Our Documents
On this page you will find the following documents for Providence Christian Fellowship:
1) Our Statement of Faith
2) Our Constitution
3) Our By Laws
4) Our Church Covenant
5) Our Church Positions
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Providence Christian Fellowship
Statement of Faith
We at Providence Christian Fellowship hold that all members will affirm the following Statement of Faith. However the elders, and thus the teaching, of the church will affirm the 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith, with some minor clarifications. We understand that a Statement of Faith is not inspired but hold that until proven by scripture to be unbiblical we hold that it is a concise statement of scripture.
I. Of The Scriptures
We believe that the Holy Bible was written by men divinely inspired, in its entirety is completely sufficient to answer all questions in regard to every area of life and practice. It is a perfect treasure of heavenly instruction. It has God for its author, salvation for its end, and truth without any mixture of error for its matter; that it reveals the principles by which God will judge us; and therefore is, and shall remain to the end of the world, the true center of Christian union, and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions should be tried.
II. Of The True God
We believe that there is one, and only one, living and true God, an infinite, intelligent Spirit, whose name is JEHOVAH, the Maker and Supreme Ruler of heaven and earth; inexpressibly glorious in holiness, and worthy of all possible honor, confidence, and love; that in the unity of the Godhead there are three persons, the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost; equal in every divine perfection, and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of redemption.
III. Of The Fall Of Man
We believe that man was created in holiness, under the law of his Maker; but by voluntary transgression fell from that holy and happy state; in consequence of which all mankind are now sinners, not by constraint but choice; being by nature utterly void of that holiness required by the law of God, they are positively inclined to evil; and therefore under just condemnation to eternal ruin, without defense or excuse.
IV. Of The Way Of Salvation
We believe that the salvation of sinners is wholly of grace; through the mediatorial offices of the Son of God; who by the appointment of the Father, freely took upon Himself our nature, yet without sin; honored the divine law by His personal obedience, and by His death made a full atonement for our sins; that having risen from the dead He is now enthroned in heaven; and uniting in his wonderful person the tenderest sympathies with divine perfections, He is every way qualified to be a suitable, a compassionate, and an all sufficient Savior
V. Of Justification
We believe that the great Gospel blessing which Christ secures to such as believe in Him is Justification; that Justification includes the pardon of sin, and the promise of eternal life on principles of righteousness; that it is bestowed, not in consideration of any works of righteousness which we have done, but solely through faith in the Redeemer’s blood; by virtue of which faith His perfect righteousness is freely imputed to us of God; that it brings us into a state of most blessed peace and favor with God, and secures every other blessing needful for time and eternity.
VI. Of The Freeness Of Salvation
We believe that the blessings of salvation are made free to all by the gospel; that it is the immediate duty of all to accept them by cordial, penitent, and obedient faith; and that nothing prevents the salvation of the greatest sinner on earth, but his own inherent depravity and voluntary rejection of the gospel; which rejection involves him in an aggravated condemnation.
VII. Of Grace In Regeneration
We believe that, in order to be saved, sinners must be regenerated, or born again; that regeneration consists in giving a holy disposition to the mind; that it is effected in a manner above our comprehension by the power of the Holy Spirit, in connection with divine truth, so as to secure our voluntary obedience to the gospel; and that its proper evidence appears in the holy fruits of repentance, and faith, and newness of life.
VIII. Of Repentance And Faith
We believe that Repentance and Faith are sacred duties, and also inseparable graces, wrought in our souls by the regenerating Spirit of God; whereby being deeply convinced of our guilt, danger and helplessness, and of the way of salvation by Christ, we turn to God with unfeigned contrition, confession, and supplication for mercy; at the same time heartily receiving the Lord Jesus Christ as our Prophet, Priest and King, and relying on Him alone as the only and all sufficient Savior.
IX. Of God's Purpose Of Grace
We believe that Election is the eternal purpose of God, according to which He graciously regenerates, sanctifies, and saves sinners; that being perfectly consistent with the free agency of man, it comprehends all the means in connection with the end; that it is a most glorious display of God's sovereign goodness, being infinitely free, wise, holy and unchangeable; that it utterly excludes boasting, and promotes humility, love, prayer, praise, trust in God, and active imitation of His free mercy; that it encourages the use of means in the highest degree; that it may be understood by its effects in all who truly believe the Gospel; that it is the foundation of Christian assurance; and that to understand it with regard to ourselves demands and deserves the utmost
diligence.
X. Of Sanctification
We believe that Sanctification is the process by which, according to the will of God, we are made partakers of His holiness; that it is a progressive work; that it is begun in regeneration; and that it is carried on in the hearts of believers by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, the Sealer and Comforter, in the continual use of the appointed means, - especially, the word of God, self-examination, self-denial, watchfulness and prayer.
XI. Of The Perseverance Of Saints
We believe that such only are real believers as endure unto the end; that their persevering attachment to Christ is the grand mark which distinguishes them from superficial professors; that a special Providence watches over their welfare; and they are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.
