Constitution
ARTICLE 1 – NAME
This church will be known as Bluegrass Community Church, Incorporated. This will be a non-profit corporation of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. This church is autonomous and maintains the right to govern its own affairs, independent of denominational control. Recognizing, however, the universal communion of followers of Christ and the benefit of a wider association, this church will be affiliated with local and national religious organizations such as church planting organizations, and church networks.
ARTICLE 2 – CONFESSION OF FAITH
The doctrinal outlook of the corporation is reflected in the following statements:
A. THE SCRIPTURES - WE BELIEVE GOD WROTE THE BIBLE THROUGH MEN WITHOUT ERROR. The sixty six books of the Old and New Testaments, in their entirety, constitute the written Word of God and are without error in the original manuscripts. They were written by men, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and are therefore fully authoritative in all matters for the follower of Christ.
B. THE TRIUNE GOD - WE BELIEVE THAT GOD EXISTS ETERNALLY IN TRINITY: FATHER, SON, AND HOLY SPIRIT. There is one God, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable in His being, wisdom, power, holiness, love, justice, goodness, and truth, eternally existing in three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, who desires that we should know Him intimately and live a life of fulfillment through the pursuit of His glory. Each Person is fully God.
C. CREATED IN THE IMAGE OF GOD - WE BELIEVE THAT GOD HAS CREATED ALL HUMANS IN HIS IMAGE. HE HAS CREATED THEM UNIQUELY FEMALE AND MALE. All humans are created in God’s image; therefore, all human life is sacred. In creating humans as male and female, God communicated His image in harmonious interpersonal relationships, equality of personhood and importance and a distinction in role and authority.
D. THE FALL OF MAN - WE BELIEVE ALL HUMANS ARE SINFUL AND IN NEED OF SALVATION. SALVATION IS THE GIFT OF GOD BROUGHT TO HUMANS BY GRACE ALONE, AND RECEIVED BY PERSONAL FAITH IN THE LORD JESUS CHRIST. A TRUE CHRISTIAN WILL BE KEPT BY GOD’S POWER FOREVER. God has created every person in His image, but we have fallen into sin, and are therefore lost; only through the regeneration by the Holy Spirit can we obtain salvation and spiritual life. All humans are sinners and face the judgment of God. The shed blood of Jesus Christ and His resurrection provide the only ground for justification and only those who place faith in Jesus Christ and initiate a relationship with God on the basis of the work of Christ are delivered from the wrath of God toward sin required by His holy character. Those who receive Jesus Christ by faith are said by Holy Scripture to be regenerated, justified, redeemed, and adopted into the divine family as co-heirs with Christ of all the blessings of the Godhead. We proclaim that all persons who desire to be saved must consciously repent of their sins and confess that Jesus Christ is Savior and Lord.
E. THE WAY OF SALVATION - WE BELIEVE THAT JESUS CHRIST IS THE SECOND PERSON OF THE TRINITY WHO BECAME A MAN, LIVED A SINLESS LIFE, DIED ON A CROSS, WAS BURIED, AND ROSE BODILY FROM THE GRAVE TO REDEEM SINFUL HUMANITY. He is True God of True God, begotten, not made. He became human, conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, and made His dwelling among us, living a full life without sin. His perfect life and death on the cross provide the only atonement that satisfies the righteous requirements of God for the sinner. The death of Jesus Christ fully and finally paid for sin, and was redemptive, substitutionary, and efficacious. The historic fact of Jesus Christ’s resurrection from the dead testifies powerfully to His deity, and is itself humanity’s ultimate hope. Jesus Christ will make a personal and imminent return to the earth; this return is a sanctifying “hope” having vital bearing on the life of every Christian.
F. THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT - WE BELIEVE THAT THE HOLY SPIRIT IS THE SUPERNATURAL AGENT IN SALVATION, BAPTIZING ALL CHRISTIANS INTO THE UNIVERSAL CHURCH AT CONVERSION, INDWELLING AND SEALING THEM UNTIL THE DAY OF CHRIST’S RETURN. The Holy Spirit bears persuasive testimony to the realities of Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit is the personal, divine third member of the Godhead. He convicts the world of sin and its consequences; He grants repentance and faith to the believer by grace; He indwells the believer with the radical life of Jesus Christ; He gives gifts to every believer for mutual service within the body of Christ; He unites each believer in the Body of Christ and seals them in that relationship; He bears the fruit of Christian character in the lives of every believer; He guides, instructs, and empowers the believer for godly living and service. He is worshipped with the Father and the Son.
G. THE UNIVERSAL CHURCH - WE BELIEVE THAT THE CHURCH IS A SPIRITUAL ORGANISM MADE UP OF ALL BELIEVERS EVERYWHERE FOR ALL TIME. All Christians in all times and in all places have been united into a single body by an operation of God. This resultant union is called the Body of Christ, the Universal Church.
H. THE LOCAL CHURCH AND THE SACRAMENTS - WE BELIEVE IN THE AUTONOMY OF THE LOCAL CHURCH AND RECOGNIZE BELIEVER’S BAPTISM AND THE LORD’S SUPPER. Christ commanded that all Christians band together in assembly for instruction, worship, service, and fellowship. These assemblies are called local churches. As a local church, Bluegrass Community Church embraces the rich and vibrant traditions of the Universal Church. Only those who are members of the Universal Church shall be eligible for membership in the local church. Baptism of believers by immersion and the Lord’s Supper are the only two ordinances to be observed by the local church in the present age. These ordinances are not to be regarded as means of salvation. They are, however, signs for us of the reality of the gospel, and a means of grace by which God grows us.
