CONSTITUTION

This written document is a declaration of our beliefs and understanding of the Holy Scripture, as to our doctrinal beliefs, form of church government, organizational structure, and purposes as a body. It is vitally important for a church, if it is to glorify God and accomplish His purposes, that its people be in agreement with regard to doctrine, organizational structure and goals (1 Cor. 1:10; Eph 4:3, 13).

This is therefore designed to be a statement of these things that it might promote a oneness of mind within our own ranks, and that those interested in becoming a part of this ministry might have a clear concept of our beliefs and objectives.

This document is not a higher authority than the Word of God. Neither is it a higher authority than the authority that God Himself has invested in those believers He has appointed to lead this local church (Heb 13:17). It must be remembered that the local church itself is a living, growing, and flexible body subject ultimately to the authority of Jesus Christ alone as it is declared in the Word of God (Eph. 1:22; 4:12-16). As we grow in the Word, this document is therefore subject to amendment according to the provisions of Article XIV. This document is, however, to be followed as a protection to all until amended according to its provisions.

The name of this local church shall be St. Croix Christian Centre, a corporation under the laws of both the Province of New Brunswick and the country Canada.

Our mission, goals and objectives set forth our philosophy of the local church and its ministry. This will be set out in a separate document which can be periodically updated.

Since the Word of God is foundational and absolutely essential to true spirituality, fellowship, spiritual sustenance, effectiveness in service and ministry, faith and doctrinal accuracy, we believe that the most important function of this local church, and its central trust, is consistent teaching, study and application of the Word of God (1 Tim. 4:6-7).

The study of the Word of God is not an end in itself, but it is a high priority and a necessary channel for fellowship with God and thereby also of effective ministry to one another and to the world. It will not therefore, be bypassed or made secondary in the interest of social concerns, actions, or activities, but must be so promoted that the Word, and the teaching of the Word, become the pulse and heartbeat behind all church and non-church related activities or concerns (Psa. 119:1ff; 138:2; Isa. 77:2b; Rom. 15:4; 16:25-26; 1 Thess. 2:13; 1 Tim. 1:5; 4:1-16; 2 Tim. 3:15-17; 4:1-3).

This local church shall thus function as an independent, non-denominational evangelical church, committed to the fundamental, historic truths recorded in God’s inerrant revelation – the Holy Scriptures. To hold positions within St. Croix Christian Centre, all elders, ministerial staff, deacons, teachers and other leaders must wholeheartedly agree with the Doctrinal Statement, Article V, of this church.

A. Holy Bible: The Holy Bible, and only the Bible, is the authoritative Word of God. It alone is the final authority for determining all doctrinal truths. In its original writing, the Bible is inspired, infallible and inerrant (see Prov. 30:5; Rom 16:25-26; 2 Tim. 3:16; 2 Pet. 1:20-21).

B. One True God: The one true God has revealed Himself as the eternally self-existent “I am”, the creator of heaven and earth and the redeemer of mankind. He has further revealed himself as embodying the principles of relationship and association as Father, Son (Jesus) and Holy Spirit. (See Deut. 6:4; Isa. 43:10-11; Matt 28:19; Luke 3:22)

C. Jesus Christ: Jesus Christ is God the Son. On earth, Jesus was 100 percent God and 100 percent man. He is the only man ever to have lived a sinless life. He was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, performed miracles, died on the Cross for humankind and, thus, atoned for our sins through the shedding of His blood. He rose from the dead on the third day according to the Scriptures, ascended to the right hand of the Father, and will return again in power and glory (see Isa. 9:6; John 1:1-14; 20; 28; Phi. 2:5-6; 1 Tim 2:5; 3:16).

D. Virgin Birth: Jesus Christ was conceived by God the Father, through the Holy Spirit in the virgin Mary’s womb; therefore, He is the Son of God (see Isa. 7:14; Matt. 1:18; 23-25; Luke 1:27-35).

E. Redemption: Humanity was created good and upright, but by voluntary transgression, it fell. Humanity’s only hope for redemption is in Jesus Christ the Son of God (see Gen. 1:26-31; 3:1-7; Rom 5:12-21).

F. Regeneration: For anyone to know God, regeneration by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential (see John 6:44-65).

G. Salvation: We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ: His death burial and resurrection. Salvation is a gift from God not a result of our good works or of any human effort (see Rom. 10:9-10; Acts 16:31; Gal. 2:16; 3:8; Eph. 2:8-9; Titus 3:5; Heb. 9:22).

H. Repentance: Repentance is the commitment to turn away from sin in every area of our lives and to follow Christ which allows us to receive His redemption and to be regenerated by the Holy Spirit. Thus through repentance we receive forgiveness of sins and appropriate salvation (see Acts 2:21; 3:19; 1 John 1:9)

I. Sanctification: Sanctification is the ongoing process of yielding to God’s Word and His Spirit in order to complete the development of Christ’s character in us. It is through the present ministry of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God that the Christian is enabled to live a godly life (see Rom. 8:29; 12:1-2; 2 Cor. 3:18; 6:14-18; 1 Thess. 4:3; 5:23; 2 Thess. 2:1-3; Heb. 2:11).

