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Constitution

Preamble

We declare and establish this Constitution to preserve and secure the principles of our faith and to govern the Body in a decent and orderly manner.

Article 1- Name

This Body shall be known as "The First Baptist Church of Bethalto," Bethalto, Illinois, hereinafter referred to as FBCB, Church or Body.

Article 2 - Purpose

Our purpose is to love God and love others in such a way that disciples are made and brought to maturity in Christ through the empowering of the Holy Spirit.

Article 3 - Statement of Faith

The Holy Bible is the inspired Word of God, and is the basis for any statement of faith. The Church subscribes to the doctrinal statement of The Baptist Faith and Message as adopted by the Southern Baptist Convention in 2000.

Article 4 - Affiliations

The government of this Church is vested in the Body of believers who comprise it. It is subject to the control of no other ecclesiastical Body, but it recognizes and sustains the obligations of mutual counsel and cooperation which is common among Southern Baptist Churches. In so far as is practical, this Church will cooperate with and support the association and state convention affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention. The sole authority for faith and practice among our membership is the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments.

Article 5 - Church Membership Covenant

Having, as we trust, been brought by Divine Grace to repent and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and to give up ourselves to Him, and having been baptized upon our profession of faith, in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, we do now, relying on His gracious aid, solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with each other as one Body in Christ.
· We will work and pray for the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
· We will walk together in brotherly love, as become the members of a Christian Church; exercise an affectionate care and watchfulness over each other and faithfully admonish and entreat one another as occasion may require.
· We will submit ourselves to the love, admonition, discipline and personal growth afforded to us by this Body of believers.
· We will rejoice at each other's happiness, and endeavor with tenderness and sympathy to bear each other's burdens and sorrows.
· We will be courteous in speech, slow to take offense, but always ready for reconciliation and to secure it without delay.
· We will not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, nor neglect to pray for ourselves and others.
· We will endeavor to bring up such persons as may at any time be under our care, in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, and by a pure and loving example to seek the salvation of our family and friends.
· We will seek, by Divine aid, to live carefully in the world, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, and remembering that, as we have been symbolically buried by baptism and raised again, so there is on us a special obligation now to lead a new and holy life.
· We will work together for the continuance of a faithful evangelical ministry in this Church, as we sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline, and doctrines. We will contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the Church, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the gospel through all nations.
· We will, when we move from this Church, as soon as possible, unite with some other Church of like faith where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of God's Word.

BY-LAWS

Preamble

These Bylaws are to provide general guidance on organization, governance and operation, based upon biblical principles and practices.

Article 1 - Membership

Section 1. General
The membership of FBCB shall consist of persons who confess faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as personal Savior, who give evidence of regeneration by conduct consistent with their profession and with the views of faith, doctrine and practice of this Church, who have been baptized by immersion and who have been received into its membership according to the By-Laws of this Church.

In order to implement the principles of covenant, commitment and accountability to the local Body of Christ, FBCB recognizes the need for formal membership. Membership in this Church shall consist of all persons who meet and maintain the qualifications for membership and who are listed on the membership roll.

The Church member commits to maturing in personal growth, sanctification, and prayer; to be faithful in attendance and participation in corporate worship and small group discipleship; to support the ministries of the Church through giving and service; to seek to preserve the unity of the Church; to honor the leadership; and to maintain a good testimony toward unbelievers.

All actions regarding admission or dismissal of members shall be by vote of the Church upon recommendation of the Council of Elders. At any of the regular meetings for worship, the Church may, without special notice, act upon the reception of members or upon transfer of members to other Churches.

Section 2. Qualifications for Membership
Any person who is following Christ as Savior and Lord, has received baptism by immersion as a testimony of salvation, has satisfied new member orientation requirements, has signed the Church Membership Covenant, and desires to remain committed to FBCB as a local body of believers, may become a member of the Church.

Section 3. Methods of Initiating Candidacy for Membership
A. By Profession of Faith in Christ
A person who makes a personal commitment of faith in Jesus Christ for salvation, givestestimony of that conversion, and is subsequently baptized by immersion before this Church family, may be received as a candidate for membership.
B. By Letter
Any person from another Church may be received as a candidate for membership upon receipt of a letter of good standing and transfer from that Church and who gives satisfactory evidence and testimony of a personal transforming faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, and who has been baptized by immersion.
C. By Statement
A person who gives satisfactory evidence and testimony of a personal transforming faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, who has been baptized by immersion but having no transferable letter, may be received as a candidate for membership.

Section 4. Steps Towards Membership
A. Personal Contact
Individuals desiring membership shall contact a pastor, Elder, Deacon, or staff member and share a desire to join FBCB.
B. Personal Interview
Individuals shall meet with an Elder(s), or designated representative, to give verbal testimony of their conversion and walk with Christ and to share their desire to be committed to FBCB as a local Body of believers. The Council of Elders will determine the appropriate new member orientation for each candidate.
C. New Member Orientation
Candidates for membership will complete new member orientation as determined by the Council of Elders. After completion of these requirements, a recommendation will be made to the congregation by the Council of Elders to accept the candidate into Church membership.
D. Statement of Covenant
A signed Church Membership Covenant shall be used as an instrument to affirm one's commitment to membership and to serve as a formal record of one's membership.

Section 5. Designations of Membership
In an effort to properly reflect the membership of the Church, a roll shall be maintained. The designations for the membership roll are:
A. Resident Member
A member who resides within the Church's ministry area and is striving to fulfill the Church Membership Covenant.
B. Resident Member Unable to Attend
A member who is striving to fulfill the Church Membership Covenant but is physically unable to attend.
C. Non-Resident Member
A member who is temporarily out of the Church's ministry area or who is actively in the process of relocating and joining another Church.

Section 6. Responsibilities of Membership
The responsibilities of membership are described in the Church Membership Covenant as documented in the Church Constitution.

Section 7. Voting Rights of Membership
Members 16 years of age and older may participate in Church action requiring a congregational vote. Members under the process of Church discipline forfeit the right to vote and participate in ministry responsibilities.

