SECTION 1
Name: The name of this corporation is New Point Church an Iowa non-profit corporation.

SECTION 2
Purpose: The purpose of New Point Church,hereafter referred to as “the church,” is to create a church where God is easy to find.

SECTION 3
Mission: The church’s mission as a nonprofit, religious corporation, organized and operated exclusively for religious, charitable, and educational purposes, is to minister to spiritual, emotional, physical, and social needs.

The principal office of the church is in Urbandale, IA. The church Board of Directors may change the principal office from one location to another. Any such change shall be recorded in corporation minutes but shall not be processed as an amendment to these bylaws. The church Board of Directors may establish places to conduct meetings.

SECTION 1
Purposes: The church is organized and shall be operated exclusively for religious, charitable and educational purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. More particularly, the purposes of this church are:

1. To spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the worship of God among its attendants and practice the Christian virtues inculcated in the Holy Scriptures by any and all means possible.
   
   
2. To license, ordain, employ and discharge licensed and ordained ministers of the Gospel, and others, to conduct and carry on divine services at the place of worship of the church, and elsewhere, and to collect and disburse any and all necessary funds for the maintenance of said church and the accomplishment of its purpose within the State of Iowa and elsewhere.
   
   
3. To handle affairs pertaining to property and other temporal matters as required by the civil authorities.
   
   
4. To make distributions to organizations that qualify as exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as amended.
   
   
5. To educate the body of Christ through any and all educational means deemed appropriate.
   
   
6. This church is also organized to promote, encourage, and foster any other similar religious, charitable and educational activities; to accept, hold, invest, reinvest and administer any gifts, legacies, bequests, devises, funds and property of any sort or nature, and to use, expend, or donate the income or principal thereof for, and to devote the same to, the foregoing purposes of the church; and to do any and all lawful acts and things which may be necessary, useful, suitable, or proper for the furtherance of accomplishment of the purposes of this church. Provided, however, no act may be performed which would violate Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as it now exists or as it may hereafter be amended.

SECTION 2
Limitations: In order to carry out the above-stated purposes, the church shall have all those powers set forth in the Act, as it now exists or as it may hereafter be amended. The powers of the church to promote the purposes set out above are limited and restricted in the following manner:

1. No part of the net earnings of the church shall inure to the benefit of or be distributable to its in corporators, officers or other private persons, except that the church shall be authorized and empowered to make payments and distributions (including reasonable compensation for services rendered to or for the church or reimbursement of expenditures) in furtherance of its purposes as set forth in these Articles. No substantial part of the activities of the church shall be the carrying on of propaganda, or otherwise attempting to influence legislation, and the church shall not participate in, or intervene in (including the publication or distribution of statements) any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office. Not with standing any other provisions of these Articles, the church shall not carry on any other activities not permitted to be carried on by (i) a corporation exempt from Federal Income Tax under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws, or (ii) a corporation, contributions to which are deductible under Section 170(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws.
   
   
2. Notwithstanding any other provisions of these Articles, in the event this church is in any one year a “private foundation” as defined by Section 509(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws, it shall be required to distribute its income for such taxable year at such time and in such manner as not to subject the foundation to taxation under Section 4942 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws; and further shall be prohibited from: (i) any act of “self-dealing” as defined in Section 4941 (d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws; (ii) retaining any “excess building holdings” as defined by Section 4943(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws; or (iii) making any investments in such manner as to subject the foundation to taxation under Section 4944 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws; or (iv) making taxable expenditures as defined in Section 4945(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws.
   
   
3. The churchs hall not accept any gift or grant if the gift or grant contains major conditions which would restrict or violate any of the church’s religious, charitable or educational purposes or if the gift or grant would require serving a private as opposed to a public interest.

SECTION 1
Affiliation: The church is autonomous and maintains the right to govern its own affairs, independent of any denominational control. Recognizing, however, the benefits of cooperation with other churches in world missions and otherwise, this Church voluntarily affiliates with other Christian churches and ministries.

SECTION 2
Governance Documents, Records, and Reports: The church shall keep and maintain at least the following Corporate documents:

1. Articles of Incorporation and amendments
   
   
2. Statement of Beliefs and amendments
   
   
3. Bylaws of the church and amendments
   
   
4. Current membership record
   
   
5. Minutes of meetings of the Board of Directors
   
   
6. Financial reports and records

SECTION 3
Availability of Records: All records shall be open at all times to the inspection of the church’s Lead Pastor, Board of Directors, and to all other parties as required by state law.

SECTION 4
Personal Liability: The private property of staff, officers, and members, of this church shall be exempt from Corporate debts and liabilities.

Definition: The Elders are the spiritual overseers of the church. They serve with the Lead Pastor to shape the spiritual vision and direction of the church.

SECTION 1
Eligibility: Elders shall exemplify the characteristics of a godly, Christian life as stated in:

1 Timothy 3:1-13 | Titus 1:6-9

¹ Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. ² Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, ³ not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. ⁴ He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. ⁵ (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?) ⁶ He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. ⁷ He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap.

⁸ In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. ⁹ They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. ¹⁰ They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.

¹¹ In the same way, the women are to be worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.

¹² A deacon must be faithful to his wife and must manage his children and his household well. ¹³ Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.⁶ An elder must be blameless, faithful to his wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. ⁷ Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. ⁸ Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. ⁹ He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.