I. THE WORLD TO COME - WE BELIEVE THAT JESUS WILL RETURN TO EARTH TO JUDGE ALL PEOPLE AND TO RULE AND REIGN WITH HIS SAINTS FOREVER. All people will be resurrected to give account for their lives before God. The believer in Christ will be resurrected to everlasting blessedness and joy in the presence of God. The unbeliever will be resurrected to judgment and everlasting conscious punishment.
J. We hold these truths in humble conviction.
ARTICLE 3 – CORE PASSIONS
From Acts 2:42, we learn that those who were part of the early church "devoted themselves to (1) the apostles' teaching, (2) fellowship, (3) the breaking of bread, and (4) prayer."
At Bluegrass Community Church, we aspire to be a congregation dedicated to these four fundamental aspects of the Christian life as we earnestly seek to love God and love our neighbors (Matthew 22:36-40). It is because of the latter that we endeavor to actively engage with these principles not only within our church community but also in the broader contexts of our neighborhoods and the various spheres of our daily lives.
In light of this commitment, we also pledge ourselves to be followers of Christ who are devoted to (1) effective evangelism, achieved through both the impactful proclamation and demonstration of the teachings found in the entirety of the Bible; (2) demonstrating a spirit of love, compassion, respect, and dignity toward our neighbors; (3) practicing biblical hospitality; and (4) embodying a posture of mercy by attentively listening to the petitions and needs of our neighbors, just as God listens to us.
ARTICLE 4 - OUR MISSION
The gospel, that is the good news that we can have life with God through the cross of Christ by God’s grace alone, drives our mission:
1) Love Jesus - Throughout the NT Christians are described as those who love Jesus (Rom 8:28; 1 Thess 1:2-3) while non-Christians are described as enemies of God who hate Jesus (Rom 1:30, 5:10; Jn3:19). We can and should grow in our love for Jesus because God first loved us (1 Jn 4:10).
2) Cultivate Community - God does not save us to an individualistic faith, but God rescues us from our individualism and saves us into His family, the church (Gal 3:3-7). We can and should cultivate community in our lives because Jesus died to create and secure the community of the church (Eph 2:11-16).
3) Live on Mission - Witnessing to the good news (gospel) of who Jesus is and what He has done described through the three aspects of God’s Kingdom, the cross of Christ and the free grace of God is every Christian’s privilege, joy and responsibility. We can be godly neighbors because Jesus was the ultimate missionary sent by His Father from heaven to earth to bring us good news (Jn 20:21; Phil 2:3-11).
ARTICLE 5 - CHURCH COVENA
“When you make a vow to the Lord, do not delay in fulfilling it.
He has no pleasure in fools. Fulfill your vow. It is better not to vow than to
make a vow and not fulfill it.” -Ecclesiastes 5:4-5
When anyone enters into relationship with God by grace and through faith in the person and work of Jesus Christ, they are entering into two covenants:
1. To journey with God for the rest of their lives and love Him fully.
2. To journey with His other children in the community of the local church.
Your membership in a church is an official recognition of this.
THE PURPOSE OF THE BLUEGRASS COMMUNITY CHURCH MEMBERSHIP COVENANT IS:
1. To join the Holy Spirit in forming an authentic church community that reflects the relationship between the Father, Son and Spirit.
2. To clarify the on-going blessings & responsibilities of each member.
3. To encourage consistency, accountability and loving unity within the church family.
4. To accomplish God’s call for the Bluegrass church family. This agreement does not imply that you will never fall short of the goals, but that the desire of your heart is to fulfill each of the responsibilities stated to the best of your ability. We trust that your commitment will be a personal blessing to your own journey in Christ, as well as blessing to those around you.
THE FACTS OF MEMBERSHIP:
A numerical record was kept (Acts 2:37-47). Records were kept of widows (1 Timothy 5:3-16). Elections were conducted (Acts 6:1-6). Discipline was carried out (Matthew 18:15-20; 1 Corinthians 5; Galatians 6:1). Elders will be held accountable for members (Hebrews 13:17). There was an awareness of who was committed to the Church (Romans 16:1-16).
With the help of the Holy Spirit, the church leadership covenants the following:
1. We covenant ourselves to lovingly care for you and seek your growth in Christ (Hebrews 13:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:12).
2. We covenant to provide teaching, preaching and counsel from the Scriptures (Galatians 6:6; 1 Timothy 5:17-18).
3. We covenant that this teaching will span the whole counsel of Godʼs Word (Acts 20:27-28).
4. We covenant to helping you in times of need (Acts 2:42-47, 4:32-35, James 2:14-17).
5. We covenant that your elders and deacons (when they are recognized) will meet the criteria assigned to them in the Scriptures (1 Timothy 3:1-13 and 5:17-22; Titus 1:5-9, 1 Peter 5:1-4).
6. We covenant to pray for you regularly, particularly when you are sick (James 5:14).
7. We covenant to be on guard against false teachers (Acts 20:28-31).
8. We covenant to exercise church discipline when necessary (Matthew 18:15-20; 1 Corinthians 5; Galatians 6:1).
9. We covenant to help you become equipped to serve Christ (Ephesians 4:11-13).
10. We covenant to seek God’s will for our church community to the best of our ability as we study the Scriptures and follow the Spirit (Acts 20:28, 1 Peter 5:1-5).