The following situations are to be presented to the congregation for decision:
· Affirmation or removal of ministerial staff
· Affirmation or removal of an Elder
· Affirmation or removal of a Deacon
· Affirmation or removal of staff (i.e., secretary, custodian)
· Affirmation of Church officers, standing committee members,
· Trustees and Bible
· Study leaders
· Admission or removal of a member
· The annual budget of the Church
· Any action which causes indebtedness in excess of 5% of approved budget amount
· Acquisition of real property
· Disposition of any substantial assets of the Church
· Any action which affects the Church's affiliation
· Merger or dissolution of the Church
· Amendments to the Constitution, Church Membership Covenant, By-Laws and Articles of Incorporation
· Other matters in which the Council of Elders deems prudent to seek the advice and counsel of the congregation

Section 8. Removal from Membership
Members may be removed from Church membership for the following reasons:
A. Transfer of membership to another Church
Any member striving to fulfill the Church Membership Covenant may request that a letter of membership be transferred to another fellowship. No letter will be granted to a member who is under the corrective discipline of this Church.
B. Non-letter transfer
Any member who unites with another Church without a letter will be dropped from the membership roll.
C. Personal request of the member
Any member, not under Church discipline, who requests that his/her name be removed from the membership roll shall be removed after due counsel from the Elders.
D. By chronic and unrepentant "forsaking of assembling together with the body of FBCB
A member may be removed for continuing in their delinquency despite due encouragement from the Council of Elders to attempt to restore the relationship and bring the individual back into the covenant community.
E. By failure to respond to Church discipline
See Article 1, Section 9, on Church Discipline.
F. By the member's death.

Section 9. Church Discipline
In accordance with Scriptural guidelines, the purpose of formative and corrective Church discipline is to glorify God by maintaining purity in the Church, protecting believers by deterring sin, and promoting the spiritual welfare of the offending believer by calling him or her to return to biblical standards of doctrine and conduct. Matthew 18 establishes the process for Church discipline (See Appendix D). Discipline progresses only when the member, though lovingly admonished, is chronically unrepentant of his or her sin.

The goal of Church discipline is always to bring about genuine repentance and complete restoration to fellowship of the member who is under discipline. Every effort must be made to resolve any conflict, correct any error, or remove any offense. This will be attempted through wise counsel, prudent admonition, and with loving concern.
A. Membership Status
Once the process of Church discipline has been commenced, the member subject to discipline shall not withdraw or otherwise surrender his or her membership. By becoming a member of this Church body, one knowingly submits to the formative and corrective discipline of the Church and voluntarily waives the right to withdraw or surrender membership during any period of Church discipline.
B. Reinstatement to Membership
The aim of all Church discipline is a return to a holy walk under the Lordship of Jesus Christ and obedience to His Word. The biblical imperative to withdraw fellowship is balanced by the call to restore such persons who have given evidence of repentance. When a person gives such evidence, the Council of Elders shall recommend that the person be restored to full membership in the Church.

Article 2 - Church Meetings

Section 1. Special Business Meeting
A special Business Meeting may be called by the Moderator to consider matters of a significant nature. A one week notice of the subject, date, time, and location must be given for the special meeting. The meeting should also be posted in any Church notices or bulletins unless extreme emergency renders such notice impracticable.

Section 2. Member Meetings
Member meetings may be called by the Council of Elders to encourage clear and profitable communication in key matters concerning the life and ministries of the Church. This includes matters requiring congregational approval (see Article 1, Section 7).

Section 3. Membership and Messengers
The Church may, during any regular worship service, choose messengers to represent the Church at any of the affiliated organizational meetings.

Section 4. Parliamentary Rules and Quorum
Roberts Rules of Order (revised) is the authority for parliamentary rules of procedure for all business meetings of the Church. A quorum for transacting Church business shall be thirty (30) voting members present.

Article 3 - Ordained Pastoral Staff

Section 1. General
All pastoral staff must be members of this Church. The pastoral staff shall be as follows:

Section 2. Senior Pastor
A. The Senior Pastor shall be chosen by the Church for an indefinite period of time. He must meet the qualifications as set forth in the Scriptures (1 Timothy 3:1-7) for a Pastor.
B. As Senior Pastor of the Church, he will make every effort to lead the membership in attaining its objectives. He will provide spiritual leadership for all work of the Church. He shall administer the Ordinances of the Church, and shall be a member ex-officio of all committees. He shall be accountable to the Council of Elders.
C. A Senior Pastor shall be chosen and called by the Church whenever a vacancy occurs. His selection shall take place at a meeting called for that purpose as a special business meeting.
D. A Selection Committee shall be elected to seek out a suitable Senior Pastor, and its recommendation will constitute a nomination. The Committee shall bring to the consideration of the Church only one name at a time. Salary and benefits are determined by the Selection Committee in consultation with the Personnel and Stewardship Committees and subsequently approved by the Church. Selection will be by ballot, an affirmation vote of three-fourths of those voting is required to sustain the nomination.
E. The Senior Pastor shall serve until the relationship is terminated. The Pastor shall give the Church written notice of his intent to terminate his duties as Pastor at least two weeks prior to the termination of his service. Likewise, the Council of Elders shall present to the Church a motion for termination of services of the Senior Pastor for approval by the Body.
F. Accusations brought by a Church member against the Senior Pastor will be received and examined by the Council of Elders only if the complaints are supported by two or more responsible witnesses (1 Timothy 5:19-20). All accusations must be written and signed by the complainants.

Section 3. Associate Pastor
A. The Associate Pastor shall be chosen by the Church for an indefinite period of time. He must meet the qualifications as set forth in the Scriptures (1 Timothy 3:1-7).
B. As Associate Pastor, he will assist the Senior Pastor in making every effort to lead the membership in obtaining its objectives. He shall be the assistant to the Senior Pastor, and shall have his duties determined by the Church, as indicated in his job description in the FBCB Policies and Procedures Manual. He shall assist the Senior Pastor in the administration of the ordinances of the Church. He shall be a member ex-officio of all committees. He shall be accountable to the Senior Pastor.
C. A Selection Committee shall be elected to seek out a suitable Associate Pastor, and at a meeting called for that purpose recommend the desirable candidate. Such recommendation shall constitute a nomination. The Committee shall bring to the consideration of the Church only one man at a time. Salary and benefits are determined by the Selection Committee in consultation with the Personnel and Stewardship Committees and subsequently approved by the Church. Selection will be by ballot; an affirmation vote of three-fourths of those voting is required to sustain the nomination.
D. The Associate Pastor shall serve until the relationship is terminated. The Associate Pastor shall give the Church written notice of his intent to terminate his duties as Associate Pastor at least two weeks prior to the termination of his service. Likewise, the Council of Elders shall present to the Church a motion for termination of services of the Associate Pastor for approval by the Body.
E. Accusations brought by a Church member against an Associate Pastor will be received and examined by the Council of Elders only if the complaints are supported by two or more responsible witnesses (1 Timothy 5:19-20). All accusations must be written and signed by the complainants.