Although these attributes will never be fully perfected, Elders must be clearly in pursuit of and committed to their development. Elders shall demonstrate they possess giftings and spiritual maturity necessary for shepherding people toward faithfulness to God and His Word.

Ephesians 4:14-16 | 1 Peter 5:1-4 | Acts 20:28-30 | 1 Corinthians 12:28-31

¹⁴ Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. ¹⁵ Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. ¹⁶ From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.¹ To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: ² Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; ³ not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. ⁴ And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.²⁸ Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. ²⁹ I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. ³⁰ Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them.²⁸ And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues. ²⁹ Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? ³⁰ Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? ³¹ Now eagerly desire the greater gifts.
And yet I will show you the most excellent way.

Faithful participation in the ministries of the church, spiritual accord with the Lead Pastor and other Elders, and financial support through tithing are among indicators of readiness to serve as an elder. A qualified candidate shall be an active Covenant Member in good standing of the church for not less than 12 months, with the exception of Pastoral Elders

SECTION 2
Composition: The Elders shall consist of the Lead Pastor and not fewer than three Elders of legal age according to state law.

SECTION 3
Quorum: A minimum 66% of the Elders must be present and able to vote to qualify as an official Elders meeting.

SECTION 4
Roles: The Lead Pastor will also serve as the Lead Elder.

SECTION 5
Appointment and Ratification Process: Any Elder shall nominate persons whom they deem qualified to serve as an Elder. The persons nominated shall be presented to the Elders for election and requires a vote of not less than 66% of the Elders.

SECTION 6
Vacancy or Incapacity: In the event of a vacancy or incapacity of an Elder, upon recommendation of any current Elder, the Elders shall appoint a successor to fulfill the uncompleted term of service.

SECTION 7
Term of Appointment: The term of appointment shall be one year in the initial year and two years following reappointment, expiring on the first day of the next calendar year. Terms of office shall commence from the date of ratification by the Elders. Elders may be reappointed, but no member may be appointed to an indefinite or life term.

SECTION 8
Responsibilities: Elders shall serve in an advisory capacity in all matters of the church’s spiritual life and ministry, help run and deliver a service in the absence of the Lead Pastor, discipline Covenant Members as prescribed in these bylaws, and rescinding membership if necessary. Elders provide final interpretive authority on the Bible’s meaning and application.

SECTION 9
Accountability: Elders shall be accountable to the remaining Elders for faithfulness and fulfillment of their duties

SECTION 10
Resignation: Except for the Lead Pastor, Elders shall provide resignation notice to the Lead Pastor.

SECTION 11
Discipline: Elders shall be subject to discipline as prescribed in these bylaws for Covenant Members.

SECTION 12
Dismissal: Elders may be dismissed for the causes prescribed in these by laws for Covenant Members and by adhering to the process prescribed in these bylaws for Covenant Members. Any Elder may be dismissed without cause by a vote of not less than 66% of the Elders.

SECTION 13
Compensation: Elders shall not receive salaries or compensation for their services as an Elder. An Elder may serve the church in another capacity and receive reasonable compensation for those services.

SECTION 14
Meetings: The Elders of the church shall meet at
a minimum of once per quarter. The frequency in which they meet may increase at the desire of the Lead Pastor.

Definition: The Board of Directors are the financial overseers of the church. They serve with the Lead Pastor to shape the financial vision and direction of the church.

SECTION 1
Eligibility:  Members of the Board of Directors must be current Elders of the church.

SECTION 2
Composition  The Board of Directors shall consist of the Lead Pastor and not fewer than three Elders of legal age according to state law, none of whom can be employees (other than the Lead Pastor) or staff and/or related to the pastor, church employees or staff, or other members of the Board of Directors by blood or marriage.

SECTION 3
Quorum: A minimum 66% of the Board of Directors must be present and able to vote to qualify as an official Board of Directors meeting.

SECTION 4
Roles:

1. Lead Pastor: The Lead Pastor shall serve as a voting member of the Board of Directors except in matters of hiring and dismissing the Lead Pastor. The Lead Pastor cannot hold any Board Officer positions.
   
   
2. Chairman: The Board of Directors shall elect from among its members, a Chairman. The Chairman of the Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the business of the church. The Chairman is expressly authorized to do all things necessary and proper to fulfill the above described leadership position and to fulfill all duties incident to the office of Chairman. In the event of a vacancy, for any reason, in the office of Chairman, the Vice Chairman shall immediately take the position of the Chairman of the Board. The Chairman cannot hold any other officer role for the corporation.
   
   
3. Vice Chairman: When the Chairman is absent, is unable to act, or refuses to act in the role as Chairman of the Board of Directors, the Vice Chairman shall perform the duties of the Chairman. When the Vice Chairman acts in place of the Chairman, the Vice Chairman shall have all the powers of and be subject to all the restrictions upon the Chairman. The Vice Chairman shall perform other duties as assigned by the Chairman or Board of Directors. Except as expressly authorized by the Board of Directors, the Vice Chairman shall have no authority to sign for or otherwise bind the Church. Should the Chairman die, resign or be terminated, the Vice Chairman shall immediately assume the role of Chairman.
   
   
4. Secretary: Role shall be filled by the secretary of the corporation.
   
   
5. Treasurer: Role shall be filled by the treasurer of the corporation.

SECTION 5
Election of Officers: Officers shall be elected from the Board of Directors and requires a vote of 100% of the entire Board of Directors annually in January for a term of one year.

