Welcome to Discovering Church Membership

Transcription

1 Welcome to Discovering Church Membership We re glad you have chosen to find out more about Central Baptist Church. Since we come from many different backgrounds, this class has been designed to introduce and clearly explain to you our church, its purpose, core values, and ministry strategy. THIS CLASS IS DESIGNED TO HELP YOU BETTER UNDERSTAND: God s purpose for you What it means to be a Christian Why our church exists What our church believes How our church is structured What it means to be a member of Central Baptist Church THE BASIS FOR THIS CLASS: Now you are no longer strangers to God and foreigners to heaven, but you are members of God's very own family, citizens of God's country, and you belong in God's household with every other Christian. Ephesians 2:19 (LB) Key Truths: The church is a f. God's expects you to be a p of a church family. A Christian without a church family is an o. 1

2 What Makes Central a Family? Four Things Unite Us: Our Salvation (What God has done for us) Our Statements (Why we exist as a church) Our Strategy (How we fulfill our purpose) Our Structure (When and where we fulfill our purpose) Session 1: Our Salvation Part 1: What does it mean to be a Christian? Part 2: Baptism Part 3: The Lord s Supper Class Outline Session 2: Our Statements Part 1: The Purpose of Central Baptist (Why We Exist as A Church) Part 2: Central s Core Values Part 3: Central s State of Faith Part 4: Central s Essential Beliefs Part 5: Central s Lifestyle Statements (What We Practice) Part 6: Central s Constitution & Bylaws Session 3: Our Strategy Part 1: Who Are We Trying to Reach for Christ? Part 2: What Are We Trying to do to People Circles of Commitment: (Concentric Circle) Spiritual Growth Strategy: (Baseball Diamond) Session 4: Our Structure Part 1: How our Church is Structured Part 2: Our affiliation(s) Part 3: What it Means to be a Member Our Church Membership Covenant 2

3 SESSION 1 OUR SALVATION So you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have been made like Him. There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male or female. For you are all Christians - you are one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:26-28 (NLT) PART 1: WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A CHRISTIAN? Most people live their lives without ever knowing why they were created. At some point, we all ask why am I here? The truth is that God made everyone for a purpose. That purpose is explained in the Bible. So, let us proceed with this simple question. What does the Bible say about why I am here? I. Why Am I Here? A. God made me to l m. God says, "I have loved you with an everlasting love; Jeremiah 31:3 Even before the world was made, God has already chosen us to be His through our union with Christ... Because of His love, God had already decided that through Jesus Christ, He would make us His children this was God s pleasure and purpose. Ephesians 1:4-5 (GN) B. God made me to l H and enjoy His creation. Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' Matthew 22:37 Jesus said, I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10 II. So, What s the Problem? A. Man has a natural desire to be b and to ignore God s principles for living. The Bible calls this attitude s. All of us like sheep have gone astray, and each of us has turned to his own way. Isaiah 53:6 Look out for #1. Do your own thing. If it feels good, do it. It s my life and I ll do what I please. If we say that we never sin, we are only fooling ourselves and refuse to accept the truth. I John 1:8 For all have sinned; all fall short of God's glorious standard. Romans 3:23 (NLT) 3

4 B. Sin b our loving relationship with God and causes us to make decisions outside His plan for our lives. The trouble is that your sins have cut you off from God. Isaiah 59:2 (LB) For the wages of sin is death Romans 6:23 C. Even when we know our deepest need is God, we often try w w of getting to know Him. Common views about what makes a person a Christian: Good Works ( I ll work really hard and earn it or I ll give up all my bad habits. ) Church Attendance ( I ll be religious and go to church. ) Family Inheritance ( My mother is a Christian so I must be one too. ) Baptism ( I was baptized as an infant. ) Doctrinal Beliefs ( I believe there is a God. ) All roads lead to heaven ( It doesn t matter what you believe, just be sincere. ) It looks like this... YOU SINFUL Separated From ****All your efforts won t get you to where you need to be. SIN KEEPS YOU FROM GOD SELF EFFORT = DEATH HELL GOD HOLY The Bible teaches us that our attempts lead to DEATH. A relationship with God is NOT based on anything you DO. There are ways that seem right to man, but they only end in death. Proverbs 16:25 4

