Bylaws 

of Chime Bell Baptist Church

 1699 GRAY MARE HOLLOW ROAD, AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA 29803

Adopted 2015

(Under Development)

A South Carolina Nonprofit

Religious Corporation

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ARTICLE 1 - NAME, PURPOSE, AND DEFINITION OF TERMS

Section 1.01 - Name

Section 1.02 – Purpose Statement

Section 1.03 – Definition of Terms

ARTICLE 2 - STATEMENT OF FAITH AND COVENANT

Section 2.01 - Statement Of Faith

Section 2.02 - Authority Of Statement of Faith

Section 2.03 - Covenant

ARTICLE 3 - MEMBERSHIP

Section 3.01 - Qualifications For Membership

Section 3.02 - Duties Of A Member

Section 3.03 - Active and Inactive Membership Categories

Section 3.04 - Privileges Of Membership

Section 3.05 - Discipline Of A Member

Section 3.06 - Transfer Of Membership

Section 3.07 - Automatic Termination Of Membership

ARTICLE 4 - CHURCH OFFICERS

Section 4.01 - Church Officers

Section 4.02 - Designation Of Corporate Officers

Section 4.03 - Eligibility For Office

Section 4.04 - Terms Of Office

Section 4.05 - Calling a Pastor

Section 4.06 - Pastoral Oversight Of Officers And Staff

ARTICLE 5 - DUTIES AND POWERS OF CHURCH OFFICES

Section 5.01 - The Senior Pastor

Section 5.02 - The Board of Directors

Section 5.03 - Church Secretary / Administrator

SECTION 5.04 – TREASURER / FINANCIAL SECRETARY

Section 5.06 – Elders

Section 5.07 – Deacons

Section 5.08 – Associate Pastors

Section 5.09 – Installation of Officers

Section 5.10 – Duties of All Officers

ARTICLE 6 - MEETINGS

Section 6.01 - Meetings For Public Worship

Section 6.02 - Meetings For Church Administration

Section 6.03 - Special Meetings

Section 6.04 - Motions

Section 6.05 - Fiscal Year

Section 6.06 - Extra Budget Expenditures

Section 6.07 - Emergency Expenditures

Section 6.08 - Use of Church Facilities and Equipment

ARTICLE 7 - EDUCATIONAL MINISTRIES

Section 7.01 - Purpose

Section 7.02 - Church Participation

Section 7.03 - Staff Membership

Section 7.04 - Agreement with Statement of Faith

Section 7.05 - Unity

Section 7.06 - Teaching

ARTICLE 8 - LICENSING AND ORDINATION

Section 8.01 - Licensing and Ordination

ARTICLE 9 - INDEMNIFICATION

Section 9.01 - Actions Subject To Indemnification

Section 9.02 - Timing Of Indemnification

Section 9.03 - Extent Of Indemnification

Section 9.04 - Insurance

ARTICLE 10 - COMMITTEES

Section 10.01 - Standing Committees

Section 10.02 - Special Committees

Section 10.03 - Actions of Committees

ARTICLE 11 - CONTRIBUTIONS

Section 11.01 - Designated Contributions

Section 11.02 - International Ministry Contributions

ARTICLE 12 - BINDING ARBITRATION

Section 12.01 - Submission To Arbitration

Section 12.02 - Notice Of Arbitration

Section 12.03 - Limitations On Arbitration Decisions

Section 12.04 - Arbitration Procedures

ARTICLE 13 - CONFLICT OF INTEREST

Section 13.01 - Purpose

Section 13.02 - Definitions

Section 13.03 - Procedures

Section 13.04 - Records of Proceedings

Section 13.05 - Compensation

ARTICLE 14 - AMENDMENTS

EXHIBIT 1 - PROCEDURES FOR ARBITRATION

SECTION 1 - SCOPE OF ARBITRATION

SECTION 2 - SUBMISSION TO ARBITRATION

SECTION 3 - TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF ARBITRATION

SECTION 4 - CONDUCT AND RULES OF HEARING

SECTION 5 - DUTIES OF ARBITRATORS

SECTION 6 - DECISION OF ARBITRATORS

SECTION 7 - PARTIES TO COOPERATE

SECTION 8 - COSTS AND EXPENSES

SECTION 9 - AMENDMENTS

SECTION 10 - ADOPTION

ARTICLE 1 - NAME, PURPOSE, AND DEFINITION OF TERMS

Section 1.01 - Name

This congregation of believers shall be known as “Chime Bell Baptist Church” and is located at 1699 Gray Mare Hollow Road in Aiken, SC.  The church is incorporated as a non-profit corporation under the laws of the state of South Carolina.

Section 1.02 – Purpose Statementg

This congregation is organized as a church exclusively for charitable, religious, and educational purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (or the corresponding provision of any future United States Revenue Law), for such purposes including, but not limited to, the proclaiming of the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ; the establishing and maintaining of religious worship; the educating of believers in a manner consistent with the requirements of Holy Scripture; and the maintaining of missionary activities in the United States and any foreign country.

Section 1.03 – Definition of Terms

The following terms are used throughout these church bylaws and are defined as follows:

Leadership Council:  The church officers are the senior pastor and the church elders, which comprise the Leadership Council.  (Reference Section 4.01)

Board of Directors:  The Leadership Council, the church secretary/administrator, the church treasurer, and any other elected or appointed officers shall constitute the Board of Directors.  [Reference Section 5.02 (B)]

Member:  Unless stated otherwise, when the term “member” is used it is specifically referring to an Active Member as opposed to an Inactive Member.  (Reference Section 3.03)

ARTICLE 2 - STATEMENT OF FAITH AND COVENANT

Section 2.01 - Statement Of Faith

(A)  The Holy Scriptures.

(1)   We believe the Old and New Testament Scriptures are the verbally and plenarily inspired Word of God.  The Scriptures are verbally inspired in every word, absolutely inerrant in the original documents, infallible and God-breathed and therefore constitute the only infallible rule and authority for faith and practice.  The sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments are the complete and divine revelation of God to man.  The Scriptures shall be interpreted according to their normal grammatical-historical meaning which affirms the belief that the opening chapters of Genesis present creation in six literal days.  All issues of interpretation and meaning shall be determined by the Leadership Council.  (Gen. 1:31; Ex. 31:17; Matt. 5:18, 24:35; John 10:35; 16:12-13; 17:17; 1 Cor. 2:13; 2 Tim. 3:15-17; Heb. 4:12; 2 Pet. 1:20-21)

(2)  We believe that God spoke in His written Word by a process of dual authorship. The Holy Spirit so superintended the human authors that, through their individual personalities and different styles of writing, they composed and recorded God’s Word to man without error in the whole or in the part (Matt. 5:18; 2 Tim. 3:16; 2 Pet. 1:20-21).

(3)  We believe that, whereas there may be several applications of any given passage of Scripture, there is but one true interpretation.  The meaning of Scripture is to be found as one diligently applies the literal grammatical-historical method of interpretation under the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit.  It is the responsibility of believers to ascertain carefully the true intent and meaning of Scripture, recognizing that proper application is binding on all generations.  Yet the truth of Scripture stands in judgment of men; never do men stand in judgment of it.  (John 7:17, 16:12-15; 1 Cor. 2:7-15; 1 John 2:20)

(B)  Dispensationalism.  We believe that the Scriptures interpreted in their natural, literal sense reveal divinely determined dispensations or rules of life that define man’s responsibilities in successive ages.  These dispensations are not ways of salvation, but rather are divinely ordered stewardships by which God directs man according to His purpose.  Three of these dispensations—the law, the church, and the kingdom—are the subjects of detailed revelation in Scripture.  (Gen. 1:28; 1 Cor. 9:17; 2 Cor. 3:9-18; Gal. 3:13-25; Eph. 1:10; 3:2-10; Col. 1:24-25, 27; Rev. 20:2-6

(C)  The Godhead.  We believe in one triune God, eternally existing in three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—each co-eternal in being, co-identical in nature, coequal in power and glory, and having the same attributes and perfections.  (Deut. 6:4; Matt. 28:19; John 14:10, 26; 2 Cor. 13:14)

(D)  The Person and Work of God the Father.

(1)  We believe that God the Father, the first Person of the Trinity, orders and disposes all things according to His own purpose and grace.  He is the Creator of all things.  As the only absolute and omnipotent Ruler in the universe, He is sovereign in creation, providence, and redemption.  (Gen. 1:1-31; Ps. 103:19, 145:8-9; Rom. 11:36; 1 Cor. 8:6; Eph. 3:9)

(2)  We believe that His fatherhood involves both His designation within the Trinity and His relationship with mankind. As Creator He is Father to all men, but He is spiritual Father only to believers. He has decreed for His own glory all things that come to pass.  (Romans 8:14; 2 Cor. 6:18; Eph. 1:11, 4:6)

(3)  We believe that He continually upholds, directs, and governs all creatures and events. In His sovereignty He is neither the author nor approver of sin, nor does He abridge the accountability of moral, intelligent creatures.  (1 Chron. 29:11; Hab. 1:13; John 8:38-47; 1 Pet. 1:17)

(4)  We believe that He has graciously chosen from eternity past those whom He would have as His own; He saves from sin all who come to Him through Jesus Christ; He adopts as His own all those who come to Him; and He becomes, upon adoption, Father to His own.  (John 1:12; Rom. 8:15; Gal. 4:5; Eph 1:4-6; Heb. 12:5-9)

(E)  The Person and Work of Christ.

(1)  We believe that Jesus Christ, the second Person of the Trinity, possesses all the divine excellencies, and in these He is coequal, consubstantial, and coeternal with the Father.  (John 10:30; 14:9)

(2)  We believe that in the Incarnation (God the Son becoming the God-Man) that the Lord Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, became man, without ceasing to be God, having been conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary, in order that He might reveal God and redeem sinful men.  We believe that He surrendered only the prerogatives of deity, buy nothing of the divine essence, either in degree or kind.  In His incarnation, the eternally existing second Person of the Trinity accepted all the essential characteristics of humanity and so became the God-Man.  (Isa. 7:14; 9:6; Luke 1:35; John 1:1-2, 14; 2 Cor. 5:19-21; Gal. 4:4-5; Phil. 2:5-8, Col. 2:9)

(3)  We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ accomplished our redemption through the shedding of His blood and His sacrificial death on the cross as a representative, vicarious, voluntary, propitiatory, redemptive, and substitutionary sacrifice, and that our justification is made sure by His literal, physical resurrection from the dead.  (John 10:15, Acts 2:18-36; Rom. 3:24-25; Rom. 5:8-9; 2 Cor. 5:14-15; Eph. 1:7; 1 Pet. 2:24; 1 Pet. 3:18; 1 Pet. 1:3-5)

(4)  We believe that on the basis of the efficacy of the death of our Lord Jesus Christ, the believing sinner is freed from the punishment, the penalty, the power, and one day the very presence of sin; and that he is declared righteous, given eternal life, and adopted into the family of God.  (Rom. 3:25; 5:8-9; 2 Cor. 5:14-15; 1 Pet. 2:24; 3:18)

(5)  We believe that our justification is made sure by His literal, physical resurrection from the dead and that He is now ascended to the right hand of the Father, where He now mediates as our Advocate and High Priest.  (Matt. 28:6; Luke 24:38-39; Acts 2:30-31; Rom. 4:25; 8:34; Heb. 7:25; 9:24; 1 John 2:1)

(6)  We believe that in the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the grave, God confirmed the deity of His Son and gave proof that God has accepted the atoning work of Christ on the cross.  Jesus’ bodily resurrection is also the guarantee of a future resurrection life for all believers.  (John 5:26-29; 14:19; Rom. 1:4; 4:25; 6:5-10; 1 Cor. 15:20, 23)

(7  We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ ascended to Heaven and is now exalted at the right hand of God the Father where, as our High Priest, He fulfills the ministry of Representative, Intercessor, and Advocate.  (Acts 1:9-10; Rom. 8:34; Heb. 9:24; 7:25; 1 John 2:1-2)

(8)  We believe that Jesus Christ will return to receive the church, which is His Body, unto Himself at the rapture, and returning with His church in glory, will establish His millennial kingdom on earth.  (Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thess. 4:13-18; Rev. 20)

(9)  We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ is the One through whom God will judge all mankind.  He will judge believers, living inhabitants of the earth at His glorious return, and unbelieving dead at the Great White Throne.  (Matt. 25:31-46; John 5:22-23; 1 Cor. 3:10-15; 2 Cor. 5:10; Rev. 20:11-15)

(F)  The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit.

