Church Constitution

PREAMBLE

Whereas we, a body of believers in Jesus Christ, organized for the purpose of spreading the gospel of our Lord and Saviour and the teachings and the practices of the biblical Baptist faith, deem it advisable that we have definite laws to direct us so that all things may be done decently and in order, therefore, be it resolved that we adopt the following constitution:

ARTICLE I NAME

The name of this organization shall be "Corinth Baptist Church." (Amended March 9, 2005)

ARTICLE II – PURPOSE

The purpose of this organization shall be: first, to win people to a personal allegiance to Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord; second, to train them in Christian living and to develop Christian character; and third, to help spread the gospel of Christ throughout the world. This purpose is expressed more in detail in the church covenant held by biblical Baptist churches which we hereby adopt.

ARTICLE III STATEMENT OF FAITH

Concerning the Scriptures
We believe in the verbal (all words) and plenary (all texts) inspiration of the Scriptures, made up of sixty-six books (Lk. 24:25-27,44), which constitute the Old and New Testaments – The Word of God.

We believe that holy men of God were “moved by the Holy Spirit” to write the very words of Scripture (2 Peter 1:19-21; 2 Tim. 3:16; Mt. 5:18). We believe that this divine inspiration extends equally and fully to all parts of Scripture (historical, poetical, doctrinal, and prophetical) and that, therefore, the Scriptures are inspired, infallible, and inerrant in their totality in the original writings. While honoring honest differences of understanding in how God has preserved His Word, we reaffirm with our Baptist forefathers that God, by His singular care and providence, has preserved His Word pure in all ages (Mt. 24:35; Is. 40:8).

We believe the Scriptures are to be interpreted by the grammatical-historical method; meaning they must be interpreted using all common literary forms and devices and that all portions of Scripture must be interpreted within their original historical background and context. We believe that the true spiritual import of the Scriptures can only be understood with the aid of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 2:11-14; John 3:6-12).

We believe the Scripture is the final authority and is to be the final court of appeal in all matters of faith and practice (Is. 8:20; Jn. 12:46-48; 2 Tim. 3:16-4:2).

Concerning the True God
We believe in the one Triune God, the Creator of heaven and earth (Gen. 1:1; Ex. 20:2-3). God exists eternally in three Persons – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – and these three are one God, having precisely the same nature, attributes, and perfections, and are worthy of precisely the same homage, confidence, and obedience (Mt. 3:16-17; Deut. 6:4; Mt. 28:18-20; Is. 46:9; 2 Cor. 13:14). We believe that the Triune God created the heavens and the earth out of nothing in six literal twenty-four hour days (Gen. 1:5; Ex. 20:11). We believe each member of the Godhead exercises distinct yet harmonious offices in the great work of redemption (Eph. 1:3-10; 4:4-6).

Concerning the Lord Jesus Christ
We believe the Lord Jesus Christ, being eternally the Son of God, was ordained by the Father to be the Mediator between God and man; the Prophet, Priest, and King; the Head and Saviour of the Church; Heir of all things; and judge of the world (Phil. 2:5-11; 1 Tim. 2:5; Heb. 2:14-18; Heb. 4:14-16). In the fullness of time God sent forth His Son conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary (Gal. 4:4-5; Is. 7:14; Mt. 1:23). Having the very nature of God He took upon Himself the nature of man, becoming eternally the God-man – Very God of Very God and Very man of Very man (John 1:1-3, 14, 18). The Lord Jesus Christ, having taken the nature of man, with all the essential properties and common infirmities, lived totally apart from and without sin, thus becoming the perfect second Adam. (Heb. 4:15; 1 John 3:5; 1 Pet. 2:22; John 8:46; Rom. 5:14-21; 1 Cor. 15:45). The sinless, spotless Son of God gave Himself as a voluntary, substitutionary sacrifice on the cross for our sins (1 Pet. 3:18; John 10:17-18; Heb. 7:25). After three days and three nights the Lord Jesus rose victorious from the grave becoming the firstfruits of those that were asleep (1 Cor. 15:20-26).

We believe the Lord Jesus ascended to Heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father where He now makes intercession for us and where He also now awaits the Father’s good time to come again for His own (Acts 1:9-11; Heb. 9:24-28; John 14:1-3; 1 Thess. 4:13-18).

Concerning the Holy Spirit
We believe that the Holy Spirit is the third member of the Godhead possessing the same nature, attributes, and perfections as the other members of the Trinity (Acts 5:1-4). We believe the primary ministry of the Holy Spirit in all ages is to bring glory to the Son (John 16:13).

We believe the Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment, as well as presently restrains evil in this world (Jn. 16:8-11; 2 Thess. 2:5-7).

Furthermore, we believe in and are completely open to the ministry of the Holy Spirit among God's people as recorded in and mandated by the Scriptures. The Holy Spirit is the supernatural agent involved in regenerating the lost, providing biblical understanding, baptizing all believers into the body of Christ, indwelling, filling, guiding, teaching, gifting, sanctifying and sealing them until the day of redemption (Jn. 3:3-11; 1 Cor. 2:12-16; Eph. 2:4-6; John 7:37-39; John 14:16-17; Rom. 8:9; Eph. 5:18; 1 John 2:20,27; Jn. 14:16-17, 25-26; 16:12-14; 1 Cor. 12:1-11; Rom. 12:4-8; Eph. 4:7; 1 Peter 4:10-11; 1 Thess. 5:23-24; 1 Cor. 6:19-20; 2 Cor. 3:17; Eph. 1:13-14, 4:30).