11. We covenant to set an example and join you in fulfilling the duties of church membership (1 Corinthians 11.1; Philippians 3:17; 1 Timothy 4:12).
With the guiding help of the Holy Spirit, I, the undersigned, covenant the following:
1. I am a Christian who has been saved from my sins by the grace of Jesus Christ. I have been baptized to give testimony of my identification with the body of Christ and in obedience to the Scriptures.
2. I have read and understand Bluegrass’ confession of faith and have heard and understand Bluegrass’ By-Laws through membership class and agree to not be divisive to its teaching and content. I also understand the importance of submission to church leadership and will be diligent to preserve unity and peace (Hebrews 13:7, 17; Ephesians 4:1-3)
3. I will endeavor to maintain a close relationship with the Lord through regular personal Bible reading, prayer, fellowship and practice of the other spiritual disciplines. My journey in Christ will be evident through my participation in the corporate worship services, and involvement in a community group (Psalm 119:97, 105; Acts 2:42-47; Hebrews 10:23-25).
4. I will strive to properly manage the resources God has given me, including my time, body, gifts, talents, attitudes, finances and possessions (Ephesians 5:15-18; Romans 12:1-2; Ephesians 4:1-16; Galatians 5:22-26; Proverbs 3:9-10). This includes regular giving to Bluegrass that is sacrificial, within my means, consistent and cheerful (2 Corinthians 8-9).
5. I commit myself to the Bluegrass church family and agree to aid in fulfilling its missional purpose to bring the gospel to Lexington, the Nation and World. I recognize that this will be accomplished by pursuing Bluegrass’ core values, vision, and mission.
6. I commit to using the spiritual gift(s) God has given me for the building up of the church, both as part of Bluegrass and universally (Ephesians 4:11-16; 1 Peter 4:10-11; Romans 12:1-8; 1 Corinthians 12:7-31).
7. I covenant to practice humility with the sacrificial attitude of Christ by considering the needs of others (Philippians 2:1-11; 1 Corinthians 13:4-5), not gossiping (Proverbs 16:28, Matthew 18: 15-17), and seeking spiritual friendships (Proverbs 17:17).
8. I covenant to follow the biblical procedures of church discipline and submit myself to informal discipline as I strive to live out the gospel in community and formal discipline if the need should ever arise (Matthew 18:15-17; Galatians 6:1-5). If I withdraw from membership while the subject of pending disciplinary action according to Matthew 18:15-17, I expressly consent and submit to the elders’ continuing authority to complete the disciplinary process set forth in our church by-laws.
9. I covenant to submit to the authority of the Scriptures as the final arbiter on all issues (Psalm 119; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). God enabling me, I will strive to consider my commitment to this Membership Covenant on a yearly basis. I understand that it is an evaluative tool, as well as an affirmation of my continuing conviction and purpose. My responsibility will be to notify Bluegrass’ leadership if at any time I can no longer commit to this covenant. If I have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding Bluegrass, I commit to talk to my pastors and will do everything within my power to not cause division.
ARTICLE 6 - MEMBERSHIP IN BLUEGRASS COMMUNITY CHURCH
The membership of this church will consist of persons who confess faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as personal Savior, who give evidence of regeneration by living consistent with their profession, who affirm and submit to the views of faith, doctrine, and practice of this church, who have been baptized by immersion, and who have been received to its membership according to the Bylaws of this Church.
ARTICLE 7 - CHURCH GOVERNMENT
Under the authority of Jesus Christ and the Word of God, the congregation of the church is the final authority within this local church.
The officers of the church will be elders and deacons/deaconesses. The purpose of the officers of the church is to lovingly govern, serve, care for, and equip the membership to do the work of the ministry.
The authority of the church will be vested in the council of elders who are responsible for governing the church, teaching the Word of God, and tending the flock of God in this church. The elders will be equal in authority but may be specialized in function.
Deacons/deaconesses will assist the council of elders by performing services of administration, implementation and feedback.
Bluegrass’ church government can best be described as elder led and congregationally responsible, which in God’s wisdom is given both for the good of the church and her leaders who are all under the authority of Jesus Christ.
Dissolution. “Dissolution” means the complete disbanding of the Corporation so that it no longer functions as a corporate entity. Upon the dissolution of the Corporation, its property shall be applied and distributed as follows: (1) all liabilities and obligations of the Corporation shall be paid and discharged or adequate provision shall be made therefore; (2) pursuant to a plan adopted by the board of directors, assets shall be transferred or conveyed to one or more domestic or foreign corporation, society, or organization that qualify as exempt organizations under section 501(c)(3) of the Code and are engaged in activities substantially similar to those of the corporation.
ARTICLE 8 - AMENDMENTS
This Constitution may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the members present and voting at a members’ meeting, provided the amendment(s) shall have been offered in writing at the previous members’ meeting, and shall have been announced from the pulpit at church services two successive Sundays prior to such vote.
BY-LAWS
ARTICLE 1 - PURPOSE OF BYLAWS
1.1.1 These by-laws are intended to liberate the church to move swiftly and safely in fulfilling her purpose in the world, and they are also intended to protect her from unbiblical and destructive abuses of power. Each individual article must be read in light of the whole set of by-laws, and in light of our Constitution (Confession of Faith and Church Covenant).
