CONSTITUTION AND BY LAWS OF GRACE

BAPTIST CHURCH
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preface
Preamble
Article 1: Name
Article 2: Purpose
Article 3: Articles of Faith
Article 4: Church Government
Article 5: Membership
Article 6: Duties and Privileges of Membership
Article 7: Church Discipline
Article 8: Church Officers
Article 9: Ordinations
Article 10: Finances
Article 11: Amendments

BY-LAWS
Article 1: Meetings
Article 2: Elections
Article 3: Council of Appeal
Article 4: Clerk and Treasurer
Article 5: Finance Committee
Article 6: Church Corporation
Article 7: Amendments
 
PREFACE
There are many good reasons why a New Testament Church should have Articles of Faith, a
Covenant, and a Constitution. Together they can greatly assist us in the efforts of biblically
organizing and conducting the ministries which have been entrusted to us by our Head, Jesus Christ.
It must be readily acknowledged, however, that these documents, despite their usefulness and
precision, will avail nothing apart from the presence and power of the Spirit of God in a Church. It is
with this keen awareness of our absolute dependence upon our great God that these articles are set
forth.

PREAMBLE
Grace Baptist Church is comprised of followers of Jesus Christ who have united under His Lordship
in covenant commitment to one another and to our God. We joyfully and wholeheartedly submit to
His authority as it is revealed to us in His holy, inerrant, and infallible written Word.
Having carefully examined the Scriptures regarding the nature and purpose of the church, and the
principles whereby it is to be governed, we, the members of Grace Baptist Church set forth the
following articles, to which we voluntarily submit ourselves.

ARTICLE I
NAME

The name of this church shall be “Grace Baptist Church of Cape Coral, Florida, Inc.”

ARTICLE II
PURPOSE

The purpose of this church is to glorify the God of the Scriptures in promoting His worship,
evangelizing sinners, and edifying saints. To this end we are committed to proclaiming God’s perfect
Law and His glorious Gospel of Grace in Jesus Christ throughout the world, and to defending the
“faith that was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3).
ARTICLE III
ARTICLES OF FAITH

The Articles of Faith, New Hampshire Confession (1853), Church Constitution, and Church

Covenant are accepted by its present members and shall be subscribed to and accepted voluntarily by
new members as they offer themselves for membership.
We do hereby adopt as the fullest expression of our faith the London Baptist Confession of Faith of
1689. We believe that this historic document is an excellent summary of the fundamental truths of
God’s Word. We accept it, not as an authoritative rule or code of faith, but as an aid to us in
controversy, a confirmation of what we believe, and as a means of growing together in grace. In this
Confession the members of our church will have a body of Divinity in small compass and by means
of Scriptural proofs will be ready to give a reason for the hope that is in them (1 Peter 3:15).
We do hereby affirm the “Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy” (1978) and the “Danvers
Statement on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood” (1987). Copies of these statements are available
in the church office.

ARTICLE IV
CHURCH GOVERNMENT

Jesus Christ is Lord and Head of this church. His will as expressed in the Holy Scriptures, both Old
and New Testaments, is the sole authority in matters of faith and practice. Grace Baptist Church is a
congregational church led by elders. We recognize that the authority of Christ is vested in the whole
congregation (Galatians 1:8–10; Matthew 18:15–20) and that Christ has prescribed that local
congregations be led by godly men who have been duly appointed to lead and oversee the church
(Titus 1:5–11; 1 Timothy 1:4–5). The elders carefully give spiritual direction to the church for the joy
of each member (2 Corinthians 1:24) and the members submissively follow the leadership of and
obey the elders so that the elders may do their work with joy (Hebrews 13:17).

Deacons serve the church in various capacities at the direction of the elders, focusing predominately
on the physical needs of the church.
The church is subject to no other ecclesiastical body, but is associated with churches of the Southern
Baptist Convention for purposes of fellowship, consultation and cooperation. This, and any other
voluntary associations with other bodies shall not infringe on the rights of this church. When it is
thought desirable to have fellowship, consultation, and cooperation with local churches of like faith
and order, this church may join itself to an association of churches. Upon recommendation of the
elders, such affiliations may be entered by a vote of the congregation. Withdrawal from associations
may be affected by the same procedure.

ARTICLE V
MEMBERSHIP

Section 1: Requirements for Membership

To be considered for membership in this church, a person must be a disciple of Jesus Christ and give
biblical evidence of regeneration. Such a disciple must be baptized in obedience to Christ following
his or her conversion, and commit wholeheartedly to follow Jesus Christ as Lord in accordance with
Scripture. Each prospective member must agree to submit to the teaching of Scripture as expressed in
the New Hampshire Confession(1853) and must promise to keep the commitments expressed in the
Church Covenant.
The elders shall be responsible for determining each person’s qualification for membership. In
making this determination, they may rely on a person’s profession of faith, character of life and such
other evidence, as they deem appropriate.