SECTION 6
Appointment and Ratification Process: The Lead Pastor and any current Board Member shall nominate persons whom they deem qualified to serve on the Board of Directors. The persons nominated shall be presented to the Board of Directors for election and requires a vote of not less than 66% of the entire Board of Directors.

SECTION 7
Vacancy or Incapacity: In the event of a vacancy or incapacity of a member of the Board of Directors, upon recommendation of the Lead Pastor or any current Board Member, the Board of Directors shall appoint a successor to fulfill the uncompleted term of service.

SECTION 8
Term of Appointment: The term of appointment shall be one year in the initial year and two years following reappointment, expiring on the first day of the next calendar year. Terms of office shall commence from the date of ratification by the Board of Directors. Members of the Board of Directors may be reappointed, but no member may be appointed to an indefinite or life term.

SECTION 9
Responsibilities: The Board of Directors shall:

1. Hire and dismiss the Lead Pastor as necessary.
   
   
2. Serve as the officers of the corporation.
   
   
3. Serve as Elders of the church.
   
   
4. Work in concert with the Lead Pastor to pursue the mission of the church.
   
   
5. Abide by all financial obligations for the church as stated in Article 14: Finance.
   
   
6. Approve the annual budget, with salaries for all paid personnel; manage the legal and financial affairs of the church, and provide for the appropriate care, maintenance, and insurance of properties owned by the church. Individual members of the Board of Directors shall not independently make decisions in the name of the church.
   
   
7. Conduct an annual review of the Lead Pastor completed by the end of June.
   
   
8. Sign legal papers such as deeds, mortgages, and leases that have been approved in accordance with these bylaws.
   
   
9. Sell, lease, mortgage or otherwise encumber property of the church.
   
   
10. Assure accurate, monthly records of the financial receipts and expenditures of the church are maintained and reported. Review all financial reports monthly.
    
    
11. Approve the development and discontinuance of church ministries or departments and committees, which shall be appointed by, accountable to, and their responsibilities and authority defined by the Lead Pastor and Board of Directors.

SECTION 10
Accountability: The Lead Pastor and each member of the Board of Directors shall be accountable to the church Elders and the remaining Board of Directors for faithfulness and fulfillment of their duties.

SECTION 11
Resignation: Except for the Lead Pastor, Board of Directors shall provide a 30-day signed written notice of resignation to the Board of Directors.

SECTION 12
Discipline: Members of the Board of Directors shall be subject to discipline as prescribed in these bylaws for Covenant Members.

SECTION 13
Dismissal: Members of the Board of Directors may be dismissed for the causes prescribed in these bylaws for Covenant Members and by adhering to the process prescribed in these bylaws for Covenant Members. Any members of the Board of Directors may be dismissed without cause by a vote of not less than 66% of the entire Board of Directors. Dismissal from the Elder team automatically results in dismissal from the Board of Directors.

SECTION 14
Compensation: Directors, except for the Lead Pastor, shall not receive salaries or compensation for their services to the Board of Directors.

SECTION 15
Meetings: Meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held at least monthly at places and times determined by the Chairman of the Board of Directors. Meetings can be in the forms of face-to-face or electronic as long as quorum is met. Meetings may be called by the Chairman as needed with a 48-hour notice to all board members, unless a shorter period is agreed to by all directors.

SECTION 16
Minutes: Minutes shall be kept of all meetings of the Board of Directors by the Secretary and be distributed to each Board Member.

Definition: The officers of the church corporation shall perform all duties as required by state law and approved by the Board of Directors.

SECTION 1
Eligibility: A Corporate Officer must be a current Board Member of the church.

SECTION 2
Composition 

1. There is a minimum of two Corporate Officers.
   
   
2. One person may hold two or more offices, except the office of the president.

SECTION 3
Roles and Responsibilities:

1. President: The president is the head of the church corporation, implements the directives of the Board of Directors, and is a member of the Board of Directors. The president shall serve as ex-officio member of all church bodies and organizations of the church.
   
   
2. Secretary: The secretary shall keep accurate minutes of all Corporate meetings and may act as secretary of any other body or committee as desired by the Lead Pastor. The secretary shall provide for the safekeeping of all records and documents of the church, sign legal papers, and perform other duties as required by the Lead Pastor and Board of Directors.
   
   
3. Treasurer: The treasurer shall supervise the receipt and deposit of all funds of the church in accordance with the finance provisions of these bylaws. The treasurer shall keep accurate records of all receipts and disbursements, maintain and distribute donor receipts according to IRS policy, submit monthly reports to the Lead Pastor and Board of Directors. With the approval of the governing Board, the treasurer shall establish an accountable plan of internal control. All records shall be open at all times to inspection by the Lead Pastor, Board of Directors, and to other parties as required by state law. At the discretion of the Board of Directors the Treasurer may assign these duties to an outside entity.
   
   
4. Vice President: If the Board of Directors determines that the corporation needs a Vice President, the duties of that officer will be determined by the President.

SECTION 4
Appointment and Ratification Process: The Lead Pastor shall be the president of the corporation. Upon recommendation of the Lead Pastor or any current Board Member, the Board of Directors shall appoint the other officers of the corporation and determine terms of service requiring a vote of not less than 100% of the Board of Directors.

SECTION 5
Vacancy or Incapacity: In the event of a vacancy or incapacity of an officer other than the president, upon recommendation of the Lead Pastor or any current Board Member, the Board of Directors shall appoint a successor and determine the term of service requiring a vote of not less than 100% of the Board of Directors.