XII Of The Harmony Of The Law And The Gospel
We believe that the Law of God is the eternal and unchangeable rule of His moral government; that it is holy, just, and good; and that the inability which the Scriptures ascribe to fallen men to fulfill its precepts, arises entirely from their love of sin: to deliver them from which, and to restore them through a Mediator to unfeigned obedience to the Holy Law, is one great end of the Gospel, and of the Means of Grace connected with the establishment of the visible church.
XIII. Of A Gospel Church
We believe that a visible church of Christ is a congregation of baptized believers, associated by covenant in the faith and fellowship of the Gospel; observing the ordinances of Christ; governed by His laws; and exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by His word; that its only scriptural officers are elders, and deacons, whose qualifications, claims, and duties are defined in the Epistles to Timothy and Titus.
XIV. Of Baptism And The Lord's Supper
We believe that Christian Baptism is the immersion in water of a believer, into the name of the Father, and Son, and Holy Ghost; to show forth in a solemn and beautiful emblem, our faith in the crucified, buried, and risen Savior, with its effect, in our death to sin and resurrection to a new life; that it is pre-requisite to the privileges of a church relation; and to the Lord's Supper, in which the members of the church by the sacred use of bread and wine, are to commemorate together the dying love of Christ; preceded always by solemn self-examination.
XV. Of The Christian Sabbath
We believe that the first day of the week is the Lord's Day, or Christian Sabbath; and is to be kept sacred to religious purposes by the devout observance of all the means of grace, both private and public; and by preparation for that rest that remains for the people of God. Acts of mercy and necessity are encouraged to be taken part in on the Lord's Day.
XVI. Of Marriage
We believe that marriage is the sacred and solemn union between one man and one woman. The Bible says that it is not lawful for any man to have more than one wife, nor any woman to have more than one husband. Any relationship outside of this definition can not be defined as marriage.
XVII. Of Civil Government
We believe that Civil Government is of Divine appointment, for the interests and good order of human society; and that magistrates are to be prayed
for, conscientiously honored, and obeyed; except only in things opposed to the will of our Lord Jesus Christ of which He has conveyed in the Bible. Jesus Christ is the only Lord of the conscience, and the King of the kings of the earth.
XVIII. Of The Righteous And The Wicked
We believe that there is a radical and essential difference between the righteous and the wicked; that such only as through faith are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and sanctified by the Spirit of our God, are truly righteous in His esteem; while all such as continue unrepentant and in unbelief are in His sight wicked, and under the curse; and this distinction holds true and eternally among men both in and after death.
XIV. Of The World To Come
We believe that the end of the world is approaching; that at the last day Christ will descend from heaven, and raise the dead from the grave to the final judgement; that a solemn separation will then take place; that the righteous will be appointed to endless joy and the wicked will be appointed to endless punishment; and that this judgment will fix forever the final state of men in heaven or hell.
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CONSTITUTION & BYLAWS
Providence Christian Fellowship
Athol, ID 83801
CONSTITUTION
(OUR AGREEMENT)
ARTICLE I: DEFINITION AND PURPOSE OF THIS 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 purposess 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 purpose (1Cor. 1:10; Eph. 4:3, 13).
This is thus 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 subservient to our final authority which is the Word of God. 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. (Ephesians 1:22: 4:12-16). This document is therefore subject to amendment according to the provisions of Article IX. This document is, however, to be followed in all its parts as a protection to all until part of all is amended according to its provisions.
ARTICLE II: OUR NAME
The name of this church shall be known as Providence Christian Fellowship.
ARTICLE III: OUR PURPOSE
This church exists by the grace of God, for the glory of God, which shall be the ultimate purpose in all its activities.
This church glorifies God by loving Him and obeying His commands through:
- Worshipping Him;
- Administering the ordinances of baptism and the Lords Supper;
- Equipping the saints and making disciples through Bible instruction and study;
- Proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ through preaching and personal evangelism, and any other means consistent with the teaching of Holy Scripture;
- Praying for God's work in and through His church and His people
- Encouraging , supporting, and participating in missions work, local, domestic, and international;
- Encouraging Biblical fellowship among believers;
Serving other individuals, families, and churches by providing for physical, emotional, and spiritual needs, in the name of Jesus Christ; and
- Calling fellow churches to biblical faithfulness and purity through instruction and encouragement about the nature and function of the local church.
ARTICLE IV: OUR MEMBERS COVENANT
See Providence Christian Fellowship Church Covenant. The Members Covenant can be amended apart from amending the constitution per the manner prescribed in Article IX.
ARTICLE V: OUR DOCTRINE
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 the local church, and its central thrust, is consistent teaching and study of the Word of God (1 Tim. 4:6-7). The study of God's word is to have not only the goal of orthodoxy (right teaching and understanding), but also should result, through the grace and power of God, right orthopraxy (right practice of right teaching and understanding).