Section 2: Membership Process

Any believer seeking membership at Grace Baptist Church should communicate their desire to the
elders, receive and work through a membership packet, and submit the completed forms. Each
candidate must also meet with one or more elders for a membership interview and agree to attend
membership classes as provided by the elders. A time and place shall be set for a meeting with the
candidate, who shall attend and be questioned as to his or her basic Christian experience, doctrinal
beliefs, and seriousness of intention to support wholeheartedly the total ministry of this church, and
to live for Christ in accordance with our church covenant.
The elders may recommend a candidate for membership to the congregation at any members meeting
of the church. The candidate may be received into membership upon acceptance of two-thirds of the
members present.

Once a candidate is received into membership, he or she relinquishes their membership in other
churches. New members are formally welcomed into the church at the next Lord’s Supper Service.
They are also encouraged and given the opportunity to share their testimony with the church family.

Prospective members can be received into membership by:

A. PROFESSION OF FAITH AND BAPTISM — Any person who meets the above stated
requirements shall apply for membership to the elders. Candidates will be received upon their
baptism by immersion into membership of the church.

B. LETTER — Any person desiring to unite with this church, upon letter of recommendation from
another evangelical church of like faith and order, shall present such letter, or a promise thereof, to
the elders.

C. STATEMENT OF FAITH — Any person desiring to unite with this church, upon their testimony
of conversion and baptism as a believer by immersion, shall apply for membership to the elders.

Section 3: Forms of Membership

A. REGULAR — All who are received into the membership of the church on the above mentioned
conditions shall be considered members in good standing until such status is changed by one of the
conditions set forth in Article V, Section 4.

B. OTHER — The membership status of invalids, shut-ins, Christian workers, and others whose
relationship to the church involves special consideration and circumstances, shall be considered by
the elders on a case-by-case basis. The elders will then make appropriate recommendations to the
church. 
Section 4: Termination of Membership
A member may be removed from the membership of Grace Baptist Church by:

A. DISMISSAL — At the recommendation of the elders and the approval of the congregation, letters
of dismissal shall be granted to members who apply for them in writing, provided they are in good
standing and not subject to or already under corrective discipline at the time of the application. When
such letters have been granted, the relationship to this church shall be considered terminated.

B. EXCLUSION — If a member is habitually absent from the stated meetings of this church without
just cause, or is unwilling to resolve conflicts or settle differences in a Scriptural manner, or requests
severance of membership, he or she may be excluded from the membership at the discretion of the
elders, subject to the approval of the congregation.

C. TRANSFER — Letters of recommendation shall be granted upon the recommendation of the

elders and approval by the congregation to evangelical churches which request them, provided the
member in question is in good standing and not subject to or already under discipline at the time of
the application. When such letters have been granted, the relationship to this church shall be
considered terminated. Letters of dismissal shall be forwarded and given only to other evangelical
churches (Philemon 2).

D. EXCOMMUNICATION — It is right and in harmony with the Scriptures for the congregation,
upon recommendation of the elders, to remove from this fellowship any person who persists in
holding false or heretical doctrine; or who obviously and persistently lives inconsistently with his
profession; or who lives in violation of the law or public morals; or who walks disorderly; or who
persists in disturbing the unity and peace of this church (Matthew 10:15ff; 1 Corinthians 5:1ff; 2
Thessalonians 3:6,11,15; Romans 16:17).

E. DEATH

ARTICLE VI
DUTIES AND PRIVILEGES OF MEMBERSHIP

Scripture instructs Christians to live together in local churches. In order to fulfill Scriptural
responsibilities in following Christ according to His will, it is incumbent on every believer to unite
with other believers in submission to the lordship of Christ in a local church.

Section 1: Means of Grace

All public and private means of grace, such as honoring the Lord’s Day, faithful attendance at the
stated meetings of the church, daily systematic reading of the Bible, and private and family worship
shall be urged upon our members.

Section 2: Marriage and Family Life

Marriage is ordained by God and is exclusively a covenant relationship between one man and one
woman. Because God has ordained marriage and defined it as the covenant relationship between one
man, one woman, and Himself, Grace Baptist Church will only recognize marriages between a
biological man and a biological woman. Further, the pastors and staff of Grace Baptist Church shall
only participate in weddings and solemnize marriages between one man and one woman. Finally, the
facilities and property of Grace Baptist Church shall not host any weddings or marriage celebrations
except those that are between one man and one woman. Christians who are married to each other are
to relate to each other not only as husband and wife but also as brother and sister in Christ.

Christians who are married to unbelievers should strive to influence their homes for the glory of God
by commending the gospel and demonstrating its power in their lives according to apostolic
instructions found in 1 Corinthians 7:12–16 and 1 Peter 3:1–7.

Unmarried Christian adults should live faithfully to Jesus Christ in all of their relationships and use
the opportunities their singleness affords them for the advancement of the gospel and the prosperity
of the church according to the apostolic instructions found in 1 Corinthians 7.