SECTION 6
Term of Appointment: The Lead Pastor shall be the president of the corporation for a term concurrent with service as Lead Pastor. The term of each other officer will not be longer than that individual’s term on the Board of Directors.

SECTION 7
Accountability: The Lead Pastor and each member of the Board of Directors shall be accountable to the church Elders and the remaining Board of Directors for faithfulness and fulfillment of their duties.

SECTION 8
Resignation: Except for the office of president, officers shall provide a 30-day signed written notice of resignation to the president.

SECTION 9
Discipline: Corporate Officers shall be subject to discipline as prescribed in these bylaws for Covenant Members.

SECTION 10
Dismissal: Corporate Officers may be dismissed for the causes prescribed in these bylaws for Covenant Members and by adhering to the process prescribed in these bylaws for Covenant Members. Any Corporate Officers may be dismissed without cause by a vote of not less than 66% of the Board of Directors. Dismissal from the Board of Directors automatically results in dismissal from the Corporate Officers.

SECTION 11
Compensation: Corporate Officers, except for the Lead Pastor, shall not receive salaries or compensation for their services as Corporate Officers.

Definition: The Lead Pastor is the shepherd of the flock. The Lead Pastor, under the guidance of God and in consultation with the Board of Directors, will provide vision and practical direction to the church.

SECTION 1
Eligibility:   The Lead Pastor shall:

1. Exemplify the characteristics of a godly, Christian life and possess the qualities of a spiritual leader as stated in :
   
   
   1 Timothy 3:1-13 | Titus 1:6-9
   
   
   
   ¹ Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. ² Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, ³ not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. ⁴ He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. ⁵ (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?) ⁶ He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. ⁷ He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap.
   
   ⁸ In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. ⁹ They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. ¹⁰ They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.
   
   ¹¹ In the same way, the women are to be worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.
   
   ¹² A deacon must be faithful to his wife and must manage his children and his household well. ¹³ Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.⁶ An elder must be blameless, faithful to his wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. ⁷ Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. ⁸ Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. ⁹ He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.
   
   Although these attributes will never be fully perfected, the Lead Pastor must be clearly in pursuit of and committed to their development.
   
   
2. The Lead Pastor shall demonstrate possession of giftings and spiritual maturity necessary for shepherding people toward faithfulness to God and His Word.
   
   
   Ephesians 4:14-16 | 1 Peter 5:1-4 | Acts 20:28-30 | 1 Corinthians 12:28-31
   
   
   ¹⁴ Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. ¹⁵ Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. ¹⁶ From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.¹ To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: ² Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; ³ not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. ⁴ And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.²⁸ Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. ²⁹ I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. ³⁰ Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them.²⁸ And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues. ²⁹ Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? ³⁰ Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? ³¹ Now eagerly desire the greater gifts.
   And yet I will show you the most excellent way.
   
   
   
3. The Lead Pastor must also have Biblical training that satisfies the Board of Directors.
   
   
4. The Lead Pastor will have the ability to lead and develop the church staff and organization.

SECTION 2
Roles: The Lead Pastor shall serve as President of the Corporation and shall:

1. Provide biblical vision and direction for the Church.
   
   
2. Oversee and coordinate the day-to-day ministry of the congregation and the administration of the Church in conjunction with other pastoral staff.
   
   
3. Supervise individuals who serve the Church as employees or volunteers.
   
   
4. Walk closely with Christ, living in a manner consistent with a pastoral calling.
   
   
5. Work alongside the Elders and other staff pastors, shepherd the church, providing leadership, biblical instruction and pastoral care, and such other duties and responsibilities as may be associated with the role of Lead Pastor.

SECTION 3
Appointment and Ratification Process: The Lead Pastor shall be appointed by the Board of Directors requiring a vote of 100% of the Board of Directors, not including the Lead Pastor’s vote.

SECTION 4
Responsibilities: The Lead Pastor shall:

1. Have full responsibility for the supervision of all services and meetings of the church, except as otherwise provided in these bylaws, have general supervision over all ministries and auxiliary activities, and be an ex-official member of all church bodies.
   
   
2. Be responsible, with the treasurer and Board of Directors of the church, for deposits and disbursements of all funds, records, and reporting of finances.
   
   
3. Recommend all pastoral and staff positions and personnel, both paid and unpaid, for approval and appointment by the Board of Directors.

SECTION 5
Accountability: The Lead Pastor shall be accountable to the Board of Directors for faithfulness and fulfillment of the Lead Pastor’s duties.

SECTION 6
Resignation: The Lead Pastor shall provide a 30-day signed, written notice of resignation to the Board of Directors unless otherwise agreed upon.

SECTION 7
Discipline: The Lead Pastor shall be subject to discipline as prescribed in these bylaws for Covenant Members or for failure to meet job responsibilities.

SECTION 8
Dismissal: The Lead Pastor may be dismissed for the causes prescribed in these bylaws for Covenant Members and by adhering to the process prescribed in these bylaws for dismissing Covenant Members. The Lead Pastor may also be dismissed for failure to perform needed job responsibilities. The Lead Pastor may be dismissed without cause by a vote of not less than 66% of the Board of Directors. Dismissal as Lead Pastor automatically results in dismissal from the Elders, Board of Directors, and the Corporation.

SECTION 9
Compensation:

1. Compensation: The Lead Pastor shall be compensated for services by a compensation and benefits package. The Board of Directors, not including the Lead Pastor, shall review the Lead Pastor’s compensation and benefits package at least annually.
   