ARTICLE 2 - MEMBERSHIP
Section 1 - Qualifications
2.1.1 To qualify for membership in this church body, a person:
must be a believer in Jesus Christ who gives evidence of his or her regenaration (John 3:3-8; 2 Cor. 5:17; 1 John 3:9),
who has been baptized by inmersion in obedience to Christ, following his or her regeneration (1 Peter 3:21; Acts 22:16; Col. 2:12),
and who wholeheartedly believes in the Christian faith as revealed in the Bible.
Each member must sustain the Confession of our church and not hold any settled convictions contrary to them, in accord with our Confession of Faith (see Constitution Article 2)
and must covenant to live consistently by our Church Covenant (see Constitution Article 5)
2.1.2 The normal process for becoming a member of the church body is
completion of all sessions of Membership Considered class,
assessment of a person’s qualification for membership of the church body in an interview with a pastor (elder, overseer),
a recommendation by the pastors (elders, overseers) to the church,
and the affirmation by the members of the church on the basis of the person’s profession of faith.
Section 2 - Admission of Members
2.2.1 To be admitted into church membership, applicants shall be recommended by the pastors (elders, overseers) for admission and accepted by vote of at least two-thirds of the members present at any regular or special meeting of the members. At that point, newly elected members shall relinquish their membership in other churches. Those applying for membership will be received as members by baptism, statement of faith, or letter of transfer.
Section 3 - Duties and Privileges of Membership
2.3.1 In accord with the duties enumerated in the Church Covenant, each member of the body shall be privileged and expected to participate in and contribute to the ministry and life of the church, consistent with God’s leading and with the gifts, time, and material resources each has received from God. Only those who are members of this church body shall be eligible to lead in the ministries of the church (1 Cor. 12:4-8)
2.3.2 It is the privilege and responsibility of members to attend all members’ meetings and affirm the election of officers, decisions regarding membership status, and such other matters.
Section 4 - On Church Discipline
2.4.1 Formative discipline is inherent in the preaching, teaching, and exercise of other ministries in the church. When formative discipline fails due to sin, corrective discipline is then necessary. Corrective discipline is for the good of the church and the member of the church body who has sinned. It is never to be entered into lightly or quickly. The goal of corrective discipline is always remedial, that is, the goal is always the salvation, holiness, and good of the one being disciplined, and his/her restoration to the church.
2.4.2 Any member of this church body consistently engages in a pattern of sin or other conduct by which the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be dishonored, and so opposing the welfare of the church shall be subject to the admonition of the pastors (elders, overseers), and the discipline of the church, according to the instructions of our Lord in Matthew 18:15-17 and the example of scripture. Church discipline, then, should only be contemplated after individual private admonition has failed.
2.4.3 Church discipline can include admonition by the elders, suspension from communion for a definite period, removal from office, and disfellowship (see Matthew 18: 15–17; 2 Thessalonians 3: 14–15; 1 Timothy 5: 19–20; 1 Corinthians 5: 4–5).
2.4.4 The purpose of such discipline should be:
For the repentance, reconciliation, and spiritual growth of the individual disciplined (Heb. 12:1-11; Matt. 18:15-17; 1 Cor. 5:5; Gal. 6:1);
For the instruction in righteousness and good of other Christians, as an example to them (1 Cor. 5:11; 1 Tim. 5:20; Heb. 10:24-25);
For the purity of the church as a whole (1 Cor. 5:6-7; Eph. 5:27; Rev. 21:2);
For the good of our corporate witness to non-Christians (Matt. 5:13-16; John 13:35; Acts 5:10-14); and
Supremely for the glory of God by reflecting His holy character (Deut. 5:11; John 15:8; Eph. 1:4; 1 Pet. 2:12).
2.4.5 It is desirable in the case of public sin that a confession be made before the church in a specially called meeting, so that the church can freely extend forgiveness. Such public confession is especially necessary in the case of pastors (elders, overseers) and deacons/deaconesses (1 Tim. 5:19-20; Gal. 2:11-14).
Section 5 - On Dual Membership
2.5.1 Any person who is currently a member of another church in good standing (50 miles or more outside of Lexington, KY), yet through a temporary relocation has routinely been in attendance at Bluegrass Community Church, shall be encouraged to have dual membership status. This status shall facilitate proper care and oversight while the person is under the care of Bluegrass Community Church.
Section 6 - On Watchcare
2.6.1 People who submit themselves to the teaching and discipline of Bluegrass Community Church and are expected to actively serve. At the same time, watchcare members may not vote in membership meetings or serve in the office of deacon/deaconess or elder.
Section 7 - On Termination of Membership
2.7.1 Termination of membership in this church body shall be recognized by the church upon the death, transfer of membership, or voluntary resignation of any church member. Membership may be terminated as an act of church discipline at the recommendation of the pastors (elders, overseers) and with the vote of two-thirds of the body of Christ present at any regular or special meeting(s) of the church.
2.7.2 The church shall have the authority to refuse the transfer of membership to another church.
ARTICLE 3 - OFFICERS
Section 1 - Summary
A. Jesus Christ is the Lord and head of this church and He rules primarily through the Scriptures.
B. The biblical offices in the church are elders (pastors) and deacons/deaconesses, and the members in the church are the congregation. In addition, our church recognizes the administrative positions under this constitution of clerk and treasurer. All officers must be members of this church prior to assuming their responsibilities.