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 those in 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 of God, and the teaching of the Word of God, become the pulse and heartbeat behind all church and non-church related activities or concerns (Psa. 119:1 ff; 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).
Providence Christian Fellowship as a local church shall thus function as an evangelical Bible church, committed to the fundamental, historic truths recorded in God's inerrant revelation - The Holy Scriptures. To hold positions within Providence Christian Fellowship, all elders, ministerial staff, deacons and teachers must wholeheartedly agree with the Article VI Doctrinal Statement and the Article IV Members Covenant of this church.
ARTICLE VI: OUR DOCTRINAL STATEMENT
See Providence Christian Fellowship Statement of Faith. The Doctrinal Statement can be amended apart from amending the constitution per the manner prescribed in Article IX.
Providence Christian Fellowship also holds that the elders will affirm the 2nd London Baptist Confession of 1689 with some clarification on those points that are contextual to the time that it was written. See Addendums to the 2nd London Baptist Confession of Faith.
ARTICLE VII: OUR MEMBERSHIP
The covenant membership of this church shall consist of persons who confess faith on the Lord Jesus Christ as personal Savior, who give evidence of regeneration by a life consistent with their profession and with the views of faith, doctrine and practice of this church, who have been baptized after they have believed by immersion and who have been received into its membership according to the By-Laws of this church.
We clarify that we would not question the faith of our brothers and sisters who were baptized as infants, but as a body, we are convinced from the scripture that the command given by scripture is to be baptized after one has believed . Thus, we would strongly recommend that those who were baptized as infants therefore be baptized as believers.
ARTICLE VIII: OUR LEADERSHIP AND ORGANIZATION
1. Under the authority of Jesus Christ and the Word of God, the congregation of the church, through the leadership of the elders, is the final authority within this local Church. The focus of the elders in their leadership will ensure the welfare of the congregation through:
2.
a. The elders speaking to the congregation as required to help in discerning the spiritual welfare and needs of the congregation.
b. The elders will endeavor to use discretion in making sure that any single mothers and their children if there are any in the congregation are assisted by families in the church.
c. The elders will endeavor to use discretion in making sure that any single women in the congregation are assisted by families in the church.
d. The Word of God (the Bible) reveals that the role of leadership is to be through the men of the church and thus the elders will seek to meet with those men so as to lead, teach and discern the church's needs so they can direct the church in a manner that is consistent with the Word of God.
3.. The offices of the church shall be elder and deacon. The purpose of the officers of the church is to lovingly lead, care for, and equip the membership to do the work of the ministry. In addition, the church recognizes the administrative positions under this constitution of clerk and treasurer.
4.. The leadership of the church shall be vested in the council of elders who are responsible for leading the church, teaching the Word and tending the flock of God in this church. The elders shall be equal in authority but may be specialized in function. With regard to teaching not all teachers are necessarily elders, however the elders must be able to teach (1 Tim 3:2) and are responsible for overseeing the teaching even in areas where they do not personally teach.
5. Deacons shall assist the Council of Elders by performing services of advice, administration and implementation. Specifically overseeing and caring for the physical needs of the church body at Providence Christian Fellowship.
ARTICLE IX: REVISIONS, ADDITIONS AND AMENDMENTS
Revisions, additions or amendments of this Constitution, By Laws or our Doctrinal Statement may be made in the following manner:
a. At the annual meeting; and
b. After the elders have consulted with the men and the families of the church so that the needs and desires of the church are taken into consideration
c. This can also be done at a special called meeting of the congregation so that further discussion of changes can be accomplished
d. By a unanimous vote of the elders and a final affirmation of the congregation at the annual meeting or at a specifically called meeting by the elders of the church.
e. Meetings where additions or amendments to the Constitution, By Laws or our Doctrinal Statement are to be made must have a covenant member attendance of seventy five percent of the total covenant membership. Proposed additions or amendments will be passed if seventy five percent of those in attendance agree to the proposed additions or/and amendments.
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BYLAWS
(OUR STRUCTURE)
This is a sovereign Church under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. The membership retains unto itself the right of exclusive self-government in all phases of the spiritual and temporal life of this church.
ARTICLE I - COVENANT MEMBERSHIP
Section 1 – Qualification
To qualify for covenant membership in this church, a person must be a believer in Jesus Christ who gives evidence of regeneration, who has been baptized, in obedience to Christ, following his or her regeneration, and who wholeheartedly believes in the Christian faith as revealed in the Bible. Each covenanted member must agree to submit to the teaching of the scripture as expressed in the Statement of Faith and must promise to keep the commitments expressed in the Church Covenant. The elders shall be responsible for determining each person's qualification for membership. In making this determination, they may rely on a person's profession of faith, or such other evidence, as the elders deem appropriate including but not limited to a letter of recommendation from prospective member's previous church.