J. Jesus’ Blood: The blood Jesus Christ shed on the cross of Calvary was sinless and is 100 percent sufficient to cleanse humankind from all sin. Jesus allowed Himself to be punished for both our sinfulness and our sins, enabling all those who believe to be free from the penalty of sin, which is death (see John1:29; Rom. 3:10-12,23; 5:9; Col. 1:20; 1 John 1:7; Rev. 1:5; 5:9).

K. Jesus Christ Indwells All Believers: Christians are people who have invited the Lord Jesus Christ to come and live inside them by His Holy Spirit. They relinquish the authority of their lives over to Him, thus making Jesus the Lord of their lives as well as Savior. They put their trust in what Jesus accomplished for them when He died, was buried and rose again from the dead (see John 1:12; 14:17,23; 15:4; Rom. 8:11; Rev. 3:20).

L. Baptism in the Holy Spirit: Given at Pentecost, the baptism in the Holy Spirit is the promise of the Father. It was sent by Jesus after His Ascension to empower the Church to preach the gospel throughout the whole earth (see Joel 2:28,29; Matt. 3:11; Mark 16:17; Acts 1:5; 2:1-4; 17,38,39; 8:14-17; 10:38; 44-47; 11:15-17; 19:1-6).

M. The Gifts of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is manifested through a variety of spiritual gifts to build and sanctify the Church, demonstrate the validity of the Resurrection and confirm the power of the gospel. The lists of these gifts in the Bible are not necessarily exhaustive, and the gifts may occur in various combinations. All believers are commanded to earnestly desire the manifestation of the gifts in their lives. These gifts always operate in harmony with the Scriptures and should never be used in violation of biblical parameters (see Rom. 1:11; 12:4-8; 1 Cor. 12:1-31; 14:1-40; Eph. 4:16; 1 Tim. 4:14; 2 Tim. 1:5-16; Heb. 2:4; 1 Pet. 4:10).

N. The Church: The Church is the Body of Christ, the habitation of God through the Spirit, with divine appointments for the fulfillment of Jesus’ Great Commission. Every person born of the Spirit is an integral part of the Church as a member of the Body of believers. There is a spiritual unity of all believers in our Lord Jesus Christ (see John 17:11; 20-23; Eph. 1-22; 2:19-22; Heb. 12:23).

O. Two Sacraments:

a. Water Baptism: Following faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, the new convent is commanded by Jesus to be “Baptized in water in the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” (see Matt. 28:19; Acts 2:38; Mark 16:16; Acts 8:12, 36-38; 10:47-48).
b. The Lord’s Supper: A unique’ time of communion in the presence of God when the bread and the cup (the body and blood of the Lord Jesus Christ) are taken in remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross (see Matt. 26:26-29; 1 Cor. 10:16; 11:23-26).

P. Healing of the Sick: Healing of the sick is illustrated in the life and ministry of Jesus, and included in Jesus’ commission to His disciples. Healing of the sick is given as a sign that is to follow believers. It is also a part of Jesus’ work on the cross and one of the gifts of the Spirit (see Ps. 103:2,3; Isa. 53:5; Matt. 8:16,17; Mark 16:17,18; Acts 8:6,7; Rom. 11:29; 1 Cor. 12:9,28; Jas. 5:14-16).

Q. Resurrection: Jesus Christ was physically resurrected from the dead in a glorified body three days after His death on the cross. As a result, both the saved and the lost will be resurrected, they that are saved to the resurrection of life, and they that are lost to the resurrection of eternal damnation (see Luke 24:16, 36, 39; John 2:19-21; 20:26-28; 21:4; Acts 24:15; 1 Cor. 15:42-44; Phil. 1:21-23; 3:21).

R. Heaven: Heaven is the eternal dwelling place for all believers in the gospel of Jesus Christ (see Matt. 5:3, 12, 20; 6:20; 19:21; 25:34; John 17:24; 2 Cor. 5:1; Heb. 11:16; 1 Pet. 1:4).

S. Hell: After living one life on earth, the unbelievers will be judged by God and sent to hell where they will be eternally tormented with the devil and the fallen angels (see Matt. 25:41;
Mark 9:43-48; Heb. 9:27; Rev. 14:9-11; 20:12-15; 21:8).

T. Second Coming: Jesus Christ will physically and visibly return to earth for the second time to establish His kingdom. This will occur at a date undisclosed by the Scriptures (see Matt 24:30; 26:63; 64; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thess. 4:15-17; 2 Thess. 1:7,8; Rev. 1:7).

U. Marriage: The institution of marriage, according to God’s word and as sanctioned by this church will only be between one man and one woman. (see Gen 2:24; 1 Cor. 6:9-10).