(1)  We believe that the Holy Spirit is a divine Person, eternal, underived, possessing all the attributes of personality and deity, including intellect, emotions, will, eternality, omnipresence, omniscience, omnipotence, and truthfulness.  In all the divine attributes He is coequal and consubstantial with the Father and the Son.  (Ps. 139:7-10; Isa. 40:13-14; Jer. 31:31-34; Matt. 28:19; John 16:13; Acts 5:3-4; 28:25-26; Rom. 15:13; 1 Cor. 2:10-13, 12:4-6, 11; 2 Cor. 13:14; Heb. 9:14, 10:15-17)

(2)  We believe that the work of the Holy Spirit in this age began at Pentecost, when He came from the Father as promised by Christ to initiate and complete the building of the Body of Christ, which is His church.  We believe that the Holy Spirit is a divine person who convicts the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment; and, that He is the Supernatural Agent in regeneration, baptizing all believers into the body of Christ, indwelling and sealing them unto the day of redemption.  The Holy Spirit also sanctifies, instructs, and empowers them for service.  (John 14:16-17; 15:26 16:8-11; Rom. 8:9; 1 Cor. 12:12-14; 2 Cor. 3:6; Eph. 1:13-14)

(3)  We believe that it is the work of the Holy Spirit to execute the divine will with relation to all mankind.  We recognize His sovereign activity in creation, the incarnation, the written revelation, and the work of salvation.  (Gen. 1:2; (Matt. 1:18; John 3:5-7; 2 Pet. 1:20-21)

(4)  We believe that the Holy Spirit is the divine Teacher who assists believers to understand and appropriate the Scriptures and that it is the privilege and duty of all the saved to be filled with the Spirit.  We believe that the Holy Spirit is the divine Teacher, who guided the apostles and prophets into all truth as they committed to writing God’s revelation, the Bible. Every believer possesses the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit from the moment of salvation, and it is the duty of all those born of the Spirit to be filled with (controlled by) the Spirit.  (John 16:13; Rom. 8:9; Eph. 1:17-18; 5:18; 2 Pet. 1:19-21; 1 John 2:20, 27)

(5)  We believe that God is sovereign in the bestowal of spiritual gifts to every believer.  God uniquely uses evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip believers in the church to do the work of the ministry.  We believe that the Holy Spirit administers spiritual gifts to the church.  The Holy Spirit glorifies neither Himself nor His gifts by ostentatious displays, but He does glorify Christ by implementing His work of redeeming the lost and building up believers in the most holy faith.  (John 16:13-14; Acts 1:8; Rom. 12:3-8; 1 Cor. 12:4-11, 28; 2 Cor. 3:18; Eph. 4:7-12)

(6)  We believe that the manifestations of the Holy Spirit, such as speaking in tongues and the gifts of healing were never the common or necessary sign of the baptism or filling of the Holy Spirit.  Ultimate deliverance of the body from sickness or death awaits the consummation of our salvation in the resurrection, although God sovereignly and frequently chooses to answer the prayers of believers for physical healing.  (1 Cor. 1:22; 13:8; 14:21-22)

(G)  Man.

(1)  We believe that man was directly and immediately created by God in His image and likeness. Man was created free of sin with a rational nature, intelligence, volition, self-determination, and moral responsibility to God.  (Gen. 2:7, 15-25; James 3:9)

(2)  We believe that God’s intention in the creation of man was that man should glorify God, enjoy God’s fellowship, live his life in the will of God, and by this accomplish God’s purpose for man in the world.  (Isa. 43:7; Col. 1:16; Rev. 4:11)

(3)  We believe that in Adam’s sin of disobedience to the revealed will and Word of God that the human race fell, inherited a sinful nature, man lost his innocence, incurred the penalty of spiritual and physical death, became subject to the wrath of God, became alienated from God, and became inherently corrupt and utterly incapable of choosing or doing that which is acceptable to God apart from divine grace. With no recuperative powers to enable him to recover himself, man is hopelessly lost. Man’s salvation is thereby wholly of God’s grace through the redemptive work of our Lord Jesus Christ.  (Gen. 1:26-27, Gen. 2:16-17; 3:1-19; John 3:36; Rom. 3:22-23; 5:12; 6:23; 1 Cor. 2:14; Eph. 2:1-3; 4:17-19; 1 Tim. 2:13-14; 1 John 1:8)

(4)  We believe that, because all men were in Adam, a nature corrupted by Adam’s sin has been transmitted to all men of all ages, Jesus Christ being the only exception.  All men are thus sinners by nature, by choice, and by divine declaration.  (Ps. 14:1-3; Jer. 17:9; Rom. 3:9-18, 23; 5:10-12)

(H)  Salvation.  We believe that salvation is wholly the gift of God brought to man by grace and received by personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, who shed His blood on Calvary for the forgiveness of our sins.  We believe that all sins, except blasphemy of the Holy Spirit, are forgivable.  (Matt. 12:31-32; John 1:12; Eph. 1:7; 2:8-10; 1 Pet. 1:18-19; 1 John 1:9)

(I)  Regeneration.

(1)  We believe that regeneration is a supernatural work of the Holy Spirit by which the divine nature and divine life are given.  It is instantaneous and is accomplished solely by the power of the Holy Spirit through the instrumentality of the Word of God when the repentant sinner, as enabled by the Holy Spirit, responds in faith to the divine provision of salvation.  (John 3:3-7; 5:24; Tit. 3:5)

(2)  Genuine regeneration is manifested by fruits worthy of repentance as demonstrated in righteous attitudes and conduct.  Good works are the proper evidence and fruit of regeneration, and will be experienced to the extent that the believer submits to the control of the Holy Spirit in his life through faithful obedience to the Word of God.  This obedience causes the believer to be increasingly conformed to the image of our Lord Jesus Christ.  (1 Cor. 6:19-20; 2 Cor. 3:18; Eph. 2:10; 5:17-21; Phil. 2:12b; Col. 3:16; 2 Pet. 1:4-10)

(J)  Election.

(1)  We believe that election is the act of God by which, before the foundation of the world, He chose in Christ those whom He graciously regenerates, saves, and sanctifies.  (Rom. 8:28-30; Eph. 1:4-11; 2 Thess. 2:13; 2 Tim. 2:10; 1 Pet. 1:1-2)

(2)  We believe that sovereign election does not contradict or negate the responsibility of man to repent and trust Christ as Savior and Lord.  Nevertheless, since sovereign grace includes the means of receiving the gift of salvation as well as the gift itself, sovereign election will result in what God determines.  All whom the Father calls to Himself will come in faith, and all who come in faith the Father will receive.  (Ezek. 18:23, 32; 33:11; John 3:18-19, 36; 5:40; 6:37-40, 44; Acts 13:48; Rom. 9:22-23; 2 Thess. 2:10-12; James 4:8; Rev 22:17)

(3)  We believe that the unmerited favor that God grants to totally depraved sinners is not related to any initiative of their own part or to God’s anticipation of what they might do by their own will, but is solely of His sovereign grace and mercy.  (Eph. 1:4-7; Tit. 3:4-7; 1 Pet. 1:2)

(4)  We believe that election should not be looked upon as based merely on abstract sovereignty.  God is truly sovereign, but He exercises this sovereignty in harmony with His other attributes, especially His omniscience, justice, holiness, wisdom, grace, and love. This sovereignty will always exalt the will of God in a manner totally consistent with His character as revealed in the life of our Lord Jesus Christ.  (Matt. 11:25-28; Rom. 9:11-16; 2 Tim. 1:9)

(K)  Justification.  We believe that justification before God is an act of God by which He declares righteous those who, through faith in Christ, repent of their sins and confess Him as sovereign Lord.  This righteousness is apart from any virtue or work of man and involves the imputation of our sins to Christ and the imputation of Christ’s righteousness to us.  By this means God is enabled to “be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus”.  (Isa. 55:6-7; Luke 13:3; Acts 2:38; 3:19; 11:18; Rom. 2:4; 3:20; 3:26; 4:6; 8:33; 10:9-10; 1 Cor. 1:30; 12:3; 2 Cor. 4:5; 5:21; 7:10; Phil. 2:11; Col. 2:14; 1 Pet. 2:24)

(L)  Sanctification.

(1)  We believe that every believer is sanctified (set apart) unto God by justification and is therefore declared to be holy and is therefore identified as a saint.  This sanctification is positional and instantaneous and should not be confused with progressive sanctification.  This sanctification has to do with the believer’s standing, not his present walk or condition.  (Acts 20:32; 1 Cor. 1:2, 30; 6:11; 2 Thess. 2:13; Heb. 2:11; 3:1; 10:10, 14; 13:12; 1 Pet. 1:2)

(2)  We believe that there is also, by the work of the Holy Spirit, a progressive sanctification by which the state of the believer is brought closer to the standing the believer positionally enjoys through justification.  Through obedience to the Word of God and the empowering of the Holy Spirit, the believer is able to live a life of increasing holiness in conformity to the will of God, becoming more and more like our Lord Jesus Christ.  (John 17:17, 19; Rom. 6:1-22; 2 Cor. 3:18; 1 Thess. 4:3-4; 5:23).

(3)  We believe that every saved person is involved in a daily conflict of the new creation in Christ doing battle against the flesh.  Adequate provision is made for victory through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit.  The struggle nevertheless stays with the believer all through this earthly life and is never completely ended.  All claims to the eradication of sin in this life are unscriptural.  Eradication of sin is not possible, but the Holy Spirit does provide for victory over sin.  (Gal. 5:16-25; Eph. 4:22-24; Phil. 3:12; Col. 3:9-10; 1 Pet. 1:14-16; 1 John 3:5-9)

(M)  The Eternal Security and Assurance of Believers.

(1)  We believe that once a person is saved, he is kept by God’s power and remains secure in Christ forever.  (John 5:24; 6:37-40; 10:27-30; Rom. 5:9-10; 8:1; 31-39; 1 Cor. 1:4-8; Eph. 4:30; Heb. 7:25; 1 Pet. 1:4-5, Jude 24)

(2)  We believe that it is the privilege of believers to rejoice in the assurance of their salvation through the testimony of God’s Word; which, however, clearly forbids the use of Christian liberty as an occasion to the flesh for sinful living and carnality.  (Rom. 6:15-22; 13:13-14; Gal. 5:13; 25-26; Tit. 2:11-15)

(N)  The Church.

