in this section, “the individual;” Galatians 6:1), to maintain purity in the Congregation (1 Corinthians 5:6; 2 Corinthians 7:8–12), to deter sin (1 Timothy 5:20), and in general to guard and preserve the honor of God (Titus 2:5, 10).

The Pastors shall be entitled to the same steps as other individuals and be subject to the same discipline (1 Timothy 5:19–20). If a Pastor is the subject of a disciplinary matter, he shall not be permitted to vote on his own membership termination.

7.6.1 Process

In Matthew 18:15–17, our Lord Jesus outlined for us the following process to address sin between individuals in the Congregation, understanding that this process shall allow reasonable time for repentance and continue to conclusion whether the individual leaves the Congregation or otherwise seeks to avoid the discipline process:

Confront the Individual Alone: It shall be the duty of any member or regular attender of this Congregation who has been offended by another individual’s sin (hereafter in this section, “the brother”) to admonish the individual in private, seeking his or her repentance and restoration (Romans 15:14; Galatians 2:11; 6:1; Colossians 3:16; 1 Thessalonians 5:14; 2 Timothy 2:24–26).
Confront the Individual with Witnesses: If the individual does not heed this admonition, then the brother shall again go to the individual accompanied by one or two witnesses to confirm the alleged sin, then to admonish the individual, seeking his or her repentance and restoration (Deuteronomy 19:15; 2 Corinthians 13:1–2; Galatians 6:1).
Inform the Congregation: If the individual still refuses to heed this admonition, then the brother shall inform the Pastors in the exercise of oversight of the Congregation (1 Timothy 5:17; Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 5:2). If the Pastors confirm that that the individual has sinned or is continuing to sin, that he or she has been appropriately confronted, and that he or she has refused to repent, then the Pastors shall inform the Congregation thereof at a regularly scheduled meeting of the Congregation in order that the Congregation may call the individual to repentance. Unless, as determined by the Pastors, the matter involves an issue of safety or security to the Congregation at large, the specifics of the matter shall not be addressed in a public forum or with the Congregation, and any information shared shall contain only those facts necessary for the sake of the Congregation to call the individual to repentance. If the individual demonstrates repentance, then notice to that effect shall be given at a regularly scheduled meeting of the Congregation.
Dismissal from the Congregation: If, however, the individual does not repent in response to the Congregation in its collective call to repentance, then, upon a majority vote of those present at a meeting of the Pastors, the individual shall be publicly dismissed from the membership and fellowship with the Congregation at a regularly scheduled meeting of the Congregation.

Alternately, any member or regular attender of this Congregation who has knowledge of sin in the Congregation shall report the offense to the Pastors. After addressing the issue with the individual (Galatians 6:1), the Pastors in the exercise of their discretion may proceed directly and quickly to dismiss the individual from the membership and fellowship with the Congregation when one or more of the following have occurred:

when the individual’s transgression and the refusal to repent has occurred notoriously and to the offense of the Congregation and its testimony in the community (1 Corinthians 5:1–5; 1 Timothy 5:14–15; Titus 2:1, 5, 8, 10);
when the individual has taught or otherwise disseminated doctrine deemed false or erroneous by the Pastors, then chosen to disregard the direction and reproof of the Pastors (Romans 16:17); or
when the individual has been admonished twice to cease from factious and divisive conduct in the Congregation and the individual has chosen to disregard that admonition (Titus 3:10–11; 3 John 9–10).

In any of these cases, the Pastors shall give notice to the Congregation, though the specifics of the matter shall not be addressed in a public forum or with the Congregation, and any information shared shall contain only those facts necessary for the sake of the Congregation to call the individual to repentance.

The members and regular attenders of this Congregation agree that there shall be no appeal to any court because of the dismissal or because of public statements to the Congregation in the process of church discipline (Matthew 18:18–20; 1 Corinthians 6:1–8).

7.6.2 How to Treat the Dismissed Individual

With the goal of leading the individual to repentance and restoration, the Congregation shall discontinue fellowship with the dismissed individual, regarding him or her as an outsider to the Congregation (Matthew 18:17; Romans 16:17–18; 1 Corinthians 5:2–13). The individual shall be prohibited from naturally associating with the Congregation in corporate gatherings and in private fellowship, except for the practice of admonition with the purpose of restoration.