V. Tithing: Regular giving of finance, with due consideration being given to the Biblical principle of tithing (One tenth of income). (see Deut 14:22; Nehemiah 10:38; Numbers 18:26).

The local church body is composed of one body with many members all of whom are invital relationship with Jesus Christ, but the body also has “joints of supply,” units of control, and unity, i.e., church leaders (Eph 4:16). This together suggests body participation under the headship of the Lord Jesus Christ with leadership direction, submission and authority in a two-directional manner.

First, the local government is invested in the body of believers who compose the local body under the headship of Jesus Christ according to the Word of God and the ministry of the Holy Spirit (Matt. 18:20; Eph. 1:22-23; 4:16; 5:21; Col. 1:18; 2:19).

Second, executive authority or leadership, however, is invested by the congregation, as authorized by Scripture, in a Board of Elders who lead the church and to whom the congregation is to submit under the headship of Christ. These men/women have the authority and responsibility to delegate to individuals, committees or other boards (such as a Board of Deacons) authority and responsibility to carry out hte business or ministry of the church in spiritual and physical (material) matters (Acts 20:28; 15:6; Eph. 4:11-12; Phil. 1:1; 1 Thess. 5:12-13; Heb. 13:7; 17).

In using its delegated authority, and in making its decisions, the Board of Elders must seek to be guided by the Scripture, the ministry of the Holy Spirit, and by input from the congregation (Acts 20:32; 6:2-5a; 11:22; 15:22; 2 Cor. 8:19).

In the event of the misuse of the delegated authority, the church has recourse to the principles as set forth in Articles VII, XI, and XIII.

A. Qualifications

Elders shall be men / women whose lives are characterized by the qualities set forth in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9. These qualities can be categorized as:

B. Authority

The ministry of St. Croix Christian Centre shall be under the direction of the Lord Jesus Christ working in and through the Board of Elders. The elders will be the primary decision-making body within the church. However, it is critical that the elders make decision based on carefully assembled facts, scriptural insight, the individual and corporate leading by the Holy Spirit, and input from the body (Ats 6:5; 15:6, 22; Heb. 13:17; 1 Thess. 5:12-13).

The church is not a democracy or a government where the majority rules. Jesus Christ Himself is the Head and Ruler of the church. However, as seen in Article VI, the Lord Jesus leads and directs through both the body and the elders. Since the Lord Jesus dwells in each member of the body, it is important and necessary for the elders to seek input, information and guidance from the body, especially on practical matters of church life. As a result of these biblical facts, in major decisions of church life, the membership of the congregation will vote to show a unified movement toward the direction in question and to show a sense of God’s leading. The elders will not move forward with a decision until, or unless, the majority of the body is unified on the matter. The following illustrates the major areas of concern:

When a vote is taken, the procedure outlined in Article X, Section F shall be followed. Note: That while others may be called to attend Board of Elders meetings, only the specified elected Elders have voting privileges.

C. Duties

Because of external and internal Christian testimony to be promoted with the local body, the elders must first and foremost exercise a personal spiritual walk which promotes self examination, maintain a servant-like quality in life, and serve with gentleness and humility in all that they do. Out of their biblical perspective, the elder is to joyfully undertake the following duties:

The elders shall strive to maintain open communication with the flock, both to discern needs, concerns and viewpoints, and to communicate information and decisions. This may be done through the Sunday bulletin, pulpit announcements, group or congregational meetings and discussions (at least one such meeting held annually), votes, and one-on-one personal contact (Acts 6:1-5; 11:22; 15:1, 6, 22; 16:2).

D. Appointment (General Principles)

The Scriptures emphasize that elders in the church are not appointed by man, but by God (Acts 20:28). The task of the people in the church then should be to seek and discover God’s direction and leading within the church body in the appointment of elders.

The need for an additional elder, paid or non-paid may be recognized by either the elders or other members of the church body. The elders, in consultation with or in response to the request of body members, shall seek to discern the nature of the need and to follow God’s leading in deciding if the need justifies the appointment of an elder. Upon a decision by the Board of Elders that a need does exist, the church will prayerfully and carefully seek God’s direction in choosing the right person.

It is the purpose of St. Croix Christian Centre to base the selection process upon an orderly, proper sequence of events which will most easily facilitate the recognition of God’s appointment of men/women to this ministry. The whole flock should be on the alert for men / women whose lives characterized the qualifications laid out in Scripture. Only qualified men / women will be appointed. If no qualified men / women are available, or if men / women are unwilling to serve, who would otherwise be qualified, no appointment will be made. The church should wait on the Lord either to remove the need or to provide qualified men / women.

The Scriptures speak of two categories of elders within a church body: non-paid elders and paid elders (1 Tim. 5:17-18).