(1)  We believe that all who place their faith in Jesus Christ are immediately placed by the Holy Spirit into one united spiritual Body, the church, of which Christ is the Head, the bride of Christ.  We believe that the local church, which is the body and the espoused bride of Christ, is solely made up of born-again believers.  (1 Cor. 12:12-13; 2 Cor. 11:2; Eph. 1:22-23; 4:15; 5:23-32; Col. 1:18; Rev. 19:7-8)

(2)  We believe that the establishment and continuance of local churches is clearly taught and defined in the New Testament.  (Acts 14:27; 20:17, 28-32; 1 Tim. 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-11)

(3)  We believe in the autonomy of the local church free of any external authority or controls, with the right of self-government and freedom from the interference of any hierarchy of individuals or organizations.  Any affiliations, societies, organizations, associations, or agencies Chime Bell Baptist Church affiliates with to further the objectives stated in Section 1.02 - Purpose Statement are not authoritative in matters of church practice or belief.  (Acts 13:1-4; 15:19-31; 20:28; Rom. 16:1, 4; 1 Cor. 3:9, 16; 5:4-7; Tit. 1:5 13; 1 Pet. 5:1-4)

(4)  We believe that it is scriptural for true churches to cooperate with each other for the presentation and propagation of the faith.  Each local church, however, through its elders and their interpretation and application of Scripture, should be the sole judge of the measure and method of its cooperation. The elders should determine all other matters of membership, policy, discipline, benevolence, and government as well.  (Acts 15:19-31; 20:28; 1 Cor. 5:4-7, 13; 1 Pet. 5:1-4)

(5)  We recognize water baptism by immersion and the Lord’s Supper as the Scriptural ordinances of obedience for the church in this age.  (Matt. 28:19-20; Acts 2:41-42; 8:36-38; 1 Cor. 11:23-26)

(6)  We believe that the formation of the church, the Body of Christ, began on the Day of Pentecost and will be completed at the coming of Christ for His own at the rapture.  (Acts 2:1-21 38-47; 1 Cor. 15:51-52; 1 Thess. 4:13-18)

(7)  We believe that the church is a unique spiritual organism designed by Christ, made up of all born-again believers in this present age. The church is distinct from Israel and is a mystery not revealed until this age.  (1 Cor. 10:32; Eph. 2:11-3:6; 3:1-6, 5:32)

(8)  We believe that the establishment and continuity of local churches is clearly taught and defined in the New Testament Scriptures and that the members of the one spiritual Body are directed to associate themselves together in local assemblies.  (Acts 14:23, 27; 20:17, 28; 1 Cor. 11:18-20; Gal. 1:2; Phil. 1:1; 1 Thess. 1:1; 2 Thess. 1:1; Heb. 10:25)

(9)  We believe that the one supreme authority for the church is Jesus Christ and that church leadership, gifts, order, discipline, and worship are all appointed through His sovereignty as found in the Scriptures.  The biblically designated officers serving under Christ and over the assembly of believers are elders (also called bishops, pastors, and pastor/teacher) and deacons, both of whom must meet biblical qualifications.  We believe that these leaders lead or rule as servants of Christ and have His authority in directing the church.  (Acts 20:28; 1 Cor. 11;3; Eph.1:22, 4:11; Col. 1:18; 1 Tim. 3:1-13, 5:17-22; Titus 1:5-9; Heb. 13:7, 17; 1 Pet. 5:1-5)

(10)  We believe in the importance of discipleship, mutual accountability of all believers to each other, as well as the need for discipline of sinning members of the congregation in accord with the standards of Scripture.  (Matt. 18:5-22, 28:19-20; Acts 5:1-11; 1 Cor. 5:1-13; 2 Thess. 3:6-15; 1 Tim. 1:19-20; 2 Tim. 2:2; Tit. 1:10-16).

(11)  We believe that the purpose of the church is to glorify God by building itself up in the faith, by instruction of the Word, by fellowship, by keeping the ordinances and by advancing and communicating the gospel to the entire world.  (Matthew 28:19; Luke 22:19; Acts 1:8; 2:38-42, 47; Ephesians 3:21, 4:13-16; 2 Tim. 2:2, 15, 3:16-17, 1 John 1:3)

(12)  We believe in the calling of all saints to the work of service.  (1 Cor. 15:58; Eph. 4:12; Rev. 22:12)

(13)      We believe in the need of the church to cooperate with God as He accomplishes His purposes in the world. To that end, He gives the church spiritual gifts. He gives men chosen for the purpose of equipping the saints for the work of the ministry, and He also gives unique and special spiritual abilities to each member of the Body of Christ.  (Rom. 12:5-8; 1 Cor. 12:4-31; Eph. 4:7-12; 1 Pet. 4:10-11)

(O)  Separation.

(1)  We believe that believers should maintain a godly testimony and live in such a way that their lives do not bring reproach upon their Savior.  God commands His people to separate from all religious apostasy, all worldly and sinful pleasures, practices, and associations, and to refrain from all immodest and immoderate appearances.  We stand against any and all worldly philosophies that seek to destroy or undermine the truth of biblical Christianity.  We believe that separation from sin is clearly called for throughout the Old and New Testaments, and that the Scriptures clearly indicate that in the last days that apostasy and worldliness shall increase.  (Lev. 19:28; Rom. 12:1-2; 14:13; 1 Cor. 6:19-20; 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1; 2 Tim. 3:1-5; 1 John 2:15-17; 2 John 9-11)

(2)  We believe that out of deep gratitude for the undeserved grace of God granted to us and because our glorious God is so worthy of our total consecration that all the saved should live in such a manner as to demonstrate their adoring love to God and so as not to bring reproach upon our Lord and Savior. We also teach that separation from all religious apostasy and worldly and sinful practices is commanded of us by God.  (Rom. 12:1-2, 1 Cor. 5:9-13; 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1; 1 John 2:15-17; 2 John 9-11).

(3)  We believe that believers should be separated unto our Lord Jesus Christ and that they are to affirm that the Christian life is a life of obedient righteousness that reflects the teaching of the Beatitudes and a continual pursuit of holiness.  (Matt. 5:2-12, Rom. 12:1-2; 2 Cor. 7:1; 2 Thess. 1:11-12; Tit. 2:11-14; Heb. 12:1-2; 14; 1 John 3:1-10)

(P)  Death.

(1)  We believe that physical death involves no loss of our immaterial consciousness, that the soul of the redeemed passes immediately into the presence of Christ, that there is a separation of soul and body, and that, for the redeemed, such separation will continue until the rapture which initiates the first resurrection when our soul and body will be reunited to be glorified forever with our Lord. Until that time, the souls of the redeemed in Christ remain in joyful fellowship with our Lord Jesus Christ.  (Luke 23:43; 1 Cor. 15:35-44, 50-54; 2 Cor. 5:8; Phil. 1:21-24, 3:21; 1 Thess. 4:13-17; Rev. 6:9-11)

(2)  We teach the bodily resurrection of all men, the saved to eternal life, and the unsaved to judgment and everlasting punishment.  (Daniel 12:2; John 5:29, 6:39; Rom. 8:10-11, 19-23; 2 Cor. 4:14; Rev. 20:4-6, 13-15)

(3)  We teach that the souls of the unsaved at death are kept under punishment until the second resurrection when the soul and the resurrection body will be united. They shall then appear at the Great White Throne Judgment and shall be cast into the Lake of Fire, and cut off from the life of God forever.  (Daniel 12:2; Matt. 25:41-46; Luke 16:19-26; John 5:28-29; Thessalonians 1:7-9; Rev. 20:11-15)

(Q)  The Rapture of the Church.  We believe in the personal, bodily return of our Lord Jesus Christ before the seven-year tribulation to translate His church from this earth and, between this event and His glorious return with His saints, to reward believers according to their works at the Judgment Seat of Christ.  (John 14:1-3; 1 Cor. 3:11-15; 15:51-53; 2 Cor. 5:10; 1 Thess. 4:15-5:11; Tit. 2:13)

(R)  The Tribulation.  We believe that immediately following the removal of the church from the earth that the righteous judgments of God will be poured out upon an unbelieving world and that these judgments will be climaxed by the return of Christ in glory to the earth.  At that time the Old Testament and tribulation saints will be raised and the living will be judged. This period includes the seventieth week of Daniel’s prophecy.  (Jer. 30:7; Dan. 9:24-27; 12:1-3; Matt. 24:15-31; 25:31-46; John 14:1-3; 1 Thess. 4:13-18; 2 Thess. 2:7-12; Rev. 16; 20:4-6).

(S)  The Second Coming of Christ and the Millennial Reign.

(1)  We believe in that blessed hope, the personal, imminent return of Christ, Who will rapture His church prior to the seven-year Tribulation period.  At the end of the Tribulation, Christ will personally and visibly return with His saints, to establish His earthly Messianic Kingdom for one thousand years, which was promised to the nation of Israel.  During this time the resurrected saints will reign with Him over Israel and all the nations of the earth.  This reign will be preceded by the overthrow of the Antichrist and the False Prophet, and by the removal of Satan from the world.  (Ps. 89:3-4; Ezek. 37:21-28; Dan. 2:31-45; 7:17-22; Zech. 14:4-11; Matt. 25:31; Luke 1:31-33; Acts 1:10-11; 2:29-30; 1 Thess. 1:10, 4:13-18; Titus 2:13; Rev. 3:10; 19:11-16; 20:1-7)

(2)  We believe that the kingdom itself will be the fulfillment of God’s promise to Israel to restore them to the land that they forfeited through their disobedience. The result of their disobedience was that Israel was temporarily set aside, but they will again be awakened through repentance to enter into the land of blessing. (Deut. 28:15-68; Isa. 65:17-25; Jer. 31:31-34; Eze. 36:22-32; 37:21-28; Zech. 8:1-17; Matt. 21:43; Rom. 11:1-29)

(3)  We believe that this time of our Lord’s reign will be characterized by harmony, justice, peace, righteousness, and long life, and will be brought to an end with the release of Satan for a short period of time.  (Isaiah 11; 65:17-25; Ezekiel 36:33-38; Revelation 20:7)

(T)  The Judgment of the Lost.

(1)  We believe that following the release of Satan after the one thousand year reign of Christ that Satan will deceive the nations of the earth and gather them to battle against the saints and the beloved city.  At that time Satan and his army will be devoured by fire from heaven. Following this, Satan will be thrown into the Lake of Fire and brimstone, whereupon Christ, who is the Judge of all men, will resurrect and judge the great and small at the Great White Throne Judgment.  (Matt. 25:41; John 5:22; Rev. 20:7-10)

(2)  We believe that this resurrection of the unsaved dead to judgment will be a physical resurrection, whereupon receiving their judgment they will be committed to an eternal conscious punishment in the Lake of Fire.  (Matt. 25:41; John 5:28-29; Rev. 20:11-15)

(U)  The Eternal State.

(1)  We believe in the bodily resurrection of all men, the saved to eternal life, and the unsaved to judgment and everlasting punishment.  (Matt. 25:46; John 5:28, 29; 11:25-26; Rev. 20:5-6, 12-13)

(2)  We believe that the souls of those redeemed since the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ are, at death, absent from the body and present with the Lord, where in conscious bliss they await the first resurrection, when spirit, soul, and body are reunited to be glorified forever with the Lord.  (Luke 23:43; 2 Cor. 5:8; Phil. 1:23; 3:21; 1 Thess. 4:16-17; Rev. 20:4-6)

(3)  We believe that the souls of unbelievers remain, after death, in conscious punishment and torment until the second resurrection, when with soul and body reunited, they shall appear at the Great White Throne Judgment, and shall be cast into the Lake of Fire, not to be annihilated, but to suffer everlasting conscious punishment and torment.  (Matt. 25:41-46; Mark 9:43-48; Luke 16:19-26; 2 Thess. 1:7-9; Jude 6-7; Rev. 20:11-15)

(4)  We believe that after the closing of the thousand years, the temporary release of Satan, and the judgment of unbelievers, that the saved will enter the eternal state of glory with God, after which the elements of this earth are to be dissolved and replaced with a new earth, wherein only righteousness dwells.  Following this, the heavenly city will come down out of heaven and will be the dwelling place of the saints, where they will enjoy forever fellowship with God and one another.  Our Lord Jesus Christ, having fulfilled His redemptive mission, will then deliver up the kingdom to God the Father that in all spheres the triune God may reign forever and ever.  (John 17:3; 1 Cor. 15:24-28; Eph. 5:5; 2 Thess. 1:9; 2 Pet. 3:10; Rev. 20:7-15; 21-22)

(V)  Angels.