Section 2 - Admission of Members
To be admitted into church membership, applicants must be in attendance for at least two full consecutive months. During this time, the elders, their families as well as all other covenant members and their families will be encouraged to spend time with the applicant and his family. After the first two full consecutive months of attendance, the applicant qualifies to be presented for membership. At this time, the applicant can be recommended by the elders for membership. From the time of recommendation, a two week period will be given for the covenant members to raise any concerns that they may have with the new applicant and his family. Any concern raised by a covenant member will be thoughtfully considered by the elders and a solution will be presented to the concerned covenant member and the applicant. If there are no concerns, the applicant and his family will be affirmed by the elders for membership at the next member's meeting. If the applicant is affirmed by the elders, he will relinquish his membership in other churches, except as stated in Section 4 (Associate Membership) and then welcomed into the church as a covenant member.
Section 3 - Duties and Privileges of Membership
In accord with the duties enumerated in the Church Covenant, each member 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 shall be entitled to serve in the ministries of the church who are members of this congregation; non-members may serve on an ad-hoc basis with the approval of the elders. Notwithstanding, non-members may serve the church for purposes of administration and consultation. Under Christ this congregation is led by the elders who are charged with the responsibility of discerning the congregations needs and desires. It is the privilege and responsibility of members to attend all members' meetings and to make sure the elders are apprised of issues, concerns and needs of the body. One's non-participation would be dealt with through Section 5 (On Church Discipline).
Voting members, when a vote is required, shall consist of all members who are male heads of households in good standing. For clarity, adult sons living in their father's household will not be considered heads of households unless, for a time, they are married and thus exercising their own jurisdiction over their immediate families. Since male headship is established in the church by God, it is not biblically proper for a woman (unmarried, divorced, or widowed) to take leadership, teach men, or vote in the congregation. Voting is included as it is a form of leadership and when votes are taken the membership is to abide by the decision of the vote. The church is the family of God, and it must not be imagined that the order for this family, the local church, will be in contradiction to the biblical order for the family (1 Timothy 2:11-14; 1 Corinthians 11:3). A single woman who does not have a male representative in the membership (eg., father, grandfather, older brother, or son as approved by the elders), shall be represented by the elders or if deemed appropriate by the elders may be represented by the head of another household under whose leadership they have placed themselves.
Section 4 - Associate Membership
Individuals who are temporarily residing in the area and are members of an evangelical Christian church may apply for associate membership. Qualifications are identical to those for full membership as set out above, except that home church membership must be retained. A letter of commendation will be sought from the applicant's home church. Duties and privileges of associate members are the same as for other members except that:
(a) when absent from the area for extended periods of time they are released from the responsibility to attend our church services;
(b) while they will be encouraged to participate in members' meetings they will not be eligible to stand for any office or to vote.
Termination of associate membership as a disciplinary measure will be as it is for other members, except that the elders shall notify the pastor or elders of the home church of that termination. Associate membership will normally terminate immediately upon the ending of the period of temporary residence in the area.
Section 5 - On Church Discipline
Any member consistently neglectful of his or her duties or guilty of 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 elders and the discipline of the church, according to the instructions of our Lord Jesus in Matthew 18: 15-17 and the example of scripture. Church discipline, then, should ordinarily be contemplated after individual private admonition has failed.
Church discipline can include admonition by the elders and/or the congregation, suspension from communion for a definite period, removal from office, and excommunication (see Matthew 18: 15-17; 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15; 1 Timothy 5: 19-20; 1 Corinthians 5:1-12, Titus 3:10-11,
a) The purpose of such discipline should be for the repentance, reconciliation, and
spiritual growth of the individual disciplined (see Proverbs 15:5; 29:15
I Corinthians 4:14; Ephesians 6:4; I Timothy 3:4-5; Hebrews 12: 1-11;
Psalm 119:115; 141:5 Proverbs 17:10; 25:12; 27:5; Ecclesiastes 7:5; Matthew 7:26-27; 18:15-17; Luke 17:3; Acts 2:40; I Corinthians 5:5;
Galatians 6:1-5; II Thessalonians 3:6, 14-15; I Timothy 1:20; Titus 1:13-14; James 1:22);
b) For the instruction in righteousness and good of other Christians, as an example to them (see Proverbs 13:20; Romans 15:24; I Corinthians 5:11; 15:33; Colossians 3:16; I Thessalonians 5:14 [note this is written to the whole church, not just to leaders]; I Timothy 5:20; Titus 1:11; Hebrews 10: 24-25);
c) For the purity of the church as a whole (see I Corinthians 5: 6-7; II Corinthians 13: 10; Ephesians 5:27; II John 10; Jude 24; Revelation 21:2);
d) For the good of our corporate witness to non-Christians (see Proverbs 28:7;
Matthew 5:13-16; John 13:35; Acts 5:1-14; Ephesians 5:11; I Timothy 3:7; II Peter 2:2; I John 3:10); and Supremely for the glory of God by reflecting His holy character (see Deuteronomy 5:11; I Kings 11:2; II Chronicles 19:2; Ezra 6:21; Nehemiah 9:2; Isaiah 52;11; Ezekiel 36:20; Matthew 5:16; John 15: 8; 18:17, 25; Romans 2:24; 15: 5-6; II Corinthians 6: 14-7:1; Ephesians 1:4; 5:27; I Peter 2:12).