The following procedures outline the steps necessary to appoint elders:

E. Appointment of Non-Paid Elders

When the need arises for a new non-paid elder (either for a new position or to replace an elder who has left the Board of Elders), the existing Board of Elders should assume a guiding and directing role in the search for the right person. The specific nature of the need and the decision to seek a new elder should be announced to the flock. The flock will be asked to suggest qualified men / women for the position based on the biblical criteria for elders (1 Tim. 3:1-7; Tit. 1:6-9; Acts 14:23).

After a period of time and prayerful consideration, the elders will meet to consider all the nominees as to their qualifications for the position. If the Board of Elders believes a person to be qualified, after they have considered the person’s qualifications, a member of the Board of Elders will be appointed to approach each nominee to explain the specific nature of the need and to determine their willingness to serve (1 Tim. 5:22).

If the elder nominee(s) signifies their understanding of the specific nature of the need and their willingness to serve, the Board of elders will announce this to the flock. A time and place will be announced for conducting a vote by the flock to insure substantial agreement among the flock and of God’s selection of the nominee(s) (Acts 20:18). The vote will be conducted as outlined in Article X, Section F.

After the above steps are successfully completed, the appointment of the man/woman as a non-paid elder will be announced to the flock. The new elder will be ordained by the Board of Elders and the church.

The intent is to have only one man/woman from a household acting as either an elder or a deacon. That is to say that either a man or a woman can be either an elder or a deacon, but not one being and elder and one being a deacon. (Luke 11:17)

F. Tenure

Elders are appointed to an indefinite tenure consistent with their continued desire and ability to serve in this capacity. This must be evaluated and recognized by themselves, by the other elders, and by the church body (Rom. 12:3-8). The removal of elders from office shall be effected by personal resignation or by disciplinary actions in accordance with the following:

G. Voluntary Resignation

An elder may step down at any time they so choose. The Elder should prayerfully reflect on their decision and seek counsel from the Board of Elders before making a final decision.

H. Involuntary Dismissal

Involuntary dismissal of any elder, paid or non-paid, will be a disciplinary action of the church body in accordance with the instruction of 1 Timothy 5:19-20; Galatians 6:1 and Matthew 18:15-18. The specific procedures for this are spelling out in Article XI with the following differences:

If the situation is such that it necessitates dismissal from office, the Board of elders may suggest voluntary resignation by the person involved. If they refuse, or believe they have been unfairly treated, then it is to be brought before the congregation to hear the issues and to allow the person concerned to present their case. It will then be decided by a simple majority vote of the membership at a congregational meeting. The body must be informed of such meeting at least two weeks prior to the time of the meeting.
If members of the body believe they are not being properly and biblically represented by the Board elders or any member of the Board of elders, they are to prayerfully follow the procedures of Matthew 18:15-16 and first discuss the issues with the Board of Elders. If, after following the above procedures, the issue is not resolved, then they have the right and may all for a congregational meeting (Matt. 18:17) where the issues may be presented and ruled on by a simple majority vote of the membership of the congregation, at such time, may remove any or all members of the Board of elders.

A. Paid Elder(s): Pastor-Teacher

The paid elder(s) plays a critical role in the growth, maturity, spirituality and effectiveness of the church. He/She is responsible for the quality and content of the teaching and counseling within the flock (Eph. 4:11-16; 1 Tim. 4:6-16). St Croix Christian Centre recognizes that the Lord has given spiritual gifts to all believers and therefore does not expect the paid elder(s) to provide all the teaching, evangelism and counseling, etc., within the body (Rom. 12:3-8; Eph. 4:11-12; 1 Cor. 12:4-11; 1 Pet. 4:10-11). Rather they are to equip the saints “for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ” (Eph. 4:11-12).

B. Paid Elder(s): Duties, Qualifications and Authority

The duties, qualifications and authority of the paid elder(s) shall be the same as for non-paid elders (Article VII, with the following additional duties:

C. Paid Elder(s): Selection

Upon recognition of the need for a new paid elder, the Board of Elders will guide and direct the selection process. The attitude of the Board of Elders should be one of submission to the Lord, waiting on Him to fill the need with the right person. They should also be expectant, knowing that God will provide a person to fill the need.

The following procedure outlines the method St. Croix Christian Centre will follow in selecting a new paid elder:

D. Paid Elder(s): Tenure and Removal

Tenure and removal of a paid elder will follow the same guidelines as outlined in Article VII.

E. Associate Pastoral Staff

The need for paid associate pastoral staff to assist in meeting the needs of the flock may be recognized by any member of the church body or leadership. Such need must be agreed to by the senior paid elder (in consultation with the Board of Elders) before action is taken. The need for this expenditure should be discussed with the flock. This additional staff will be accountable directly to the Board of Elders.

The procedure for hiring, tenure and removal of associate pastoral staff members shall be the same as for a paid elder. The senior paid elder will automatically head the selection committee for any associate staff.

All paid pastoral staff will look to the senior paid elder for supervision of their duties and for periodic reviews of their performance. A written job description will be prepared for all paid associate pastoral staff members. This job description will be prepared by the Board of Elders and updated periodically.