We believe the ministry of the Holy Spirit, although alike in most ways, was somewhat different in the Old Testament. Especially is this true in reference to His present ministry of baptizing all believers into one body and thereby forming the Church which is distinctive to this age (1 Cor. 12:13; Eph. 3:2-11). In the future, after the rapture of the Church, the Holy Spirit will no longer restrain sin in and through the Church allowing the full manifestation of the mystery of iniquity in the person of the Antichrist (2 Thess. 2:3-12; Rev. 13:1-8).

We believe the Lord Jesus chose the Apostles for the purpose of establishing the Church and completing the Scripture. The Holy Spirit, in a unique and non-repeatable way, led them and authenticated their ministry with signs and wonders and mighty deeds (Acts 2:43; 5:12; 15:12; 19:11; 2 Cor. 12:12; Heb. 2:3-4). Upon the passing of the Apostles and completing of the Canon, the signs of an apostle ceased (Jude 3; Isa. 8:20). Although open to, and even insistent upon, the present ministry of the Holy Spirit, we reject the teaching and practice of the modern Charismatic movement.

Concerning Man
We believe the Scriptures teach that man was created in God's image and after His likeness by the direct act of God (Gen. 1:26-27). Having been created in a state of positive holiness and righteousness Adam willfully sinned against God and fell from that state. The consequence of the fall is that all men are now constituted sinners and are totally depraved -- sinners both by nature and by choice (Eph. 2:1-3; Rom. 5:12-14; Rom. 3:10, 23; Jer. 17:9). Fallen human nature is devoid of the ability to do good or to please God and, in reality, is positively inclined to evil (1 Cor. 2:14; Rom. 8:5-6; Jn. 14:16-17). Man, therefore, apart from the grace of God, is already under the condemnation of God and will be consigned forever to eternal punishment because of his condition (John 3:18, 36). Although not every individual is as sinful as he could be, this sinful state manifests itself in all men in thought, word, and deed (Rom. 3:12-19).

Concerning Salvation
We believe man, being a sinner, both by nature and by choice, is in a state of perpetual enmity against God from which he is able to do nothing to change or improve his condition. God, because of His grace and boundless love (Deut.7:1-9; Eph.2:4), ordained before the foundation of the world that His Son would be born of a virgin, live a sinless life, and give Himself as a substitutionary sacrifice for our sins to reconcile us to God.

We believe that only through God’s gracious gift of His Son -- the shed blood of Christ -- does mankind have hope of salvation (Eph. 1:7; Heb. 9:22). This salvation is totally of God's grace apart from anything man can do, whether this be good works, ceremonies (such as Baptism or the Lord's Supper), or church affiliation; it is only Christ's blood -- His finished work on Calvary -- that saves (Eph. 2:4-5, Eph. 2:8-9; Rom. 11:5-6).

By the grace of God, upon repentance from sin and personal faith in Christ (Acts 20:21; Rom. 4:1-5; Rom. 3:28), a person partakes of this great salvation. This great salvation means we become new creatures in Christ Jesus, adopted into God's family with all the rights of adult children, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ (2 Cor. 5:17; Titus 3:5; Rom. 8:14-17; 2 Pet. 1:3-4;), awaiting the full experience of those rights and blessings at Christ’s coming.

We believe that the blessings of salvation are made free to all by the gospel (Isa. 55:1; Rev. 22:17; Luke 14:17); that it is the immediate duty of all to accept them by a sincere, penitent, and obedient faith (Rom. 16:26; Mark 1:15; Rom. 1:15-17); and that nothing prevents the salvation of the greatest sinner on earth but his own inherent depravity and voluntary rejection of the gospel (John 5:40; Matt. 23:37; Rom. 9:32; Prov. 1:24; Acts 13:46); which rejection involves him in an aggravated condemnation (John 3:19; Matt. 11:20; Luke 19:27; 2 Thess. 1:8).

We believe that in order to be saved sinners must be regenerated, or born again (John 3:3, 6-7; 1 Cor. 1:14; Rev. 8:7-9; 21:27); that regeneration consists in giving a holy disposition to the mind (2 Cor. 5:17; Ezek. 36:26; Deut. 30:6; Rom. 2:28-29; 5:5; 1 John 4:7); that it is effected in a manner above our comprehension by the power of the Holy Spirit in connection with divine truth (John 3:8; 1:13; James 1:16-18; 1 Cor. 1:30; Phil. 2:13), so as to secure our voluntary obedience to the gospel (1 Pet. 1:22-25; 1 John 5:1; Eph. 4:20-24; Col. 3:9-11); and that its proper evidence appears in the holy fruits of repentance, and faith, and newness of life (Eph. 5:9; Rom. 8:9; Gal. 5:16-23; Eph. 3:14-21; Matt. 3:8-10; 7:20; 1 John 5:4, 18).

We believe that Repentance and Faith are sacred duties, and also inseparable graces, wrought in our souls by the regenerating Spirit of God (Mark 1:15; Acts 11:18; Eph. 2:8; 1 John 5:1) whereby being deeply convinced of our guilt, danger, and helplessness, and of the way of salvation by Christ (Acts 2:37-38; 16:30-31) we turn to God with unfeigned contrition, confession, and supplication for mercy (Luke 18:13; 15:18-21; James 4:7-10; 2 Cor. 7:11; Rom.10:12-13; Psa. 51) at the same time heartily receiving the Lord Jesus Christ as our Prophet, Priest, and King, and relying on him alone as the only and all-sufficient Saviour (Rom. 10:9-11; Acts 3:22-23: Heb. 4:14; Psa. 2:6; Heb. 1:8; 8:25; 2 Tim. 1:12).