Section 2 - Elders
The authority of Bluegrass Community Church shall be vested in a governing board of male elders/pastors, hereinafter referred to as the Council of Elders or the Eldership, which is composed of both paid (staff pastor) and unpaid elders/pastors (non-staff pastor) who follow the leading of Jesus who is the Lead Pastor of Bluegrass (1 Peter 5:1–4).
A. QUALIFICATIONS
To be considered as an elder, a man must have been called by God into leadership at Bluegrass (Acts 20:28) and be a man of the highest Christian character according to the qualifications of Scripture (1 Timothy 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9).
1. Relation to God
a. A man – masculine leader
b. Above reproach – without any character defect
c. Able to teach – effective Bible communicator
d. Not a new convert – mature Christian
2. Relation to Family
a. Husband of one wife – one-woman man, sexually pure
b. Pastors and Shepherds his children
c. Manages family well – provides for, leads, organizes, loves
3. Relation to Self
a. Temperate – mentally and emotionally stable
b. Self-controlled – disciplined life of sound decision-making
c. Not given to drunkenness – without addictions
d. Not a lover of money – financially content and upright
4. Relation to Others
a. Respectable – worth following and imitating
b. Hospitable – welcomes strangers, especially non-Christians for evangelism
c. Not violent – even-tempered
d. Gentle – kind, gracious, loving
e. Not contentious – peaceable, not quarrelsome/divisive
f. Good reputation with outsiders – respected by non-Christians
Additionally, he must competently and consistently accomplish the biblical duties of an elder/pastor which include:
1. Prayer and Scripture study (Acts 6:4)
2. Ruling/leading the church (1 Timothy 5:17)
3. Managing the church (1 Timothy 3:4–5)
4. Caring for people in the church (1 Peter 5:2–5)
5. Giving account to God for the church (Hebrews 13:17)
6. Living exemplary lives (Hebrews 13:7)
7. Rightly using the authority God has given them (Acts 20:28)
8. Teaching the Bible correctly (Ephesians 4:11; 1 Timothy 3:2)
9. Preaching (1 Timothy 5:17)
10. Praying for the sick (James 5:13–15)
11. Teaching sound doctrine and refuting false teachings (Titus 1:9)
12. Working hard (1 Thessalonians 5:12)
13. Rightly using money and power (1 Peter 5:1–3)
14. Protecting the church from false teachers (Acts 20:17–31)
15. Disciplining unrepentant Christians (Matthew 18:15–17)
a. The Council of Elders determines the lead elder, who functions as the first among equals and is the lead pastor for the church. It is the duty of the lead elder to help lead the Council of Elders and the rest of the church in obeying God’s leading as revealed in Scripture.
b. Selection as an elder pursuant to Article 4 (Section 1) below confers the authority to preach, marry and enjoy all the rights and privileges accorded to licensed or ordained ministers under secular law.
c. No loan shall be made from the church to any elder. Any director who assents to the making of such a loan shall be jointly and severally liable for its repayment.
d. The Council of Elders may structure and organize however it deems necessary for the sake of simplicity, clarity of communication, and efficiency of organization, according to the needs of the church and the size of the Council of Elders so long as it preserves the plurality of elders and the doctrinal and character requirements for elders articulated in this document.
e. To promote efficient handling of Council of Elders matters, the Council may appoint various councils and committees from within its membership, the staff and from the church at large. These councils and committees shall perform tasks solely in accordance with the duties and with powers specifically delegated by the Council of Elders. The general functions of councils and committees are:
1. To bring considered recommendations to the Council of Elders concerning ministries.
2. To provide a wider base of counsel to the Elders having the oversight of specific ministries. All councils and committees shall exist for the period specified by the Council of Elders.
B. ELDER SERVICE
A. Once a man becomes a staff pastor at Bluegrass it is expected that he will continue to serve as an elder indefinitely.
B. Once a man becomes a non-staff pastor it is expected that he will serve a 3 year term. After his 3 year term is up, the membership will vote him into another 3 year term. After a period of 6 years of service, non-staff pastors will take a 1 year sabbatical from elder duties to be refreshed and renewed in order that they might be voted on again by the membership for another 3 year term. Terms for non-staff pastors provide needed rest for Bluegrass’ pastors, as well as more opportunities for other men to serve as elders.
C. If the elders determine that an elder needs an extended Sabbath for a season because of a legitimate need (e.g., illness, tragedy), then that elder can transition to an inactive and non-voting elder for a set period of time as determined by the elders.
D. To resign from the Council of Elders, an elder must notify the Council of his decision in the form of a letter of resignation, which he will give to the lead elder, and which the lead elder will then distribute to the other elders.
E. An elder who senses God’s call to leave Bluegrass to help plant a Sojourn Network–sponsored church plant should make his desire known to the Council of Elders. If the elders confirm his calling, the elder will be sent out with blessing to help lead another church.