After appropriate consultation with the Board of Elders, a recommendation by the senior paid elder will be sufficient for modifying the duties or redirecting the efforts of any paid staff member.

F. Non-Pastoral Staff

The hiring of treasurer, secretary, baby sitters, janitorial services, etc., will be planned for and directed by the Board of Elders. A written job description will be prepared for all non-pastoral staff members. This job description will be prepared by the Board of Elders and updated periodically. This additional staff will be accountable directly to the Board of Elders.

A. Qualifications

Deacons shall be men/women who desire to be servants of the local church body, who are to serve, who meet all the qualifications of Scripture set forth in Acts 6:3 and 1 Timothy 3:8-12, and who are conscientiously and wholeheartedly in agreement with the Constitution of this church.

B. Duties

In Acts 6:1-4, men were appointed to minister to the physical needs of the flock, to relieve the elders so they would have more time to concentrate on prayer and on the Word. These were undoubtedly the first deacons and functioned as helpers to the leaders of the Jerusalem church. (These leaders were forerunners of the elders in the New Testament church.)

Deacons shall be helpers of the elders in ministering to the needs of the body, especially the physical needs (such as caring for the building and property), though they may serve in other capacities as their gifts and training allow.

Their specific duties will be designated by the Board of Elders according to the need of the church and a deacon’s particular gifts, capacities and talents. Specific duties will be laid out in a written job description. This job description will be prepared by the Board of Elders and updated periodically. Deacons will be accountable directly to the Board of Elders.

C. Appointment

Deacons shall be appointed to serve as long as they are qualified and willing to serve and as long as a need for their ministry exists.

First Timothy 3:10 teaches that potential deacons are to be tested. The primary means of testing is time; time for the flock to evaluate a person’s commitment to the Lord, their qualifications according to 1 Timothy 3:8-12, their doctrinal understanding and their willingness to serve the local body. The flock and the Board of Elders should be on the alert to those men/women who demonstrate the qualifications of a deacon.

In the New Testament church, both the church leaders and the flock played an important role in choosing deacons (Acts 6:1-6). Deacons will be appointed as the need arises. However, only qualified and willing men/women will be appointed. If no qualified men/women are available, or if those qualified are unable or unwilling to serve, no appointment will be made. The church shall wait on the Lord to provide a qualified person to meet the need.

The following outlines the procedure St. Croix Christian Centre will follow in selecting deacons:

The intent is to have only one man/woman from a household acting as either an elder or a deacon. That is to say that either a man or a woman can be either an elder or a deacon, but not one being an elder and one being a deacon. (Luke 11:17)

D. Removal of Deacons

1. Voluntary

A deacon may voluntarily step down from their position at any time they so choose. The deacon should prayerfully reflect on the decision and seek counsel from the Board of Elders before making a final decision.

2. Involuntary Dismissal

Involuntary dismissal of a deacon shall be in accord with the procedures for church discipline outlined in Article XI. If the situation is such that it necessitates dismissal from office, the Board of elders may suggest voluntary resignation by the person involved. If they refuse, teh Board of Elders may remove them from office, but only after the principles for chuch discipline have been prayerfully considered and followed (Matt 18:15-18).

A. Union in the Body of Christ

At the time of personal faith in Jesus Christ, the believer is called into the fellowship of God’s Son, Jesus Christ our Lord (1 Cor. 1:2, 9; 12:12-13, 20; Col 1:18).

B. Union With a Local Assembly of Believers

There is another aspect of the fellowship into which the believer is joined. They are brought into the fellowship of fellow members of that body, other living believers on earth that they might share and participate in the various blessings and ministries of the body of Christ. For this to occur properly, believers are to seek the fellowship of one another in a local body or assembly of believers to which they are to become responsible, a mini-flock, so to speak, of the greater and universal flock of God (1 Pet. 5:2-3; 1 Cor. 1:2; 1 Thess. 1:1; 2 Thess. 1:1).

A believer in isolation, operating independently of other believers of a local assembly, is an idea contrary to Scripture. Scripture teaches that there are to be local assemblies of believers, united together by a common faith, by union in Christ, and the universal indwelling of the Holy Spirit, by common purposes, commitments and responsibilities, and with a common leadership of that specific body, independent in government from other local assemblies (Eph. 4:4-6; 1 Pet. 5:1-3; 1 Cor. 1:2; Heb. 13:7, 17; 1 Thess. 5:12-13). The local church is to be a body of people allotted to the charge of elders (1 Pet. 5:1-3; 1 Thess. 5:11; Heb. 10:14-15; 1 Pet. 4:8-10; 1 Cor. 12:20-27), and subject to the discipline of that body or assembly (1 Cor. 5:2; 1 Thess. 5:14 [admonish the unruly], 2 Thess. 3:6, 14; 1 Tim. 5:20).