7.6.3 Restoration

If the individual, after dismissal, heeds the admonition, demonstrates repentance, and requests reinstatement before the Pastors, the individual shall be publicly and joyously restored to membership or regular attendance at a regularly scheduled meeting of the Congregation (Matthew 18:12–14; Luke 15:1–32; 2 Corinthians 2:5–11).

7.7 Termination of Membership

Membership shall terminate automatically in any of the following circumstances:

The member gives written notice to the Pastors of their request to resign membership. A member undergoing church discipline may not resign their membership.
The member files a lawsuit against another member of the Congregation.
The member has been absent for six months of the regular meetings of the Congregation. However, membership may continue upon good cause as determined by the Pastors.
The member adopts opinions verbally, in print, or in any other manner or medium that are in direct contravention to the Congregation’s Standards of Christian Faith and Conduct.
The member joins the membership of another church, unless approved by the Pastors.
The member dies.

Membership shall terminate automatically in any of the following circumstances:

Members in good standing may request a letter of transfer be sent to another church.

8 Pastors

Leadership of the Congregation shall rest in the Pastors, comprised of men who fulfill the joint biblical office of elder-pastor-overseer. They shall conduct, manage, and direct the activities and affairs of the Congregation and shall be equal in authority.

8.1 Eligibility

Candidates for the office of Pastor must fulfill the following requirements:

Be a member in good standing who meets the minimum biblical qualifications (1 Timothy 3:1–7; Titus 1:6–9; 1 Peter 5:1–4).
Be an adult male.
Have a proven record of commitment and service to the Congregation.
Give full affirmation of the Statement of Faith contained herein.

8.2 Selection

Any member of the Congregation who believes himself or another member to be qualified to serve as a Pastor may present his name at any time to the Pastors. The Pastors may also purpose that a man or men be considered for the office of Pastor.

A member who has previously served as a Pastor of the Congregation may be reinstated upon the determination of the Pastors about the attendant circumstances.

Men who have been ordained as Pastors in other assemblies shall not be automatically recognized as Pastors of the Congregation but shall be subject to the same process of selection described herein.

The Pastors shall decide by unanimous consent whether the man suggested should be regarded as a viable candidate for the office of Pastor. In determining this, the Pastors shall contact the man himself to determine his assessment of God’s will for him in this matter (Acts 20:28; 1 Timothy 3:1; 1 Peter 5:2). In no instance shall any individual be considered a candidate without his consent.

If the man desires the office under the Lord’s the direction, the Pastors shall then take reasonable time to evaluate the candidate. This time shall provide for (1) continued prayer and fasting to discover God’s will (Acts 14:23), (2) a period to familiarize the candidate with the functions of a Pastor, (3) service in teaching publicly and privately, and (4) a sufficient opportunity for the existing leaders to develop their relationship with the candidate and to evaluate his spiritual depth and character. Any serious deficiencies in character or skill shall be addressed directly in a targeted discipleship process between the candidate and an existing Pastor.

Following the period of consideration and with unanimous consent, the Pastors shall present the name of the candidate to the Congregation for consideration. The Congregation shall be given at least three weeks to express themselves regarding the candidate, remembering to follow the steps in Matthew 18 if there is the prospect of a bad report. They shall acquaint the Pastors of their questions and concerns either by conversing with one of the existing Pastors or by writing to the Pastors.

Any objections concerning the candidate which might surface during this process shall be worked through in a constructive manner with the candidate, so that any deficiencies or misunderstandings may be corrected.

When the Pastors are assured of God’s direction and are confident that any objections have been resolved, they may by unanimous consent appoint the candidate to serve as a Pastor.

The newly appointed Pastor shall be confirmed by the laying on of the hands of the Pastors in the presence of the Congregation.

8.3 Number

There shall be at least three men serving as Pastors at any given time in fulfillment of Kentucky Revised Statutes 273.211.

The Pastors may increase or decrease its number to a minimum of three as needed to provide adequate care for the Congregation.

8.4 Term

Any Pastor’s term shall be indefinite, subject to provisions found elsewhere in these bylaws.

8.5 Responsibilities and Powers

Under the authority of the Chief Shepherd, the Lord Jesus Christ, the Pastors have a ministry of feeding and leading the Congregation.