Section 6 - Termination of Membership
Termination of membership shall be recognized by the church following the death or voluntary resignation of any church member. Membership may be terminated as an act of church discipline at the recommendation of the elders and with the affirmation of members attending any regular or special meeting of the members.
Article 2 – Meetings
Section 1 - Worship Meetings
Worship services shall be held each Lords Day (Sunday), and may be held throughout the week as the elders determine.
Section 2 - Covenanted Member's Meetings
In every meeting together, members shall act in a spirit of mutual trust, openness, and loving consideration which is appropriate within the body of our Lord Jesus Christ. Parents shall be responsible for watching over the behavior of their children.
There shall be an annual members meeting each November to convey the vision for the upcoming year, present an annual budget and to deal with whatever issues are before the church.
Whenever a member's vote is required a quorum of seventy five percent or more of the eligible voters must be present. Notice before vote shall be given no less than 7 days prior to the required vote. This notice will be made readily available to the eligible voters in whatever manner is available.
An elder designated by the elders shall preside as moderator at all members' meetings of the church. The elders shall see that the stated meeting of the church is held and that required reports are submitted to the church by the responsible members.
A budget shall be approved by elders and affirmed by the membership at the annual members meeting.
A financial report will be presented to the congregation.
At any regular or special member's meeting, officers may be announced and positions filled as needed so long as all relevant constitutional requirements have been met.
Article 3 - Officers and Offices
Section 1 – Summary
The Biblical offices in the church are elders and deacons. In addition, our church recognizes the administrative positions under the constitution of clerk and treasurer. All officers must be members of this church prior to assuming their responsibilities.
Section 2 – Elders
The elders shall be comprised of not less than two men, for cases where there are not two see below who satisfy the qualifications for the office of elder set forth in 1 Timothy 3: 1-7 and Titus 1:6-9. No elder shall hold the office of deacon during his tenure.
The elders shall oversee the ministry and resources of the church. In keeping with the principles set forth in Acts 6:1-6 and 1 Peter 5: 1-4, the elders shall devote their time to prayer, ministry of the Word (by teaching and encouraging sound doctrine), and shepherding God's flock.
The church shall recognize men gifted and willing to serve in this calling, in accordance with the constitutional provisions on calling elders. These men shall be received as gifts of Christ to His church and set apart as elders. The length of the term of elders shall be deemed by the other elders and the congregation, through the elders interaction with the congregation.
An elder's term of office may be terminated by resignation or by dismissal. Any two members with reason to believe that an elder should be dismissed should express such concern to the other elder/elders and, if need be, to the congregation. Any such action shall be done in accordance with the instructions of our Lord in Matthew 18; 15-17 and 1 Timothy 5: 17-21. Any of the elders may be dismissed by a three quarters vote of the members at any members' meeting of the church.
The elders shall take particular responsibility to examine and instruct prospective members, examine and recommend all prospective candidates for offices and positions, oversee the work of the deacons and appointed church agents and committees, conduct worship services when necessary, administer the ordinances of baptism and communion (other members may assist them), equip the membership for the work of the ministry, encourage sound doctrine and practice, admonish and correct error, oversee the process of church discipline, coordinate and promote the ministries of the church, and mobilize the church for missions. The elders are further to ensure that all who minister the Word to the congregation, including outside speakers, share our fundamental convictions.
The elder council may establish ministry positions or committees to assist them in fulfilling their responsibilities.The membership shall convey it's concerns and desires regarding elders through general meetings and others meetings as are necessary.
The elders shall have primary responsibility for the employments, supervision, and evaluation of staff members.This responsibility may, on a case-by-case basis, be delegated to another staff member.
The elders shall elect a chairman of elders' meetings and shall also elect one of their number to serve as moderator of members' meetings.
As the position of elders is a very serious position there may be "provisional" elders.
1) Provisional elders are men who meet the qualification of elder as stated previously
2) However, they may not have experience and are seeking as to whether God desires them to desire the position of elder.
3) This position not only allows for elders to begin the work of an elder sooner but as it is only provisional it allows these men to step down if they, during the provisional time, do not feel this is their calling.