The church expects its members to follow the Scriptures in home government. God has required that
godliness in the home have a high priority in every life. The home holds a central attention in God’s
Law and is the object of frequent exhortation in the New Testament. Husbands are expected to rule
their homes with gentleness but firmness. They are to love their wives sacrificially with a Christ-like
love and are to give leadership to the spiritual vitality of the home. Wives must be subject to and
respectful of their husbands as to the Lord. Parents should train up their children in the nurture and
admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4) by holy example, catechizing, consistent education, and firm,
loving discipline (including the careful, measured, biblical use of the rod of correction—Proverbs
13:24; 22:15; 23:13–14; 29:15). Children must reverently honor and obey their parents (Ephesians
6:1–3). These primary responsibilities, prayerfully executed, will honor the name of Christ in the
community and strengthen the cause of Christ in generations to come.

Section 3: Missions and Witnessing

It is the duty of every Christian and of every church of Christ to seek to extend the Gospel to the ends
of the earth and to make disciples who will, in turn, make disciples (Matthew 28:18–20).
Evangelistic and missionary efforts are the natural consequence of regeneration (Psalm 51:10–14).
“Preach the Gospel” is a frequently repeated command of Christ. It is the duty of every child of God
to witness by word, deed and lifestyle. Personal efforts to make disciples for Christ are expected of
every member. Beyond this, we are committed to cooperative efforts for sending the Gospel to the
ends of the earth.

Section 4: Principles of Giving

It is clearly taught in Scripture that Christians are to support the work of the Lord by systematic,
proportionate and sacrificial offerings made through the local church. This is set forth in both
positive command and favorable example (Malachi 3:8–11; 1 Corinthians 16:1–2; 2 Corinthians 8
and 2 Corinthians 9). Hence we pledge ourselves to contribute regularly, faithfully and sacrificially
to the support of this church in recognition that all that we have has come to us from God and He is
worthy of being worshipped with gifts and offerings (Psalm 96:8).

We give because we have been given much in Jesus Christ. “For you know the grace of our Lord
Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty
might become rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9).
Section 5: Christian Liberty
We shall require of each other in our daily responsibilities and relationships loyal obedience to all
those moral precepts established in the Word of God (Hebrews 10:24, 25). However, where God has
not prohibited certain practices in His Word, the Christian has liberty to participate in them with
discretion and care. The following principles must always guide the Christian’s exercise of liberty:

A. FEAR OF GOD — As the servant of Christ, all actions must be motivated by love to God, and all
objects must be used for His glory. The term “liberty” is often used as a cloak of malicious self-
indulgence, which is sin (1 Corinthians 10:31; 1 Timothy 4:4,5; 1 Peter 2:15,16).

B. LOVE OF BRETHREN — Though no man may dictate to the Christian’s conscience, the welfare
of fellow saints must always deeply affect his decisions. In a spirit of serving the brethren, he must
do that which he judges will edify them and prevent their stumbling (Galatians 5:13; 1 Corinthians
10:23; 1 Corinthians 8:9).

C. COMPASSION FOR THE UNCONVERTED — Use of liberty must always be regulated by its
effect upon sinners, and that behavior chosen which is likely to win some (1 Corinthians 9:19–22).

D. WATCHFULNESS OVER THE SOUL — Though free in conscience to use all of God’s creation,
carefulness in practice is demanded because of remaining lusts. Where the Christian judges himself
weak through lust, he must abstain in order to persevere in the faith (1 Corinthians 9:23–27).

Section 6: Support of Church Officers

It is the duty of every member to respect the appointed officers of the church. Church members
should recognize that the elders and deacons who serve among them do so by the authority of God’s
Word and for the spiritual welfare of the whole body. Therefore every member should encourage and
pray for the elders and deacons in their respective ministries.

Specifically, members should be ready to assist the deacons in protecting the unity of the church and
caring for the practical needs of the membership and community at large. This includes a willingness
to use personal gifts and resources in caring for others. It also includes helping the deacons be aware
of needs in the church and community, and cooperating with them in practical ways to assist them in
fulfilling their responsibilities (Acts 6:1–7).

It is the duty of every member to recognize that God gives to His church men to serve as spiritual
leaders who give oversight to local congregations. These elders of the church are to be “esteemed
very highly in love because of their work” (1 Thessalonians 5:12–13). Members are to submit to and
follow them because they keep watch over the souls of the congregation as those who must give an
account to God for their ministry (Hebrews 13:17a). Every member is admonished by God’s Word to
encourage the elders to fulfill their duties “with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no
advantage to you” (Hebrews 13:17b).

Church members are called to follow the example of the elders as far as warranted by the Word (1
Corinthians 4:16; 11:1; Philippians 3:17; Hebrews 13:7), to stand by them, in all their trials and
afflictions, defending them in all good causes, as far as in them lies (2 Timothy 1:15, 4:16), and to
avoid exposing their weaknesses, remembering that the prosperity of the Gospel depends much on
their good report.
Furthermore, no member is to receive an accusation against an elder unless it is supported by
evidence that can be validated by two or more witnesses (1 Timothy 5:19).
Section 7: Controversy
Any matter involving controversy within this church, within the officers, or between the
congregation and the officers, if it threatens to cause dissension and injury to the welfare of the
church, must be called to the attention of the elders as soon as possible by any member of the
congregation aware of the situation. If the elders fail to resolve the difficulty so as to allay dissension,
any such matter may be taken to a Council of Appeal as prescribed in Article 3 of the By-Laws, or as
is detailed in the Second London Baptist Confession of 1689 (26.15).