   
2. Housing Allowance: The Lead Pastor may annually submit a signed request to the Board of Directors for a portion of compensation to be classified and recorded in minutes as housing allowance and excluded from federal taxes as provided by the IRS.
   
   
3. Sabbatical: The terms of a sabbatical are to be determined by the Board of Directors and requires a vote of not less than 66% of the Board of Directors.

CHURCH STAFF

Definition: The church staff consists of all persons who are employed by the church.

SECTION 1
Eligibility: They shall exemplify the characteristics of godly, Christian lives and possess the qualities of spiritual leaders as stated in:

1 Timothy 3:8-12 | Titus 1:6-9

⁸ In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. ⁹ They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. ¹⁰ They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.

¹¹ In the same way, the women are to be worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.

¹² A deacon must be faithful to his wife and must manage his children and his household well.⁶ An elder must be blameless, faithful to his wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. ⁷ Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. ⁸ Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. ⁹ He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.

They shall also agree and adhere to the church Statement of Beliefs as explained in these bylaws. All staff are expected to complete the Covenant Membership class and become Covenant Members.

SECTION 2
Appointment and Ratification Process: All staff shall be appointed by the Lead Pastor with a vote of not less than 66% of the Board of Directors.

SECTION 3
Responsibilities: Specific duties are to be determined by the Lead Pastor.

SECTION 4
Accountability: The church staff shall be accountable to the Lead Pastor for faithfulness and fulfillment of the assigned duties.

SECTION 5
Resignation: The church staff shall provide a two-week signed, written notice of resignation to the Lead Pastor.

SECTION 6
Discipline: The church staff shall be subject to discipline as prescribed in these bylaws for Covenant Members or for failure to meet job responsibilities.

SECTION 7
Dismissal: The church staff may be dismissed for the causes prescribed in these bylaws for Covenant Members and by adhering to the process prescribed in these bylaws for dismissing Covenant Members. The church staff may also be dismissed for failure to perform needed job responsibilities. The church staff may be dismissed without cause by a vote of not less than 66% of the Board of Directors.

SECTION 8
Compensation: The church staff may be compensated for services. The Lead Pastor shall review the church staffs’ compensation at least annually and provide recommended changes to the Board of Directors for approval by a vote not less than 66% of the Directors.

1. Housing Allowance: All eligible pastors may annually submit a signed request to the Board of Directors for a portion of compensation to be classified and recorded in minutes as housing allowance and excluded from federal taxes as provided by the IRS.

DEACONS

Definition: The Deacons are leaders who exist to serve the practical and spiritual needs of the church. They are different from the Elders in their gifts and calling, but not in their character.

SECTION 1
Eligibility:   They shall exemplify the characteristics of godly, Christian lives and possess the qualities of spiritual leaders as stated in:

1 Timothy 3:8-12 | Titus 1:6-9

⁸ In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. ⁹ They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. ¹⁰ They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.

¹¹ In the same way, the women are to be worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.

¹² A deacon must be faithful to his wife and must manage his children and his household well.⁶ An elder must be blameless, faithful to his wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. ⁷ Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. ⁸ Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. ⁹ He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.

A qualified candidate shall be an active Covenant Member in good standing of the church for not less than 12 months.

SECTION 2
Appointment and Ratification Process: Deacons shall be appointed by the Elders with a 66% vote.

SECTION 3
Responsibilities: The Deacons exist to provide logistical and material support so that the Lead Pastor and the Elders can focus on the spiritual concerns of the church. Specific duties are to be determined by the Lead Pastor.

SECTION 4
Accountability: The Deacons shall be accountable to the Lead Pastor for faithfulness and fulfillment of the assigned duties.

SECTION 5
Resignation: The Deacons shall provide notice of resignation to the Lead Pastor.

SECTION 6
Discipline: Deacons shall be subject to discipline as prescribed in these bylaws for Covenant Members.

SECTION 7
Dismissal: Deacons may be dismissed for the causes prescribed in these bylaws for Covenant Members and by adhering to the process prescribed in these bylaws for dismissing Covenant Members.

SECTION 8
Compensation: Deacons shall not receive compensation for their services as Deacons. Deacons may serve the Church in any other capacity and receive reasonable compensation for those services.

MINISTRY LEADERS

Definition: Ministry leaders are any persons who have been appointed by the Lead Pastor to provide leadership or administration within a specific ministry area.

SECTION 1
Eligibility:   They shall exemplify the characteristics of godly, Christian lives and be an active Covenant Member in good standing of the church.

SECTION 2
Appointment and Ratification Process: Ministry leaders shall be appointed by the Lead Pastor.

SECTION 3
Responsibilities: Specific duties are to be determined by the Lead Pastor.

SECTION 4
Accountability: Ministry leaders shall be accountable to the Lead Pastor for faithfulness and fulfillment of the assigned duties.

SECTION 5
Resignation: Ministry leaders shall provide notice of resignation to the Lead Pastor.

SECTION 6
Discipline: Ministry leaders shall be subject to discipline as prescribed in these bylaws for Covenant Members.

SECTION 7
Dismissal: Ministry leaders may be dismissed for the causes prescribed in these bylaws for Covenant Members and by adhering to the process prescribed in these bylaws for dismissing Covenant Members.

SECTION 8
Compensation: Ministry leaders shall not receive compensation for their services as ministry leaders. Ministry leaders may serve the Church in any other capacity and receive reasonable compensation for those services.