This necessity implies more than a loose relationship of a believer or believers to a particular body or assembly. It involves a tie, an involvement, a commitment, responsibility and submission to both the leadership and to each other.

C. Church Membership

The Scriptures contain neither a mandate for nor a command against an official membership role. In Acts, we see that believers were added to the church in Jerusalem; however, this serves primarily to show the growth in the early church (Acts 2:47; 9:31; 16:5). These people were devoting themselves to a local assembly and its leadership for teaching, leadership, fellowship and worship (Acts 2:42). There were also letters of commendation or acceptance written on behalf of both men and women to be welcomed and accepted into the fellowship or various assemblies. These letters commended believers to other assemblies regarding their faithfulness and ministry and thus they were not a transfer of membership by letter (Rom. 16:1-2; 1 Cor. 16:10; Col. 4:10; 2 Cor. 3:!; 8:16-24).

The emphasis of these Scriptures is that every believer become identified and committed to a specific local assembly of believers following the leading and direction of God. This commitment is revealed by their attitude, faith, attendance, involvement, giving and submission to theat assembly. Thusa membership role cannot, in and of itself, serve as the sole means of commitment a believer has to a local body.

St. Croix Christian Centre does have a membership role to aid in conducting business in an orderly manner and to provide legal protection in important, yet potentially controversial church decisions (such as discipline, Article XI). An individual’s decision to be placed on the membership role should flow from their commitment to the church. The individual should remember that being on the membership role has no merit or value so far as their spiritual maturity or growth is concerned. It is, however, an important tool in helping the church function smoothly.

D. Procedure for Membership

Any individual (1) who is 19 years or older, (2) who regularly attend and take part in services for 6 months, (3) who confesses the Lord Jesus Christ as personal Savior, (4) who are living consistent Christian lives, (5) who are in agreement with this Constitution and (6) who regularly gives of finance, with due consideration being given to the Biblical principle of tithing (One tenth of income) is qualified and eligible for membership in St. Croix Christian Centre.

Anyone who desires to become a member should contact one of the elders and request membership. The Board of Elders will meet with the individual to discuss this decision. If the individual meets the qualifications for membership, he/she will be placed on the role and will be acknowledged before the flock as a new member.

E. Membership Role

The elders will review the membership role at least annually and post in the church. Members may be removed from the role (1) by the member’s choice, (2) by church discipline (Article XI), (3) by non involvement with the body (4) death, or (5) by unanimous decision by the Board of Elders to terminate an individual’s membership. If an individual appears to no longer be involved with the church, an edler(s) will contact the person to verify their membership status. No individual will be removed from the role without being contacted by an elder.

F. Voting and Congregational Meetings

The purpose of voting is not to simply obtain a “majority-rules” consensus. Rather, all voting in this church is designed to show God’s leading within the flock on an issue. Unless specifically indicated differently within the Constitution, a two-thirds majority vote in favor of an issue shall signify to the church leadership that the flock agrees that God is leading favorably in the decision being voted on. If the two-thirds majority vote in favor is not achieved, the leadership will reevaluate the situation. No steps will be taken on any issue that requires a vote without the two-thirds majority.

Any member on the current membership role of the church may vote. The person may vote in person or they may vote absentee. An absentee vote is valid if the person writes down on any piece of paper the issue being voted on, their vote, the date they voted, and their signature. Absentee votes must be turned in to an elder no later than the date of the meeting. If the individual’s name is not on the membership role they are not allowed to vote on the matter at hand.

The means of voting will normally be by written ballot. This may vary, however, if the leadership announces the form of voting to be used when the meeting of the vote is announced. The flock will be advised of the date and time of a meeting for a vote at least two weeks prior to the meeting.

At least 50 percent of the church membership must vote to make the results of the vote binding.

G. Inactive Membership

Members who shall without good cause (1) absent themselves from the services of St. Croix Christian Centre for a period of 3 months or more, or (2) who have moved away, or (3) woe cease to contribute of their means to its support, or (4) who may be out of harmony with its teachings or (5) who shall be under charges of misconduct (See Article XI), or (6) who may have fallen under condemnation through sinful or worldly practices and have not responded to restorative efforts by the church members, or (7) by unanimous decision by the Board of Elders; shall be considered as inactive members and shall lose their membership until they are restored to the fellowship, their standing to be settled by the definite action of the assembly through its elders.

H. Honorary Membership

Honorary members shall consist of those members who are (1) evangelists, (2) missionaries, (3) religious educators, (4) those serving in the military, (5) students attending school away from the area of this church or (6) shut-ins; making it impossible to serve as active members. Honorary membership recognition shall continue as long as the member maintains a consistent Christian life, remains sound in doctrine, and maintains a cooperative attitude toward St. Croix Christian Centre. Voting privileges will be granted to these honorary members.

I. Voting Procedure

When a need arises to vote the individual’s name must be verified to be on the membership role before a ballot is provided. If the individual’s name is not on the membership role they are not allowed to vote on the matter at hand.