Article 4 - Council of Elders

Section 1. General
FBCB is congregationally governed, yet led by a plurality of Elders. The congregation, acting in submission and obedience under the Headship of Christ, is entrusted with the definitive authority in the Church. The congregation empowers the Senior Pastor and Council of Elders to lead the congregation following the direction of the Holy Spirit. The Council of Elders bears the responsibility for the oversight care of the Church.

Men affirmed by FBCB to serve as Elders shall constitute the Council of Elders. To effectively perform their duties, the Council of Elders needs the prayers, support and assent of the membership of FBCB (1 Tim. 5:1-18; Heb. 13:17-18). The Church is called upon to honor the Council of Elders and to protect them against false accusations (1 Thess. 5:12-13; 1Tim. 5:19).

The governmental structure for FBCB is a plurality of servant leadership. To achieve this model, FBCB authorizes qualified men to serve on a Council of Elders.

Section 2. Qualifications
The qualifications for an Elder are based primarily on 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 6:1-9 (see appendix A). Elder adherence to these qualifications is an essential part of the local Church functioning as God desires. Therefore, Elders must demonstrate that they are faithfully living out these qualifications in their character and behavior.

These Elders must meet specific moral and spiritual qualifications before they can serve and in order to continue serving. These qualifications are based on biblical directives such as: character (1 Tim. 3:1-10), giftedness (1 Cor. 12:12-31), function (Romans 12:3-8) and results (Eph. 4:11-16). They must be publicly installed into office (1 Tim. 5:22; Acts 14:23). They must be motivated and empowered by the Holy Spirit to do their works of ministry (Acts 20:28).

Section 3. Responsibilities
The Elders have the responsibility of the leadership of the Church. They will, through prayerful guidance, seek to direct the Church and make decisions that will maintain the purity and purpose of the Church.
· Elders are to lead by example with all humility. They are to provide a Scriptural role model that sets a pattern before the congregation of a righteous life that pleases and glorifies God. Elders are to demonstrate servant leadership as they offer oversight to the Church. This oversight includes the responsibility of setting the direction and vision of the Church as based on Scriptural revelation.
· Elders shall oversee the process of membership candidacy (see Article 1, Section 4).
· Elders shall oversee, lead, guide, direct, protect, and care for the spiritual condition of the Church. The Elders are responsible for the spiritual nurturing, training, and discipling of Church members. They are to provide for the ongoing maturity of the Body in the process of progressive sanctification.
· Elders are to lead the Church by accurately teaching, admonishing, exhorting and applying God's Word. The biblical instruction by the Elders is to center on equipping the members of the Body to perform works of ministry.
· Elders are to pray for the spiritual and physical well being of members of the congregation. Elders are to be readily available to pray with members as requested.
· Elders are to carefully maintain the doctrinal purity of the Church; therefore, the Elders are responsible to oversee the educational aspects of the Church. Elders are to expose false teaching and confront those who teach false doctrine.
· Elders are to lead in the practice of Church discipline with Church members who continue in unrepentant patterns of behavior contradictory to Biblical truth. Elders are to lead in encouraging the return of members who are delinquent in Church participation.
· Elders are to lead in the selection and dismissal of ministerial and supporting staff as the need is determined.
· Elders may delegate selected ministry oversights and responsibilities to an Elder-led sub-group, pastors, staff members, Deacons, Church member(s), ministry team or committee. The Elders may also establish various advisory councils, committees or ministry teams to assist them in both administrative and ministry matters.
· Elders are to be accountable to one another and to the congregation for their Christian conduct and the exercise of their duties. Elders are to maintain careful lines of communication with the Church Body, and are responsible to schedule and host regular member meetings.
· Elders are expected to tithe at least 10% of their income through the Church and to maintain wise stewardship over the remaining portion.

Section 4. Senior Pastor and the Council of Elders
The Senior Pastor shall be a voting member of the Council of Elders. The Senior Pastor shall serve as a "leader among leaders" within the Council.

Section 5. Number
While the Bible does not give instruction as to the number of Elders a Church should have, it is recognized that there must be a plurality. Therefore, both the number of Elders annually elected and the number of Elders serving on the Council of Elders at any one time shall be unlimited. There shall be a minimum of at least two more lay Elders than there are staff Elders serving on the Council of Elders.

Section 6. Terms of Service
Non-staff Elders are elected on a rotation basis of three years and may serve two consecutive terms (6 years total). After two consecutive terms, a non-staff Elder is obligated to take, at minimum, a one-year sabbatical. Following a sabbatical, the Elder is eligible for renomination by the Council of Elders and reaffirmation by the congregation. Associate Pastors that may also be serving as staff Elders must be reaffirmed every three years by the congregation to remain on the Council of Elders. The Senior Pastor remains permanently on the Council. Terms of service follow the Church year (January 1st - December 31st) though an Elder may be elected any time the need arises. If an Elder is elected any other time throughout the year, the service date automatically reverts to the previous January.

An Elder may take a leave of absence, during his term of service, and be reinstated to active service by the Council of Elders. An Elder may resign from the Council of Elders; however, an Elder's resignation from the Council of Elders would not preclude his service as a future Elder, and he would be subject to the regular Elder selection process. An individual's service as an Elder may be discontinued by his own decision, by the unanimous decision of the other Elders, or by the decision of the Church.

Section 7. Nomination and Selection
A. General
Scripture gives evidence of the first Elders being appointed by the founders of the Church. By this example it is implied that the existing spiritual leadership of a Church should be intimately involved in the process of selecting Elders, so as to ensure that the selection process is based on spiritual rather than superficial qualifications.

Setting apart qualified men to serve as Elders presents the Church with one of its noblest decisions. Utmost care must be taken to ensure that only those men who consistently exhibit the biblical qualifications for Eldership will be set apart to lead the Church. Members of the Church Body are called upon to diligently seek the Lord throughout the process of selecting men to serve as Elders.

Members of the pastoral staff, other than the Senior Pastor, are not automatically Elders nor are they excluded from being considered for the position of Elder.

Not more than two members of the same immediate family shall serve on the Council of Elders at the same time. (i.e., father, son, son-in-law, etc.)