ARTICLE VII
CHURCH DISCIPLINE

The Christian life is a life of discipleship, which means that it is to be characterized by godly
discipline. This includes self-discipline which involves training oneself for godliness (1 Timothy 4:7)
as well as the corporate discipline that comes through being united to a local church. Church
discipline is both formative and corrective.

Section 1: Formative Discipline

Formative church discipline comes through the teaching of God’s Word, the example of Christian
living, and the mutual ministry of every member of the body of Christ. It has as its goal the
instruction of disciples, the transformation of their lives, and their edification in love (Ephesians
4:11–13; Romans 12:1–16; 1 Corinthians 12:4–27). Formative discipline has a sanctifying influence.
Every member should be satisfied with his/her God-given ministry, and thus we shall all grow in
grace and the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Peter 4:7–12). Formative discipline utilizes the
gifts and talents of each member, whether young or old, for the edification of all.

As members of this church we recognize our obligation to honor, serve, worship, praise and glorify
the Lord Jesus Christ in all that we say and do (1 Corinthians 10:31). Jesus Christ is the head of the
church and, therefore, its Lord and Lawgiver (Ephesians 1:22; Isaiah 33:22). Those who truly love
Him will endeavor to keep His commandments (John 14:15). In His Holy Word our Lord calls
believers to perform certain duties toward one another. Some of these duties are:

A. To love one another sincerely in deed and truth (John 13:34, 35; Romans 12:9; 13:8–10; 1 John
3:18).

B. To labor to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3).

C. To work for the edification and spiritual benefit of the whole body so that we all may grow to
spiritual maturity as a holy temple in and for the Lord (1 Corinthians 14:12, 26; Ephesians 4:12, 29;
2:21, 22).

D. To watch over one another for good (Philippians 2:3,4).

E. To pray with and for one another (James 5:16).

F. Not to neglect the assembling of ourselves together, for the celebrating of divine worship, and
thereby to promote one another’s spiritual benefit (Hebrews 10:25; Acts 2:42).

G. To contend unanimously for the faith and truth once delivered to the saints, in the purity thereof,
according to the Holy Scripture (Psalm 93:5; Zechariah 14:2; 1 Corinthians 14:33–40; 11:2).

The above duties, when faithfully performed by every member, will have a positive, formative effect
upon the whole assembly. With the blessing of the Holy Spirit we will all be enabled to grow in
grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
The following section is provided in the event of the failure of formative discipline as set forth
above.
Section 2: Corrective Discipline
Corrective discipline is called for when any member is guilty of disorderly or divisive conduct or
holding to heretical doctrine which is contrary to the church’s standard of life and doctrine as
expressed in our covenant or confession which are based on the Word of God. Reasonable efforts
shall be made through personal counsel and admonition to resolve difficulties, correct errors, and
remove offenses before any further action is taken. Where possible all such communication should be
face to face.

When individual and private counsel and admonition have failed, the matter must be brought to the
attention of the elders, who will then shepherd the process according to the instructions of God’s
Word (Matthew 5:23,24; 18:15–18). In extraordinary circumstances, at the discretion of the elders, a
matter may be taken directly to the church, according to the apostolic instruction of 1 Corinthians 5
and Titus 3:10–11.

The goal of such discipline should be:

1. The repentance, reconciliation, and spiritual growth of the individual disciplined (Hebrews 12:1–
11; Matthew 18:15–17; 1 Corinthians 5:5; Galatians 6:1);
2. The instruction in righteousness and welfare of other Christians, as an example to them (1
Corinthians 5:11; 1 Timothy 5:20; Hebrews 10:24–25);

3. The purity of the church as a whole (1 Corinthians 5:6–7; Ephesians 5:27; Revelation 21:2);

4. The good of our corporate witness to non-Christians (Matthew 5:13–16; John 13:35; Acts 5:10-
14); and

5. And supremely the glory of God which is manifested when His holy character is reflected to the
watching world (Deuteronomy 5:11; John 15:8; Ephesians 1:4; 1 Peter 2:12).

The following are elements of corrective discipline:

A. SUSPENSION — If a member has publicly sinned, but shows hopeful signs of repentance,
including submission to the admonitions of church officers, then severe discipline, such as
excommunication, would be improper. Nevertheless, serious offenses may not be overlooked
altogether, lest God’s enemies multiply their blasphemies, lest other saints be emboldened to sin, and
lest the offender is harmed by a failure to test his own soul and appreciate the gravity of his offense.
Therefore, at the discretion of the elders, less severe terms may be imposed upon a member—such as
public rebuke, or suspension of membership. The latter consists of a temporary suspension of the
rights to attend the Lord’s Table, to serve publicly in the church or vote in congregational meetings.
Those who submit to such discipline are to be wholly forgiven and received as brethren. All such
actions shall be reported to the congregation.