The Pastors collectively shall practice the following responsibilities and powers:

Shepherd the flock as humble servants (Acts 11:30; 20:28, 35; 1 Thessalonians 5:12; Hebrews 13:7, 17; 1 Peter 5:2).
Seek the Lord’s will for the Congregation (Acts 15:22).
Oversee the Congregation in the present and plan for its future.
Arrange for all meetings of the Congregation including the choice of preachers and special reports and the administration of baptism and the Lord’s Supper.
Maintain an open conversation with the membership to receive input, opinions, and perspectives on matters related to the Congregation (Ephesians 4:15, 25, 29; James 1:19).
Represent the Congregation in law.
Keep the Congregation well-advised as to its financial and material interests and prospects.
Establish, execute, and amend the annual budget.
Obtain, manage, and dispose of real and personal property on behalf of the Congregation.
Teach, preach, exhort, and counsel the Congregation consistent to the Statement of Faith contained herein (1 Thessalonians 5:12; 1 Timothy 3:2; 5:17; Titus 1:9; Hebrews 13:7)
Judge doctrinal issues (Acts 15:6), refute false teachers (Titus 1:9), and protect the Congregation from false teaching (Acts 20:28–31).
Show hospitality (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8).
Pray over the sick (James 5:14).
Provide a godly example (1 Timothy 3:1–7; Titus 1:6–9; Hebrews 13:7; 1 Peter 5:1–5).
Decide and execute transactions regarding real property, including rental, lease, purchase, and sale.
Determine the appropriateness of all property use as well as persons permitted to use the Congregation property.
Train, select, and remove Pastors, Deacons, employees, and agents of the Congregation, including but not limited to prescribing duties, fixing the terms of office, and setting compensation.
Establish policies and procedures consistent with the purposes of the Congregation.
Receive and disperse funds and properties of the Congregation.
Officiate weddings.
Establish mandatory safety and security procedures for all ministries and programs. There shall be a zero-tolerance policy regarding abuse of minors, and any reasonable suspicions of child abuse alleged to be perpetrated by staff, volunteers, members, or non-members shall be reported to the appropriate law enforcement or child abuse prevention authorities. The Pastors shall be responsible to provide yearly child abuse prevention training for all staff and volunteers.
Conduct an annual ministry liability and safety review of the following policies and/or topics: child protection, including but not limited to worker screening procedures, child abuse reporting procedures, and worker training on child abuse prevention; building safety; security measures; insurance; financial accountability; transportation; sexual harassment; policies listed in IRS Form 990, including a whistleblower policy, a document retention and destruction policy, and a church financial investment policy (if applicable).
Interpret the meaning and application of these bylaws.
Review and affirm these bylaws within the first quarter of each year.
Amend and replace these bylaws as appropriate.
Perform other duties and exercise such powers as may be biblically appropriate under the direction of Christ.

All powers of the Pastors shall be compatible with the laws of the state of Kentucky.

8.6 Rights

Each Pastor shall have the right at any reasonable time to inspect all books, records, and documents of the Congregation and to inspect the physical properties rented, leased by, or owned by the Congregation, for such purposes as reasonably relate to the Pastor’s role.

8.7 Meetings

The Pastors shall meet in regular and special session at a date, time, and place as determined by the Pastors.

Notice shall not be required for regularly scheduled meetings of the Pastors unless there has been a change to the time, date, or location of such regularly scheduled meetings, in which case notice shall be given in accordance with this section of the bylaws. Notice shall be given at least 24 hours before the proposed meeting and shall be provided in accordance with the provisions of this section for all special meetings of the Pastors. Pastors may participate in these meetings remotely so long as all Pastors have received notice of how to join the meeting and can hear one another. Remote participation in this way constitutes the presence of that Pastor at the meeting.

At every meeting of the Pastors, the President or, in his absence, a Pastor duly chosen by a majority of the Pastors present, shall act as moderator and shall conduct the meeting in an orderly manner.

All the Pastors shall be responsible for the task of decision-making, each man participating in discussion and deliberation. The Pastors shall have sufficient time together in prayer and mutual exhortation in order that their unity may be preserved under the leadership of Christ. Decisions shall be reached after prayerful consideration by unanimous vote in a spirit of humility, with each Pastor regarding one another before himself. A Pastor shall abstain from those matters pertaining to himself or his immediate family, including but not limited to matters of compensation and discipline.