We believe that Election is the eternal purpose of God according to which he graciously regenerates, sanctifies, and saves sinners (2 Tim. 1:8-9; Eph. 1:3-14; 1 Pet. 1:1-2; Rom. 11:5-6; John 15:15; 1 John 4:19; Hos. 12:9) that being perfectly consistent with the free agency of man, it encompasses all the means in connection with the end (2 Thess. 2:13-14; Acts 13:48; John 10:16; Matt. 20:16; Acts 15:14); that it is a most glorious display of God's sovereign goodness, being infinitely free, wise, holy, and unchangeable (Exod. 33:18-19; Matt. 20:15; Eph. 1:11; Rom. 9:23-24: Jer. 31:3; Rom. 11:28-29; James 1:17-18; 2 Tim. 1:9; Rom. 11:32-36); that it utterly excludes boasting and promotes humility, love, prayer, praise, trust in God, and active imitation of his free mercy (1 Cor. 4:7; 1:26-31; Rom. 3:27; 4:16; Col. 3:12; 1 Cor. 3:5-7; 15:10; 1 Pet. 5:10; Acts 1:24; 1 Thess. 2:13; 1 Pet. 2:9; Luke 18:7; John 15:16; Eph. 1:16; 1 Thess. 2:12); that it encourages the use of means in the highest degree (2 Tim. 2:10; 1 Cor. 9:22; Rom. 8:28-30; John 6:37-40; 2 Pet. 1:10); that it may be ascertained by its effects in all who truly believe the gospel (1 Thess. 1:4-10); that it is the foundation of Christian assurance (Rom. 8:28-30; Isa. 42:16; Rom. 11:29); and that to ascertain it with regard to ourselves demands and deserves the utmost diligence (2 Pet. 1:10-11; Phil. 3:12; Heb. 6:11).

Moreover, we believe that just as nothing can be done to earn salvation nothing can be added to salvation. At the moment of salvation the believer receives all spiritual blessings and is complete in Christ (Eph. 1:3; Col. 2:9-10). Although the believer will certainly grow in his realization of this great salvation (1 Peter 2:2), at the moment of salvation the believer stands complete in Christ and in need of nothing.

Moreover, we believe, owing to the gracious nature of salvation (Eph.2:8-9; Rom. 6:23), the unending intercession of Christ (Heb 7:25), the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit (Jn. 14:16-17; Eph. 4:30), and the indisputable promises and power of God (John 5:24; John 10:27-30; Rom. 8:28-30; Rom. 8:32; Rom. 8:35-39; Heb. 13:20-21; Jude 24), the believer is kept and is secure in Christ forever.

Concerning Justification and Sanctification
We believe a person is justified by grace alone, through faith alone -- plus nothing and minus nothing (Rom. 3:28; Rom. 4:1-8). God justifies the sinner, not because he is righteous, or because he does righteous deeds (Phil. 3:7-9; Titus 3:5-8), but because the righteousness of Christ has been imputed to his account (2 Cor. 5:21; Rom. 10:1-4). Christ's obedience and righteousness are imputed to the sinner's account, and his sin imputed to Christ's account. Christ bore the sinner’s judgment on the cross satisfying God's holy wrath and justice (Rom. 3:25-26; Rom. 5:12-19; 1 Pet. 3:18; 1 Jn. 2:1-2).

Sanctification is that great work that, although distinguishable from justification, can and must never finally be separated from justification. In the work of sanctification which follows and flows from justification God progressively imparts His righteousness to the believer (John 17:17; Eph.5:26; 2 Cor. 7:1). Most assuredly those who are saved are saved unto good works and are to maintain good works (Eph. 2:8-10; Titus 2:4-5, 9-12; Titus 3:8, 14). Good works, done in obedience to God's commandments, are the fruits and evidences of a true and living faith (1 Jn. 2:3, 1 Jn. 3:10; James 2:14-26). By good works believers manifest their thankfulness (Ps. 116:12-13), strengthen their assurance (2 Pet. 1:5-10), edify their fellow Christians (1 Cor. 10:23,32-33; 2 Cor. 9:2), adorn the profession of the Gospel (Titus 2:10), stop the mouths of the adversaries (Titus 2:8), and ultimately glorify God (1 Pet. 2:9; Mt. 5:16; 1 Cor. 10:31).

Moreover, we believe that because of this union with Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit the believer will progressively manifest a life that is separated from the world and unto God (2 Cor. 6:14-18; 1 John 2:15-17; 1 John 3:1-3). This relationship with God will cause the believer to avoid all forms of evil that might bring reproach upon his Saviour.

We believe that God's work of sanctification will impact the whole person in the totality of life. However, at the same time, as long as the believer remains in the body of sin some remnants of the fall will remain (Rom. 8:19-23) and a continual war will ensue until the day he dies or the Lord returns and the believer is changed into His image and glorified together with Him (Gal. 5:16-17; Phil. 1:6; Phil. 3:12-21).

Concerning the Future
Having been justified by His blood and being sanctified at the present time by His Word and Spirit, the believer now expectantly awaits the time when he will be glorified with His Lord.

We believe the Lord Jesus came unto His own in the first advent and was rejected by His own people, Israel, who were in turn set aside (John 1:11; Rom. 11:25-26). In the eternal plan and wisdom of God an era and work unknown to the Old Testament Prophets was inaugurated -- a mystery -- that is, the Church (Mt.13:11-13; Eph. 3:2-11; Col. 1:25-27). God is now calling out of the Gentiles a people for His name and this will be His work and our responsibility until the full number of the Gentiles are saved (Acts 15:14; Rom. 11:25-26; Luke 21:24).

The next great event in prophecy will be the Lord's coming in the air for His own to catch away His bride (I Cor. 15:51-52; Rev. 3:10; John 14:1-3; 1 Thess. 4:13-18; 1 Thess. 5:9; Phil. 3:20-21; Titus 2:11-14). We believe the Blessed Hope is imminent and will be pre-tribulational, that is, it will precede the tribulation period.