B. EXCLUSION — If a member is habitually absent from the stated meetings of this church without
just cause, or is unwilling to resolve conflicts or settle differences in a Scriptural manner, or requests
severance of membership, he or she may be excluded from the membership at the recommendation
of the elders and vote of the congregation.

C. EXCOMMUNICATION – The most serious step a church can take in corrective discipline is to
remove a member because of unrepentant sin. In extraordinary situations when a member has sinned
publically, scandalously or divisively and without biblical repentance (2 Corinthians 7:8–12), the
elders may call upon the church to excommunicate that member immediately (1 Corinthians 5:4–5;
Titus 3:10–11). In other situations that call for corrective discipline, when restoration is not secured
by the processes required in Matthew 18:15–18, further steps must be taken to correct offenders.
Written charges shall be given to the accused offender if he requests a hearing with the elders. The
elders shall meet with the accused, unless the person refuses to appear. After a fair and impartial
hearing of all the witnesses accessible, and all facts ascertainable, the elders must form a judgment. If
they believe the accused to be guilty and deserving of severe biblical discipline, they shall make a
recommendation that the offender be excommunicated at a duly called congregational meeting. The
congregation shall have the right to excommunicate a member by a two-thirds vote of the members
present and voting. The vote will be taken by a show of hands or by standing. Excommunication
always has as its end the glory of God, the purity of the body of Christ and the restoration of the
offending party.

D. RESTORATION — It is the joyful duty of the church to forgive and restore to membership those
persons who give satisfactory evidence of being repentant (2 Corinthians 2:6–8; 7:11). The elders
shall meet with and seek the restoration of those who have been excluded or suspended when they
(the elders) have judged that the aims of the discipline have been accomplished. Such action is to be
reported to the church. Upon recommendation of the elders the congregation shall have the right to
restore an excommunicated person by a majority vote of the members present and voting at a duly
called congregational meeting.

ARTICLE VIII
CHURCH OFFICERS

Section 1: General Statement

Jesus Christ alone is the head of His church. However, as head, He has ordained that individual
churches should be blessed with the spiritual rule and ministry of special office bearers. Therefore, it
is the duty of the church to seek to discover from among members in good standing those men to
whom Christ the Lord has imparted the necessary gifts for office bearing. The Lord’s appointment is
recognized by not only the inward conviction of the individual involved, but also by the approval of
the church observing the possession of those gifts and graces required, and by Scriptural definition of
the office.
While it is always the desire of the congregation to come to one mind regarding those who should be
appointed to serve as office bearers in the church, no less than 75% of all votes cast shall be required
for the election of an officer. (See “Elections” — Article 2 of By-Laws.)
Elders are ordained by Christ to lead in the administration of local churches (Philippians 1:1; Acts
6:1–7; 14:23). Deacons are appointed to care for the temporal needs of the congregation.
Section 2: Eldership
The elders shall be comprised of men who satisfy the qualifications for the office of elder set forth in
1 Timothy 3:1–7 and Titus 1:6–9. No elder shall hold the office of deacon during his tenure. Subject
to the will of the congregation, the Elders shall oversee the ministry and resources of the church. In
keeping with the principles set forth in Acts 6:1–6 and 1 Peter 5:1–4, the elders shall devote their
time to prayer, the ministry of the Word (by teaching and encouraging sound doctrine), and
shepherding God’s flock. This includes maintaining an accurate church role. The church shall
recognize men gifted and willing to serve in this calling, in accordance with the constitutional
provisions on elections. These men shall be received as gifts of Christ to His church and set apart as
elders. This recognition shall be reaffirmed by the church after four years. After an elder, other than
the senior or associate pastor(s), has served two terms, he may only be elected to the office of elder
after at least one year off. An elder's term of office may be terminated by resignation or by dismissal.

The elders shall take particular responsibility to examine and instruct prospective members, examine
and recommend all prospective candidates for offices and positions, oversee the work of the deacons
and appointed church committees, conduct worship services, administer the ordinances of baptism
and communion, equip the membership for the work of the ministry, encourage sound doctrine and
practice, admonish and correct error, oversee the process of church discipline, coordinate and
promote the ministries of the church, and mobilize the church for world missions. The elders are
further to ensure that all who minister the Word to the congregation, including outside speakers,
share our essential convictions. The elders may establish ministry positions or committees to assist
them in fulfilling their responsibilities. The elders may also propose funding for new paid staff
positions. The membership shall approve all candidates to fill the positions of senior and associate
pastor. The scope and approval of job descriptions for any staff position shall reside in the hands of
those with hiring authority for that position.