All Elders, except the Senior Pastor, must go through an interview and training process. Elders joining from other Churches may not necessarily be added as an Elder in this Church. A candidate for Elder must have been in the membership of this Church for at least two (2) years before being considered. A call for selection of Elders may occur at any time, as needed, or annually at the beginning of the Church year in January.

B. Selection Process
The Elders at FBCB are to be chosen by the following process:
1. The Church Body will be called to a period of prayer and fasting to discern God's men for service.
2. Nominations of qualified Church members will be gathered by the Council of Elders.
3. An indication of interest and calling to serve as an Elder will be requested from the nominee.
4. Each nominee and his wife, if married, will be screened by completing a questionnaire related to the nominee's Scriptural qualifications and doctrine, and then by an interview with the Council of Elders. A nominee may remove himself from consideration before or during the screening process. The Council of Elders, after consultation and explanation with the nominee, may decide not to recommend him to the Church.
5. Approved nominees will be presented to the Church, and within 30 days, anyone having a just reason why the nominee is not Scripturally qualified to serve shall put this in writing, sign the reason, and present it to the Council of Elders. After further consideration, the Elders and the person voicing the concern may then need to personally meet with the nominee about the concern. If the matter proves inconsequential, the nominee will remain as a candidate. If the matter clearly warrants concern, the nominee will be asked to withdraw his name from further consideration until the matter is resolved.
6. The Elder nominee will begin an apprentice/training process (lasting no less than one year) involving doctrine, leadership, personal discipline, and service. This process will involve times of instruction, interaction, projects, and assigned reading as means of preparing the nominee for service as an Elder. When FBCB nominates a member to the office of Elder who has not been ordained, the member shall serve for a period not less than one (1) year as an apprentice Elder. After the completion of the apprentice period the nominated individual and the Council of Elders will determine if the individual is qualified and desires to be ordained.
7. After the apprentice/training process, the congregation will be asked to affirm each nominee by ballot as God's man to serve the Church as an Elder. A nominee must receive at least three-fourths affirmation by Church members present and voting.
8. An Elder ordination service will commence the new Elder's ministry.

Section 8. Meetings and Quorum
The Council of Elders will hold regular meetings at a time and place decided by the Council. A quorum for Elder Council meetings shall consist of two-thirds (2/3) of the Council. Group consensus shall resolve any matters coming before the Council. The Council will elect a Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Secretary to serve annually. The Officers can serve a maximum of 3 consecutive years.

Section 9. Accusations Against an Elder
Accusations brought against an Elder will be received and examined by the Council of Elders only if the complaints are supported by two or more responsible witnesses (1 Timothy 5:19-20). All accusations must be written and signed by the complainants.

Section 10. Discipline
It is the Elder Council's responsibility to discipline or remove any Elder who no longer fulfills the qualification of an Elder, who fails to fulfill his responsibilities, or who violates the intent of these articles. Discipline or removal shall be by a unanimous vote of all Elders (except the Elder being disciplined or removed).

Section 11. Coordination of the Council of Elders with the Deacon Body
While Elders assume the spiritual oversight of the Church, including areas of doctrine, direction, and discipline, Deacons will assist in this work by carrying out the ministry and social needs of the Church.  Elders are to oversee the life of the Church, with the assistance of other godly leaders.  They must be people who can "rule well."  Deacon qualified men may be selected to assist the Elders in the management and ministry of the Church (1 Timothy 5:17).

Article 5 - Deacons

Section 1. General
Deacons are the servant-ministers of the Church. Their purpose is to lessen the multitude of practical duties related to caring for the covenant community. Deacons are to give special attention to the congregation's physical welfare. Likewise the Deacons are spiritually qualified individuals who assist the Council of Elders in meeting ministry and administrative needs of the Church. Deacons have the honor of modeling Christlikeness through their compassionate service to others.

Section 2. Qualifications
Any man who is a member of the Church, over twenty-five (25) years of age, and meets the qualifications of Scripture as listed in 1 Timothy 3:8-13, shall be eligible for the office of Deacon. He shall also have been a member of this Church for a period of at least one (1) year at the time of his election. Deacons joining from other Churches may not necessarily be added as a Deacon in this Church.

Section 3. Responsibilities
The priority of the Deacons is to serve the needs of the members of the congregation. Deacons are to minister to those who have spiritual and physical needs. Deacons may lead ministries, committees, and ministry teams as directed by the Council of Elders in coordination with the Deacon Body. Each Deacon must be supportive of the Elders, Pastors, Deacons, and ministry philosophy of FBCB.

It is their privilege to be a positive encouragement in all matters concerning the welfare of the Church, to be servants, proclaiming the gospel, leading the way in acts of mercy and care, visiting those in need, leading in benevolent concerns, setting the pace in mission endeavors, and administering the ordinances.

Section 4. Terms of Service
The term of Deacon service shall expire on August 31st of their third (3rd) year of service. After completion of a term, no individual shall be eligible to serve again until the lapse of at least one (1) year. Terms of service follow the year (September 1 - August 31) though a Deacon may be elected any time the need arises. If a Deacon is elected any other time throughout the year, the service date automatically reverts to the previous September service date.

Should a situation exist in which a Deacon is unable to finish his term, the Council of Elders in cooperation with the Deacon Body may recommend to the Church a man to replace the individual. If elected, the individual will serve the remaining term of the vacated position.

Section 5. Nomination and Selection
A. General
Election for Deacons shall be held no later than August of each year. The Church shall vote on the Deacon candidates at a designated member meeting.
B. Selection Process
Deacons are to be elected by the following process:
1. The Church will be called to a period of prayer and fasting to discern God's men for service.
2. Nominations of qualified Church members will be gathered by the Deacon Body.
3. An indication of interest and calling to serve as a Deacon will be requested from each nominee.
4. Each nominee and his wife, if married, will be screened by completing a questionnaire related to the nominee's Scriptural qualifications and doctrine, and by an interview with representatives appointed by the Deacon Body. A nominee may remove himself from consideration before or during the screening process. The Deacon Body, after consultation and explanation with the nominee, may decide not to recommend him to the Church.
5. Approved nominees will be presented to the Church, and within 2 weeks, anyone having a just reason why the nominee is not Scripturally qualified to serve shall put this in writing, sign the reason, and present it to the Deacon Body. After further consideration, the Deacons and the person voicing the concern may then need to personally meet with the nominee about the concern. If the matter proves inconsequential, the nominee will remain as a candidate. If the matter clearly warrants concern, the nominee will be asked to withdraw his name from further consideration until the matter is resolved.
6. If FBCB nominates a member to the office of Deacon who has not yet been ordained, the member shall serve for a period not less than one (1) year as an apprentice Deacon. After the completion of the apprentice period the nominated individual and the Deacons will determine if the individual is qualified and desires to be ordained.
7. The congregation will be asked to affirm the nominees by ballot. A nominee must receive at least a three-fourths affirmation by Church members present and voting. The only results of the election to be made public are the names of the men elected.
8. Following election by the Church of an unordained man to serve as a Deacon, the Church shall call for his ordination at a time directed by the Deacon Body.