We believe that after the rapture of the Church a time of tribulation will begin in this world in which Satan's emissaries, the Antichrist and the false prophet, will be allowed free reign (2 Thess. 2:1-12; 1 Jn. 2:18; Rev. 13:1-18). This will be a time of great tribulation such as never has been, and if those days were not limited by God, no one would physically survive them (Mt. 24:21-22). This seven-year tribulation is in fulfillment of Daniel's seventieth week and is also called the "Time of Jacob's Trouble” (Dan. 9:24-27; Mt.24:15, 25; Jer. 30:7). Although the Great Tribulation is a horrific time, many will be saved when God again begins to graft Israel back in to the Olive Tree (Rev. 7:1-17; Rom. 11:12, 15-18).

We believe that the Lord Jesus will come with His own at the end of the seven-year tribulation, bringing to a close the “Time of the Gentiles.” After Christ comes with His own in the clouds with great power and glory Satan will be bound for one thousand years in the bottomless pit. The Lord Jesus Christ will then judge the nations according to their treatment of Israel and will begin to lift the curse which now rests on the whole creation. The Lord will restore Israel to her own land; allow Israel to realize God’s covenant blessings (Isa. 9:6-7; Isa. 11:1-9; Lk. 1:31-33); bring the whole world to the knowledge of God; and establish the Millennium – the Lord’s righteous reign upon the earth for one thousand years (Rev. 20:1-6).

We believe at the end of this millennial period Satan will be loosed for a short time in which he will lead a rebellion against Christ. A fire will proceed down from heaven and devour the rebels and Satan himself will be cast into the lake of fire to be eternally tormented. The eternal state -- the new Heavens and the new Earth -- will then ensue (Rev. 20:7-10; Rev. 21-22).

We believe at death the spirits and souls of those who have trusted in the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation pass immediately into His presence and there remain in conscious bliss until the resurrection of the glorified body when Christ comes for His own (Luke 23:42-43; Phil. 1:23; 2 Cor. 5:8) whereupon spirit, soul and body reunited shall be associated with Him forever in glory (1 Cor. 15:51-57; 1 Thess. 4:13-18). The spirit of the unbeliever remains in death, conscious of condemnation and misery, until the final judgment of the Great White Throne at the close of the Millennium. At that time both soul and body having been reunited shall be cast into the lake of fire, not to be annihilated, but to be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord (Luke 16:19-31; Rev. 20:11-15; Jude 6-7).

Concerning the Church
We believe the Scriptures teach that the Church of Jesus Christ, distinct from Israel in the Old Testament, was inaugurated at Pentecost and must be considered in two aspects: the "Church which is His Body" and the local Church. The "Church which is His Body" is the entire company of believers in Christ irrespective of race, gender, social standing, denominational affiliation or present position in Heaven or earth. They become members of His body through the baptism of the Holy Spirit at the moment of salvation (Gal. 3:28; Col. 3:11; Eph. 2:19-22; 1 Cor. 12:13).

The local Church is a congregation of baptized believers associated together by a covenant in the faith and fellowship of the Gospel observing the ordinances of Christ, governed by His laws, and exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by His Word. Essentially, the local church is a place where the Word of God is proclaimed, the ordinances are administered, and discipline is exercised.

We believe the offices of the local Church are two: Pastors (also called Bishops and Elders) and Deacons (Acts 14:23; Acts 20:17,28-32; Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9; Heb. 13:7,17). The Pastors’ primary functions are those of leading, overseeing, and teaching, while the Deacons are to be the servants of the Pastors and the Church, assisting both to further the cause of Christ's Church. The calling, qualifications, and duties of these two offices are clearly defined in the Pastoral Epistles; Acts, 1 Peter, and Hebrews, and are limited to men (1 Tim. 2:11-15; 1 Cor. 14:33-38) who meet the Biblical standards (1 Tim. 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Peter 5:1-5).

We believe each local church is autonomous and is to be self-governing under the Headship of Jesus Christ. Each local church is free to associate with other local churches of like faith.

We believe the Lord has divinely ordained two other institutions: the home and human government (Gen. 2:24; Rom. 13:1-7; Eph. 5:22-6:4). We believe the local church is to actively promote and protect the nuclear family which would normally consist of a father, mother and children. We also believe the church is to support and promote godliness and justice in government by praying for those in office, obeying its law under God, and seeking the appointment of godly leaders (Ezra 6:10; 1 Tim. 2:1-4; Jer. 29:4-7).

We believe the Local Church has been given two major objectives by the Risen Christ. As the gathered Church, our objective is ministering to the body. This would include such activities as edification, encouragement, organization, and worship (Eph. 4:12-16; Heb. 10:25; Heb. 3:12-13; Acts 2:41-42; 1 Cor. 14:33, 40; Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16). As the scattered Church our objective is ministering to the world. This would include such activities as evangelizing the lost, supporting world-wide missions, living Christ-like lives before the world, and serving God in our particular callings (Mt. 28:18-20; Acts 1:8; Lk. 24:44-48; Jn. 20:21; Phil. 4:14-18; 3 Jn. 5-8; Mt. 5:16; John 13:34-35; 1 Cor. 7:17-24; 1 Cor. 10:31). The motivating factors, which bear the church along in her efforts to fulfill these objectives, are the glory of God, constraining love, and an inner desire to fulfill God’s creative purpose.

We believe, in obedience to our Lord's commands, two Ordinances are to be perpetuated in the local Church. Firstly, we believe in the baptism of believers in water one time by immersion. This is to be done in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, symbolizing the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ and our union with Him in dying to sin and rising again to a new life (Mt.28:18-20; Rom. 6:3-5). Baptism is a prerequisite to membership and privileges in the local church. We reject any form of baptismal regeneration -- that is, that baptism in any way saves. Secondly, we believe that the Lord's Supper (also called Communion) is a memorial and proclamation of the substitutionary sacrifice of Christ’s death until He returns (Luke 22:19-20; 1 Cor. 11:26). The partaking of the symbols of unfermented fruit of the vine and unleavened bread is to be preceded by a solemn time of self-examination whereupon each member confesses and forsakes any known sin and makes right any ought that he or she might have against another member of the church (1 Cor. 11:23-28). The frequency of the Lord's Supper, being nowhere delineated in Scripture, is determined by the desire of the Church under the leadership of the Holy Spirit.