F. Any credible charge of moral impropriety, doctrinal error, or anything else that could displease the Lord or harm Bluegrass, against an elder shall be investigated by a task force established by the elders. During the investigation, the elder in question shall not be allowed to vote on any church matters and shall be placed on temporary leave. If the elder task force finds credible evidence of wrongdoing, the elder in question shall be tried by the elders according to the criteria of Scripture (e.g., James 3:1; 1 Timothy 5:19–21). A three-fourths vote of the remaining elders is necessary in order to find an elder guilty of the charges. If such a verdict is rendered by the remaining elders, the consequences for such a finding shall be determined by the remaining elders, with any action (up to and including removal) requiring another three-fourths vote of the remaining elders. In such instance, the members of Bluegrass shall be notified in writing of the process and results.
Section 3 - Deacons/Deaconesses
A. DESCRIPTION: A Deacon is a lead servant in the ministry of our church. She/He works with her/his fellow Deacons in extending the overseeing ministry of the Elders into the physical needs of the people and property of the church and responsibilities of this body. Under the Elders’ leadership, she/he is to care for and maintain the orderly administration of our fellowship in which God has placed her/him as a Deacon. Deacons are not in a position of authority in areas of teaching, carrying out church discipline or making decisions for the church as a whole.
B. TERM: Deacons may take sabbaticals from service as needed upon approval of the elders.
C. QUALIFICATIONS:
1. In accordance with the biblical requirements found in 1 Timothy 3, Deacons at Bluegrass must be respectable, sincere, temperate and trustworthy. They must not be greedy or drunkards. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience, and manage their families well. Deacons will be tested to ensure that their lives qualify them for the task of service.
2. The first Deacons in Acts 6:1-7 were “full of the Spirit and wisdom;” Bluegrass Deacons must also demonstrate fullness of the Spirit and wisdom.
D. OBLIGATIONS:
1. To develop and meet regularly with ministry groups.
2. To meet specific designated needs in the congregation and broader community.
3. To provide encouragement and help to the Elders in their ministry.
ARTICLE 4 - ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Section 1 - Elders
The process of becoming an elder/pastor involves at least the following steps:
1. He must be a member in good standing at Bluegrass who has demonstrated the calling, character, and competency of an elder.
2. He must be unified with the rest of the elder council theologically, missiologically, philosophically, functionally and relationally.
3. If accepted as an elder candidate, the man will then undergo a period of training and testing.
4. Training, prior to becoming an elder, will include whatever is deemed necessary to enhance the candidate’s understanding of an elder’s responsibilities as outlined in Scripture.
5. If approved after a period of testing/training, members of Bluegrass will be notified that he has met the criteria of an elder. Anyone, in or out of the church, having a concern regarding the man’s qualifications to lead as an elder will have a minimum of one week to notify the elders, who can investigate the matter to determine if there is any reason to disqualify the man.
6. Upon completing his training and testing process, the man must be approved by the full council of elders without objection to be introduced to the church members as an official elder candidate to be voted on in a members’ meeting.
7. If the elders and members do not find any reason to reject the man as an official elder, the man will be installed by the laying on of hands, after which he shall be considered an ordained and licensed minister of the gospel.
8. Selection as an elder does not result in contract rights as an employee. All employees are “at will” and the employment relationship may be terminated without regard to such person continuing to serve as an elder.
9. When a man is hired as a pastor from outside our body, his process of affirmation and season of investigation are part of the hiring process so that once a man is hired, he may be immediately installed as an elder. A pastor’s position on the Council of Elders is pursuant to his employment with the church and any voting or leadership right within the church is immediately revoked upon dismissal or if he is called elsewhere to pastor.
Section 2 - Deacons/Deaconesses
The following procedure will be followed for adding members to the Deacon community.
1. All nominations made by the existing elders.
2. Consensus vote of the elders.
3. Consensus vote of members
F. TERMINATION: The following are reasons for termination of service.
1. Resignation.
2. Continued behavior which violates the biblical qualifications for the office (requires 3⁄4 vote of elders).
3. Continued agreement with doctrine which violates the doctrinal outlook of our church (requires 3⁄4 vote of elders).
ARTICLE 5 - CHURCH DISCIPLINE
Through God’s grace, the fourfold purpose of church discipline is the means (1) to help conform us individually and corporately to Christ, in terms of the purity and unity of his church, for the glory of God (Col. 1:28; Eph. 4:1-6; 1 Cor. 10:31), (2) to help bring a wandering soul back to Christ (Matt. 18:15-17; 1 Cor. 5:5; Gal. 6:1- 5), (3) to help deter others from sin (1 Tim. 5:20), and (4) to help protect the church from false teachers, wolves and division (Acts 20:25-31; Titus 1:10-11).
Members of this church and all others who regularly attend church gatherings who err in doctrine, or who engage in conduct that violates Scripture as determined by the Council of Elders, shall be subject to appropriate church discipline which they have impliedly or expressly consented to honor prior to engaging in the conduct triggering the disciplinary action. Application of church discipline shall be consistent with the biblical approach outline in Matthew 18:15- 18. As such, it is to be exercised against offenders who are members of Bluegrass. The elders oversee the disciplinary process described below and members of the congregation delegate authority to the elders to make the final decision in all disciplinary matters.
A. Offenses Addressed
General categories of offenses in Scripture that may result in church discipline include:
1.Divisiveness (Titus 3:9-11, Romans 16:17-18, Hebrews 13:17)
2.Scandalous immorality (1 Corinthians 5:9-11, 6:9-10, Exodus 20:12-17)
3.Rejecting doctrines of the Christian faith (1 Timothy 1:19-20, 6:3-5, 2 John 9-11)
B. Methods Used
Matthew 18:15-16 outlines the approach to bring about reconciliation between individuals when offenses occur. If this is unsuccessful, then those who sought the offender’s repentance may come to the Council of Elders.