The elders shall have primary responsibility for the supervision and evaluation of staff members.
This responsibility may, on a case-by-case basis, be delegated to another staff member. In addition
the elders shall have primary responsibility for the employment and dismissal of all non-pastoral staff
members. In view of the fact that the responsibilities of the eldership are numerous and great,
Scripture makes provision for the financial support of elders. 1 Timothy 5:17 encourages the support
of “elders who rule well” (oversight) but “especially those who work hard at preaching and
teaching.” Thus a congregation may support more than one elder in the various duties of that office
but should place priority on the teaching function. Those serving in the teaching function, the senior
pastor and associate pastor(s), should, as far as possible, be adequately maintained in material
necessities, so as to be disentangled from the cares of an additional vocation. The elders shall elect a
chairman of elders’ meetings and shall also elect one of their number to serve as moderator of
members’ meetings. For purposes of compliance with the nonprofit corporation laws of the State of
Florida, the elders shall appoint men in good standing to serve as the officers of the corporation. (See
“Church Corporation” — Article 6 of By-Laws.)

Section 3: The Senior Pastor

The senior pastor shall be an elder. He shall perform the duties of an elder described in Section 2,
above, and shall be recognized by the church as particularly gifted and called to the full-time ministry
of preaching and teaching. His call shall not be subject to the reaffirmation or to the term limitation
set out in Section 2 above for elders. His call shall be defined as per Article 3, Section 3 of By-Laws.
He shall preach on the Lord's Day, administer the ordinances of baptism and communion, and
perform such other duties as usually pertain to that office, or as set forth in the constitution. In the
absence or incapacity of the senior pastor the elders shall assume responsibility for his duties, any of
which can be delegated. If at any time the senior pastor shall make application to be released from his
office, or if the congregation shall choose by a two-thirds majority vote to dismiss him, the
relationship between the senior pastor and church may be terminated by the congregation in ninety
days from the date of notice of intention, or in a shorter period of time, if it is mutually agreed upon.

Section 4: Associate Pastors

The church may call additional pastors whose relationship to the senior pastor is that of associate. An
associate pastor shall be an elder. He shall perform the duties of an elder described in Section 2,
above, and shall be recognized by the church as particularly gifted and called to the full-time ministry
of preaching and teaching. His call shall not be subject to the reaffirmation or to the term limitation
set out in Section 2 above for elders. His call shall be defined as per Article 3, Section 4 of By-Laws.
He shall assist the senior pastor in the performance of his regular duties and shall perform any other
duties as usually pertain to the office of pastor, or as set forth in the constitution, or which may be
specifically assigned to him by the congregation. In the absence or incapacity of the senior pastor for
defined periods of time (such as sabbatical or illness), the associate pastor(s) shall assume the
responsibility for his duties under the oversight of the elders. If at any time the associate pastor shall
make application to be released from his office, or if the congregation shall choose by a two-thirds
majority vote to dismiss him, the relationship between the associate pastor and church may be
terminated by the congregation in ninety days from the date of notice of intention, or in a shorter
period of time, if it is mutually agreed upon.

Section 5: Pastoral Assistants

The elders may hire additional staff to assist with pastoral ministry, designated as pastoral assistants.
These shall not be recognized as pastors by virtue of their servings as pastoral assistants, though they
may be recognized as elders should they be nominated by the elders and elected by the congregation,
in accordance with Article 9, Section 2. The elders shall define the responsibilities of the pastoral
assistant(s). They shall serve at the will of the elders for an initial term up to two years, though that
term may be extended with the approval of the elders.

Section 6: Deacons
The office of deacon is described in 1 Timothy 3:8–13 and Acts 6:1–7. The church shall recognize, in
accordance with the constitutional provisions on elections, men who are giving of themselves in
service to the church, and who possess particular gifts of service. These members shall be received as
gifts of Christ to His church and set apart as deacons. They shall be elected to one term lasting for a
maximum of four years. Afterward they may be reaffirmed by the congregation for another 4-year
term. After this second 4-year term, they may only be elected to another term after one year off.
Deacons shall care for the temporal needs of members, preserve unity, attend to the accommodations
for public worship, and encourage and support those able to help others and those with gifts of
administration. The deacons are responsible for the disbursement of funds received by the church for
benevolent needs. The deacons shall assist the church in maintaining a fund for benevolence,
reporting on its use to the elders at their request, and reporting to the church its total receipts and total
disbursements only. The deacons, with the agreement of the elders, may establish unpaid
administrative positions or committees.

ARTICLE IX
ORDINATIONS

Section 1: Ministers of the Gospel

It is our hope that Spirit-filled men will be called out from among us to proclaim the Gospel of the
Grace of God. The church will commission such men by giving a license to those whose ministries
will be limited in scope or time, or by ordination to the ministry.

When there is a prospective candidate for ordination to the ministry, the elders shall guide that person
in his studies and preparation. They shall then call a council to examine the qualifications of the
candidate. It shall look into the soundness of his conversion, the godliness of his walk, the soundness
of his doctrine, the degree of his gifts, the extent of his training, and the blessing of God upon his
labors for Christ.