We believe in the responsibility and necessity of church discipline as clearly outlined in Scripture. It is a very difficult area and hard to practice. Nevertheless, church discipline has the divine authority of Scripture and is vital to the purity of the church. In church discipline, the following matters must be carefully understood and applied.

A. The Pattern and Basis for Discipline

The discipline of the church is first patterned after the fact that the Lord Himself disciplines His children (Heb. 12:6) so the Lord has delegated the discipline of the church family to the church itself.

Discipline is further based on the holy character of God (1 Pet. 1:16; Heb 12:11). The pattern of God’s holiness, his desire for the church to be holy, set apart unto Him, is an important reason for the necessity of church discipline. The church is therefore to lean out the leaven of malice and wickedness from its ranks (1 Cor. 5:6-8). A failure to discipline in a church today indicates a lack of awareness of the holiness of God.

Church discipline must be patterned after and based on the divine commands of Scripture. We have numerous passages which both command and give us biblical directives on the how, when and where of church discipline. Again, a failure to exercise this responsibility demonstrates a lack of obedience and belief in the authority of the Bible (1 Cor. 5:1-13; Matt 18:17-18; Titus 3:10; 2 Thess. 3:6-15; 1 Tim. 5:20; Gal. 6:1).

A final basis for the necessity of church discipline is the testimony of the church to the world. The world observes the behavior and life of the church. When the church acts no differently than the world it loses its credibility and authenticity (1 Pet. 2:11-18; 3:8-16; 4:1-4).

B. The Purposes of Church Discipline

Such goals automatically govern the spirit in which all disciplinary action is to be given. Thus:

C. The Practice of Church Discipline

Great care must be exercised here. Scripture does not warrant the exercise of church discipline for an individual or a church’s pet taboos or peevees. According to Scripture, there are five categories which warrant church discipline. These are:

(a) Difficulties between members (Matt. 18:15-17)
(b) Divisiveness. People causing divisions in the church (Rom. 16:17-18; Titus 3:9-11).
(c) Disorderly conduct. Conduct clearly out of line with the prescribed commands of Scripture (2 Thess. 3:6-15).
(d) Sins of the type mentioned in 1 Corinthians 5: incest, immorality, covetousness, idolatry, abusive speech, drunkenness, and swindling (1 Cor. 5:1, 11).
(e) False teaching. Erroneous teaching and views which concern the fundamentals of the faith, not lesser differences of interpretation (1 Tim. 1:20; 2 Tim. 2:17-18; also implied in Rev. 2:14-16; Phil. 3:2-3, 15-19; Rom. 16:17-18).

The key concerns here are: (a) the holy character of God, (b) the testimony of the flock, (c) the effect upon the unity and purity of the flock, and (d) the edification and restoration of the individual.

(a) Recognize the offense. Caution – One must be sure it is an offense which calls for discipline. Again, the Word is our criterion.

(b) Seek private correction and/or reconciliation with the offender (Matt. 18:15). This is when the problem involves two believers. The one offended or the one who recognizes the offense is to go privately and try to rectify the problem. If this fails, they are to take witnesses, preferably spiritual leaders, so that if it has to be brought before the whole church it can be firmly proven or established (Matt 18:16-17).

(c) Seek reconciliation through the spiritual leadership if the problem involves an offense that is against the whole body, or is a threat to its unity. Initiatory action following the concept of Galatians 6:1 should be taken by the mature spiritual leaders of the church rather than by just one person. “You who are spiritual” in Galatians 6:1 is plural meaning literally, “you, the spiritual ones …” These initial contacts provide opportunity for loving admonition, correction and forgiveness. On the other hand, if these first steps are not heeded, it constitutes a warning that further action will be taken and gives occasion for serious rebuke (2 Tim 4:2; 1 Thess. 5:12-14; Titus 2:15; 3:10).

(d) Seek reconciliation through the whole body. If further action is necessary, it is to be taken before the whole church (Matt 18:17). This action would consist of a minimum of loss of voting privileges, but may result in more severe action. Any action taken must be approved by a congregational vote as outlined in Article X, Section F.

In essence then, this is the action of the Lord carrying out discipline through the action of the whole body through the leadership of the elders or the spiritually mature (1 Cor. 5:4 “in the name of our Lord Jesus, when you are assembled,… with the power of our Lord Jesus …”). Similar heavenly authority is seen in the ratification of this disciplinary action as spelled out in Matthew 18:18-19.