C. The Church Discipline Process
All church discipline should maximize redemptive and protective efforts for all involved in accordance with the Scriptures. For the sake of context, the passage on church discipline is embedded within other relevant passages: (Matt. 18:7-11)—the seriousness of causing others to stumble; (Matt. 18:12-14)—the importance of pursuing the one lost sheep; (Matt.18:21-35)—the parable of the unmerciful servant.
The process for church discipline outlined in Matthew 18:15-20 involves four progressive steps: (Step 1) privately seek reconciliation (Matt. 18:15). (Step 2) If the person refuses to listen in the private confrontation, involve select others (Matt.18:16). (Step 3) If the person refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church by informing the elders (Matt. 18:17a). (Step 4) If the person refuses to listen even to the church, treat the unrepentant person as an unbeliever (Matt. 18:17b). The church discipline process is made up of both informal steps (steps 1-2) and formal steps (steps 3-4).
D. Transitioning from Informal to Formal Church Discipline
If disciplinary steps 1 and 2 are unsuccessful, then those who sought the offender’s repentance may come to the Council of Elders. The Elders, in turn, are to follow the general procedures below to ensure order throughout the formal phase of church discipline. The time required for each of the following action steps depend upon the particular circumstances. Each step in the process below will be documented in writing and will include all pertinent information (e.g. history, proven offenses, expectations, actions taken). The Elders will not entertain anonymous accusations. The person accused of sin has the right to face and answer his or her accusers. Any charges against an Elder must be supported by two or more witness (1 Timothy 5:19) as well as provided in writing.
1. Investigation: The elders are to conduct an investigation to determine if the accused is guilty of the charges. If the charges are proven false, then appropriate exhortation will be given to the parties so that reconciliation can occur. If the charges are proven (whether by confession or by witnesses), admonition is to be initiated.
2. Admonition: Admonition includes a description of how the unacceptable behavior violated the Scriptures and what must replace it; a gathering of a select, intentional community to journey with and minister to the offender over a specified period of time; and a warning that public admonition (Matt. 18:17b) or removal from membership could follow if repentance and subsequent changes in heart attitude and action does not result by God’s grace. If repentance and satisfactory changes occur, the Elders may discontinue further disciplinary efforts. Other disciplinary measures, short of removal from membership, may include limitation of social associations and ministry opportunities.
3. Removal from Membership: If admonition and redemptive efforts fail to result in repentance, removal from membership will occur. The person removed from membership is to be treated as an unbeliever and is excluded from the privileges of membership. He is thus excluded from communion. The church will be informed by the Elders of the reasons for this decision (this will include the reading of the person’s name and biblical offense in a members’ meeting), and will explain the duty of all members relative to the offender. The nature of the offense will only be read at members’ meetings in order to instruct every member on his/her duty as a member relative to the offender. If a member withdraws from membership while the subject of a pending disciplinary action according to Matthew 18:15-17 and begins attending another church, the Elders are obliged to inform the new church of the offender’s status. If a member withdraws from membership while the subject of a pending disciplinary action according to Matthew 18:15-17, such withdrawal shall not cancel the Elders’ authority to complete the appropriate disciplinary action.
4. Restoration: If and when the person removed from membership repents, restoration begins. Restoration is a process that restores an offender to the full privileges that were withdrawn during excommunication. This will only occur if the Elders are satisfied that full repentance is a reality. If restoration is appropriate, the Elders will inform the church of the reasons for this decision and will explain the duty of all members relative to the restored person (2 Corinthians 2:5-11).
Other Important Details
1. Separate and apart from the process of church discipline, but subject to the discretion and approval of the Council of Elders (or a duly appointed Committee thereof), a member, a regular attendee, or other individual may be notified that he or she is not to be present upon church premises or at church functions for such a period of time as is deemed necessary for the safety and well-being of others on church premises. Such required absence may, but need not, be concurrent with church discipline of that person.
2. Separate and apart from the process of church discipline, but subject to the discretion
and approval of the Council of Elders (or a duly appointed Committee thereof), the names of any members who have not regularly attended a worship service or Community Group meeting at or under the leadership of Bluegrass Community Church for a consecutive period may be removed from the membership rolls.
The methods described here also cover any and all disputes or claims arising from or related to church membership covenant, doctrine, policy, practice, counseling, and discipline, including claims based on civil statute or for personal injury.
By joining this church, all members agree that these church discipline methods shall provide the sole remedy for any dispute arising against the church and its agents, and they waive their right to file any legal action against the church in a civil court or agency.
ARTICLE 6 - BIBLICAL COUNSELING
All Christians struggle with sin and the effect it has on our lives and our relationships (Romans 3:23, 7:7-25). Whenever a Christian is unable to overcome sinful attitudes or behaviors through private efforts, God desires that he seek assistance from other members, and especially from the Elders who have the responsibility of providing pastoral counseling and oversight (Romans 15:14,Galatians 6:1-2, Colossians 3:16, 2 Timothy 3:16-5:2, Hebrews 10:24-25, 13:17, James 5:16). Therefore, this church encourages and enjoins its members to make confession to and seek counsel from each other and especially from pastoral counselors.