1. Housing Allowance: All eligible pastors may annually submit a signed request to the Board of Directors for a portion of compensation to be classified and recorded in minutes as housing allowance and excluded from federal taxes as provided by the IRS.

Purpose: Covenant Membership is an earthly example that the truth and power of the Gospel has united us to Christ and to one another, all to the glory of God. We believe Covenant Membership is the appropriate response to God’s desire for us to journey together spiritually.

Hebrews 10:25

²⁵ not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Covenant Membership is simply the way in which an individual is known to be committed to all others in the church, and how all others in the church are known to be committed to that individual. Covenant Membership is the way in which an individual makes known his/her covenant commitment to the Elders as spiritual leaders, and how the Elders make known and fulfill their responsibility to shepherd and lead and protect the flock.

Hebrews 13:17

¹⁷ Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.

Definition: Covenant Members are individuals who regularly worship with, participate in, and support the ministries of the church. They have completed a required Covenant Membership course, signed the covenant commitment, and subscribe to the Statement of Beliefs of the church.

SECTION 1
Eligibility: Any individual desiring Covenant Membership must:

1. Attend the church on a consistent basis for three months.
   
   
2. Demonstrate evidence of a new birth experience and a consistent, Christian life.
   
   John 1:12-13, 3:3-7 | Acts 4:12 | Romans 6:4, 10:9-10 | Ephesians 4:17-32, 5:1-2 | 1 John 1:6-7
   
   
   ¹² Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— ¹³ children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.³ Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.”
   
   ⁴ “How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!”
   
   ⁵ Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. ⁶ Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. ⁷ You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’¹² Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”⁴ We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.⁹ If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. ¹⁰ For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.¹⁷ So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. ¹⁸ They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. ¹⁹ Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed.
   
   ²⁰ That, however, is not the way of life you learned ²¹ when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. ²² You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires;
   ²³ to be made new in the attitude of your minds; ²⁴ and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
   
   ²⁵ Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. ²⁶ “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, ²⁷ and do not give the devil a foothold. ²⁸ Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.
   
   ²⁹ Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. ³⁰ And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. ³¹ Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. ³² Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.¹ Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children ² and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.⁶ If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. ⁷ But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.
   
3. Demonstrate a cooperative, accountable, and Christ-like spirit as instructed in Scripture.
   
   Ephesians 2:1-16 | John 13:3-17
   
   
   ¹ As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, ² in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. ³ All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. ⁴ But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, ⁵ made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. ⁶ And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, ⁷ in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. ⁸ For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— ⁹ not by works, so that no one can boast. ¹⁰ For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
   
   ¹¹ Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (which is done in the body by human hands)— ¹² remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. ¹³ But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
   ¹⁴ For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, ¹⁵ by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, ¹⁶ and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.³ Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; ⁴ so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. ⁵ After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
   
   ⁶ He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”
   
   ⁷ Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”
   
   ⁸ “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.”
   
   Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”
   
   ⁹ “Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!”
   
   ¹⁰ Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.” ¹¹ For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean.
   
   ¹² When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. ¹³ “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. ¹⁴ Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. ¹⁵ I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. ¹⁶ Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. ¹⁷ Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.
   
4. Commit to faithfully attend and participate in the meetings and ministries of the church and regularly contribute to its financial support in obedience to Scripture and as an expression of unity with fellow Covenant Members.
   
   Malachi 3:10 | Luke 6:38 | 1 Corinthians 16:2 | 2 Corinthians 8:1-15 | 2 Corinthians 9 | Philippians 4:8-9 | Philippians 19
   
   
   ¹⁰ Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.³⁸ Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”² On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.¹ And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. ² In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. ³ For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, ⁴ they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people. ⁵ And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us. ⁶ So we urged Titus, just as he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part. ⁷ But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.
   
   ⁸ I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. ⁹ For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.
   
   ¹⁰ And here is my judgment about what is best for you in this matter. Last year you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so. ¹¹ Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means. ¹² For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.
   
   ¹³ Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality. ¹⁴ At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. The goal is equality, ¹⁵ as it is written: “The one who gathered much did not have too much, and the one who gathered little did not have too little.”⁸ Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. ⁹ Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
   
5. Subscribe to the Statement of Beliefs of the church.
   
   
6. Strive to abstain from all immorality condemned in Scripture.
   
   Galatians 5:19-21 | Colossians 3:5 | 1 Corinthians 6:18 | 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 | 1 Thessalonians 7
   
   
   ¹⁹ The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; ²⁰ idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions ²¹ and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.⁵ Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.¹⁸ Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.³ It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; ⁴ that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, ⁵ not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God;
   Agree to and sign the church covenant commitment; it may be amended from time to time.

SECTION 2
Process for Acceptance:

1. Individuals desiring to be Covenant Members of the church shall request to enroll in the Covenant Membership class. The Lead Pastor will evaluate and determine readiness for enrollment. The class shall include, but not be limited to, the purpose and mission, Statement of Beliefs, history, bylaws, and governance structure of the church, as well as the privilege of responsibility of Covenant Membership.
   
   
2. Upon completion of the Covenant Membership class, participants shall submit a signed affirmation to the Lead Pastor that they are in accord with the purpose, Statement of Beliefs, bylaws, and the pastors and leaders of the church. Any Elder may inform class participants of their acceptance as Covenant Members.

SECTION 3
Privilege of Responsibility: The Apostle Paul admonishes us to be devoted to brotherly love, honoring one another above ourselves. Accordingly, Covenant Members of the church shall demonstrate a maturity of understanding that Covenant Membership involves more than receiving benefits and privileges. Jesus instructs us, as we have freely received, we must also freely give.