8.8 Action Without Meeting

Any action required or permitted to be taken by the Pastors may be taken without a meeting if all Pastors shall individually or collectively consent in writing to a duly prepared resolution to such action. Such consent or consents shall have the same effect as a unanimous vote of the Pastors and shall be documented by attaching the signed resolution with the minutes of proceeds of the Pastors.

A majority of Pastors present regardless of quorum may adjourn any Pastors’ meeting to another time with notice given to all Pastors as provided in these bylaws.

8.9 Quorum

A majority of the Pastors currently serving shall constitute a quorum. If a quorum is not attained, then those present shall adjourn the meeting to a new date certain duly noticed to all Pastors for not more than ten days thereafter, at that later-noticed meeting a quorum shall consist of those Pastors then present.

Whenever the matter to be considered relates to compensation of Pastors, a majority of non-compensated Pastors currently serving shall constitute a quorum.

Whenever the matter to be considered concerns appointing or dismissing a Pastor or buying or selling real estate, a quorum shall consist of not less than two-thirds of the number of Pastors currently serving.

Except as these bylaws may provide, the act or decision done or made by the Pastors present at a regular or special meeting duly held at which a quorum is present shall be the act of all the Pastors.

8.10 Voting

Voting shall be by voice unless a ballot is requested. Proxy votes shall not be accepted.

8.11 Committees

The Pastors may designate or form any committees and may appoint members and/or chairpersons of said committees as considered by the Pastors to be in the best interests of the Congregation. These committees may be standing or temporary (special) committees.

Committees have no authority to act on behalf of the Congregation; their primary function is to research and recommend. Committees shall make available upon request all records and materials to the Pastors, who shall have the right to overrule any plans or decisions made by the committee. Each committee shall have a secretary who keeps and timely submit minutes of each meeting to the Secretary of the Congregation to be filed with church records.

8.12 Compensation

Pastors as such shall not receive any stated salaries for their services, except that certain Pastors may be paid salaries and receive housing and other allowances as the Pastors shall decide (1 Timothy 5:17–18). The freeing of certain Pastors to serve the Congregation on a salaried basis shall in no way be construed as interfering with the equality of office shared among the Pastors. Any person receiving compensation directly or indirectly from the Congregation shall not be able to determine the nature or amount of said compensation.

8.13 Emergency Powers

An emergency exists if a quorum of Pastors cannot readily be obtained because of some catastrophic event.

If an emergency exists, the Pastors may (1) modify lines of succession to accommodate the incapacity of any Pastor, employee, or agent; and (2) relocate the principal office or designate an alternative principal office.

During an emergency, a notice of a meeting of the Pastors only needs to be given to those Pastors for whom it is practicable.

Action taken in good faith during an emergency binds the Congregation and may not be the basis for imposing liability on any Pastor, employee, or agent of the Congregation on the ground that the action was not authorized.

The Pastors may also adopt emergency bylaws, subject to amendments or repeal by the full number of Pastors, which may include provisions necessary for managing the Congregation during an emergency including (1) procedures for calling a meeting of the Pastors, (2) quorum requirements for the meeting, and (3) designation of additional or substitute Corporate Officers.

The emergency bylaws shall remain in effect during the emergency and shall be revoked after the Pastors have deemed that the emergency has ended.

8.14 Resignation and Removal

Any Pastor may resign from his office at any time by giving written notice to the President of the Pastors. Any such resignation shall take effect at the date of the receipt of such notice or at any later time specified therein; and, unless otherwise specified therein, the acceptance of such resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective.

Any Pastor may be removed from his office at any meeting of the Pastors when he is determined to be unsuitable to serve in any way including physically, mentally, or spiritually.

A Pastor who is removed for a disqualifying sin for which he is not repentant shall be rebuked in a regularly scheduled meeting of the Congregation (1 Timothy 5:19–20) and shall be removed from membership.

8.15 Vacancy

The Pastors may appoint successors at any time for vacancies among themselves in the manner prescribed in these bylaws for regular appointment of Pastors.

9 Corporate Officers

The Pastors shall designate annually from themselves three men to serve individually in the offices of President, Secretary, and Treasurer.

9.1 President

The President shall fulfill the following responsibilities:

Preside at all meetings of the Pastors and meetings of the membership. In the event of a conflict of interest, the Pastors may substitute a moderator.
Serve as the principal executive officer and registered agent of the Congregation.
Have general supervision, direction, and control of the activities and officers of the Congregation.
Be an ex officio member of all committees, if any, and shall have powers and duties as may be prescribed by the Pastors or the bylaws.
In general, perform all duties incident to the office of the President and such other duties as may be prescribed by the Pastors from time to time.