Section 6. Meetings
The Deacon Body will hold regular meetings at a time and place decided by the Deacons. Deacons will elect officers who will serve a maximum of 3 consecutive years.

Section 7. Accusations Against a Deacon by a Church Member
Accusations brought by a Church member against a Deacon will be received and examined by the Deacon Body only if the complaints are supported by two or three responsible witnesses (1 Timothy 5:19-20). All accusations must be written and signed by the complainants.

Article 6 - Additional Staff

Section 1. General
The Church shall employ staff members as the Church may determine necessary to attain its objectives. Staff members are added as the need is determined through the Council of Elders and affirmed by the Church.

Section 2. Selection and Nomination
A committee containing members of the Council of Elders in cooperation with the Personnel Committee shall seek out a suitable employee and the committee's recommendation will constitute a nomination The selection of staff shall take place at a regular member meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose. A nominee must receive at least 2/3 affirmation of Church members present and voting.

Section 3. Qualifications and Benefits
Staff members shall meet the qualifications as set forth in the job descriptions as stated in the FBCB Policies and Procedures Manual and/or the qualifications drafted by the Personnel Committee for the particular purpose.

Salary and benefits are determined by the Personnel and Stewardship Committees and subsequently approved by the Church.

Section 4. Termination of Service
Staff shall serve until the relationship is terminated. The staff member shall give the Church written notice, advising the Church of his/her intent to terminate his/her duties at least two weeks prior to the termination of his/her service. The Council of Elders in cooperation with the Personnel Committee shall make a motion to the Church proposing termination of a staff member's services.

Article 7 - Other Church Leadership

Section 1. General
An effective organizational structure enables the Church Body to communicate and work together for the advancement of the Gospel.

Section 3. Church Officers
The Nominating committee shall present Church officers for approval by the Church on an annual basis concurrent with the Church fiscal year.
A. Church Clerk
· Record and keep Church records and make them available to the membership for viewing.
· Record, keep and have available minutes of all business meetings and correspondence pertaining to the Church and Church transactions.
· Keep up-to-date record of members with dates of admission, dismissal or death, together with a record of baptisms.
· Issue letters of dismissal voted on by the Church.
· Provide notice of all meetings where notice is necessary as indicated in the By-Laws.
· Report to the Church the minutes of the previous member meeting and any special meetings that have transpired during the preceding period for approval by the Church.
· Prepare and submit the Annual Church Profile.
· All Church records are Church property and will be filed by the Clerk in a place provided for that purpose.
B. Financial Secretary
The Financial Secretary shall be responsible to receive and deposit all Church monies in the bank with which the Church is doing business, keeping a true and accurate record. The Financial Secretary shall provide a bank statement of all deposits to the Church Treasurer.
Envelopes received for tithes and offerings will be given to the Recorder of Tithes and Offerings. The Financial Secretary serves as the chair of the Counting Committee.
C. Assistant Financial Secretary
An Assistant Financial Secretary, elected by the Church, will assume the duties and responsibilities of the Financial Secretary in his/her absence.
D. Moderator
The Moderator shall preside at all Church meetings requiring a vote. In the absence of the Moderator, the Assistant Moderator shall preside, or in the absence of both, the Church Clerk shall reschedule the business meeting.
E. Assistant Moderator
An Assistant Moderator, elected by the Church, will assume the duties and responsibilities of the Moderator in his/her absence.
F. Treasurer
· Receive the deposit statements from the Financial Secretary and keep an accurate and true record of the statements.
· Pay out all monies, by check only, approved by the person authorized for the budgeted item.
· Bring to the attention of the Church any budgeted item that exceeds its stated amount in the Annual Church Budget.
· Make a monthly report to the Church of all receipts and disbursements which will include the expenditures for the month, spent to date and budgeted for the fiscal year (this report is to be given to the Clerk to be made part of the permanent record of the Church).
· Be Corporate Treasurer for all legal transactions.
· Automatically becomes a member of the Stewardship Committee.
G. Assistant Treasurer
The Assistant Treasurer will assume the duties and responsibilities of the Treasurer in his/her absence.
H. Recorder of Tithes and Offerings
A recorder of Tithes and Offerings, elected by the Church, shall receive tithe and offering envelopes from the Financial Secretary, and will keep an accurate account of each individual's contribution to the Church. A semi-annual report of each individual's tithes and offerings will be completed and furnished to each contributor. Each individual record will be confidential and will not be discussed with any person except the individual.

Section 4. Trustees
A. Terms of Service
The Trustees shall consist of a minimum of seven (7) members. By September 1st, the Trustees shall submit to the Nominating Committee the number of additional members if needed for the proper function of the Trustees. The term of service for a Trustee shall occur concurrent with the Church fiscal year with service ending after the third year of service. Should a situation exist in which a Trustee is unable to finish his/her term, the Nominating Committee shall recommend another individual to fill the position. If elected, the individual will serve the remaining term of the vacated position.
B. Responsibilities
Trustees shall hold in trust all Church properties. They shall have no power to buy, sell, mortgage, lease, or transfer real Church property without specific vote of the Church authorizing each action.

Trustees will have responsibility for the oversight of all Church properties and grounds, and to make repairs or report same to the Church for appropriate action. They are authorized to enter the Church into obligations to accomplish the same in an amount not to exceed $1,000.00 (one thousand dollars). They will supervise the custodial services of the Church buildings, and may, with Church approval, enter into contracts to accomplish the same. They will be responsible for reviewing and providing the Church with appropriate information regarding insurance on all Church properties and bonding personnel.

It shall be the function of the Chairman of Trustees to affix his/her signature to legal documents involving the sale, mortgage, purchase, or rental of real Church property or other legal documents where a signature of a Trustee is required.

The Trustees shall organize themselves as appropriate, with the Chairman or his/her representative serving on the Stewardship committee as well.