Romans 12:10 | Matthew 10:8 | Romans 12:1

¹⁰ Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.⁸ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy,[a] drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.¹ Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.

The church is one body with many members each with distinct giftings and functions, and therefore Covenant Members shall accept responsibility to submit their lives and activities through:

1. Prayer: Cultivate a personal prayer life and be faithfully devoted to consistently pray for the pastors, Elders, leaders, church body, ministries, and participate in the prayer focuses of the church.
   
   
2. Faithfulness: Be faithful to the doctrines of the church’s Statement of Beliefs, to assemble for worship, to establish healthy relationships with the church body, and to grow in fellowship.
   
   
3. Attendance/Participation: Committing to attend the worship services and functions of the church.
   
   
4. Fellowship/Community: Committing to fellowship with this body of believers, covenanting to grow together in community, love, and grace.
   
   
5. Love and Care: Walk in love and demonstrate loving care for the church body, personally making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
   
   Ephesians 4:3
   
   
   ³ Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
   
6. Identification: Identify with and demonstrate loyalty to the purpose, mission, vision, leadership, teachings of the church, and accept this church body as a focus of their fellowship, prayer, offerings, and teachings.
   
   
7. Teachable Spirit: Desire to grow in the grace, knowledge, and will of the Lord, maintaining a teachable spirit.
   
   
8. Spiritual Growth: Committed to not being the same, but to grow spiritually through the development of spiritual disciplines, and participating in training and growth opportunities.
   
   
9. Service: Humbly pursue opportunities for involvement in the ministries of the church as abilities and giftings are discovered.
   
   
10. Financial Support: Financially support the church through tithes, offerings, and gifts in like measure as the Lord blesses, recognizing God uses financial support to enable the church to fulfill its purpose, mission, and vision.
    
    
11. Witnessing/Discipling: Follow biblical instruction to lead others to Christ and make disciples.
    
    Matthew 28:19-20
    
    
    ¹⁹ Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰ and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
    

SECTION 4
Accountability: Covenant Members are first accountable to each other, then to the Elders for faithfulness to the Privilege of Responsibility of Covenant Membership.

Matthew 18:15-1

¹⁵ “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.

SECTION 5
Resignation: Covenant Members have the option to rescind their membership with the church at any time via a written request presented to the Lead Pastor. Such persons will no longer be held accountable to the church bylaws.

SECTION 6
Forfeiture of Covenant Membership: 12 months of inactivity without communication may result in forfeiture of Covenant Membership status.

SECTION 7
Discipline:

1. Purpose: Discipline is a biblical exercise for which God holds the church and its leadership responsible and accountable. Its design is to preserve Biblical standards, protect integrity and anointing, and bring the offender to repentance, redemption, and restoration to God, self, family, and others.
   
   2 Samuel 12:1-14 | 1 Corinthians 5:12 -13 | 2 Corinthians 2:3-11 | Galatians 6:1-5 | James 5:19-20
   
   ¹ The Lord sent Nathan to David. When he came to him, he said, “There were two men in a certain town, one rich and the other poor. ² The rich man had a very large number of sheep and cattle, ³ but the poor man had nothing except one little ewe lamb he had bought. He raised it, and it grew up with him and his children. It shared his food, drank from his cup and even slept in his arms. It was like a daughter to him.
   
   ⁴ “Now a traveler came to the rich man, but the rich man refrained from taking one of his own sheep or cattle to prepare a meal for the traveler who had come to him. Instead, he took the ewe lamb that belonged to the poor man and prepared it for the one who had come to him.”
   
   ⁵ David burned with anger against the man and said to Nathan, “As surely as the Lord lives, the man who did this must die! ⁶ He must pay for that lamb four times over, because he did such a thing and had no pity.”
   
   ⁷ Then Nathan said to David, “You are the man! This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘I anointed you king over Israel, and I delivered you from the hand of Saul. ⁸ I gave your master’s house to you, and your master’s wives into your arms. I gave you all Israel and Judah. And if all this had been too little, I would have given you even more. ⁹ Why did you despise the word of the Lord by doing what is evil in his eyes? You struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword and took his wife to be your own. You killed him with the sword of the Ammonites. ¹⁰ Now, therefore, the sword will never depart from your house, because you despised me and took the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be your own.’
   
   ¹¹ “This is what the Lord says: ‘Out of your own household I am going to bring calamity on you. Before your very eyes I will take your wives and give them to one who is close to you, and he will sleep with your wives in broad daylight. ¹² You did it in secret, but I will do this thing in broad daylight before all Israel.’”
   
   ¹³ Then David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the Lord.”
   
   Nathan replied, “The Lord has taken away your sin. You are not going to die. ¹⁴ But because by doing this you have shown utter contempt for the Lord, the son born to you will die.”³ I wrote as I did, so that when I came I would not be distressed by those who should have made me rejoice. I had confidence in all of you, that you would all share my joy. ⁴ For I wrote you out of great distress and anguish of heart and with many tears, not to grieve you but to let you know the depth of my love for you.
   
   ⁵ If anyone has caused grief, he has not so much grieved me as he has grieved all of you to some extent—not to put it too severely. ⁶ The punishment inflicted on him by the majority is sufficient. ⁷ Now instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. ⁸ I urge you, therefore, to reaffirm your love for him. ⁹ Another reason I wrote you was to see if you would stand the test and be obedient in everything. ¹⁰ Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven—if there was anything to forgive—I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, ¹¹ in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.¹ Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. ² Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. ³ If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. ⁴ Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, ⁵ for each one should carry their own load.¹⁹ My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back, ²⁰ remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins.
   