5 III. So, What s the Solution? Jesus said, I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father, except through me. John 14:6 *** THE SOLUTION IS A PERSON! IT S J! For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ. II Corinthians 5:21 The Greatest News in All Human History: THE CREATOR OF THE UNIVERSE KNOWS AND LOVES YOU. THIS LOVING HEAVENLY FATHER AND CREATOR HAS, THROUGH THE DEATH OF HIS ONLY SON, JESUS, MADE A WAY FOR YOU TO HAVE A PERFECT, ETERNAL, AND LOVING RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM. IV. What does GOD want me to do? A. A that God has not been first place in your life and ask Him to forgive your sins. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from every wrong. 1 John 1:9 (NLT) B. R from your sin and t to God for forgiveness. I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus. Acts 20:21 C. B that Jesus is God s Son, that He died to pay for your sins, that He rose again, and is alive today. That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8 D. A God s free gift of salvation. Don t try to earn it. For it is by grace you are saved, through faith and this not yourselves, it is the gift of God not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8-9 5

6 E. I Jesus to come into your life and be your K (Lord and Master). "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." Romans 10:13 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:12 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. 2 Corinthians 5:15 F. C your heart and life to living for and serving Christ. **You can take these simple steps by praying this simple prayer of commitment to God: Jesus, thank you for loving me even when I ve gone my own way. I admit that I m a sinner and do not deserve your forgiveness. I am sorry for my sins. I believe that you died on the cross and rose from the grave to pay the penalty for my sins. Please forgive me and come into my life. Take control of my life and make me into the person you want me to be. I commit my life now to living for you and serving in your church. Amen Whoever calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved. Romans 10:13 PART 2: BELIEVER S BAPTISM Jesus instructed His people to remember His death and resurrection with two symbolic acts of worship called ordinances. The first is called Baptism. I. Why Should I Be Baptized? A. To follow the e set by Jesus. At that time Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river. Mark 1:9 B. Because Jesus Christ c it. 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 Matthew 28:19 C. It is a w that I am a believer.... Many of the people who heard Him believed and were baptized. Acts 18:8 D. It is a future r of the commitment I have made. (9) At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan... (12) At once the Spirit sent him out into the desert, and he was in the desert forty days, being tempted by Satan. Mark 1:9, II. What Is the Meaning of Baptism? A. It is a symbolic picture of Jesus b and r. For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ. Colossians 2:12 6

7 B. It is a symbolic picture of my n l as a Christian. By our baptism then, we were buried with Him and shared His death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead... So also we may live a new life! Romans 6:8 **Reminder baptism does not make you a Christian. Rather, it is an important step of obedience following the commitment of your life to Christ. Baptism is like a wedding ring it is an outward symbol of an inner commitment and experience. III. Who Should Be Baptized? Every person who has b in Jesus. (Accepted Jesus as Lord & Savior) Those who accepted His message (believed) were baptized... Acts 2:41 IV. Why Should I Be Baptized by Immersion? A. Because J was baptized in this manner. As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water. Matthew 3:16 B. The word baptize means to d or submerge under water. C. It is the best symbolic p of a death, burial and resurrection. V. When Should I Be Baptized? I after conversion! Those who believed... were baptized... that day. Acts 2:41 VI. Great Questions About Baptism A. What if I was baptized as an infant? Some churches practice a baptism of confirmation for children. This ceremony is intended to be a covenant between the parents and God on the behalf of the child. The parents promise to raise their child in the faith until the child is old enough to make his/her own personal commitment to Christ. This custom began about 300 years after the Bible was completed. At Central Baptist we encourage a Parent/Child dedication where parents promise to raise their child in the Lord. This service does not involve infant baptism nor does it imply salvation. An individual s faith decision to believe and receive Christ is the only way to become a Christian (Romans 10:9-10 & Ephesians 2:8-9). We believe the Bible s picture of baptism is a believer s baptism by immersion. The purpose is to publicly confess your personal commitment to Christ. At Central Baptist, it is a membership requirement that every member must have been baptized the way Jesus demonstrated, even though you may have been confirmed as children (health related exceptions). 7

8 B. What if I was baptized as a believer by a mode other than immersion? Because we believe immersion to be the most biblically appropriate expression of Christ s example and command of baptism, we respectfully ask that you be baptized by immersion. Participating in believer s baptism by immersion, allows you the opportunity to profess to others what Christ has done for you. C. If I was baptized by immersion as a Christian believer in a non-baptist church, do I have to be baptized again here? No, we also receive members by transfer of letter. D. I was very young when I became a believer and was then baptized by immersion. However, I don t remember it. Should I be re-baptized now that I understand it better? Biblically speaking, believer s baptism is a one-time experience. At Central Baptist, we do not encourage re-baptism. However, if you are confident that your previous baptism preceded your commitment to Christ, we will be glad to schedule a believer s baptism. We believe that every Christian should be baptized as a believer. E. What if I have special needs concerning going under water? Please see the pastor, the pastor s administrative assistant, or a member of the ministerial staff. PART 3: THE LORD S SUPPER The second ordinances symbolic of Jesus death and resurrection is The Lord s Supper (also called Communion or the Eucharist). I. What Is The Lord s Supper? (I Corinthians 11:23-26) A. It is a r of Christ s suffering for us.... And when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, This is my body, which is for you; eat it in remembrance of me. I Corinthians 11:24 B. It is a s of Christ s body and blood. In the same way, He took the cup, saying, This cup is the new covenant in my blood; drink it to remember me. I Corinthians 11:25 C. It is a d of my belief in Christ. For whenever you eat the bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord s death until He comes back. I Corinthians 11:26 II. Who Should Take The Lord s Supper? Only those who are already b. For anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgment upon himself. I Corinthians 11:29 8