4) Provision elders have the same vote within the counsel of elders that other elders have
In the case that there are less than two men to constitute and elder council (including provisional elders) the following shall be in place of the elder council until such time as the correct number to elders are in place:
1) The elder/elders that exist shall use trustees as an aid in decision making when less than two elders exist
2) This shall take place until the correct number of elders, whether regular or provisional, is met stated in Article 3, Section 2
3) Decisions made by the elder/elders shall be conveyed to the congregation at regular members meeting or at special called members meetings
Section 3 – Deacons
The office of deacon is described in 1 Timothy 3: 8-13 and Acts 6: 1-7. The church shall recognize, in accordance with the constitutional provisions on elections in Article 4, men who are giving of themselves in service to the church, and who possess particular gifts of service. These members shall be received as gifts of Christ to His church and set apart as deacons. They shall be elected to a specific term or until the ministry that they are the deacon; no longer exists.....
Deacons shall care for the temporal needs of members, attend to the accommodations for public worship, and encourage and support those able to help others and those with gifts of administration.
Each year the deacons, with the approval of the elders, shall present to the church an itemized budget at a regular members' meeting. This budget shall be presented for discussion at that time and called up for a vote at the following members' meeting. No money shall be solicited by or on behalf of the church or any of its ministries without the approval of the elder council and deacons.
The deacons shall receive, hold, and disburse a fund for benevolence, reporting on its use to the elder council at their request, and reporting to the church its total receipts and total disbursements only.
The deacons shall be charged with developing a yearly budget. This budget is to be developed with the input of the elders council and any other persons required by the elders. Once the budget is developed it would be submitted to the elders to be put before the congregation at the yearly meeting prior to the end of the calendar year.
Section 4 – Clerk
It shall be the duty of the clerk to record the minutes of all regular and special members' meetings of the church, to preserve an accurate roll of the membership, and to render reports as requested by the pastor, the elders, the deacons, or the church.
The clerk shall be nominated by the elders and affirmed by a vote of seventy five percent of the church membership to serve a term of one year or longer at the discretion of the elders and the approval of the members of the church.
In the absence or incapacity of the clerk the elders shall appoint a member to perform the duties of the church clerk.
The church clerk shall ensure that dated copies of the most recent revision of this constitution shall be available for all church members.
The clerk shall keep a register of the names of all members with correct up-to-date personal information such as address, phone, and e-mail of each covenant member. Also kept on record will be dates of admissions and dismissals and an accurate record of baptism.
The clerk shall issue transfers of letter voted in the affirmative by seventy five percent of the church membership, preserve on file all communications and written official reports and give legal notice of all meetings where such is necessary.
Section 5 – Treasurer
The treasurer, who shall not be an active elder, deacon, or paid church staff member, shall ensure that all funds and securities of the church are properly secured in such banks, financial institutions, or depositories as appropriate. The treasurer shall also be responsible for presenting regular reports of the account balances, revenues and expenses of the church at each member's meeting. The responsibility may be delegated with the approval of the elders. The treasurer shall also ensure that full and accurate accounts of receipts and disbursements are kept in books belonging to the church, and that adequate controls are implemented to guarantee that all funds belonging to the church are appropriately handled by an officer, employee, or agent of the church. The treasurer shall render to the elders annually, or whenever they may require it, an account of all transactions as treasurer and of the financial condition of the church.
The treasurer shall be nominated by the elder council and affirmed by a vote of seventy five percent of the church membership to serve a term of one year or longer at the discretion of the elders and the approval of the members of the church.
Section 6 – Trustees
Three trustees chosen by the church will hold in trust the church property. They shall have no power to buy, sell, mortgage, lease, or transfer any property without a specific vote of the church authorizing each action. It shall be the function of the trustees to affix their signatures to legal documents involving the sale, mortgaging, purchase, or rental of property or other legal documents where the signatures of trustees are required.
If there is no property to be under the guidance of the trustees then other than helping the elders there would be no immediate need for trustees until such time that there is a need for trustees.
Trustees will serve on a rotating basis. The first elected will serve three years, the second elected will serve two years, and the third elected will serve one year. Each newly elected trustee will serve a term of three years and may not be considered for re-election at the conclusion of his term until one year has elapsed.
Trustees will act as advisers and help the elder/elders when there are less than two Elders, thus Trustees would need to be men.
Section 7 - Search Committee
A search committee may be formed if the need arises to assist in discerning the will of God with regard to a elder/pastoral position.
If the elders council is to perform the function of the search committee they will be required to regularly report to the congregation of their progress and to follow the guidelines in Article 3 Sections 2. The elders council may deem it necessary to name a separate committee and would then follow the guidelines below for such a committee.
Ideally we, the elders, at Providence Christian Fellowship see it best appropriate to choose men from the midst of our church to be pastors, elders and deacons.