We believe the Church is to be a pure Church as is our Lord's intent and command. The Local Church, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit, and not diluting her testimony or dishonouring her Lord, must always refuse to have fellowship with any kind of heresy or apostasy, or enter into cooperation with any movement, organization, or program contrary to the faith, whether in doctrine or practice (Rom. 16:17-18; 2 Cor. 6:14-18; Eph. 5:11; 2 Thess. 3:6,14; 1 Tim. 6:3-5; Titus 1:13; 1 Jn. 4:1; 2 Jn. 9-11). Furthermore we believe that biblical church discipline is Christ’s prescription for maintaining the spiritual health, prosperity and purity of His church. Local church discipline is always to be exercised in the spirit of obedience to God’s Word, love for Christ and His church, and with a view toward the salvation and restoration of the erring individual. (Matt. 18:15-20; 1 Cor. 5:1-13; Gal. 6:1-10; 2 Thess. 3:6-15; 1 Tim. 1:18-20; 1 Tim. 5:19-20; Tit. 3:8-11; 2 Cor. 2:5-11)

Concerning the Lord’s Day
We believe that the first day of the week is the Lord’s Day (Rev. 1:10) and is a Christian institution rooted in and commemorating the resurrection of our Lord (Mt. 28:1; Mk. 16:1-2; Lk. 24:1; Jn. 20:1); it is the primary day when the church gathers together to worship the Lord through praying, giving, singing, receiving God’s Word (through its singing, reading and proclamation), and partaking of the Lord’s Supper (Acts 20:5-7; 1 Cor. 16:1-2).

We believe this day is to be kept sacred for spiritual purposes (Ex. 20:8-11; Deut. 5:12-14) by abstaining from all unnecessary secular labor and recreations (Isa. 58:13; Mk. 2:23-3:6), by the devout observance of all the means of grace, both private (Ps. 118:15) and public (Heb. 10:24-25), and by preparation for that rest that remaineth for the people of God (Heb. 4:3-11).

Concerning Christian Worship
We believe that worship is both the duty and privilege of every Christian and is the chief end of our salvation (Deut. 6:4-9; Mt. 22:37-40; Jn. 17:3; 1 Cor. 10:31; 1 Pet. 4:10-11).

We believe that all of life is the primary arena of worship as we present our bodies a living sacrifice to God (Rom. 12:1-2), serve God in our particular callings (1 Cor. 7:17-24; Ex. 31:1-6), testify of the love of God in the cross of Christ, and glorify God in all that we do (Mt. 28:19-20; Eph. 3:8; 1 Cor. 10:31).

Furthermore, we believe that worship is to be the center of our family and private lives. This would include singing, praying, reading Scripture and applying / obeying the Word of God. (Eph. 5:18-6:9; Col. 3:16-4:1)

We believe that corporate church worship is both a high privilege and sacred duty (Ps. 84:1-4, 10; Ps. 122:1; Lk. 4:16; Acts 20:6-8) and is to be carried out as the Scripture regulates by commands, principles and examples (Acts 2:42).

Corporate worship is to be God-centered: that God is to be worshipped in spirit and in truth (Jn. 4:24), and in the beauty of holiness (Ps. 27:4; Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16; 1 Chron. 16:29; 2 Chron. 20:21; Ps. 29:2; Ps. 96:9). All corporate worship has God as its audience and God is to be approached with reverence and godly fear (Heb. 12:28-29; Ex. 3:5; Isa. 6:1-8). God is holy and we are to worship Him and Him alone in the beauty of holiness (1 Chron. 16:29).

Corporate worship is to be Bible-based: that the content of corporate worship is to be regulated by the teaching of Scripture (Lev. 10:1-3; Deut. 12:30-32; Matt. 15:8-9; John 4:20-24), and that that content is to be rooted in and a direct reflection of the doctrines of the Bible (Acts 2:42; 1 Tim. 2:1-4). Corporate worship includes the public reading, preaching and teaching of God’s Word; prayer and praise; musical worship (both instrumental and vocal); the giving of tithes and offerings; observance of baptism and the Lord’s supper; encouraging and exhorting one another as we see the day approaching and the exercising of church discipline when necessary (1 Tim. 4:13-16: 2 Tim. 3:16-4:5; Acts 2:42; Heb. 13:5; Ps. 150; Eph. 5:19; 2 Cor. 8-9; 1 Cor. 16:4; Matt. 28:19-20; 1 Cor. 11:17-34; Heb. 10:25; Matt. 18:15-20).

Corporate worship is to be distinctly-Christian: that all parts of worship are to emphasize the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ and the resultant new life we have in Him (1 Cor. 2:2; 2 Cor. 5:17). We are to sing a new song unto the Lord (Ps. 33:3; Ps. 40:1-3; Ps. 144:9) that clearly expresses what the Lord Jesus Christ has done for us.

Corporate worship is to be congregation-oriented: that all parts of the service include the entire congregation publicly, corporately and whole-heartedly engaging in the worship of the Triune God through praying the Word, singing the Word, hearing the Word and obeying the Word (Isa. 29:13; Eze. 33:31-33; Mt. 15:8-9).

Furthermore, because we believe that corporate worship is to be God-centered, Bible based, distinctly-Christian and congregation-oriented; any form of corporate worship which is sensual, man-centered, inconsistent with biblical precept, principle or example, empty, vain repetitious, unidentifiable from secular culture or merely a form of Christian entertainment rather than worship, is not to be accepted as true worship and is to be avoided in the corporate worship services of the church.