Section 5. Standing Committees
A. General
Standing committees are those necessary for the ongoing operation of the Body. Standing committee members must be members in good standing of the Church. After nomination by the Nominating Committee and consultation with the Council of Elders, committee members are recommended to the Church Body for approval at any member meeting. The term of service for a standing committee member shall occur concurrent with the Church fiscal year with service ending on December 31 of the third year of service. Should a situation exist in which a committee member is unable to finish his/her term, the Nominating Committee shall recommend another individual to fill the position. If elected, the individual will serve the remaining term of the vacated position.
B. Nominating Committee
The Nominating Committee is comprised of nine members of FBCB. Three members will be elected each year to serve a term of three years. Members of the Nominating Committee shall be recommended to the Church for election by the Council of Elders. The purpose of the Nominating Committee is to make recommendations to FBCB regarding the composition of the elected positions identified within this document. They shall consult the director or leader of the area of ministry to aid in their selection of candidates to present to the Church for approval.
C. Stewardship Committee
The Stewardship Committee shall consist of ten members of FBCB. The Treasurer, a representative of Trustees, a representative of Personnel, and a representative of the Council of Elders will automatically become members of this committee. Two members will be elected each year to serve a term of three years. The committee will prepare and recommend to the Church, a budget for the fiscal year beginning January 1. This budget will be presented for approval to the Church at a special business meeting.

The Committee will promote the budget within the Church membership. It will encourage stewardship on the part of the members to accomplish the goals for the year. The Stewardship Committee shall appoint an audit committee every two (2) years, not necessarily from within the Church Body, to assist in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities for the monitoring of the accounting, internal control processes and the policies and procedures of FBCB that affect financial matters.

The Stewardship Committee will meet as often as it deems necessary or appropriate. The Stewardship Committee shall elect officers from within itself during the first meeting convened each calendar year.

Sub-Section C.1 - Counting Committee
The Counting Committee shall consist of seven members of FBCB, with the Financial Secretary automatically becoming the Chairman of the Committee. Two members will be elected each year to serve a term of three years. The Counting Committee shall be responsible to account for all monies received by the Church. At least three members of the
committee must be present when money is counted. At least two members must be present to deposit money.
D. Long Range Planning Committee
The Long Range Planning Committee shall consist of nine members of FBCB. The chairman of Stewardship and Personnel committees, and Chairman of the Council of Elders will automatically become members of this committee. Two members will be elected each year to serve a term of three years. The Long Range Planning Committee incorporates the vision into a workable strategy for FBCB, the coordination of ministries toward that direction and in the evaluation of progress to that end.

The Long Range Planning Committee will meet as often as necessary. The Committee shall elect officers from within itself during the first meeting convened each calendar year.

The Long Range Planning Committee reports directly to the Council of Elders and enables FBCB to create and achieve its vision by developing and implementing a dynamic and responsive planning process.
The Long Range Planning Committee shall perform the following functions:
· Prepare a standardized long range planning process.
· Prepare a strategic plan including, but not limited to, objectives, responsibilities and timeliness.
· Establish an evaluation process for strategic plan actions.
· Develop Church survey process to evaluate effectiveness of Church initiatives and programs (not inclusive of pastoral expository decisions).
· Develop/update Values Statement (overall priorities in how FBCB operates).
· Write and communicate the strategic plan to the Church Body.
E. Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee shall consist of five members of FBCB, with rotations as follows: one member rotates off the first year, two members rotate off the second year and two members rotate off the third year. Each member shall serve a term of three years. The Personnel Committee will meet as often as it deems necessary. The Personnel Committee shall elect officers from within itself during the first meeting convened each calendar year.
The Personnel Committee shall perform the following functions:
· Develop personnel policies and guidelines.
· Develop policies and guidelines for the recruitment, training, and retention of volunteers serving on committees and Ministry Teams.
· Review the annual personnel budget and recommend compensation for the paid staff to the Stewardship Committee.
· Perform the annual review of the Senior Pastor.
· Review with the Senior Pastor and the Council of Elders any complaints of unlawful workplace harassment or discrimination filed by employees or volunteers of FBCB.
· Perform other duties related to personnel issues for the well-being of FBCB as directed by the Council of Elders.
F.Policies and Procedures Committee
The Policies and Procedures Committee shall consist of seven members of FBCB, with rotations as follows: two members rotate off the first year, two members rotate off the second year, and three members rotate off the third year. Each member serves a term of three years. The Policies and Procedures Committee shall be responsible for developing and maintaining policies and procedures pertaining to the operations of FBCB. All policies are to be brought before the Body for approval. our faith and to govern the Body in a decent and orderly manner.

Section 6. Ad Hoc Committees
Ad Hoc committees serve for one particular purpose for the time needed to complete the assigned task.
A. Selection Committee
The Selection Committee shall convene when a need occurs to fill a pastoral staff position. The Selection Committee shall consist of the Chairman of Elders, Chairman of the Personnel Committee, and five additional members elected by the Church. The Committee will present one candidate per position.

Section 7. Ministry Teams
A. General
Ministry Teams are divided into branches reflecting the overall mission of FBCB. The branches are Exalt (Worship), Equip (Discipleship), and Engage (Outreach). Each branch is overseen by a Ministry Branch Representative nominated by the Nominating Committee and elected by the Body. Each Branch Representative also serves on the Executive Council as the liaison for the various ministry teams on his or her branch. Members of Ministry Teams must be approved by the Branch Representative. Bible study teachers must be recommended by the Nominating Committee and approved by the Church for a term to run September 1 to August 31.
B. Ministry Branch Representative
A Ministry Branch Representative is nominated by the Nominating Committee and elected by the Church Body to a term to run concurrent with the Church fiscal year. If a Staff member's job responsibilities naturally place them as a Ministry Branch Representative, they do not have to be nominated by the Nominating Committee. Each Branch Representative will function as the liaison for the various teams on his or her branch. They will provide guidance and direction when needed. Each Ministry Branch Representative will also be on the Executive Council and will communicate needs and vision between the Council, Elders and their respective branch of ministry.

Article 8 - Fiscal Year

The fiscal year of FBCB is January 1st to December 31st.

Article 9 - Ordaining, Licensing and Commissioning

Section 1. Ordaining and Licensing of Ministers
Any present member of FBCB, or former member now serving in ministry at another location, who, by his demonstrated commitment to the Church gives evidence that he is called of God to the work of the ministry may, by a vote of FBCB at a member meeting or special business meeting, after examination by the Senior Pastor and Elders as to his Christian experience, be ordained or licensed by the Church to the Christian ministry.