(1)  We believe that angels are created beings and are therefore not to be worshiped. Although they are a higher order of creation than man, they are created to serve God and to worship Him.  (Luke 2:9-14; Heb. 1:6-7, 14; 2:6-7; Rev. 5:11-14; 19:10; 22:9)

(2)  We believe that Satan is a created being, the author of sin, and the cause of the Fall of Man, that he is the open and declared enemy of God and man, and that he shall be eternally punished in the Lake of Fire.  (Job 1:6-7; Isa. 14:12-17; Matt. 4:2-11; 25:41; Rev. 20:10)

(W)  Creation.  We believe that the Genesis account of creation is neither allegory nor myth, but a literal, historical account of God’s creation of the universe in six literal, 24-hour periods. We reject evolution, the Gap Theory, the Day-Age Theory, and Theistic Evolution as unscriptural theories of origin.  (Gen. 1-2; Ex. 20:11)

(X)  Civil Government.  We believe that God has ordained and created all authority consisting of three basic institutions: 1) the home, 2) the church, and 3) the state.  Every person is subject to these authorities, but all (including the authorities themselves) are answerable to God and are to be governed by His Word.  God has given each institution specific Biblical responsibilities and balanced those responsibilities with the understanding that no institution has the right to infringe upon the other.  The home, the church, and the state are equal and sovereign in their respective Biblically assigned spheres of responsibility under God.  (Rom. 13:1-7; Eph. 5:22-24; Heb. 13:17; 1 Pet. 2:13-14)

(Y)  Human Sexuality.

(1)  We believe that God has commanded that no intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of a marriage between one man and one woman.  We believe that any form of homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, bestiality, incest, fornication, adultery, pedophilia, and pornography are sinful perversions of God’s gift of sex.  We believe that God disapproves of and forbids any attempt to alter one’s gender by surgery or appearance.  (Gen. 2:24; Gen. 19:5, 13; Gen. 26:8-9; Lev. 18:1-30; Rom. 1: 26-29; 1 Cor. 5:1; 6:9; 1 Thess. 4:1-8; Heb. 13:4)

(2)  We believe that the only Scriptural marriage is the joining of one man and one woman.  (Gen. 2:24; Rom. 7:2; 1 Cor. 7:10; Eph. 5:22-23)

(Z)  Family Relationships.

(1)  We believe that men and women are spiritually equal in position before God and that God has ordained distinct and separate spiritual functions for men and women in the home and the church.  The husband is to be the leader of the home, and men are to be the leaders (pastors and elders) of the church.  Accordingly, only men are eligible for ordination by the church.  (Gal. 3:28; Col. 3:18; 1 Tim. 2:8-15; 3:4-5, 12)

(2)  We believe that God has ordained the family as the foundational institution of human society.  The husband is to love his wife as Christ loves the church.  The wife is to submit herself to the Scriptural leadership of her husband as the church submits to the headship of Christ.  Children are a heritage from the Lord.  Parents are responsible for teaching their children spiritual and moral values through consistent lifestyle example and appropriate discipline, including Scriptural corporal correction.  (Gen. 1:26-28; Ex. 20:12; Deut. 6:4-9; Ps. 127:3-5; Prov. 19:18; 22:15; 23:13-14; Mk. 10:6-12; 1 Cor. 7:1-16; Eph. 5:21-33; 6:1-4, Col. 3:18-21; Heb. 13:4; 1 Pet. 3:1-7)

(AA)  Divorce and Remarriage.  We believe that God disapproves of and forbids divorce and intends marriage to last until one of the spouses dies.  Divorce and remarriage is regarded as adultery, except on the grounds of fornication.  (Mal. 2:14-17; Matt. 19:3-12; Rom. 7:1-3; 1 Tim. 3:2, 12; Titus 1:6)

(BB)  Abortion.  We believe that human life begins at conception and that the unborn child is a living human being.  Abortion constitutes the unjustified, unexcused taking of unborn human life.  Abortion is murder.  We reject any teaching that abortions due to rape, incest, birth defects, gender selection, birth or population control, or the physical or mental well-being of the mother are acceptable.  (Job 3:16; Ps. 51:5; 139:14-16; Isa. 44:24; 49:1, 5; Jer. 1:5; 20:15-18; Luke 1:44)

(CC)  Euthanasia.  Except for capital punishment, we believe that the direct taking of an innocent human life is a moral evil, regardless of the intention.  Life is a gift of God and must be respected from conception until natural death.  Thus we believe that an act or omission which, of itself or by intention, causes death in order to eliminate suffering constitutes a murder contrary to the will of God.  Discontinuing medical procedures that are extraordinary or disproportionate to the expected outcome can be a legitimate refusal of over-zealous treatment.  (Ex. 20:13, 23:7; Matt. 5:21; Acts 17:28)

(DD)  Love.  We believe that we should demonstrate love for others, not only toward fellow believers, but also toward those who are not believers, those who oppose believers, and those who engage in sinful actions.  We are to deal with those who oppose believers graciously, gently, patiently, and humbly.  God forbids the stirring up of strife, the taking of revenge, or the threat or use of violence as a means of resolving personal conflict or obtaining personal justice.  Although God commands us to abhor sinful actions, we are to love and pray for any person who engages in such sinful actions.  (Lev. 19:18; Matt. 5:44-48; Luke 6:31; John 13:34-35; Rom. 12:9-10; 17-21; 13:8-10; Phil. 2:2-4; 2 Tim. 2:24-26; Titus 3:2; 1 John 3:17-18)

(EE)  Lawsuits Between Believers.  We believe that Christians are prohibited from bringing civil lawsuits against other Christians or the church to resolve personal disputes.  We believe the church possesses all the resources necessary to resolve personal disputes between members. We do believe, however, that a Christian may seek compensation for injuries from another Christian's insurance company as long as the claim is pursued without malice or slander.  (1 Cor. 6:1-8; Eph. 4:31-32)

(FF)  Missions.  We believe that God has given the church a great commission to proclaim the Gospel to all nations so that there might be a great multitude from every nation, tribe, ethnic group, and language group who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ.  As ambassadors of Christ we must use all available means to go to the foreign nations and not wait for them to come to us.  (Matt. 28:19-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:46-48; John 20:21; Acts 1:8; 2 Cor. 5:20)

(GG)  Giving.  We believe that every Christian, as a steward of that portion of God’s wealth entrusted to him, is obligated to help financially support their local church.  We believe that God has established the tithe as a model for giving, but not as a mandatory or binding New Testament directive.  The New Testament simply teaches that God loves a cheerful giver.  Every Christian should also be willing to give other offerings sacrificially and cheerfully to the support of the church, the relief of those in need, and the spread of the Gospel.  We believe that a Christian relinquishes all rights to direct the use of his tithe or offering once the gift has been given to the local church.  (Gen. 14:20; Prov. 3:9-10; Acts 4:34-37; 1 Cor. 16:2; 2 Cor. 9:6-7; Gal. 6:6; Eph. 4:28; 1 Tim. 5:17-18; 1 John 3:17)

Section 2.02 - Authority Of Statement of Faith

The Statement of Faith does not exhaust the extent of our faith.  The Bible itself is the sole and final source of all that we believe.  We do believe, however, that the foregoing Statement of Faith accurately represents the teachings of the Bible and, therefore, is binding upon all members.  All literature, whether print or electronic, used in the church shall be in complete agreement with the Statement of Faith.

Section 2.03 - Covenant

Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God, to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior, and on profession of our faith, having been baptized in the name of our Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, we do now, in the presence of God and this assembly, most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another, as one body in Christ.

We covenant, therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit, to walk together in Christian love; to strive for the advancement of Chime Bell Baptist Church in knowledge, holiness and comfort; to promote its prosperity and spirituality; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline and doctrines; to give it a sacred preeminence over all institutions of human origin; and to contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the church, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the Gospel through all nations.

We covenant to maintain personal devotions, to educate our children in the truth of God’s Word, to seek the salvation of our families, acquaintances, and all others, to walk circumspectly in the world, to be just in our dealings, faithful to our engagements, and exemplary in our deportment.  We covenant to avoid backbiting, excessive anger, and all gossip or secretive meetings regarding personal issues of church members, church leadership or practice.  We covenant to abstain from such worldly amusements as watching ungodly movies, gambling, ungodly music, and sexually inducing dancing, and to be free from all oath-bound secret societies and partnerships with unbelievers.  We covenant to abstain from the abuse of intoxicating drink or drugs and the sale or use of pornography or tobacco in any form; and to be zealous in our efforts to advance the Kingdom of our Savior.

We further covenant to watch over one another in brotherly love, to remember each other in prayer, to aid each other in sickness and distress, to cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and courtesy of speech, to be slow to take offense, but always ready to secure reconciliation without delay.

ARTICLE 3 - MEMBERSHIP

Section 3.01 - Qualifications For Membership

(A)  Those seeking membership must, through their actions, words, lifestyle and affiliations, evidence a genuine experience of regeneration through faith in and acceptance of the Lord Jesus Christ as personal Savior.  They must renounce sin and endeavor to live a consecrated life wholly unto the Lord.  All requests for membership shall be made to a member of the Leadership Council.

(B)  Candidates for membership will be required to attend a pre-membership class in which they will study the Statement of Faith, the bylaws of Chime Bell Baptist Church, general church practices, and expectations of members.  At the conclusion of the class, the instructor may direct that candidates be interviewed by the Leadership Council prior to being recommended for membership to ensure they fully subscribe to the Statement of Faith contained herein and agree to submit to the authority of the church and its leaders.  Any questions or disagreements with the Statement of Faith or church bylaws must be indicated in writing to the Leadership Council for a formal response to the questions and for an evaluation of the disagreements by the Leadership Council to determine whether the request for membership will be approved.  If at the conclusion of the class or in the determination of the Leadership Council it is deemed that the applicant does not confess Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, or that there is a lack of evidence of a godly lifestyle, membership shall be denied.  The decision by the Leadership council shall be final.

(C)  After a recommendation from the class instructor or the Leadership Council that the candidate be presented for membership, membership will be granted upon a majority vote of affirmation of the members present at any church service or meeting, and upon compliance with any one of the following conditions:

(1)  By baptism (immersion) at this local church following a profession of faith as a new believer in Christ Jesus as personal Savior;

(2)  By letter of transfer from another Bible-believing church of like faith and practice, or other verification of good standing from the prior church if the applicant has been baptized by immersion subsequent to a profession of faith;

(3)  By testimony of faith, having been baptized by immersion in another Bible-believing church of like faith and practice; or

(4)  By restoration, if having been removed from membership, upon a majority vote of affirmation of the congregation after confession is made publicly before the church membership of the sin or sins involved, and satisfactorily evidencing repentance to the Leadership Council.

(D)  Membership shall not vest in any church member any proprietary rights in the Corporation, but shall only entitle an Active Member to vote at a meeting of the church members on matters that the Leadership council chooses to submit to the church membership for affirmation.  Voting privileges are restricted to Active Members who are not under any disciplinary action.