Concerning Marriage and Human Sexuality
We believe that marriage of one man and one woman for life as created by God (Gen. 2:21-24), sanctioned by Christ (Mt. 19:4-6; John 2:1-11), and reaffirmed by the Apostles (1Cor. 7:10-15; 1 Tim. 4:1-5), is God’s plan.

We believe that human sexuality is God’s creative gift both for procreation and personal enjoyment within the monogamous marriage relationship (Gen. 1:27-28; 1 Cor. 7:1-9; Heb. 13:4). We believe that any other expression of sexuality, such as homosexuality, bisexuality, bestiality, incest, pornography, premarital and extramarital sex, are expressly forbidden in Scripture and are not acceptable (Ex. 20:14; Deut. 5:18; Lev. 18:22; Lev. 20:13; Rom. 1:24-28; 1 Cor. 6:9-11; 1 Tim. 1:10; Lev. 18:23; Ex. 22:19; Lev. 20:15-16; Deut. 27:21).

While acknowledging that divorce is a reality in our world, we believe that God’s original intention was one man and one woman for life and that Biblical marriage is to be honored, cherished, protected and proclaimed in our churches and homes (Deut. 24:1-4; Mt. 5:31-32; Mt. 19:3-12).

We also believe that some individuals are called and gifted by God to a single celibate life and that this also is Biblical and wholly good (Mt. 19:10-12 & 1 Cor. 7:6-9).

Concerning the Sanctity of Life
We believe that human life begins at conception and that the unborn child is a living human being created in God’s image (Gen.1:26-27; Gen. 9:5-6). Abortion constitutes the unjustified, inexcusable taking of unborn human life (Ex. 21:22-25; Ps. 139:14-16; Jer. 1:5; Job 3:16; Isa. 44:24; Isa. 49:1,5; Lk. 1:44).

We also believe that since human life is a sacred gift of God then euthanasia and so-called mercy killing are sin. Furthermore, because man is created in God’s image and because God alone is the Giver of life, any scientific or medical practice which would cause the mutilation or destruction of human life at any point from fertilization throughout the human life continuum is immoral and against God’s Holy Word.

ARTICLE IV COVENANT

Having been led, as we believe by the Spirit of God, to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour, and on profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, we do now, in the presence of God, and this assembly, most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another as one body in Christ.

We engage, therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit to walk together in Christian love; to strive for the advancement of this church in knowledge, holiness, and comfort; to promote its prosperity and spirituality; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline and doctrines; to con-tribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the church, the needs of the unfortunate, and the spread of the Gospel through all nations.

We also engage to maintain family and secret devotions; to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances; to walk circumspectly in the world; to be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements, and exemplary in our deportment; to be zealous in our efforts to advance the Kingdom of our Saviour.

We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love; to remember one another in prayer; to aid one another in sickness and distress; to cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and Christian courtesy in speech; to be slow to take offense, but always ready for reconciliation, mindful of the steps pointed out by Christ in Matthew 18:15 17, thus endeavoring to settle all private offenses without publicity.

We moreover engage that when we remove from this place we will, as soon as possible, unite with some other body of believers where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of God's Word.

ARTICLE V - MISSIONARY PROGRAM

Missions at Corinth Baptist Church shall be defined as any ministry aimed at communicating the Gospel to the lost, regardless of geography. Communicating the Gospel is to be understood to include evangelism, discipling, church planting, church development, and training/equipping of Christian leadership. We are scripturally instructed to have a missions outreach:
a. To fulfill the Great Commission (Matt. 28:19-20)
b. To share Christ=s burden for the world (Matt. 9:36-38)
c. To see men saved and brought to a knowledge of God (John 3:16; Acts 1:8; Romans 10:13-15)
d. To build up the body of Christ (Eph. 4:12-16)

Missions supported by Corinth Baptist Church must be in agreement with the Statement of Faith and Purpose of the church.

Administration of the missions outreach of Corinth Baptist Church shall be conducted by the Missions Committee. That Committee is to function in accordance with the policies and procedures established by that committee and approved by a vote of the general membership of the church.

The general membership of Corinth Baptist Church recognizes that the church is not designed to be a reservoir, ever receiving and retaining for itself God’s spiritual blessings, but a conduit allowing these blessings to flow out to others everywhere. The true mission of the church was and must continue to be the same as our Lord’s, whether at home or in distant lands.

ARTICLE VI – MEMBERS
(A) Reception of Members

Section 1. Any person professing faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and giving evidence of a born again experience and baptized by immersion and is in agreement to abide by this constitution, including the Church Covenant and Statement of Faith, is eligible to become a member of this church. (Amended 2/24/99)

Section 2. Members of other churches of like faith and practice in good standing may be received by a letter of transfer from the respective church and upon agreement to abide by this constitution, including the Church Covenant and Statement of Faith.

Section 3. Those who have once been attenders of Baptist churches and others who have been baptized by immersion but have joined no church may join upon Christian experience, (that being salvation and baptism by immersion) and agreement with our constitution, including the Church Covenant and Statement of Faith.

Section 4. Upon recommendation of the Membership Committee and the proper notification, a member may be accepted into the fellowship upon a 2/3 (two thirds) vote.

Section 5. If a member has not participated in the activities of the church, attended its services for a period of at least one year, a visit will be made by a member of the Membership Committee or an attempt to contact, if a visit is impossible, at which time his/her name will be placed upon the inactive list upon the recommendation of the Membership Committee and by a vote of the church shall not be counted in the statistics. He/she shall be restored to the active membership list upon a return to an active participation in the work and life of the church after recommendation of the Membership Committee and by vote of the church.