   In the spirit of Galatians 6:1-2, the church is committed to the healing and restoration of the fallen.
   
   
2. Process: Covenant Members acting contrary to Scripture, teaching contrary to the Statement of Beliefs, causing conflict among the church body, or failure to be in harmony or cooperation with the program of the church and these bylaws, shall be confronted first by an Elder and, if necessary, by additional Elders.
   
   Matthew 18:15-17
   
   ¹⁵ “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. ¹⁶ But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ ¹⁷ If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.
   

SECTION 8
Dismissal: Covenant Members who refuse to repent and receive corrective discipline in the spirit of restoration may be released from Covenant Membership after a meeting of the Elders. Covenant Members who are dismissed from membership shall be notified by the Elders.

Definition: An outside Council of Advisors is a group of mature Elders who are not members of the church, proven in leadership, who provide oversight, accountability, and counsel to the Lead Pastor and Elders. The counsel of advisors have no voting rights or authority over church matters. The New Testament basis for a Council of Advisors is found in Acts Chapter 15.

SECTION 1
Composition:   The Council shall be composed of not more than five volunteer members.

SECTION 2
Appointment and Ratification Process: The members of the Council shall be appointed by a vote of not less than 100% of the Elders.

SECTION 3
Responsibilities:

1. The Council of Advisors commits to meet with the Elders up to twice a year to provide a spiritual covering of prayer, counsel, fellowship, instruction, accountability, protection, comfort, and encouragement to the Elders.
   
   
2. The Council of Advisors commits to be available at the request of the Elders for any issues of correction and divisiveness that may arise within the church body.

SECTION 4
Compensation: Advisors shall not receive compensation for their services as an Advisor.

Definition: This states the church expectation for all people who may work directly with children and minors (under the age of 18).

1. Eligibility: Those eligible to work in a direct relationship capacity with any children and minors within the church are to submit to and pass a standard background check and provide a list of character references.
   
   
2. Appointment: Those working in a direct relationship capacity with any children and minors shall be appointed by the Lead Pastor or any member of the church staff as determined by the Lead Pastor.

Definition: All funds given to or received by the church shall be deposited in governing Board approved banks or other federally insured institutions under the supervision of the treasurer. The church may accept gifts of real and/or personal property at the discretion of the Board of Directors.

SECTION 1
General Fund: All undesignated contributions shall be part of the general fund.

SECTION 2
Donor-Designated/Restricted Funds: All donor-designated contributions shall be held as restricted funds and expended according to the designation of the donor at the discretion of the Board of Directors.

SECTION 3
Other Offerings and Fund Raising: Ministries of the church may receive offerings and raise funds as authorized by the Board of Directors. Monies shall not be solicited or collected from no one by anyone for any cause inside or outside the church without the consent of the Lead Pastor or Board of Directors.

SECTION 4
Handling of Offerings and Receipts:

1. Offerings shall be counted by at least two, authorized individuals, not related by blood or marriage, before the funds are removed from the church facility.
   
   
2. Receipts shall be issued to donors for tithes, offerings, and other monetary contributions. IRS rules must be followed for acknowledgment of all cash and non-cash gifts.
   
   
3. Funds shall be deposited within 24 hours of receipt or as soon as possible thereafter.

SECTION 5
Disbursements: Disbursement of funds shall be under the supervision of the Lead Pastor and Board of Directors. Signatories may include the Lead Pastor, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Treasurer, and any other persons as designated by the Board of Directors. Checks shall not be pre-signed nor affixed with a stamped signature.

SECTION 6
Contracts: The Board of Directors may, by a vote of not less than 66% and as documented in official minutes, authorize officers to enter into contracts or execute and deliver instruments in the name of and on behalf of the church. Such authority may be general or restricted to specific instances.

SECTION 7
Audits: The Board of Directors reserves the right to schedule and perform an audit.

All property, real or chattel, shall be received, held, sold, transferred, or conveyed in the name of the church corporation. Real property owned by the church shall not be sold, leased, mortgaged, or the title otherwise encumbered without a vote of not less than 66% of the Board of Directors.

Upon approval by the Board of Directors, any amendments to the bylaws shall be added to the church website and to the official bylaw document. All approved amendments to the church bylaws other than grammatical changes and spelling errors must be publicly circulated to all Covenant Members by the Lead Pastor and the Board of Directors. Only the amendments approved by the Board of Directors shall be valid.

SECTION 1
To the full extent permitted by the Revised Non-Profit Corporation Act (“Act”), as amended from time to time, the Church shall indemnify any Director, Pastor, officer, employee, or agent of the Church who was, is, or may be named a defendant or respondent in any proceeding as a result of his or her actions or omissions within the scope of his or her official capacity in the Church.

SECTION 2
A determination of the right to indemnification under the Act shall be made by legal counsel selected by the majority consensus of the Board of Directors.

Upon the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, the Board of Directors of the Corporation shall, after paying or making provision for payment of all the liabilities of the Corporation, distribute all Corporation’s assets to any organization designated by the Board of Directors of the Corporation which is of like faith and order and is exempt from taxes under Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3) (or the corresponding provision of any future tax law of the United States).

Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised, latest edition, shall be the parliamentary authority on all points not conflicting with the articles of incorporation or these bylaws. New Point Church has officially adopted these bylaws by vote of the Board of Directors.