9.2 Secretary

The Secretary shall fulfill the following responsibilities:

Certify and keep at the office of the Congregation the original bylaws or a copy, including all amendments or alterations to the bylaws; minutes of meetings; the membership roll, baptisms, and records of any special events which are of historical interest to the Congregation; and shall deliver such documents to his or her successor upon leaving office.
Maintain and file minutes of all church business and meetings of the Pastors, including the time and place of holding, the notice given, the names of those present unless a church-wide meeting, and an accurate record of all church business approved at each meeting. A copy of these minutes shall be kept as a permanent record of the Congregation and shall be made available at all reasonable times to proper person on terms provided by law and pursuant to these bylaws.
Keep a register of the names and addresses of Congregation members, including but not limited to date of birth, date of membership, and date of death.
Sign, certify, or attest documents as may be required by law; and see that reports, statements, certificates, and all other documents and records required by law are properly kept and filed.
Give all notices in accordance with the provisions of these bylaws or as required by law. In case of the absence or disability of the secretary, or his refusal or neglect to act, notice may be given and served by any of the Pastors.
Turn over all records of the Congregation to the Pastors when requested.
In general, perform all duties as from time to time may be assigned to him by the Pastors.

The Secretary is entitled to delegate those of his duties as may be practical for delegation.

9.3 Treasurer

The Treasurer shall fulfill the following responsibilities:

Ensure that all financial transactions comply with these bylaws and any relevant laws.
Keep adequate and correct records of the Congregation’s property, business, and other financial transactions.
Have charge and custody of and be responsible for all funds and securities of the Congregation.
Maintain records of contributions by name of donor and prepare annual statements to donors including the total amount contributed.
Receive and give receipts for monies due and payable to the Congregation from any source whatsoever.
Deposit all such monies and other valuables in the name of the Congregation in such depositories as may be designated by the Pastors.
Disburse the funds of the Congregation as may be ordered by the Pastors.
Submit to the Pastors periodic financial reports.
Submit to the Congregation an annual financial report.
Prepare a proposed budget for the upcoming year subject to modification and approval by the Pastors.
Submit his books at any time for auditing and turn over to the Pastors as directed by them, or to his successor when elected, all monies, documents, and papers belonging to the Congregation.
In general, perform all the duties incident to the office of Treasurer and such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to him by the Pastors.

The Treasurer is entitled to delegate those of his duties as may be practical for delegation.

The Treasurer need not give a bond for the faithful discharge of his duties.

9.4 Term

The term of service for President, Secretary, and Treasurer shall be one year, at the expiration of which the officers may be re-elected or re-appointed.

9.5 Resignation and Removal

An officer may resign his office or be removed by the unanimous action of the other Pastors.

9.6 Vacancies

A vacancy in any office for any reason shall be filled in the manner prescribed in these bylaws for the regular appointment of officers, provided that such vacancies shall be filled as they occur and are not required to be filled on an annual basis.

9.7 Inability to Act

In the case of absence or inability to act of any officer of the Congregation and of any person herein authorized to act in his place, the Pastors may from time-to-time delegate the powers or duties of such officer to any other officer or other person whom the Pastors may select.

10 Deacons

Deacons serve the Congregation in various ways under the direction of the Pastors.

10.1 Eligibility

The Deacons shall consist of members in good standing who meet the minimum biblical qualifications (1 Timothy 3:8–13) as determined by the Pastors.

10.2 Appointment, Number, and Term

The Pastors shall, at their discretion, appoint men to serve as Deacons, notifying the Congregation who is appointed and their responsibilities.

The Pastors may increase or decrease the number of Deacons as needed to meet the needs of the Congregation.

Any Deacon’s term shall be determined by the Pastors, subject to provisions found elsewhere in these bylaws.

10.3 Responsibilities

The Deacons shall assist the Pastors with various duties as may be assigned by the Pastors.

Although the Deacons may advise the Pastors as to decisions which affect the life and ministry of the Congregation, the office of Deacon is not considered as administrative nor is the group of Deacons to be considered a board of some kind.