If the council heartily recommends that the candidate be ordained, the church may give the
recommended commission by a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting at a
congregational meeting.
The elders, under the principles set forth in Article VII, shall have the power to exercise discipline,
even to the revocation of this church’s ordination or license.

Section 2: Installation of Elders

In a regular worship service of the church, the Pastor shall question newly elected elders as follows:

A. Do you believe the Scriptures as written in the Old and New Testaments to be the Word of God,
and do you accept them as the only infallible rule of faith and practice, promising to live wholly
under their authority?

B. Have you personally adopted and will you cheerfully submit to and defend the Confession (1689
London Baptist), Constitution and By-Laws of this church, promising to carry out your
responsibilities in accordance with these guiding documents?
C. Do you accept the Office of Elder readily, and do you promise to perform its duties of caring for
the flock of God in the fear of His Name?
Then the hands of the existing elders shall be placed on the heads of the new elders and prayer
offered in their behalf. Following this, the people shall be exhorted to esteem and obey those whom
God has placed over them.
Section 3: Installation of Deacons
In a regular worship of the church, the Pastor shall question newly elected deacons as follows:

A. Do you believe the Scriptures as written in the Old and New Testaments to be the Word of God,
and do you accept them as the only infallible rule of faith and practice, promising to live wholly
under their authority?

B. Have you personally adopted and will you cheerfully submit to and defend the Confession (1689
London Baptist), Constitution and By-Laws of this church, promising to carry out your
responsibilities in accordance with these guiding documents?
C. Do you accept the Office of Deacon and do you promise to care for the poor and needy, to manage
the business of this church in the fear of God, and to work for the unity of this church in full
cooperation with the elders?
Then the hands of the officers shall be placed on the heads of the new deacons and prayer offered in
their behalf. Following this, the people shall be exhorted to esteem and obey those whom God has
placed over them.

ARTICLE X
FINANCES

The work of this church is financially dependent upon the voluntary gifts of God’s people. The
elders, in conjunction with the finance committee, shall be responsible for the orderly administration
of the annual budget and all financial disbursals and receipts. Before the members meeting in
November, the elders shall work in conjunction with the finance committee to prepare a budget that
will finance the mission and ministries of the church. When this budget is approved by a vote of the
congregation, it shall be considered the basis for the current liabilities. No adjustments are to be
made to the budget that exceed 2% of the annual budget without the consent of the congregation.

The fiscal year of the church shall begin January first and end December thirty-first.

ARTICLE XI
AMENDMENTS

Amendments to the Constitution may be adopted by a two-thirds majority vote of the members
present and voting at a congregational meeting, provided that such amendments have been
distributed by the officers in written form at least two weeks prior to the congregational meeting.

BY-LAWS
ARTICLE I
MEETINGS

Section 1: Notice of Meetings

Notice of all congregational meetings shall be given at regular worship services on the two
successive Sundays immediately prior to the meeting. In an emergency, a meeting may be called on
shorter notice by making an effort to notify each member of the time, place and purpose of the
congregational meeting.

Section 2: Number of Meetings

Congregational meetings shall be held every two months for the reception of reports and the
transaction of such other business as may properly be brought before the meeting. The adoption of a
budget shall take place at the members meeting in November.

Section 3: Method of Calling Meetings

It shall be the right and responsibility of the elders to call all congregational meetings. A written
request to call a special congregational meeting, stating clearly its purpose, signed by 20% of the
members of the church in good and regular standing and presented to the elders, shall require the
elders to call such a meeting. When special congregational meetings are called, there must be notice
given to the congregation as to the purpose. The elders shall meet at the call of their Chairman, or at
the request of any three of their members; the deacons shall meet in the same manner.

Section 4: Responsibility for Meetings

The elders shall arrange the details of all congregational meetings and see that all possible
preparation for their successful conduct is made. All meetings of Grace Baptist Church shall follow
the principles outlined in Robert’s Rules of Order, Revised. There are to be no private recordings or
broadcasts of congregational meetings—members will have access to hear any recordings upon
request. The chair of each meeting shall see that minutes are recorded and delivered to the clerk.
Section 5: Quorum for Transaction of Business
The voting members present at any constitutionally called congregational meeting shall be
considered a quorum for the transaction of business. All church officers shall be voted upon by
written ballot. A quorum for elders and deacons meetings shall be 60% of their total number.

Section 6: Voting Age

Any member of the church eighteen years of age or over, in good and regular standing, shall have the
right to vote on any question properly brought before the congregation.