When a Church of like faith and order shall have called a member of FBCB to its staff and requests in writing that he be ordained, FBCB shall consider the request. If FBCB by vote of the membership present at a member meeting or special business meeting approves such a request, then it shall authorize and direct the Senior Pastor to assemble an ordination council of ordained ministers of the Gospel of like faith and order and Elders of like faith and order who shall perform the ceremony of ordaining this member to the Gospel Ministry in the name of, and in the presence of FBCB.

Section 2. Ordaining of Elders
If FBCB, at a member meeting or special business meeting, nominates a member to the office of Elder who has not been ordained, the nominated member shall serve for a period not less than one (1) year as an apprentice Elder. After the completion of the apprentice period the nominated individual and the Council of Elders will determine if the individual is qualified and desires to be ordained. If both criteria are satisfied, the Elder Chairman, in concert with the Senior Pastor, shall assemble an ordination council, which may be composed of ordained ministers of the gospel of like faith and order, Elders, and Deacons of FBCB and of visiting Elders and Deacons of like faith and order who shall perform the ceremony of ordaining him or them to the office of Elder in the name, and in the presence, of FBCB.

Section 3. Ordaining of Deacons
If FBCB, at a member meeting or special business meeting, nominates a member to the office of Deacon who has not yet been ordained, the nominated member shall serve for a period not less than one (1) year as an apprentice Deacon. After the completion of the apprentice period the nominated individual and the Deacons determine if the individual is qualified and desires to be ordained. If both criteria are satisfied the Chairman of Deacons, in concert with the Senior Pastor, shall assemble an ordination council, which may be composed of ordained ministers of the gospel of like faith and order, Elders, and Deacons of FBCB and of visiting Elders and Deacons of like faith and order who shall perform the ceremony of ordaining him or them to the office of Deacon in the name, and in the presence, of FBCB.

Section 4. Commissioning of Missionaries
Any active member of FBCB, or former member now serving in ministry at another location, who by his or her convictions believes he or she is called of God to the work of missions may, by a vote of the members present at a member meeting or special business meeting, and after examination by the Senior Pastor and the Council of Elders, be commissioned by the Church to missionary-related service.

Section 5. Surrender of Ordination
Any person ordained by this Body yet who later identify with a Church of unlike faith and order will surrender their ordination papers back to the Church.

Article 10 - Amendments

The Constitution of FBCB may be amended by a two-thirds majority vote of members voting at a special business meeting called for this purpose, the proposed amendment being inserted in the call. Proposals must be laid before the Church in writing, at a member meeting no less than one month before the proposed change, and announced from the pulpit on the Lord's Day preceding such action.

These By-Laws may be amended by a simple majority vote of members present at a member meeting or special business meeting called for the purpose of amending the document.

Original Constitution & By-Laws Adopted May 4, 1940
Revised: November 1947
Revised: August, 1958
Revised: September, 1968
Revised: November 1979
Revised: April, 1990
Updated: March 1998
Revised: April 2010

Appendix A - Elder Qualifications

The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, selfcontrolled,
respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's Church? He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil. (1 Timothy 3:1-7)

If anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. For an overseer, as God's steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it. (Titus 1:6-9)

Above Reproach - Elders must be blameless, presenting no patterns of Scriptural disobedience or grounds for accusation.
Husband of One Wife - Elders, if married, must be devoted spouses.
Self-controlled - Elders must be sober-minded, enslaved to nothing, free from excesses.
Prudent - Elders must be sober, sensible, wise, balanced in judgment, not given to quick, superficial decisions based on immature thinking.
Respectable - Elders must demonstrate a well-ordered life and good behavior.
Hospitable - Elders must be unselfish with their personal resources. They must be willing to share blessings with others.
Able to Teach - Elders must be able to communicate the truth of God and exhort sound doctrine in a non-argumentative way. (II Tim. 4:2 & 2:24)
Not Addicted to Wine - Elders must be free from addictions, and must be willing to limit their liberty for the sake of others.
Not Pugnacious - Elders must be gentle and characterized by forbearance and tenderness - not having a quick temper.
Uncontentious - Elders must not be given to quarreling or selfish argumentation.
Free From the Love of Money - Elders must not be stingy, greedy or out for sordid gain. They should not be preoccupied with amassing material things, but rather should be a model of generous and joyful giving.
Manage Own Household - Elders must have a well-ordered household, a healthy family life, and well-behaved children who are still under parental authority.
Not a New Convert - Elders must not be new believers. They must have been Christians for long enough to demonstrate the reality of their conversion and the depth of their spirituality.
Good Reputation with Outsiders - Elders must be well respected by unbelievers, and must be free from hypocrisy.
Not Self-Willed - Elders must not be stubborn, insensitive or prone to force opinions on others. They must be more interested in service than self-pleasure.
Not Quick Tempered - Elders must be able to exercise self-control and patience in difficult situations.
Loves what is Good - Elders must desire the will of God in every decision.
Just - Elders must be fair and impartial. Their judgments must be based on Scriptural principles.
Devout - Elders must be reverent, continually desiring to be separated from sin. They must be devoted to prayer, the study of Scripture and the guarding of their own spiritual walk. (Acts 20:28)
Holding Fast the Faithful Word - Elders must be stable in the faith, obedient to the word of God, continually seeking to be controlled by the Holy Spirit.

Appendix B - Initial Selection of Council of Elders

Setting apart qualified men to serve as Elders presents the Church with one of its noblest decisions. Utmost care must be taken to ensure that only those men who consistently exhibit the biblical qualifications for Eldership will be set apart to lead the Church. Members of the Church Body are called upon to diligently seek the Lord throughout the process of selecting men to serve as Elders.

1. The Senior Pastor will provide instruction and resource materials related to the qualifications of Elders. Following a season of prayer and fasting, members of the congregation will nominate men whom they believe are biblically qualified to serve as Elders. The nominator will write a brief explanation of why he or she nominated a particular man for the office of Elder. The list of nominees will not be made public for reasons of sensitivity and confidentiality.

2. The Senior Pastor and a select group of Deacons, chosen by the Deacon Body, will review the nominations. The Senior Pastor and the select Deacons will screen the list of nominees and their families and will disqualify any nominees according to biblical standards or other excluding circumstances. Reasons for disqualification will likewise remain confidential. The remaining nominees will be contacted to learn if they are willing to be considered as an Elder candidate. Those agreeing to nomination will complete a questionnaire which examines areas of doctrine and personal devotion.