10.4 Resignation and Removal

Any Deacon may be removed from office at any time by his resignation or by action of the Pastors whenever, in their collective judgment, the best interests of the Congregation or the individual Deacon are served by such removal.

10.5 Vacancy

The Pastors may appoint successors at any time for vacancies among the Deacons in the manner prescribed in these bylaws for regular appointment of Deacons.

11 Educational Programs

11.1 Purpose

The Congregation believes that the home and church are responsible before God for providing a Christian education. To help fulfill this responsibility of imparting biblical truth, this church shall establish and maintain educational programs for the purposes of winning souls to Christ and teaching Bible doctrine, godly worship, and biblical Christian living.

11.2 Church Participation

All educational programs or courses of instruction formulated and offered by the Congregation shall be primarily for the benefit of the members of the Congregation. However, the Pastors may permit non-church members to participate in church educational programs or courses of instruction if they deem it in the best interests of the Congregation.

11.3 Agreement with the Statement of Faith

All educational programs or courses of instruction shall be conducted as an integral and inseparable ministry of the Congregation and shall be taught and presented in full agreement with the Statement of Faith of the Congregation and the inerrant Word of God. The Pastors may remove any employee or volunteer from the Congregation’s educational programs who fails to adhere to or who expresses disagreement with the Statement of Faith or who adopts or lives a lifestyle inconsistent with the beliefs and practices of the Statement of Faith, whether in or out of the classroom.

12 Conflict of Interest

12.1 Purpose

This policy protects the interest of the Congregation when the Pastors consider entering a transaction or arrangement that might benefit a private interest of a Pastor, employee, or agent of the Congregation or might result in a possible excess benefit transaction. This policy is intended to supplement but not replace any applicable state and federal laws governing conflict of interest applicable to nonprofit and charitable organizations.

The Congregation depends on charitable contributions from the public and maintaining its tax-exempt status for its continued financial stability and for the receipt of contributions and public support. The Pastors, employees, and agents of the Congregation have a fiduciary duty of loyalty and fidelity to the Congregation and have the responsibility of administering the affairs of the Congregation honestly and prudently, of exercising their best care, skill, and judgment for the sole benefit of the Congregation, and of exercising the utmost good faith in all transactions in which they are involved.

12.2 Definitions

Interested person: Any Pastor, employee, or agent of the Congregation who has a direct or indirect financial interest.

Financial interest: A person has a financial interest, directly or indirectly, through business, investment, or family, in any of the following conditions: (1) an ownership or material investment interest in any entity with which the Congregation has a transaction or arrangement, (2) a compensation arrangement with the Congregation or with any entity or individual with which the Congregation has a transaction or arrangement, or (3) a potential ownership or investment interest in or compensation arrangement with any entity or individual with which the Congregation is negotiating a transaction or arrangement. A financial interest is not necessarily a conflict of interest, and a person who has a financial interest may have a conflict of interest only if the Pastors decide that a conflict of interest exists.

Compensation: Direct and indirect remuneration as well as gifts or favors that are not insubstantial.

Conflict of interest: An actual or possible financial interest that impairs, or might appear to impair, an interested person’s independence or objectivity in the discharge of his or her responsibilities and duties to the Congregation.

12.3 Duty to Disclose

In connection with any actual or possible conflict of interest, an interested person must disclose the existence of the financial interest and be given the opportunity to disclose all material facts to the Pastors.

12.4 Determining Whether a Conflict of Interest Exists

After disclosure of the financial interest and all material facts, and after any discussion with the interested person, the Pastors, or remaining Pastors if the interested person is a Pastor, shall determine in the absence of the interested person if a conflict of interest exists by majority vote, even if the majority is less than a quorum.

12.5 Procedures for Addressing the Conflict of Interest

After exercising due diligence, the Pastors shall determine whether the Congregation can obtain with reasonable efforts a more advantageous transaction or arrangement from a person or entity that would not give rise to a conflict of interest.

If a more advantageous transaction or arrangement is not reasonably possible under circumstances not producing a conflict of interest, the Pastors shall determine by a majority vote of the disinterested Pastors, even if the majority is less than a quorum, whether the transaction or arrangement is in the best interest of the Congregation, for its own benefit, and whether it is fair and reasonable.

In conformity with the above determination, it shall make its decision as to whether to enter the transaction or arrangement.

Notwithstanding, a transaction may not be authorized, approved, or ratified by a single Pastor.