A. Principles of Counseling: Counseling at Bluegrass Community Church is based on scriptural principles rather than those of secular psychology or psychiatry. The counselors of this church are not trained or licensed as psychotherapists or mental health professionals, nor should they be expected to follow the methods of such specialists. The counselors of Bluegrass Community Church seek to apply biblical principles to all aspects of life. If a member or regular attendee of Bluegrass Community Church seeks help in legal, financial, medical, or other technical questions, the counselor will apply scripture to the matter to the best of his ability. The counselor will seek to cooperate with professional advisors and help members or regular attendees consider their advice in the light of relevant scriptural principles.
B. Confidentiality in Counseling
Confidentiality is to be respected as much as possible; however, there are times when it is appropriate to reveal certain information to others. In particular, when the Elders of this church believe it is biblically necessary, they may disclose confidential information to appropriate people. Typical circumstances include:
1.When an Elder is uncertain about how to counsel a person about a particular problem and needs to seek advice from other Elders (Proverbs 11:14, 13:10, 15:22, 19:20, 20:18, Matthew 18:15-17).
2.When the person who disclosed the information, or any other person, is in imminent danger of serious harm unless others intervene (Proverbs 24:11-12) where required by scripture or law.
3.When a person refuses to repent of sin and it becomes necessary to institute disciplinary proceedings (Matthew 18:15-20 and By-Laws Article 5) or seek the assistance of individuals or agencies outside this church (see Romans 3:1-5).
4.When required by law to report suspected child abuse or other illegal activity.
ARTICLE 7 - MEETINGS AND VOTING
Section 1 - Meetings
A. In every meeting together, members will act in that spirit of mutual trust, openness and loving consideration that is appropriate within the body of our Lord Jesus Christ.
B. A regular members’ meeting will be held at least twice a year and at a time agreed upon by the elders and acceptable to the church. The date, time, and purpose of all members’ meetings will be announced at Sunday Gatherings at least two weeks prior to the meeting. Provided all constitutional provisions for notification have been met, a quorum will be understood to be met by those members present.
C. The chairman of the elders will moderate members’ meetings. In the absence or incapacity of the chairman of elders, the elders will appoint another elder to perform these duties.
D. An annual members’ meeting will be held for approval of the new year’s budget no more than three nor less than one month prior to the new year. The fiscal year will commence on January 1.
E. Special members’ meetings may be called by the elders with adequate notice.
F. Emergency members’ meetings may be called by a majority of the elders. All resolutions passed at emergency meetings are subject to review at the next regular members’ meeting.
G. Meetings will be run according to The Robert’s Rules of Order. On any matter that is brought to vote, a two-thirds vote is needed for it to pass (unless the Constitution or By-Laws specifies otherwise). Abstentions will not be considered as votes cast.
Section 2 - Voting
Provided all constitutional provisions for notification have been met (see Article 7: Section 1.B), a quorum will be understood to be met by those members present. Matters requiring congregational approval shall be determined by a majority vote unless otherwise specified by the constitution or by-laws.
Congregational voting shall occur in the following instances:
A. Affirmation of the yearly budget and significant changes in the budget as outlined in Article 8 – Budget.
B. Affirmation of elder or deacon candidates from within Bluegrass.
C. Purchases of land and real estate.
D. Amendments to the constitution and/or by-laws.
A quorum shall be necessary only in the case of the rejection of a budget, elder/deacon, purchase of land or real estate. For these items, a quorum is not necessary for a vote of affirmation.
If a vote is taken resulting in the rejection of one of these items, the elders are to communicate in writing to all members the result of the vote, and within 45 days, to communicate a time for a membership meeting to present an alternative (in the case of a budget).
ARTICLE 8 - BUDGET
The budget may be amended in three ways: reallocation, adjustment for growth, and
expansion:
1. Reallocation
a. The budget may be amended by reallocation of funds from one
account to another upon approval by the elders so long as the total change in funds does not exceed 20% of the annual budget. This change does not require congregational approval.
b. Elders must approve reallocation of funds by a majority vote.
c. Reallocation of funds which exceeds 20% of the annual budget requires
both approval by the elders and a majority vote of the congregation. In this case, the amendment to the budget must be presented in writing to the congregation and approved by a majority vote at a members’ meeting.
2. Adjustment for Growth
a. The budget may be amended if giving exceeds the amount estimated
in the annual budget. Adjustment for growth allows the elders to expand the budget so that what is given can be distributed to various budget items in proportion to the excess giving.
b. Elders must approve adjustment for growth by majority vote.
c. Adjustment for growth does not require congregational approval.
3. Expansion
a. The budget may be amended for the expansion of ministry need. This includes but is not limited to:
i. Expansion of a budget for a ministry that has grown in its need for resources.
ii. Addition of a new budget item, such as a new ministry or staff
member.
b. Expansion for budget items less than 20% of the annual budget may be approved by a majority vote of the elders and does not require congregational approval.
c. Expansion for budget items greater than 20% of the annual budget may be approved by a majority vote of the elders and a majority vote of the congregation. In this case, the amendment to the budget must be presented in writing to the congregation and approved by a majority vote at a members’ meeting.
ARTICLE 9 - AMENDMENTS
The bylaws may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the members present and voting at a members’ meeting, provided the amendment will have been offered in writing prior to, and provided the members’ meeting will have been announced at Sunday Gatherings two successive Sundays prior to such vote.