Section 3.02 - Duties Of A Member

(A)  On becoming a member of Chime Bell Baptist Church, in addition to the Covenant contained in Section 2.03, each member further covenants to love, honor, and esteem the church pastors and elders, to pray for them, to recognize their leadership role in the spiritual and day-to-day affairs of the church, to cherish a brotherly love for all members of the church, to support the church in prayer, tithes, offerings and with other financial support as the Lord enables, and in accordance with Biblical commands, to affirm through their lifestyle the beliefs and practices of the church.

(B)  Attendance in the general worship services of this church shall be open to the general public subject to the standards and expectations contained in these bylaws and any other applicable ministry policies. 

(C)  In all services and programs of this ministry, reasonable standards of decorum and order shall be maintained at all times.  As such, no one shall, by appearance or behavior, be permitted to draw attention to themselves in violation of the church’s ministry purposes.  Any individual who, in the sole discretion of the Leadership Council, is found to be in violation of this policy shall be removed from the ministry premises immediately.

Section 3.03 - Active and Inactive Membership Categories

Only Active Members will be permitted to vote on matters brought before the church during called church meetings.  This section provides meaningful parameters that clearly define voting rights and voting limitations.  Members are considered to be either an Active Member or an Inactive Member based on the following definitions:

(A)  Active Member.  A member is considered to be an Active Member if they attend the normal church services regularly, financially support the church regularly, and serve the church’s various activities regularly.  It is recognized that there will be extenuating circumstances that may not allow a member to fully qualify as being an Active Member such as a long-term illness, various health or age-related issues, military service, not able to drive at night, physical disabilities, loss of employment, or that which is similar.  It will be the prerogative of the Leadership Council and the Board of Directors to make allowances for extenuating circumstances such that someone may be permitted to vote who cannot meet the three criteria for legitimate reasons.

(B)  Inactive Member.  A member is considered to be an Inactive Member if they do not meet the three criteria as provided in Section 3.03 (A) and if there are no extenuating circumstances that would prevent them from meeting the criteria.  If a member continues to be generally inactive in their attendance, financial support, and serving activities for over one year, then they shall be placed on an Inactive Membership role for an additional year and then removed from the official membership role of the church if their status remains unchanged.  The Leadership Council, or their designated representatives, will be responsible to notify the member(s) personally of their status for the purpose of encouraging them to become an Active Member.

Section 3.04 - Privileges Of Membership

(A)  Only members at least eighteen (18) years of age who are physically present at a duly called meeting of the church shall be entitled to vote.  Proxy or absentee voting will be allowed in legitimate cases for Active Members where members are physically not able to attend a meeting due to illness, physical disabilities, military service, or other similar problems due to no fault of their own.  The exercise of a proxy or absentee vote is at the sole discretion of the Leadership Council.  The eligible membership of the church may only exercise voting privileges in those areas that are defined and limited by these bylaws.  Members may request actions to be considered for approval during a duly called business meeting as long as they are not in violation of these bylaws.  The vote of a member is to confirm and ratify the direction of the church as determined by the Leadership Council and the Board of Directors, as well as any approved business considerations during a duly called business meeting.

(B)  This congregation functions not as a pure democracy, but as a body under the headship of the Lord Jesus Christ and the direction of the Leadership Council as the under-shepherds with the counsel of the Board of Directors.  The church functions under the following model: (1) pastor led, (2) elder approved, and (3) congregationally accepted.  If the congregation is not in favor of Leadership Council approved business considerations or spiritual guidelines and directions, the Leadership Council shall reconvene to determine further direction from the Lord.  The decisions and direction of the church are to be approved by the Leadership Council, the God-ordained men who are theocratic leaders.  Direction and decisions are to be prayed over and once unanimity has been reached (and only after unanimity has been reached), then those decisions and direction are provided for the church for their input and acceptance.  If there are issues within the congregation, then the Leadership Council shall take those matters into full consideration and make any necessary adjustments that they believe the Holy Spirit would lead them into making.  No one person and no one body always has all of the right answers, so the Leadership Council has to be understanding of other concerns.

(C)  The pastor(s) and the elders may not under any circumstances lord over the congregation as stipulated in 1 Peter 5:2-3, nor is the congregation obligated to follow their leadership under such conditions.  If a pastor or an elder lords over the church and takes advantage of their God-given role, then at that moment he abuses his calling and is scripturally disqualified from leading.  Determinations of the internal affairs of Chime Bell Baptist Church are ecclesiastical matters and shall be determined exclusively by the church’s own rules and procedures.  The Leadership Council shall oversee and/or conduct all aspects of Chime Bell Baptist Church as long as they adhere to Scriptural mandates.  The Board of Directors shall give counsel and assistance to the Leadership Council as requested.

(D)  Membership in Chime Bell Baptist Church does not afford the members with any property, contractual, or civil rights based on principles of democratic government.  Although the general public is invited to all of the church’s worship services, the church property remains private property.  The Leadership Council or their designated individual has the authority to suspend or revoke the right of any person, including a member, to enter or remain on church property.  If after being notified of such a suspension or revocation, the person enters or remains on church property, the person may, in the discretion of the Leadership Council or their designated individual, be treated as a trespasser.

(E)  A member may inspect or copy the prepared financial statements of the church and the minutes of the proceedings of church and committee meetings, provided he shall have made a written request upon the church and the church has received the written request at least five business days before the requested inspection date.  Minutes from Leadership Council meetings and/or discipline committee meetings are exempt from this provision and are not subject to inspection or copy.  A member may not, under any circumstances, inspect or copy any record relating to individual contributions to the church or the accounting books and financial records of the church.

Section 3.05 - Discipline Of A Member

(A)  There shall be a discipline committee consisting of the Leadership Council.  These men shall have sole authority in determining heretical deviations from the Statement of Faith and violations of the church covenant.  The senior pastor, associate pastors, and elders shall be entitled to the same steps as other church members and be subject to the same discipline within the church.

(B)  Members are expected to demonstrate special loyalty and concern for one another.  When a member becomes aware of an offense of such magnitude that it hinders the spiritual growth and testimony of an individual in the local church or the body as a whole, he is to go alone to the offending party and seek to restore his brother.  Before he goes, he should first examine himself.  When he goes, he should go with a spirit of humility and have the goal of restoration.

(C)  If reconciliation is not reached, two other Active members are to accompany the one seeking to resolve the matter.  This second step should also be preceded by self-examination and exercised in a spirit of humility with the goal of restoration.

(D)  If the matter is still unresolved after the steps outlined in subsections (B) and (C) have been taken, the discipline committee (Leadership Council), as the church representatives biblically responsible for putting down murmuring, shall hear the matter.  If the matter is not resolved during the hearing before the discipline committee, the committee shall recommend to the members of the church that they, after self-examination, make an effort personally to go to the offending member and seek that member’s restoration.

(E)  If the matter is still unresolved after the steps outlined in subsections (B), (C), and (D) have been taken, such member(s) who refuse to repent and be restored are to be removed from the membership of the church upon a majority vote of the membership present at a meeting called for the purpose of considering disciplinary action.  The member subject to disciplinary action is not entitled to vote on his/her own discipline.

(F)  No matter may be heard by the discipline committee or the church unless the steps outlined in subsections (B) and (C) have been taken, except in the case of a public offense.

(G)  If an unrepentant offending party is removed from the church membership, members of the church should have no social contact with that individual, and any contact from that point forward (except by family members) must be for the sake of restoration.  Persons placed under church discipline must immediately return any property belonging to the church.

(H)  The procedures provided in this section are based on Matt. 18:15-20; Rom. 16:17-18; 1 Cor. 5:1-13; 2 Cor. 2:1-11; Gal. 6:1; 1 Thess. 5:14; 2 Thess. 3:6, 10-15; 1 Tim. 5:19-20; and Titus 3:10-11.

Section 3.06 - Transfer Of Membership

Members not under the disciplinary process of Section 3.04 may request that letters of transfer be sent to another church.

Section 3.07 - Automatic Termination Of Membership

(A)  The membership of any individual member shall automatically terminate without notice if the member in question has not attended a regular worship service of the church in the preceding twelve months.  Upon good cause being shown to the Leadership Council, this provision for termination may be waived in the case of any individual member at the discretion of the Leadership Council.  Reference Section 3.03 (B) for membership qualifications relative to those who continue to be generally inactive in their attendance, financial support, and serving activities for over one year.

(B)  No member of Chime Bell Baptist Church may hold membership in another church.  The membership of any individual member shall automatically terminate without notice if the member unites in membership with another church.

(C)  The membership of any individual member shall automatically terminate without notice if the Leadership Council become aware of a member’s open and unrepentant involvement in any sexual misconduct described in Section 2.01(V) or if a member files a lawsuit in violation of Section 2.01(EE).

(D)  The membership of any individual member shall automatically terminate without notice if the member openly and unashamedly disagrees with any provision found in the Statement of Faith.

(E)  The membership of any individual member shall automatically terminate without notice if the member in a spirit of dissension actively engages in secretive discussions and/or intentionally organized, secretive meetings in a concerted effort to overthrow the senior pastor or present church leadership.

(F)  The membership of an individual will automatically terminate upon his or her death.

(G)  No provision contained in this section shall be subject to or governed by the procedures regarding discipline of members set forth in Section 3.04.

(H)  A member may resign at any time, but no letter of transfer or written statement of good standing will be issued upon such resignation, except at the discretion of the Leadership Council.

ARTICLE 4 - CHURCH OFFICERS

Section 4.01 - Church Officers

The church officers are the senior pastor and the church elders, which comprise the Leadership Council.  The senior pastor is considered to also be a church elder.  The church treasurer and the church secretary/administrator are church officers appointed by the Leadership Council.  One person may hold two offices, except that the senior pastor may not hold any other office.  Officers of the church are appointed based on their spiritual qualifications in accordance with 1 Timothy 3.  Their appointment must be accepted by a majority of the present, voting members at a regular church meeting.  The Leadership Council as they deem appropriate may appoint other church officers, subject to a majority confirmation vote by present, voting church members at any regular or special church meeting.  The Leadership Council may request other recognized servant/leaders within the church to participate in the Leadership Council’s administrative and decision making processes.

Section 4.02 - Designation Of Corporate Officers

As an accommodation to legal relationships outside the church, an elder as appointed by the Leadership Council shall serve as president/chief executive officer of the corporation; the church secretary/administrator shall serve as the secretary of the corporation; the church treasurer shall serve as chief financial officer of the corporation.

Section 4.03 - Eligibility For Office

(A)  The church shall not install or retain an officer who fails to adhere to or expresses disagreement with the Statement of Faith set forth in Article 2.  All church officers, upon request of the Leadership Council, shall affirm their agreement with the Statement of Faith.

(B)  All church officers must be approved initially and thereafter every three years by the Leadership Council in order for them to commence or continue in their offices.  A special approval or appointment may be initiated by the Leadership Council.

(C)  Only active church members are eligible for election or appointment to any church office or position, except the position of senior pastor.

Section 4.04 - Terms Of Office

(A)  The relationship between the senior pastor and the church shall be permanent unless dissolved at the option of either party by the giving of a month’s notice, or less by mutual consent.  The severance of the relationship between the senior pastor and the church may be considered at any regular or special church administration meeting by following the procedures outlined in 6.04, provided notice of the meeting shall have been given from the pulpit to the church two Sundays prior to the meeting.  A two-thirds majority of the eligible members present and voting shall be required to sever the relationship between the senior pastor and the church.