ARTICLE II
ELECTIONS

Section 1: Principles
The process for church elections shall be interpreted and carried out to fulfill the following
principles: Substantial prayer, both individually and corporately, should be an integral part of the
election process; Nominations should proceed with the support of the elders; All candidates for
church office should be treated with the grace, kindness, and honesty appropriate in evaluating fellow
members; The election process shall express that spirit of mutual trust, openness, and loving
consideration that is appropriate within the body of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Section 2: Selection of Officers

The election of officers shall be held at a members’ meeting of the church. Names of nominees to
serve as elders or deacons shall be presented by the elders at the previous members’ meeting
(providing that previous meeting occurred at least six weeks prior), and the election shall proceed as
directed by the moderator. The elders should seek recommendations and involvement from the
general membership in the nomination process. Any member with reason to believe that a nominated
candidate is unqualified for an office should express such concern to the elders. Members who
cannot in good conscience affirm a candidate should express their objection to the elders as far in
advance as possible before the relevant church members’ meeting. The moderator shall declare
elected all men receiving no less than 75% of all votes cast for the office of elder or deacon;
abstentions will not be considered as votes cast. The persons elected shall assume their respective
offices upon election, unless another date has been specifically designated.

Section 3: Calling of the Senior Pastor

In the calling of any man to this position, the same basic process of calling an elder must be
followed. In addition, however, the church must be given adequate opportunity to assess the
preaching gifts of any potential senior pastor and, before being asked to express its judgment, must
receive assurance from the elders that, having interviewed the man concerned, they are in no doubt as
to his wholehearted assent to the Second London Baptist Confession and the Church Covenant.
Notice of the nomination of a man to be elected to membership and called as senior pastor (which
shall include, if necessary, election to membership of him and his wife if he is married) must be
given at two Sunday morning services following the nomination, prior to the vote at a members’
meeting.
Section 4: Calling of Associate Pastor
In the calling of any man to the position of associate pastor, the same basic process of calling an
elder must be followed. In addition, however, the church must be given adequate opportunity to
assess the preaching gifts of any potential associate pastor and, before being asked to express its
judgment, must receive assurance from the elders that, having interviewed the man concerned, they
are in no doubt as to his wholehearted assent to the Second London Baptist Confession and the
Church Covenant. Notice of the nomination of a man to be called as associate pastor (which shall
include, if necessary, election to membership of him and his wife if he is married) must be given at
two Sunday morning services following the nomination, prior to the vote at a members’ meeting.

ARTICLE III
COUNCIL OF APPEAL

A Council of Appeal may be formed in two ways:

1. The elders may call upon the church to establish such a council.

2. The church may call for the establishment of such a council by a two-thirds vote of the

members present and voting at a duly called congregational meeting. 

The Council shall consist of the elders and/or deacons and an equal number of other members in
good standing to be chosen by the congregation. The congregation shall also appoint a chairman
from those on the Council to preside at its meetings.

A quorum for a Council of Appeal shall be four of the officers, four laymen, and the chairman. If a
member of the Council is unable to attend a meeting after the judicial process has begun, he may
thereafter sit and hear the case but will be disqualified to vote on the final issue of the case.
The resolution of any matter shall require a two-thirds vote of a Council of Appeal. When a final
decision of the Council of Appeal is announced to the congregation, that decision is final and the
case is ended. The church should receive this decision in humility and prayer.

ARTICLE IV
CLERK AND TREASURER

Section 1: Duties of the Church Clerk

The Clerk shall keep a record of all business transacted at the various meetings of the church, keep an
accurate record of the membership, and carry on all necessary and related correspondence for the
congregation. The Clerk shall be annually appointed by congregational vote.

Section 2: Duties of the Church Treasurer

The church Treasurer is to be responsible for the keeping of an accurate financial record of all funds
identified with the church, reconciling monthly statements, monitoring and safeguarding church
accounts, attending to any filings required by the Internal Revenue Service, as well as maintaining
records of individual contributions. The Treasurer shall be annually appointed by congregational
vote. Eligible candidates to the office of Treasurer must consist of either:

1. A member in good standing possessing abilities in financial stewardship and accounting

practices, willing to voluntarily serve in this position.

2. A paid Certified Public Accountant to handle or oversee the proper discharge of all the above

referenced duties. 
The Treasurer shall work with and report to the elders and Finance Committee. An assistant
Treasurer may be appointed to assist in these duties. The Treasurer shall ensure that a financial audit
is conducted at least every 5 years by a certified public accountant.

ARTICLE V
FINANCE COMMITTEE
The Finance Committee shall be comprised of certain elders and up to 3 additional members who are
appointed annually by the congregation. Their duties include working with the elders to prepare and
recommend to the congregation an annual budget. After it has been approved by the congregation,
this committee shall work in conjunction with the elders to oversee the administration of the budget.

ARTICLE VI
CHURCH CORPORATION

In compliance with the laws of the State of Florida for Corporations Not for Profit, this church shall
have at least 3 (but not more than 7) men to serve as trustees of the corporation. There shall be a
President, one or more Vice-Presidents, a Clerk, and a Treasurer for purposes of carrying out their
required services.

ARTICLE VII
AMENDMENTS

Amendments to the By-Laws may be adopted by a two-thirds majority vote of the members present
and voting at a congregational meeting, provided that such amendments have been distributed by the
elders in written form at least two weeks prior to the congregational meeting