(B) Dismissal of Members

Section 6. A member in good standing may, upon request, be dismissed by letter to unite with some other Baptist church, or any other church of like faith and practice designated in the request. In all cases letters shall be given only to the church in question and not to the individual seeking dismissal. All church letters shall be sent by the Clerk of this church to the pastor or clerk of the church designated.

Section 7. A member not in good standing may be dismissed upon request by a letter stating that he/she is a member and further information given on request. The regular letter used for members in good standing shall not be used for members not in good standing.

Section 8. A member who seems to manifest a disregard for living by the Church Covenant that he/she agreed to upon joining the church, or by teaching and promoting teaching inconsistent with the Statement of Faith of the Corinth Baptist Church, or show an indifference to the life and work of this church shall be contacted by Pastor and/or Deacons with a view of restoration. If, after a review of facts, it is the feeling of the Board of Deacons the person should be dropped from membership rolls, that person shall be notified of the proposed action. However, opportunity shall be given him/her to appear before the Board of Deacons and Pastor to show why action should not be taken. When such action is taken the church shall be notified and a vote for dismissal be taken. A 2/3 (two thirds) vote is necessary for dismissal.

Section 9. A dismissed member may be restored to membership upon confession of his/her errors and upon the recommendation of the Board of Deacons.

ARTICLE VII OFFICERS

Section 1. (A) The officers of this church shall consist of the pastor, moderator, vice-moderator, deacons, clerk, treasurer, assistant treasurer, and trustees.

(B) The official board shall consist of the Deacons and Trustees.

Section 2. (A) Upon occasion of the death or removal of the Pastor the church, without necessary delay, shall call to the pastorate some minister of good report and in good standing as a member of a church of like faith and practice agreeing to our Statement of Faith and Church Covenant. The Pastor shall be considered a member upon his call to the church. The Pastor's wife automatically becomes a member also, if she fulfills the requirements. A legal business meeting must be called to provide for his election and a 2/3 (two thirds) vote of the members present shall be necessary before the call shall be extended.

(B) It shall be the duty of the Pastor to preach at the church and to administer the ordinances. He shall be an ex officio member of all boards, committees and organizations, and shall have access to all books and records and be privileged to attend any meeting. He shall perform the various other duties incumbent upon his office.
(C) The Pastor shall be elected for an indefinite term. But the pastoral relationship may be terminated by either the Pastor or the church by a 2/3 (two thirds) vote. A three-month notice must be given of the desire for change. By mutual consent the pastoral relationship may be terminated earlier. Whenever personal matters which concern the Pastor's salary and benefits are being considered at any business meeting, he and his family shall retire.

(D) The Pastor's salary shall be paid regularly and at least twice a month. He shall have an annual vacation, the time and length thereof to be determined by the official board.

Section 3. The Moderator or Vice moderator shall preside at all business meetings of the church.

Section 4. Deacons
(A) There shall be 4 (four) or more Deacons. They shall be elected at the annual church meeting. Their terms shall be so arranged that one, and only one, Deacon need be elected each year, except in the case of death.

(B) It shall be the duty of the Deacons to visit the sick and needy and to assist the pastor in his pastoral work. The Deacons shall prepare and distribute the elements of the Lord's Supper and shall take general supervision of the spiritual work of the church. They shall determine for what purposes the church building should be used. They shall, along with the Pastor, be responsible for the doctrinal correctness of all materials made public by this church. They shall also be responsible, along with the Pastor, that all materials taught in this church be consistent with the Holy Bible. They shall, not later than two months prior to the annual meeting, once a year, along with the Church Clerk thoroughly revise the church roll.

Section 5. Trustees There shall be not less than 3 (three) Trustees. They shall be elected at the annual meeting to serve three years. Their terms shall be arranged that one shall be elected each year. They shall have the care of the property of the church and shall keep it insured and in repair. They shall engage or discharge the janitor and secretary and supervise his/her work. In all matters pertaining to their office they shall be responsible to the church.

Section 6. Treasurer –
(A) It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to have charge of all funds belonging to the church provided, however, that the Treasurer must invest and expend said funds under the direction and control of the Trustees of the church. The Treasurer shall give bonds acceptable to the Trustees.

(B) The Treasurer shall present a quarterly financial report to the congregation and Trustees.

Section 7. Assistant Treasurer The Assistant Treasurer shall assist the Treasurer in any way he/she can and, in the absence of the Treasurer, perform the duties of the Treasurer.

Section 8. Clerk The Church Clerk shall keep the records of all church meetings, a full and accurate list of members, and attend to such other work as pertains to his/her office.

Section 9. Any elected church officer can be removed from office by a 2/3 (two thirds) vote of the congregation for failure to perform his/her duties.

ARTICLE VIII COMMITTEES

Section 1. Membership Committee The Deacons and Clerk shall constitute the Membership Committee. They shall interview all persons expressing a desire
to unite with the church. They shall make their recommendations for action
to the church. They shall also deal with the requests for dismissal.

Section 2. Missionary Committee The Missionary Committee shall consist of a Minimum of 4 (four) members with a minimum of 1 (one) member to be elected each year. It is the responsibility of this board to encourage and promote an annual missionary conference. It is also the responsibility of this committee to inform the church concerning the needs and requests of our missionaries. (Amended 2/24/99)

Section 3. Nominating Committee –
(A) The Nominating Committee shall consist of the board of Deacons, board of Trustees, Clerk, and two at large members from the congregation chosen by the official board.

(B) The nominees chosen by the Nominating Committee for election to fill vacancies in the officers of the church shall be posted (3) three Sundays prior to the annual business meeting. It shall then be the privilege of the congregation to prayerfully add other candidates by the following method: Any member of the church in good standing shall be eligible to nominate a candidate to elective office. He shall submit his request in writing to the Nominating Committee.