Disciplinary removal of any pastor or elder from office automatically terminates his membership.  A restoration to membership after disciplinary removal will be subject to the requirements of Section 3.01(D).  In the event of restoration to membership, the pastor or elder will be disqualified from holding any future role or office of leadership within the church.

(B)  The term of service for all offices and positions in the church, except the senior pastor and elders, shall be three years, at the expiration of which the officers may be re-elected or re-appointed.

(C)  A vacancy occurring in any office or on the Board of Directors, except in the case of the senior pastor, may be filled at any regular or special called Board of Directors meeting, with quorum having been established, by a majority vote of present members.

(D)  Except in obvious extenuating circumstances, all elected and appointed officers shall serve in their respective offices until their successors are duly elected or appointed.

(E)  Members of the Board of Directors, with quorum having been established, may be removed from office for unbiblical conduct, as determined by the other board members, upon a majority vote of the remaining members of the Board of Directors.

(F)  The Leadership Council shall appoint the members of any various church committees at the annual church administration meeting or, in the case of a vacancy or newly created committee, at other duly called special meetings.

Section 4.05 - Calling a Pastor

The Leadership Council will make recommendation(s) to the church.

Upon the resignation, death, or dismissal of the Senior Pastor, the church shall seek a candidate who subscribes to the Statement of Faith, the Covenant and bylaw provisions of the church, and whose life aligns with the qualifications of a pastor as described in I Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9. The church shall abide by the following guidelines for calling a pastor:

(A)  The Leadership Council shall interview potential candidates and will only consider men who completely subscribe to the Statement of Faith and Covenant contained herein.

(B)  Prior to being announced to the congregation as a formal candidate, any man being considered for pastoral candidate must preach at least one Sunday service.  Thereafter, the Leadership Council may formally announce the candidate to the church, after which the candidate must preach at least two regularly scheduled services and be available for a church-wide question/answer time prior to being affirmed by the congregation.

(C)  Notice from the pulpit must be given two consecutive Sundays prior to a formal candidate’s preaching services, and two consecutive Sundays prior to the church congregational vote.

(D)  The candidate must be elected as Senior Pastor by a majority vote of qualified, present voting members.  The Leadership Council will only present for consideration to the church one candidate at a time, and an up or down vote must be cast prior to consideration of other potential candidates.

Section 4.06 - pastoral Oversight Of Officers And Staff

(A)  Subject to appropriate budgetary allowance, and on the condition that they shall become a member of the church upon assuming their duties, the Leadership Council may hire associates and assistants to assist the pastor(s) in carrying out their God-given responsibilities.

(B)  All church staff, whether paid or volunteer, shall be under the supervision of the Leadership Council who has the sole authority to dismiss the same.  No employee or volunteer shall be hired, appointed, or retained who fails to adhere to or expresses disagreement with the Statement of Faith.

ARTICLE 5 - DUTIES AND POWERS OF CHURCH OFFICES

Section 5.01 - The senior pastor

(A)  The senior pastor shall preach the Gospel regularly and shall be at liberty to preach the whole counsel of the Word of God as the Lord leads him.  He shall administer the ordinances of the church unless he chooses to delegate such to another individual, act or designate an individual to act as moderator at all church meetings for the transaction of church matters, supervise the teaching ministries of the church, and tenderly watch over the spiritual interests of the membership.

(B)  The senior pastor shall publicly inform all newly elected officers of the function and responsibilities of their respective offices.  He shall extend the right hand of fellowship to all new members on behalf of the church and shall perform such other duties as generally appertain to such a position.  The senior pastor shall be free to choose the means and methods by which he exercises the ministry God has given him.

(C)  All appointments for public worship and Bible study and the arrangements thereof, including time and place and the use of the property belonging to the church for purposes other than the stated appointments, shall be under the control of the senior pastor and the Leadership Council, who shall be able to determine the appropriateness of practices for use of the church property.  The use of church facilities and/or property are only permitted to those members in good standing, as approved by the Leadership Council.

(D)  The senior pastor shall be responsible to fill the pulpit for regularly scheduled church service as well as any special services.  In the event of his absence, the Leadership Council and other recognized servant/leaders within the church shall be responsible for filling the pulpit; to include the invitation for other speakers to preach in a manner consistent with the beliefs articulated in the Statement of Faith.

(E)  The senior pastor, along with the Leadership Council, shall be responsible to establish mandatory safety and security procedures for all ministries and programs involving minors.  This function may be appointed to others, but must be duly approved by the Leadership Council.

Section 5.02 - The Board of Directors

(A)  The Board of Directors shall assist the Leadership Council, in such manner as they shall request, in promoting the spiritual welfare of the church, and in performing all other work of the church.  The president/chief executive officer of the corporation shall serve as the chairman of the Board of Directors.  The directors are responsible for making preparations to observe church ordinances and shall, if requested by the Leadership Council, to consider applications for church membership.  The Board of Directors shall assist the Leadership Council in caring for the administrative needs of the church’s various ministries.

(B)  The Leadership Council, the church secretary/administrator, the church treasurer, and any other elected or appointed officers shall constitute the Board of Directors.  The Board of Directors, with quorum having been established, shall exercise only the following specific powers, upon authorization by a majority vote of the members present at a duly called Board of Directors meeting:

(1)  To purchase, lease, or otherwise acquire real and personal property on behalf of the church, and to take real and personal property by will, gift, or bequest on behalf of the church.

(2)  To sell, convey, alienate, transfer, lease, assign, exchange, or otherwise dispose of, and to mortgage, pledge, or otherwise encumber the real and personal property of the church, to borrow money and incur indebtedness for the purpose and use of the church; to cause to be executed, issued, and delivered for the indebtedness, in the name of the church, promissory notes, bonds, debentures, or other evidence of indebtedness; and to secure repayment by deeds of trust, mortgages, or pledges.

(3)  To exercise all powers necessary for the dissolution of the church corporation.

(4)  All powers of the directors, (whether elders or other appointed officers) shall be compatible with the laws of the state of South Carolina.

(C)  The election of non-pastoral officers to the Board of Directors by the church membership shall occur during the month of December at the annual church administration meeting.  The term of service for non-pastoral officers, shall be three years, at the expiration of which the officers may be re-elected or reappointed.

Section 5.03 - Church secretary / Administrator

The church secretary/administrator shall keep or cause to be kept, the following:

(A)  Certify and keep at the office of the church, the original bylaws or a copy, including all amendments or alterations to the bylaws, minutes of meetings, the membership roll, baptisms, and certificates of ordination and license; and deliver such documents to successor upon leaving office.

(B)  Keep minutes of all church administration and Board of Director meetings, including the time and place of holding, the notice given, and the names of those present (unless a church-wide meeting), and an accurate record of all church business approved at each meeting.  A copy of these minutes shall be kept as a permanent record of the church and shall be made available at all reasonable times to proper person on terms provided by law and pursuant to these church bylaws.

(C)  Sign, certify, or attest documents as may be required by law; see that reports, statements, certificates, and all other documents and records required by law are properly kept and filed.

(D)  See that all notices are duly given in accordance with the provisions of these bylaws.  In case of the absence or disability of the secretary, or his/her refusal or neglect to act, notice may be given and served by the senior pastor or by the Board of Directors..

(E)  Serve as the secretary of the corporation and be an active member in good standing.

SECTION 5.04 – TREASURER / FINANCIAL SECRETARY

The Treasurer / Financial Secretary shall:

(A)  Count along with one other person or verify funds counted by two persons so appointed, and record in a permanent record all the monies received in offerings for the church.  When possible, this shall be done following each service or day of services of the church.

(B)  Convey in a timely manner, a record of all funds received, including moneys received from outside sources, to the Leadership Council, in addition to records specifying the distribution into various funds as designated each month or upon request.

(C)  Maintain a permanent weekly record of individual giving for all donations, offerings, contributions and gifts, and shall guard said records confidentially as a sacred trust.  The treasurer shall issue an official receipt to each contributor at the end of the fiscal year.

(D)  Keep in the church office an accurate and permanent record of all financial transactions of church funds.  Make reports of itemized disbursements and the financial condition of the church as requested by the Leadership Council and directors, and for annual, quarterly or otherwise special or regular administration meetings; deliver such records to successor upon leaving office.

(E)  Verify all funds and deposit these and all other funds received in appropriate amounts at an approved banking facility or trust company as shall be selected by the Board of Directors.

(F)  Write, sign, record, and mail checks in payment of church bills and routine expenses approved by the senior pastor, Leadership Council, and/or directors as well as disburse funds and salaries as directed by the church.

(G)  At least two directors of this corporation shall be authorized to sign church checks in the treasurer’s absence.  No persons shall be permitted to sign checks written to themselves, and no expenditures of the church (except miscellaneous petty cash disbursements) shall be made by cash.

(H)  Serve as treasurer/chief financial officer of the corporation and be an active member in good standing.

Section 5.06 – ELDERS

Elders are appointed based on meeting the character qualifications of 1 Timothy 3:1-7, as well as having a desire to serve as an elder.  Elders serve under a lifetime appointment, unless misconduct disqualifies them from their calling.  Under the direction and guidance of the senior pastor, the elders of the church shall perform the following duties and functions:

(1)  Assist the senior pastor in carrying out and governing all ministries of the church.  All elders will be part of the Leadership Council.

(2)  Provide an exemplary, Christlike character and lead God’s people by teaching them God’s Word in a way that profits them spiritually.

(3)  Understand and be conscientious advocates of the church’s distinctive doctrines.  This would include the core theology of the church such as the authority and sufficiency of Scripture, God’s sovereignty, the divinity and exclusivity of Christ, the Incarnation, and the Atonement.

(4)  Be courageous in standing against the culture on certain clear biblical issues.  An elder must model for the congregation both a strength and a willingness to live a countercultural lifestyle in areas where Christ and culture conflict.

(5)  Prepare and administer the Lord’s Supper with the senior pastor.

Section 5.07 – DEACONS

The Leadership Council shall seek a candidate who subscribes to the Statement of Faith, the Covenant and bylaw provisions of Chime Bell Baptist Church, and whose life aligns with the qualifications of a deacon as described in I Timothy 3:8-13. The church shall abide by the following guidelines for calling a deacon:

(A)  The Leadership Council shall interview potential candidates and will only consider persons who completely subscribe to the Statement of Faith and Covenant contained herein;

(B)  Prior to being announced to the congregation as a formal candidate, any person being considered for the position of deacon, must enter into a probation period in which the candidate will be trained and mentored in their role.

(C)  Deacons will be responsible to the Leadership Council in the administration of their duties which include, but are not limited to:

(1)  Helping with the preparing and administering of the Lord’s Supper.

(2)  Helping with visitation to those members who are elderly, house-bound, or hospitalized.

(3)  Teaching and instructing recurring classes such as adult Sunday School classes and new member classes as assigned by the Leadership Council.

(4)  Assisting in the practical oversight of various church ministries as designated by the Leadership Council.

(5)  Assisting in the practical oversight, security, and upkeep of the church grounds and facilities.

Section 5.08 – ASSOCIATE PASTORS

Under the direction and guidance of the pastor, the associate pastor(s) of the church shall assist the pastor in carrying out the various ministries of the church.

Section 5.09 – INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS

A public installation service in which all newly elected officers of the church are to be dedicated to their respective offices shall be held at a public church service following their election at the annual church administration meeting.

Section 5.10 – DUTIES OF ALL OFFICERS

(A)  All officers shall prepare a written report of their work for the annual church administration meeting and shall surrender all records in their possession to the church secretary / administrator at the close of their term of office to be filed as a permanent record of the work of the church.  All records are the property of the church and must be kept in the church office.