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Providence Christian Fellowship
Church Covenant
Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God, to repent, believe and to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior, and, on the profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, we do now, in the presence of God, angels and this assembly, most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another as one body in Christ. ~ Acts 2:38; Mark 9:23; John 11:26; Heb.11:6; John 1:12-13; I Pet. 2:6; Matt. 28:19-20; Romans 8:1
We engage, therefore, by the gracious aid of the Holy Spirit, to work and pray for the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace and by His power to walk together in Christian love, to strive for the advancement of this Church in knowledge, holiness and comfort; to promote its prosperity and spirituality; to sustain its worship of the Lord, ordinances, discipline and doctrines, and to submit to its leaders as they are faithful to Christ. ~ 1 Cor 13:1-13; Eph. 4:1-6; John 13:34; Hebrews 10:24-25; Hebrews 13:17; I Thess.4:9
We will seek the salvation of our kindred, acquaintances and strangers who have not repented for saving faith in Christ; to be in prayer for the spiritual awakening of the lost in our community, and to be a faithful witness of the gospel both here and to the remotest part of the earth. Matt. 28:19; Luke 24:44-48; Acts 1:3-8; Gen 12:3
We will contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the Church, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the Gospel through all nations. ~ I Cor. 9:7-14; 2 Cor 9:1-15; Luke 4:18; Gal 2:10; Deut 14:28-29
We will not forsake the assembling of ourselves together for the purpose of corporate worship and the glorification of God ~ Hebrews 10:25; Acts 2:42-47
We also engage to maintain family and private devotions; to educate our children in the Christian faith; and demonstrate the love of Christ in all of our household relationships.~ Eph. 6:1-4; Psalm 78:1-4; Deut. 6:1-9; Judges 2:10
We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love; to remember one another in prayer, exhorting and admonishing one another in love and aiding one another in sickness and distress. ~ Eph 6:18; Heb 3:13; 10:24; Gal 6:2; Phil 2:4; Col 3:16
We will seek, by Divine aid, to walk uprightly in the world, to be just in our dealings, faithful in our engagements, and exemplary in our actions; to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and remembering that there is on us a special obligation now to lead a new and holy life which does not jeopardize our own or another’s faith. ~ Eph.5:1-12; Matt 19:15-20; Psalm 1:1-6; Col: 3:1-17; II Cor. 12:20; Lev. 19:16; Galatians 5:21; 1 Corinthians 6:10; Psalm 101:1-2; 1 Cor 8:9; 1 Thes 4:12
We will cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and courtesy in speech; to be slow to take offense, but always ready for reconciliation and mindful of the rules of our Savior to secure it without delay so far as it depends on us. ~ Psalm 19:14 & 34:13-14; Eph 4:29; I Peter 3:8-12; Matt 5:21-26; Titus 3:10; Prov 26:20-26; Rom 12:18; 2 Cor 13:11
We will, if necessary, submit to biblically defined and regulated church discipline for the purpose of reconciliation with God and man and we accept that refusing to communicate or to flee is to usurp the jurisdiction of the church and break this covenant ~ Matt. 18:15:20, Heb 12:11; 1 Cor 5:1-13; 1 John 2:19; 1Timothy 1:20; 2 Cor 2:1-11; Luke 17:4
We moreover engage that when we remove from this place, we will, if possible, unite with a church where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of God’s word. ~ Acts 2:42; Hebrews 10:25
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all. ~ 2 Cor 13:14 Amen
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Second London Baptist Confession of 1689
Put forth by the ELDERS and BRETHREN Of many CONGREGATIONS OF Christians (baptized upon Profession of their faith) in London and the Country.
"With the Heart man believeth unto righteousness, and with the Mouth Confession is made unto Salvation", Rom. 10:10.
Search the Scriptures, John 5:39."
CONTENTS:
CHAPTER 1 OF THE HOLY SCRIPTURES
CHAPTER 2 OF GOD AND THE HOLY TRINITY
CHAPTER 3 OF GOD'S DECREE
CHAPTER 4 OF CREATION
CHAPTER 5 OF DIVINE PROVIDENCE
CHAPTER 6 OF THE FALL OF MAN, OF SIN AND OF THE PUNISHMENT THEREOF
CHAPTER 7 OF GOD'S COVENANT
CHAPTER 8 OF CHRIST THE MEDIATOR
CHAPTER 9 OF FREE WILL
CHAPTER 10 OF EFFECTUAL CALLING
CHAPTER 11 OF JUSTIFICATION
CHAPTER 12 OF ADOPTION
CHAPTER 13 OF SANCTIFICATION
CHAPTER 14 OF SAVING FAITH
CHAPTER 15 OF REPENTANCE UNTO LIFE AND SALVATION
CHAPTER 16 OF GOOD WORKS
CHAPTER 17 OF THE PERSEVERANCE OF THE SAINTS
CHAPTER 18 OF THE ASSURANCE OF GRACE AND SALVATION
CHAPTER 19 OF THE LAW OF GOD
CHAPTER 20 OF THE GOSPEL, AND OF THE EXTENT OF THE GRACE THEREOF
CHAPTER 21 OF CHRISTIAN LIBERTY AND LIBERTY OF CONSCIENCE
CHAPTER 22 OF RELIGIOUS WORSHIP AND THE SABBATH DAY
CHAPTER 23 OF LAWFUL OATHS AND VOWS
CHAPTER 24 OF THE CIVIL MAGISTRATE
CHAPTER 25 OF MARRIAGE
CHAPTER 26 OF THE CHURCH
CHAPTER 27 OF THE COMMUNION OF SAINTS
CHAPTER 28 OF BAPTISM AND THE LORD'S SUPPER
CHAPTER 29 OF BAPTISM
CHAPTER 30 OF THE LORD'S SUPPER
CHAPTER 31 OF THE STATE OF MAN AFTER DEATH, AND OF THE RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD
CHAPTER 32 OF THE LAST JUDGMENT
Church Positions
Our church positions speak to the various issues that arise in our nation and state that we, as a church body, are directly affected by. Providence Christian Fellowship has a document on record that all covenant members have signed to indicate that we, as a church body, are unified on these positions.