3. Once nominees have passed the initial screening and questionnaire, they will meet with an ordaining council. The ordaining council will consist of the Senior Pastor, selected ordained SBC pastors, and selected SBC ordained Elders.

4. Those passed by the ordaining council will be identified to the congregation. The congregation will be given two weeks to examine and contest the nomination of any candidate put forward by the
council. Church members with concerns will put their concerns into writing and give it to the Senior Pastor. These concerns are to be shared only with the Senior Pastor. The Senior Pastor will accompany the concerned Church member to discuss the concern with the nominee. If the concern is deemed unwarranted by the Senior Pastor and the Chairman of Deacons, the nomination will stand. If the concern is warranted, the nominee will be asked to withdraw his name until the concern is resolved.

5. The Elder nominee will begin a training process involving doctrine, leadership, personal discipline, and service. This process will involve times of instruction, interaction, projects, and assigned reading as means of preparing the nominee for service as an Elder.

6. After the training process, the congregation will vote on the slate of Elder nominations. The vote will be by ballot. A nominee must receive at least a three-fourths affirmation by Church members present and voting.

7. The approved Elders will be ordained as Elders by the ordination council in a public service.

Appendix C - Election and terms for members of committees being constituted for the first time

1. The full complement of required members shall be elected concurrently in accordance with the process set forth for the committee nomination and election in the bylaws.

2. At the first meeting the committee will establish committee officers, i.e., Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Secretary, as the committee determines is needed.

3. The terms of the initial committee members shall be determined by lot as follows:
· The elected officers will serve a three year term and will not be included in the lot process.
· One third or nearest fraction thereof of the total number of committee members, including the number of officers, shall serve a one (1) year term.
· One third or nearest fraction thereof of the total number of committee members, including the number of officers, shall serve a two (2) year term.
· The remaining members and the elected officers will serve a three (3) year term.
4. The Nominating Committee will be notified of the established terms of the members of the newly formed committee.
5. After this initial process future nominations and elections shall follow the process set forth in the FBCB bylaws.

Appendix D - Church Discipline

Church discipline is an integral part of covenant life in a New Testament local Church. Out of love for God and love for others, the Church must obey Biblical instruction regarding the formative and corrective discipline of our members.

The purposes of discipline are clearly stated in Scripture: to glorify God by obedience to His instructions (Matt. 18:15; 2 Cor. 2:9); to honor God's name (2 Tim. 2:19; 1 Peter 2:9-12); to restore repentant believers (Gal. 6:1); to sanctify the Lord's Supper (1 Cor. 11:27); to purify the spirit and message of the Church (1 Cor. 5:6,7); to deny Satan any advantage in the Church (2 Cor. 2:11; Eph. 4:27); to prove that leaders care for the members (2 Cor. 7:1-13); to deter others from sin (1 Tim. 5:20); to destroy fleshly lusts in a believer (1 Cor. 5:5); to cut emotional ties with unrepentant Christians (1 Cor. 5:11); to protect Scriptures from perversion and error (Titus 1:10-14); to shame a brother to repentance (2 Thess. 3:14).

Church discipline may take the somewhat mild form of private or public admonition, particularly through the Scriptures (Rom. 15:14; Col. 3;16; 1 Thess. 5:14; 1 Cor. 10:11; Heb. 10:24-25), to the more severe mode of reproving, rebuking and convincing concerning sin
(Matt. 18:15; Eph. 4:15, 5:11; 1 Tim. 5:20; 2 Tim. 3:16; 4:2; Titus 1:9, 19; 2:15), to the final mode of discipline which is removal from membership (Matt. 18:17; 1 Cor. 5:11, 13).

Step 1. Self-Discipline
"Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness" (1 Tim. 4:7).
Step 2. One-on-One
It shall be the responsibility of any Church member who has knowledge of an erring member's unbiblical beliefs or misconduct to warn and to correct such erring member in private, seeking his or her repentance and restoration. If the erring member does not heed
this warning; then,
Step 3. One or Two Others
The warning member shall again go to the erring member accompanied by one or two witnesses to warn and correct such erring member, seeking his or her repentance and restoration. If the erring member still refuses to heed this warning; then,
Step 4. The Church
It shall be brought to the attention of the Council of Elders. The elders will appropriately investigate the allegation brought by one Church member against another. If these allegations are warranted, two or more of the elders will contact the erring member and seek his or her repentance and restoration. If the erring person refuses to heed this warning, the elders will present the matter to the congregation and recommend the withdrawal of fellowship and termination of membership of the offending member.
Step 5. Separation
One thus cut off from the fellowship of the Church shall be treated as a non-member until he/she gives evidence of repentance.
Step 6. Restoration
Upon evidence of repentance, the Council of Elders will recommend that the separated individual be restored to full membership in the Church.

Church discipline may be necessary:
A. When Christian truth is violated by those who reject essential doctrines of the faith.
Those who knowingly reject any of the doctrines which the Church considers essential may be removed from membership. (1 Timothy 1:19-20, 3:2, 9, 6:3-5; 2 John 7-11; Acts 20:27;Titus 1:9, James 3:1)
B. When Christian unity is violated by those who form divisive factions which destroy the peace and unity of the Church.
Such persons should be rebuked and, if necessary, removed. (Romans 16:17-18; Titus 3:9-11)
C. When Christian love is violated by serious private offenses.
Though such offense may begin in secret, it may ultimately result in public censure if the offender rebelliously refuses to repent. (Matthew 18:15-18)
D. When Christian conduct is violated by those living scandalous lives.
Biblical Christianity undeniably teaches high standards of behavior and morality. Those who live in a habitual violation of biblical principles and refuse to repent when admonished and rebuked may be removed from Church membership. (Matthew 15:19-20; Romans 12:1-2; 13:8-14; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13; Galatians 6:1; Colossians 3:58; 1 Thessalonians 4:1-10; 5:14; 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15; 2 Timothy 3:2-4:5; Titus 2:1-3:3; 1 John 2:3-6; Revelation 21:8)

Nuts and Bolts of Church Discipline, National Association of Nouthetic Counselors
9 Marks of a Healthy Church, Mark Dever
Manual of Church Order, J.L. Dagg
Shepherding the Flock, Woodland Park Baptist Church, Chattanooga, TN
Church Manual, South Woods Baptist Church, Memphis, TN
The Frieze Resource Library, Rex Frieze
Handbook of Church Discipline, Jay Adams