12.6 Violations

If the Pastors or committee has reasonable cause to believe a member has failed to disclose actual or possible conflicts of interest, it shall inform the member of the basis for such belief and afford the member an opportunity to explain the alleged failure to disclose.

If, after hearing the member’s response and after making further investigation as warranted by the circumstances, the Pastors determines the member has failed to disclose an actual or possible conflict of interest, it shall take appropriate disciplinary and corrective action.

12.7 Records of Proceedings

The minutes of the Pastors shall contain the names of the persons who disclosed or otherwise were found to have a financial interest in connection with an actual or possible conflict of interest, the nature of the financial interest, any action taken to determine whether a conflict of interest was present, and the Pastors’ decision as to whether a conflict of interest existed.

The minutes of the Pastors also shall contain the names of the persons who were present for discussions and votes relating to the transaction or arrangement, the content of the discussion, including any alternatives to the proposed transaction or arrangement, and a record of any votes taken in connection with the proceedings.

12.8 Annual Statements

Each Pastor and member of a committee with delegated powers shall annually sign a statement which affirms such person has received a copy of this policy; has read and understands the policy; has agreed to comply with the policy; and understands the organization is charitable and, to maintain its federal tax exemption, it must engage primarily in activities which accomplish one or more of its tax-exempt purposes.

12.9 Periodic Reviews

To ensure the organization operates in a manner consistent with charitable purposes and does not engage in activities that could jeopardize its tax-exempt status, periodic reviews shall be conducted. The periodic reviews shall, at a minimum, include whether compensation arrangements and benefits are reasonable, based on competent survey information, and the result of arm’s-length bargaining; and whether partnerships, joint ventures, and arrangements with management organizations conform to the Congregation’s written policies, are properly recorded, reflect reasonable investment or payments for goods and services, further charitable purposes, and do not result in inurement, impermissible private benefit, or an excess benefit transaction.

When conducting the periodic reviews as provided for above, the Pastors may, but need not, use outside advisors. If outside experts are used, their use shall not relieve the Pastors of its responsibility for ensuring periodic reviews are conducted.

13 Miscellaneous Provisions

13.1 Fiscal Year

The fiscal year shall commence on January 1 and end on December 31 of the same year.

13.2 Receipt, Investment, and Disbursements of Funds

The ministries and program of the Congregation shall be funded entirely by the voluntary gifts and offerings of God’s people. All donor information shall remain confidential. Contributions are made with the understanding that the Pastors have complete control of the donated funds and discretion as to the use of the funds. At its discretion the Pastors may but need not accept on behalf of the Congregation any contribution, gift, bequest, or devise for general purposes or for any special purpose of the Congregation. No fiduciary obligation shall be created by any designated contribution made to the Congregation other than to use the contribution for the general furtherance of any of the purposes stated herein.

13.3 Prohibition of Debt

The Congregation may not apply for, accrue, or grant any financial indebtedness.

13.4 Groups

Each part of the Congregation must exist for and be accomplishing the stated purposes of the Congregation. The origin and practice of each group shall be approved by the Pastors, and the Pastors shall review each group at least annually to ensure its alignment with the stated purposes of the Congregation. All groups within the Congregation shall be subject to these bylaws.

All group leaders shall teach the Congregation consistent to the Statement of Faith contained herein.

All groups shall submit written annual activities reports to the Secretary and shall submit written budget requests and reports to the Treasurer from time to time. No group may take on the regular support of any work or missionary without the approval of the Pastors.

All groups shall announce forthcoming meetings publicly and invite attendance. No group shall be permitted to encourage exclusiveness or be a secret body.

13.5 Notice

Unless otherwise stated herein, any notice may be given orally or in writing. If provision is made for mailing of notice, that notice is deemed given at the time of mailing. Mailed notices shall be sent by first-class mail to the address listed for a member on the rolls of the Congregation and shall be mailed at the post office serving the zip or postal code of the Congregation’s principal office.

13.6 Private Property

Although the public is invited to all the Congregation’s worship services, all property rented, leased by, owned by, or otherwise managed by the Congregation shall be considered private property.

The Pastors have the authority to suspend or revoke the right of any person, including a member, to enter or remain on church property. If after being notified of such a suspension or revocation, the person enters or remains on church property, the person may, in the discretion of the pastor or person designated by the Pastors, be treated as a trespasser.