1) Medical Procedures Addendum
As bond-servants of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, we, the covenant members of Providence Christian Fellowship, believe that Christ’s lordship governs all realms of life (1), and that He has delegated authority to various entities. The only authority delegated to the state, whether it be federal government or state magistrates or city/county magistrates, is that of praising those who do good and administering justice against those who practice evil (2). Good and evil being defined by God’s law as written in the Bible, not man's imaginations. Therefore, we believe that the state has no authority to mandate nor prohibit medical matters including but not limited to medical procedures, actions, medications or injections/vaccines.
Therefore, we believe the Christian is to exercise wisdom derived from God’s word and conviction of the Holy Spirit in trusting God for supernatural healing (3) or in seeking medical attention in its various forms, free from coercion of the state, nation or any other government authority.
(1) Matt 28:18; Psalm 2 (2) Gen 9:6; Rom 13:3-4 (3) Matt 9; James 5:14
2) Women in the Military Addendum
Providence Christian Fellowship, along with all churches of Christ that adhere to Biblical precept, principle and pattern throughout the ages, that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the only infallible source by which we may know what man is to believe concerning God and what duty God requires of man.
The Teaching of the Bible Concerning Women In The Military
Providence Christian Fellowship in Athol, ID finds that the Scriptures specify, in the Book of Numbers, Chapter 1, that Moses was to take the sum of all the congregation of the children of Israel, after their families, by the house of their fathers, with the number of their names, every male by their polls; From twenty years old and upward, all that are able to go forth to war in Israel: thou [Moses] and Aaron shall number them by their armies.
We find in this passage the simple, and until recent times, virtually universally accepted principle, that warfare is the responsibility of qualified males. Given the fact that God has spoken on this matter (Numbers 1) and has not revoked what He has spoken, we therefore have determined that His will in regard to warfare is to call men for the duty. Also, there is no command given in His Word in which women are called to military duty.
From the Garden of Eden, the Lord God differentiated the roles of male and female. The primary sphere of responsibility for the woman is domestic. This truth is repeated throughout Scripture, being especially emphatic in the New Testament of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (see Ephesians 5 & 6, 1 Timothy 2, and the Book of Titus).
This teaching, we believe, has at its center, a design intended to protect women, whom the Bible defines as the weaker sex (1 Peter 3: 7). God’s holy Law continually provides greater protection to the vulnerable. The churches of Christ must insist on the fact that it is the duty of men to protect women and children.
Warfare, a result of sin in the world, is a horror, yet an occasional reality for which every sovereign nation must be prepared. We fully recognize the responsibility of Christian men to take part in just wars on behalf of the nation of which God has providentially made them members. We regard as an abomination, however, the forced inclusion of women to be among the ranks from which an army is to be mustered. Those who would point to Jael (Judges 4:17-21) as an imagined justification for female subscription, fail to note that this exceptional woman of valor performed her courageous and noble deed while interrupted in her fulfillment of her domestic duties. She was at home in her tent, not in combat on the field. The testimony of Scripture remains uniform: warfare, as such, is the responsibility of qualified men. It is the responsibility of man to bear whatever sorrows may be necessary to protect their women and children.
Conclusion
1. The Covenant members of Providence Christian Fellowship, with the authority it has received from Christ our King declares our scriptural and conscientious decision that the women (i.e., a man’s wife or daughters yet in their parent’s household or any other females that may within their scope of jurisdiction) of our covenant member families or other female members of the church may not be subject to a military draft (or enforced “national service”), may not be regarded as able and proper participants in any pool from which commissioned combatants are to be drawn, and ought not to be placed in any environment or circumstances which would otherwise compromise their high and holy calling as women of the covenant community of God’s people.
2. The Covenant Membership Providence Christian Fellowship also adopts the conclusion of the Synod of the Reformed Church in the United States: “The 250th session of the Synod of the Reformed Church in the United States, upon due examination of Holy Scripture in both the Old and New Testaments, find no biblical warrant for women serving in enforced military service, but on the contrary, finds that women are to be protected from enforced military service that they might fulfill their calling and duties under God as set forth in the order of creation. Further, women are not to serve in combat roles.”