Believers are to give financially from an attitude of commitment to the Lord (2 Cor. 8:1-6). It is the policy of St. Croix Christian Centre to keep the congregation informed of financial needs by means of the weekly bulletin, announcements from the pulpit, or other means as necessary. This will not include individual solicitation of members to taking of financial pledges. The purpose of this information is not to coerce or pressure anyone into giving, but rather to provide avenues for giving as the Lord provides. Each believer is to give according to their ability with a cheerful heart (2 Cor. 9:7)

We believe that tithing is a measure of obedience to the scriptural principles of stewardship. All funds for the maintenance of the church shall be provided by the tithes and offerings of the members and friends of the church. Offerings shall be accepted by the church at such times and in such ways as agreed upon by the Board of Elders. (see Malachi 3:10, Luke 6:38, 1 Cor. 16:1-2). Each believer is to give as God provides from an attitude of cheerfulness and commitment to the Lord (2 Cor. 8:12-15; 9:7), recognizing that we are only stewards of what God already owns.

Because giving is done unto the Lord, it is critical that the local church handle the finances given with care and wisdom both for the glory of the Lord and for the testimony of the church (2 Cor. 8:20-21). With this view in mind, the following outlines the policies of handling financial decisions:

(I) All paid staff shall be paid a salary commensurate to their duties and abilities (1 Tim. 5:17-18; Gal. 6:6-7; 1 Cor. 9:6-11).
(II) All gifts given as a designated gift will be used as designated so long as those designations are in accord with biblical principles. If any special gifts are given with the directions to use it in whatever area has the greatest need, the Board of Elders will decide how that gift will be used. All other gifts will go into the general fund.
(III) The local church has the privilege and responsibility to provide financial support for those in service for the Lord (missions, missionaries, etc. [Phil. 4:14-17; 2 Cor. 8:1-5]). St Croix Christian Centre will support certain of those in service as the Lord leads and provides. The intent is to provide at least 10% of the church’s income for this purpose. All of these supported must hold a doctrinal view in agreement with the doctrinal statement presented in this Constitution. The Board of Elders will recommend to the congregation which people and ministries St. Croix Christian Centre will support.
(IV) Depending on the amount of money involved, the senior paid elder and two other elders may make a financial decision, or the Board of Elders may make the decision, or the congregation must make a decision. This allows for 4 (four) levels of financial authorization… (1) Petty cash to be used by staff for small purchases on a discretionary basis, (2) Amounts previously approved by the financial committee which can be authorized by and 3 Elders, (3) Amounts previously approved by the financial committee which has to be authorized at a Board of Elders meeting and (4) Amounts previously approved by the financial committee which has to be authorized by the membership.
(V) On an annual basis, during the first quarter of the year, a finance committee will be appointed to examine the salaries of all paid salary members, the amount of support given to the persons and ministries supported in number III above, and the expenditure limits for the paid elder(s) and Board of Elders. This committee shall consist of at least two elders and the church treasurer. All recommendations concerning changes in these areas will first be presented to the entire Board of Elders.
(VI) In order to keep orderly records, a treasurer shall be appointed by the Board of Elders. The treasurer shall keep all necessary books, write necessary checks to pay bills, prepare monthly/annual financial statements and any other duties as prescribed by the Board of Elders.

Suggestions and proposals from the flock can be a vital and healthy avenue by which the leadership may minister to the rest of the flock. When handled scripturally, this type of communication edifies the body, ministers to the needs of the flock, helps preserve and promote unity within the church and brings glory to God.

Following the principles outlined above, any member of the flock who harbors a disagreement about any policy or procedure promoted by the church or its leadership, should as a first step, prayerfully and privately approach the leadership. This may be done through informal consultation with an elder, by means of a signed letter to the Board of Elders, or meeting with the Board of Elders at the church member’s request. It is recognized that these steps should be taken prior to public discussion of any issue so as to help the leadership minister to the body more effectively and to help avoid discord and disunity within the flock (Prov. 13:3; 16:27-28; 17:4).

The church leadership should seek to prayerfully accept and address any complaint thus presented and seek to resolve all problems in a manner which best promotes those benefits mentioned above (Prov. 16:21-24).

When these policies are not followed, causing factions and strife, it will be necessary to exercise church discipline to deal with the offending member as per Article XI (Titus 2:10-11).

This Constitution may be amended or replaced when the need for change is recognized by the elders and the members of the church body. At the time such need is believed to be present, the elders, after consultation with the body, shall make provisional modification in light of Scripture and all essential information on this matter shall be communicated to the congregation in written form, providing adequate time for study and response. A date will be proposed for acceptance of the revisions at a congregational meeting. The membership will then vote to see if there is a unity of acceptance and understanding of the amendments according to Article X, Section F. If so, the amendments to the Constitution will become effective.

In the event this church body is dissolved, disbands or ceases to function as a church for any reason, the following procedure will apply. In such an event, the elders are hereby authorized and directed by the membership of St. Croix Christian Centre, to liquidate all property, both real and personal, belonging to St. Croix Christian Centre and shall pay out of such properties and assets all indebtedness of said church as quickly as reasonably possible. After the payment of all debts of the church, the remaining assets will be distributed to the parties to which were supported in missions by the church. The amount given will be consistent with the present percentage of support to each party.

The decision to dissolve or disband must be approved by two-thirds of the membership of the congregation by means of the procedure outlined in Article X, Section F.