13.7 Indemnification

The Congregation shall indemnify and hold harmless all Pastors, employees, and agents for any expenses actually and necessarily incurred in connection with any action, suit, or proceeding against them in relation to their service in the Congregation’s best interests.

13.8 Weddings

Marriage ceremonies performed in any facility or space rented, leased by, or owned by the Congregation shall be only those ceremonies sanctioned by God as described in the Statement of Faith contained herein. Whenever there is a conflict between the Congregation’s position and any new legal standard for marriage, the Congregation’s Statement of Faith, doctrines, and biblical positions shall govern (Genesis 2:24; Ephesians 5:22–23; Mark 10:6–9; 1 Corinthians 7:1–9).

13.9 Instruments in Writing

All transactions involving finances, contracts, and other instruments shall be signed by individuals as the Pastors may from time to time designate by resolution.

14 Settlement of Disputes

14.1 Submission to Arbitration

Members of the Congregation must agree to submit to binding Christian arbitration any legal matters within the Congregation that cannot otherwise be resolved, and expressly waive all rights in law and equity to bring any civil disagreement before a court of law, except that judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrator may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof.

14.2 Arbitration Procedures

The procedures for arbitration shall be as adopted by the Pastors. If the Pastors have not adopted procedures, the Congregation shall use arbitration procedures provided by the National Center for Life and Liberty. This arbitration provision is ecclesiastical and faith-based in nature and is intended to operate under the rules and guidelines of this local church. It is not intended to operate under any state or federal guidelines for arbitration.

15 Tax-Exemption Provisions

15.1 Private Inurement

No part of the net earnings of the Congregation shall inure to the benefit of or be distributable to its members, Pastors, officers, or other private persons, except that the Congregation shall be authorized and empowered to pay reasonable compensation for services rendered and to make payments and distributions in furtherance of the purposes set forth herein.

15.2 Political Activities

No substantial part of the activities of the Congregation shall be the carrying on of propaganda, lobbying, or otherwise attempting to influence legislation. The Congregation shall not participate in or intervene in (including the publishing or distribution of statements) any political campaign on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office.

15.3 Nondiscrimination Policy

The Congregation shall not discriminate against members, applicants for membership, students, or others based on ethnicity; however, as a religious institution it reserves the right to deny or terminate employment or to deny or terminate any other status of persons whose lifestyle, words, actions or otherwise do not align with the Congregation’s Statement of Faith, Standard of Christian Faith and Conduct, or other policies of the Congregation. This policy statement is not intended to waive the ministerial exception or any other exception or exemption to federal, state, or local antidiscrimination laws or regulations.

15.4 Limitation of Activities

Notwithstanding any other provision of these bylaws, the Congregation shall not, except to an insubstantial degree, engage in any activities or exercise any powers that are not in furtherance of the purposes stated herein.

15.5 Dissolution

Upon dissolution of the Congregation, after paying or making provision for payment of all its liabilities, the Pastors shall dispose of all the Congregation’s remaining assets to such organization or organizations formed and operated exclusively for religious purposes as shall at the time qualify as an exempt organization or organizations under Section 503(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (or the corresponding provision of any future United States Internal Revenue Law). Assets may be distributed only to tax-exempt organizations that agree with the Congregation’s Standards of Christian Faith and Conduct.

16 Effectual Power of These Bylaws

These bylaws shall take effect immediately upon its unanimous ratification by the officers of the Congregation on record at the time with the Secretary of State of Kentucky, whereupon these officers shall also become both members and Pastors of the Congregation.

17 Amendments

These bylaws shall be open to regular review and amendment. Any proposed amendment may be submitted in writing by any member to the Pastors, whereupon the Pastors shall determine to modify, reject, or approve said proposal, providing that the final wording of the amendment shall be presented to all Pastors at least fourteen (14) days prior to the meeting in which it may be approved. Following the unanimous approval of the Pastors, notice of the text of the amendment shall be given to the members. Over the course of at least fourteen (14) days, the members shall present to the Pastors any questions or concerns they may have regarding the proposed amendment. Having adequately responded to the questions and concerns of the members and having modified the text of the proposed amendment as may be prudent and necessary, the Pastors shall call for a vote of the members to affirm the amendment. Any such amendment shall become effective immediately upon a majority vote of the members affirming the same.

These bylaws supersede any other bylaws of the Congregation.