(B)  Any officer who neglects their duties as outlined in the bylaws for a period of three months may be removed from his office at the discretion of the Leadership Council, and another may be appointed by the Leadership Council to serve the unexpired term.

ARTICLE 6 - MEETINGS

Section 6.01 - Meetings For PUBLIC Worship

Unless otherwise determined by the Leadership Council, the church shall meet each Sunday for public worship and on Wednesday during the week for Bible study and prayer.

Section 6.02 - Meetings For church Administration

(A)  The annual church administration meeting, for the election of non-pastoral officers and the transaction of other business, shall be held annually in December.  A quorum shall consist of the active members present.  Public notice of the meeting shall be given from the pulpit for two successive Sundays immediately preceding the meeting.

(B)  The moderator, as designated by the Leadership Council, shall determine the rules of procedure according to his sense of fairness and common sense, giving all members a reasonable opportunity to be heard on a matter.  The moderator is the final authority on questions of procedure, and his decision is final and controlling.  The following order shall be observed at the regular church administration meetings:

1.         Opening prayer

2.         Reading of minutes

3.         Report of the Board of Directors (includes annual budget)

4.         Report of standing committees

5.         Report of special committees

6.         Unfinished matters

7.         Election of new officers (if required)

8.         New matters

9.         Adjournment

10.       Benediction

(C)  For any meeting under this article, the moderator, in his sole discretion, shall have full and unilateral authority to require nonmembers or inactive members to leave the meeting room and to order the immediate removal of any member or other person present who is deemed by the moderator to be disruptive to the proceedings by act or presence.  The moderator shall have full authority to order the removal of all children if the moderator determines, in his sole discretion that circumstances so warrant.  If the moderator determines that compliance with his order of removal is unsatisfactory, the moderator may, in his sole discretion, revoke the disruptive person’s right to remain on the premises in accordance with Section 3.03(D) and treat the person as a trespasser.

Section 6.03 - Special Meetings

The Leadership Council may call a special meeting by giving notice of such a meeting and the purpose for which it is called, to the church, from the pulpit at least one Sunday and not less than one week prior to said meeting.  A meeting for the calling of a pastor or the severance of the relationship between the church and pastor shall be called in accordance with the provision of Sections 4.04(A) and 4.05.  Bible conferences, missionary conferences, and revivals may be held as the Leadership Council deems beneficial.

SECTION 6.04 - MOTIONS

Active members who desire that a certain motion be made or subject matter be discussed during an annual, regular, or special business meeting must file a written recommendation with the Leadership Council two weeks prior to the set meeting.  The church leadership will then consider the proposal and proceed according to their conscience and what they understand to be in the best interests of the church.  All other motions will be presented by the Leadership Council or their designated representative, to raise certain motions.

Section 6.05 - Fiscal Year

The fiscal year of the church shall begin January 1st and end December 31st.

SECTION 6.06 - EXTRA-BUDGET EXPENDITURES

The chief financial officer may, in the ordinary course of their duties, make or authorize the making of any expenditure or obligation in any amount not exceeding One Thousand dollars ($1,000.00).  Any extra-budget expenditures over the amount of One Thousand dollars ($1,000.00) must be approved inwriting by the Board of Directors.

SECTION 6.07 - EMERGENCY EXPENDITURES

The Leadership Council and the Board of Directors may, in an emergency situation, make or approve the making of any expenditure or obligation  exceeding the limit imposed in Section 6.06 under the following conditions:

(A)  The Leadership Council and the Board of Directors, by a majority vote, must determine that the matter is of such urgency that it cannot wait until the next regular meeting of the directors or until a special meeting can be held.

(B)  Before making any decision, the Leadership Council and the Board of Directors shall make a good faith effort to obtain the opinions of as many of the members of the Board of Directors as can be reached.  The actual decision shall the be taken at a meeting of the Leadership Council and the Board of Directors, any action requiring the approval of at least two-thirds (2/3) of the board.

SECTION 6.08 – USE OF CHURCH FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT

Chime Bell Baptist Church does not and will not make its facilities or equipment available for any purposes other than church sanctioned functions, regardless of membership status.  Facilities include, but are not limited to offices, classrooms, sanctuary, fellowship hall, nursery, restrooms, parking areas, and any equipment owned by the church.

ARTICLE 7 - EDUCATIONAL MINISTRIES

Section 7.01 - Purpose

The church believes that the home and church are responsible before God for providing a Christian education.  To help fulfill this responsibility of imparting biblical truth and furthering the Great Commission, Chime Bell Baptist Church shall establish and maintain an educational program (or Sunday School program) for the purpose of winning souls to Christ, and teaching Bible doctrine, godly worship, and biblical Christian living.  To this end, the church shall engage in educational ministries in keeping with the following dictates.

Section 7.02 - Church Participation

All educational programs or courses of instruction formulated and offered by the church shall be primarily for the benefit of the members of the church; however, the Leadership Council may permit non-church members to participate in church educational programs or courses of instruction if it deems it in the best interest of the church.

Section 7.03 - Staff Membership

All instructors, teachers, and administrators, whether paid or volunteer, shall be Active Members of Chime Bell Baptist Church.  This provision shall not apply to visiting missionaries, evangelists, or preachers engaged for the purpose of delivering sermons, conducting revivals, or other special meetings on a temporary basis.

Instructors, teachers and/or administrators directly involved with any child or children under the age of 18, are required to have undergone a criminal background check with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), prior to being assigned.

Section 7.04 - Agreement with Statement of Faith

All educational programs or courses of instruction shall be taught and presented in full agreement with the Statement of Faith of the church.  The church shall not hire, appoint, or retain any employee or volunteer for its educational programs who fails to adhere to or expresses disagreement with the Statement of Faith or who adopts or lives a lifestyle inconsistent with the beliefs and practices of Statement of the Faith or Chime Bell Baptist Church, whether in or out of the classroom.

Section 7.05 - Unity

All educational programs or courses of instruction shall be conducted as an integral and inseparable ministry of the church.

Section 7.06 - Teaching

All educational programs or courses of instruction shall be conducted consistent with the teaching of the inerrant Word of God.  Any assertion or belief that conflicts with or questions a Bible truth is a deception and distortion of the truth which will be disclaimed as false.  It is the responsibility of every instructor or teacher to present the inerrant Word of God as the sole infallible source of knowledge and wisdom.

ARTICLE 8 - LICENSING AND ORDINATION

SECTION 8.01 - LICENSING AND ORDINATION

Active male members who desire to prepare for the gospel ministry may be issued a license to preach by Chime Bell Baptist Church after the Leadership Council has examined the candidate’s divine call and qualifications.

Licensing will comply with the policy and procedures established by Chime Bell Baptist Church and those requirements by the State of South Carolina, with regard to licensing, as long as they do not conflict with the teachings of the Holy Bible.

ARTICLE 9 - INDEMNIFICATION

Section 9.01 - Actions Subject To Indemnification

The church may indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative, or investigative, including all appeals (other than an action by or in the right of the church) by reason of the fact that the person is or was an elder, pastor, deacon, officer, employee, or agent of the church, against expenses, including attorneys’ fees, judgments, fines, and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by him in connection with the action, suit, or proceeding; and if that person acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the church and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful.  The termination of any action, suit, or proceeding by judgment, order, settlement, conviction, or on a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did not act in good faith and in a manner that he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the church and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe that his or her conduct was unlawful.  This determination of good-faith intent shall be made (a) by a majority vote of the Board of Directors who were not and are not parties to or threatened with the action, suit, or proceeding; (b) if the described quorum is not obtainable or if a majority vote of a quorum of disinterested directors so directs, by independent legal counsel in a written opinion.

Section 9.02 - Timing Of Indemnification

Expenses of each person seeking indemnification under this Article may be paid by the church as they are incurred, in advance of the final disposition of the action, suit, or proceeding, as authorized by the Board of Directors in the specific case, so long as an elder, pastor, deacon, officer, employee, or agent agrees to repay the amount if it is ultimately determined that he or she is not qualified to be indemnified by the church.

Section 9.03 - Extent Of Indemnification

The indemnification provided by this Article shall be deemed to be discretionary unless otherwise required as a matter of law or under any agreement or provided by insurance purchased by the church, both as to action of each person seeking indemnification under this Article in his official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding that office, and may continue as to a person who has ceased to be a pastor, deacon, officer, employee, or agent and may inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors, and administrators of that person.

Section 9.04 - Insurance

The church may purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was an elder, pastor, deacon, officer, employee, or agent of the church against any liability asserted against him and incurred by him in that capacity, or arising out of his status in that capacity, whether or not the church would have the power to indemnify him against liability under the provisions of this Article.

ARTICLE 10 - COMMITTEES

Section 10.01 - Standing Committees

The Leadership Council may appoint standing committees as deemed appropriate and shall designate a chairperson and the membership for each standing committee except when otherwise specifically provided in these bylaws.

Section 10.02 - Special Committees

The Leadership Council, in its discretion, may create special committees to provide the board with advice and information regarding matters submitted to the committee by the board for consideration.  The committee shall have no authority to act on behalf of the corporation. Nominations for special committee members shall be made by the Leadership Council or such persons as appointed to make such nominations.  The members of the committee shall be chosen by a majority vote of the Board of Directors and shall serve solely at the pleasure of the Leadership Council.  The special committee shall be subject to the control and direction of the Board of Directors at all times.

Section 10.03 - Actions of Committees

Committees, whether standing or special, have no authority to act on behalf of the corporation. Their primary function is to research and recommend.  Committees shall make available upon request all records and materials to the Board of Directors, who shall have the right to overrule any plans or decisions made by the committee.  Each committee shall have a secretary that keeps minutes of each meeting and shall timely submit the minutes to the Leadership Council and church administrator to be filed with church records.  If deemed appropriate by the Board of Directors, the committee secretary, in conjunction with the chairman, shall submit an annual report to the church of the decisions and plans of the committee.

ARTICLE 11 - CONTRIBUTIONS

Section 11.01 - Designated Contributions

From time to time the church, in the exercise of its religious, educational, and charitable purposes, may establish various funds to accomplish specific goals.  All contributions to these funds shall be deemed advisory rather than mandatory in nature and shall remain subject to the exclusive control and discretion of the Board of Directors.  No fiduciary obligation shall be created by any designated contribution made to the church other than to use the contribution for the general furtherance of any of the purposes stated in Section 1.02.

Section 11.02 - International Ministry Contributions

From time to time the church, in the exercise of its religious, educational, and charitable purposes, may establish various funds to accomplish specific goals outside of the United States of America.

The church will comply with the current guidelines established by the Department of Homeland prior to disbursement of such funds, when sending financial support to any international ministry, organization, or individual(s) who are not current members of this local church.

ARTICLE 12 - BINDING ARBITRATION

Section 12.01 - Submission To Arbitration

Believing that lawsuits between believers are prohibited by Scripture, all members of Chime Bell Baptist Church agree to submit to binding arbitration any matters which cannot otherwise be resolved, and expressly waive any and all rights in law and equity to bring any civil disagreement before a court of law, except that judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrator may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof.

Section 12.02 - Notice Of Arbitration

In the event of any dispute, claim, question, or disagreement arising out of or relating to these bylaws or any other church matter, the parties shall use their best efforts to settle such disputes, claims, questions, or disagreement as befits Christians and in accord with Matthew 18:15-17.  To this effect, they shall consult and negotiate with each other in good faith and, recognizing their mutual interests not to disgrace the name of Christ, seek to reach a just and equitable solution.  If they do not reach such solution within a period of sixty (60) days, then upon notice by either party to the other, disputes, claims, questions, or differences shall be finally settled by arbitration as described in Section 12.01, above, and such Procedures for Arbitration as are adopted pursuant to Section 12.04, below.