(C) No candidate shall be placed in nomination unless agreed upon by the majority of the committee. The committee shall require any candidate placed in nomination to sign the Statement of Faith and Church Covenant

(D) The slate shall be considered closed the second Sunday evening prior to the annual business meeting.

Section 4. Pulpit Committee - When a vacancy in the pastorate occurs the official board and 2 (two) women voted upon by the congregation shall form the Pulpit Committee. This committee shall call such a minister who is known in his preaching and living to be in accordance with the Word of God and our Statement of Faith and Constitution. The Pulpit Committee shall cease to exist immediately after the church has voted to call a pastor and that pastor has accepted the call of the church.

ARTICLE IX MEETINGS

Section 1. The church shall meet regularly every Lord's Day for public worship. A meeting of the church school shall be held each Sunday for the study and teaching of the Bible. The ordinance of the Lord's Supper shall be observed on the first Sunday of every month. There shall be a regular midweek prayer service.

Section 2. (A) The annual meeting of the church for the presentation of written annual reports of officers and the departments of the church, the election of officers, and the transaction of any business shall occur on the second Wednesday in March of each year. Ten percent of all active voting members of the church shall constitute a quorum at all business meetings. For the transaction of legal business a 7(seven) day's notice shall be posted in a conspicuous place. Such notice must contain a statement of the business to be transacted. The election of officers by secret ballot shall take place each year 45 (forty-five) minutes prior to the annual church business meeting.

Special meetings for the reception of and dismissal of members may be called at any time.
(B) Special meetings, other than for the reception and dismissal of members
may be called by the pastor, clerk, or any 10 (ten) members of the church who shall present their request in writing to the clerk, to be posted (7) seven days in advance.

Section 3. Members shall be18 (eighteen) years of age or over to possess the power to vote in any of the regular or specially called congregational business meetings.

Section 4. A simple majority vote of the voting members present at any constitutionally called business meeting shall be required for any business transacted by the church. The only exceptions are those specified in Article V, Section 8; Article VI, Section 2 (A), 2 (C), and Section 9.

ARTICLE X FISCAL YEAR

Section 1. The fiscal year shall be January 1 to December 31.

ARTICLE XI - AMENDMENTS

Section 1. Article III of this constitution shall not be changed or amended accept by a 75% vote of the active members present at a duly called special business meeting.

Section 2. The foregoing rules may be amended at any regularly called business meeting of the church by a majority of those present and voting, provided that the proposed amendments shall have been submitted in writing and shall have been read at two regular Sunday services prior to the business meeting in which the amendment shall be submitted for final action.

ARTICLE XII ORDINATION

When, in the judgment of the official board, a man in this membership is called to the Christian ministry, it shall be within the power of the official board to call and conduct a council for ordination, providing such authority is granted by vote of the church. The ordaining council shall thoroughly examine all applicants for ordination as to their call to the Christian ministry, education, Christian experience, reputation, character, doctrinal belief, and demonstrated efficiency in Christian service.

The following shall not be ordained to the ministry:
(l) One who has not served six months as pastor, assistant pastor, or in definite Christian work in such a manner as to convey reasonable evidence of God's call to the ministry.
(2) One who is addicted to the use of intoxicating liquor, drugs, or tobacco in any form; or who belongs to a secret society; or one who brings disrepute upon his ministry through worldly practices and association. (Rom.12:1; II Cor.6:14 18; James 4:4; I John 2:15.)

It shall be within the province of the official board to discipline, even to revoking the ordination credentials of any minister ordained under this constitution, if said minister is found guilty of any of the above practices after an impartial trial conducted in the ministry of I Corinthians 13.

The minister under trial shall have the privilege to appeal his case to the congregation within sixty days after the decision of the board.

ARTICLE XIII SEAL

The corporate seal, if used, shall be in such form as may be prescribed by the Board of Trustees. The seal may be used by: causing it or a facsimile thereof to be impressed or affixed or in any manner reproduced.

ARTICLE XIV CHECKS

All checks or demands for money and notes of the corporation shall be signed by such officer or officers or such other person or persons as the Board of Trustees may from time to time designate.

ARTICLE XV INVESTMENTS

The corporation shall have the right to retain all or any part of any securities or property acquired by it in whatever manner, and to invest and reinvest any funds held by it, according to the judgment of the Board of Trustees without being restricted to the class of investments which a director is or may hereafter be permitted by law to make or any similar restriction, provided however, that no action shall be taken by or on behalf of the corporation if such action is a prohibited transaction or would result in the denial of the tax exemption under Section 503 or Section 507 of the Internal Revenue Code and its Regulations as they now exist or as they may hereafter be amended, or by an organization contribution to which are deductible under Section170(c)(2) of such code and Regulations as they now exist or as they may hereafter be amended.

ARTICLE XVI – DISSOLUTION

In the event of the dissolution of this corporation all of its debts shall be fully satisfied. None of its assets or holdings shall be divided among the members, but shall be irrevocably dedicated by the official board to such other non profit religious corporations as are in agreement with the letter and spirit of this constitutional Statement of Faith, and in conformity with the requirements of the U.S. Internal Revenue Service Code of 1954 (Section 501 c3) or any subsequent amendments thereto.

ARTICLE XVII

The enactment and acceptance of these bylaws on January 1, 1995, make all previous bylaws null and void.

ARTICLE XVIII
This church shall possess, and operate and do its business under the guidance of 4 (four) instruments that shall be known in the following order:

1. The Holy Bible (King James Version)
2. The Statement of Faith
3. The Church Covenant
4. The Bylaws and Constitution

(As of July 7, 1999 when the Missions Program was added to the Constitution as Article V each of the following articles were increased by one number – the previous Article V becoming Article VI, etc. concluding with Article XVIII.)