Section 12.03 - Limitations On Arbitration Decisions

(A)  Should any dispute involve matters of church discipline, the arbitrators shall be limited to determining whether the procedures for church discipline, as outlined under Section 3.04, were followed.

(B)  Should any dispute involve the removal from office of a pastor or any church officer, the arbitrators shall be limited to determining whether the procedures set forth in Sections 4.04, 4.06,  or 5.10were followed.

Section 12.04 - Arbitration Procedures

The Procedures for Arbitration shall be as adopted by the Leadership Council and the Board of Directors.

See Exhibit 1 – Procedures for Arbitration.

ARTICLE 13 - CONFLICT OF INTEREST

Section 13.01 - Purpose

The purpose of this conflict of interest policy is to protect the church’s interest when it is contemplating entering into a transaction or arrangement that might benefit the private interest of an officer or director of the church or might result in a possible excess benefit transaction.  This policy is intended to supplement but not replace any applicable state or federal laws governing conflicts of interest applicable to nonprofit and charitable organizations.

Section 13.02 - Definitions

(A)  Interested Person:  Any director or officer who has a direct or indirect financial interest.

(B)  Financial Interest:  A person has a financial interest if the person has, directly or indirectly, through business, investment, or family:

(1)  An ownership or investment interest in any entity with which the church has a transaction or arrangement,

(2)  A compensation arrangement with the church or with any individual or entity with which the church has a transaction or arrangement, or

(3)  A potential ownership or investment interest in, or compensation arrangement with, any entity or individual with which the church is negotiating a transaction or arrangement.

(4)  A financial interest is not necessarily a conflict of interest.  A person who has a financial interest may have a conflict of interest only if the Board of Directors decides that a conflict of interest exists.

(C)  Compensation:  Compensation includes direct and indirect remuneration as well as gifts or favors that are not insubstantial.

SECTION 13.03 - PROCEDURES

(A)  In connection with any actual or possible conflict of interest, an interested person must disclose the existence of the financial interest and be given the opportunity to disclose all material facts to the directors considering the proposed transaction or arrangement.

(B)  After disclosure of the financial interest and all material facts, including any presentations by and discussion with the interested person, he shall leave the board meeting while the determination of a conflict of interest involving the transaction or arrangement is discussed and voted upon.  The remaining Board of Directors members shall decide if a conflict of interest exists by a majority vote.

(1)  The chairman of the Board of Directors shall, if appropriate, appoint a disinterested person or committee to investigate alternatives to the proposed transaction or arrangement.

(2)  After exercising due diligence, the Board of Directors or committee shall determine whether the church can obtain with reasonable efforts a more advantageous transaction or arrangement from a person or entity that would not give rise to a conflict of interest.

(3)  If a more advantageous transaction or arrangement is not reasonably possible under circumstances not producing a conflict of interest, the Board of Directors shall determine by a majority vote of the disinterested directors whether the transaction or arrangement is in the best interests of the church, for its own benefit, and whether it is fair and reasonable.  In conformity with the above determination it shall make its decision as to whether to enter into the transaction or arrangement.

(C)  If the Board of Directors has reasonable cause to believe a member has failed to disclose actual or possible conflicts of interest, it shall inform the member of the basis for such belief and afford the member an opportunity to explain the alleged failure to disclose.

(D)  If, after hearing the member’s response and after making further investigation as warranted by the circumstances, the Board of Directors determines the member has failed to disclose an actual or possible conflict of interest, it shall take appropriate disciplinary and corrective action.

Section 13.04 - Record of Contributions

(A)  The minutes of the Board of Directors shall contain the names of the persons who disclosed or otherwise were found to have a financial interest in connection with an actual or possible conflict of interest, the nature of the financial interest, any action taken to determine whether a conflict of interest was present, and the Board of Directors’ decision as to whether a conflict of interest in fact existed.

(B)  The minutes of the Board of Directors also shall contain the names of the persons who were present for discussions and votes relating to the transaction or arrangement, the content of the discussion, including any alternatives to the proposed transaction or arrangement, and a record of any votes taken in connection with the proceedings.

Section 13.05 - Compensation

A voting member of the Board of Directors who receives compensation, directly or indirectly, from the church for services rendered may not vote on matters pertaining to that member’s compensation.

ARTICLE 14 - AMENDMENTS

These bylaws may be revised or amended by a majority vote of the members present and voting at any regular Board of Directors meeting.  Proposed amendments or changes must be made available to voting members for review at least one week prior to the meeting at which the vote to amend the bylaws will be taken.

ADOPTION

These bylaws were adopted by a two-thirds majority vote of the members present and voting at a duly called meeting of the Board of Directors in which a quorum was present.

These bylaws supersede any other bylaws of Chime Bell Baptist Church.

__________________                                                          ___________________________________

Date                                                                                                                Church Administrator

EXHIBIT 1 - PROCEDURES FOR ARBITRATION

SECTION 1 - SCOPE OF ARBITRATION

The parties must, prior to the selection of arbitrators, agree to the scope of the matters to be considered by the arbitrators.  In doing so the parties must conduct themselves with the utmost courtesy as befits believers in Jesus Christ.  If the parties cannot agree upon the scope of the dispute for arbitration, the scope shall be determined by the arbitrators.

SECTION 2 - SUBMISSION TO ARBITRATION

(A)  The parties, as Christians, believing that lawsuits between Christians are prohibited by Scripture, and having agreed, according to Article 12 of the church bylaws, to submit disputes to binding arbitration, and to waive any legal right to take the dispute to a court of law, will refer and submit any and all disputes, differences, and controversies whatsoever within the agreed scope of arbitration to a panel of three arbitrators, to be selected as follows:

(1)  All arbitrators must be born-again Christians of good reputation in the community who affirm the church’s Statement of Faith in its entirety.

(2)  Each party shall submit a list of three proposed arbitrators to the other party, and the other party will choose one of the three proposed arbitrators to serve on the panel.

(3)  The third arbitrator will be selected by mutual agreement of the other two arbitrators.

(4)  In selecting the arbitrators, each party shall act in good faith in choosing Christian arbitrators who have no prior knowledge of the facts leading up to the dispute, are not related to or close friends with the selecting party, and who will act impartially and with fundamental fairness.

(5)  No arbitrator may be an attorney.

(6)  No arbitrator may be employed or ever have been employed by, or under the authority of, either party or any other arbitrator.

(7)  The arbitrators will be selected as soon as possible but no later than 30 days after the parties have agreed to the scope of the arbitration.

(8)  The arbitration will be held at a neutral site agreed to by the arbitrators.

(B)  The arbitrators shall, subject to the provisions of these procedures, arbitrate the dispute according to the terms of these procedures, the Bible as interpreted by the church’s Statement of Faith, and any applicable church documents.

(C)  Each party may be represented by counsel throughout the process at the party’s own expense.  Discovery will be allowed as needed, as determined in the discretion of the arbitrators.  Formal rules of evidence shall not apply.

SECTION 3 - TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF ARBITRATION

(A)  The arbitrators shall have full power to make such regulations and to give such orders and directions, as they shall deem expedient in respect to a determination of the matters and differences referred to them.

(B)  The arbitrators shall hold the arbitration hearing as soon as possible, but no later than thirty (30) days after the selection of the third arbitrator.

(C)  There shall be no stenographic record of the proceedings, and all proceedings shall be closed to the media and any other individuals not directly involved in the proceedings.

(D)  Normally, the hearing shall be completed within three (3) hours.  The length of the hearing, however, may be extended by the arbitrators in their discretion or an additional hearing may be scheduled by the arbitrators to be held promptly.

(E)  There will be no post-hearing briefs.

(F)  The arbitrators are to make and publish their award, in writing, signed by each of them concerning the matters referred, to be delivered to the parties no later than 48 hours from the conclusion of the hearing, unless otherwise agreed by the parties.  The arbitrators may, in their discretion, furnish an opinion.

SECTION 4 - CONDUCT AND RULES OF HEARING

(A)  The arbitrators may, in their absolute discretion, receive and consider any evidence they deem relevant to the dispute, whether written or oral, without regard to any formal rules of evidence.

(B)  The parties and their respective witnesses must, when required by the arbitrators, attend and submit to examination and cross-examination under oath as to all or any of the matters referred to in the proceedings and to produce and deposit with the arbitrators any or all evidence within their possession or control concerning such matters.

(C)  If a party defaults in any respect referred to in Section 4 (B), above, the arbitrators may proceed with the arbitration in their discretion as if no such evidence were in existence, insofar as it may be favorable to the party in default.

(D)  All presentations shall be controlled by the arbitrators.  Any disputes regarding procedure shall be decided solely by the arbitrators.

SECTION 5 - DUTIES OF ARBITRATORS

(A)  The arbitrators are to receive all evidence, prayerfully consider such evidence in an impartial manner, and render a decision which, based upon Scriptural principles, is fair to all parties.

(B)  The arbitrators have full power to order mutual releases to be executed by the parties, and either of the parties failing, such orders shall have the effect of a release, and may be duly acknowledged as such.

(C)  In the event that either party or a witness for either party shall fail to attend the arbitration hearing, after such written notice to such party as the arbitrators shall deem reasonable, the arbitrators may proceed in the absence of such party or witnesses without further notice.

SECTION 6 - DECISION OF ARBITRATORS

(A)  It is preferred that the arbitrators reach a unanimous decision, but if a unanimous decision cannot be obtained, a majority decision will be accepted.  The written decision of a majority of the arbitrators shall be final and binding on all parties, and judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrators may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof.  There is no appeal from the decision of the arbitrators.

(B)  The decision of the arbitrators is to be kept confidential by all parties for a period of one year.  For purposes of these procedures, the church membership may be informed of the decision if the church or any church pastors, officers, directors, employees, or Board of Directors members were a party to the proceeding.

(C)  Should any party commence legal proceedings against another party with respect to the agreed scope of the dispute or the binding decision of the arbitrators, with the exception of an action to enforce the decision of the arbitrators, that party shall pay to the other party all expenses of said proceedings, including reasonable attorneys’ fees.  In the event it becomes necessary for one party to commence legal proceedings to enforce the decision of the arbitrators, the non-prevailing party must bear all of the costs of said proceedings, including reasonable attorneys’ fees.

SECTION 7 - PARTIES TO COOPERATE

No party shall unreasonably delay or otherwise prevent or impede the arbitration proceedings.  No party will involve the news media in the dispute in any way.  No party shall publicize the dispute in any way to anyone not a party to the proceedings, except as permitted by the arbitrators and except that a party may disclose the proceedings of this arbitration to his or her spouse, legal counsel, accountants, insurance carrier, and as otherwise required by law.

SECTION 8 - COSTS AND EXPENSES

Each party shall pay his or her own costs and expenses related to presenting the party’s case to the arbitrators.  The costs of the arbitration, including any fees for the arbitrators is to be shared equally by both parties.

SECTION 9 - AMENDMENTS

These Procedures for Arbitration may be revised or amended by a majority vote of the Board of Directors present and voting at any regular board meeting.

SECTION 10 - ADOPTION

(A)       These Procedures for Arbitration were adopted by a majority vote of the Board of Directors.

(B)       These Procedures for Arbitration supersede any other Procedures for Arbitration previously adopted by the Board of Directors, if any exist.

___________________                                                    ____________________________________

Date Approved                                                                                   Chairman, Board of Director