9 III. How Do I Prepare to Take The Lord s Supper? A. Spiritual self-examination I Corinthians 11:27 B. Confessing my sins I John 1:9 C. Recommitment Romans 12:1 D. Restoring relationships Matthew 5:23-24 Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup. 1 Corinthians 11:27-28 IV. When and How Often Should We Observe The Lord s Supper? Jesus never said when or how often we should observe the Lord s Supper. Therefore, we have chosen to observe it on average monthly (at least once per quarter) and at special services (Thanksgiving, Christmas, & Holy Week). 9

10 SESSION 2 OUR STATEMENTS Let there be real harmony among you so there won t be any split in the church. I plead with you to be of one mind, united in thought and purpose. 1 Corinthians 1:10 (LB) PART 1: THE PURPOSE OF CENTRAL BAPTIST (Why we exist as a church): Vision Purpose: Building Great Commission Families: To honor God by leading individuals and families to become fully devoted followers of Christ. Mission Statement: To e the Lord Jesus Christ (Worship), e Spiritual Maturity (Fellowship & Discipleship), and e the Love of Christ (Ministry & Evangelism). PART 2: CENTRAL S CORE VALUES I. Scripture: A Biblical Message A. Christ s Headship: We acknowledge Christ as the head of our church and submit ourselves and our ministry activities to His perfect will (Ephesians 1:22-23). B. Bible-centered Preaching & Teaching: We believe that the Bible is God s inspired Word, the authoritative and trustworthy rule of faith and practice for Christians. Therefore, anointed preaching/ teaching is the catalyst for transformation in individual s lives and in the church C. (2 Timothy 3:16-17). D. Authentic Worship: We desire to acknowledge God s supreme value and worth in our personal lives and in the corporate, modern-day worship of our church (Romans 12:1-2). E. Prayer: We rely on private and corporate prayer in the conception, planning, and execution of all the ministries and activities of this church (Matthew 7:7-11). F. Godly Leadership: We believe that leaders in the church should demonstrate integrity in the highest order and model servant leadership at all times (Hebrews 13:7). II. Creativity: A Fresh Approach A. Creativity & Innovation: We will constantly evaluate our forms and methods, seeking cultural relevance and maximum ministry effectiveness for Christ without compromising biblical absolutes. (I Chronicles 12:32). B. Ministry Excellence: Since God gave His best (the Savior), we seek to honor Him by maintaining a high standard of excellence in all our ministries and activities (Colossians 3:23-24). C. People: We value people, the unchurched and churched. Therefore, we seek to share the gospel with the lost and disciple all believers (Matthew 28:18-20). 10

11 III. Ministry: A Team Effort A. Team Ministry: We are committed to a team model for ministry and organization that equips and empowers every family, member, and leader (Ephesians 4:11-16). B. Family Affirming: We seek to provide an atmosphere, which strengthens marriages and families. It is our goal to be proactive in ministering to the needs of the modern-day family (Deuteronomy 6:4-9). C. Sense of Community: We ask all our people to commit to and fully participate in biblically functioning small groups where they may reach the lost, exercise their gifts, be shepherded, and thus grow in Christ-likeness (Acts 2:42-47). D. Stewardship: We ask our people to commit to bringing God s tithe to the local church. In addition, we ask our people to be faithful stewards of their gifts, talents, resources, and time (Romans 12:1-8; Malachi 3:10). E. Lay Ministry: We believe that the primary responsibilities of the pastor(s) in the local church is to prepare God s people for works of service (Ephesians 4:12). Therefore, the ministry of Central Baptist Church will be placed in the hands of non-vocational workers. This will be accomplished through training opportunities and through practices that encourage every member to minister in Christ s name. PART 3: CENTRAL S STATEMENT OF FAITH I. In Essential Beliefs We have u. There is one Body and one Spirit...there is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of us all. Ephesians 4:4-6 II. In Non-Essential Beliefs We have l. Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters...who are you to judge someone else s servant? To his own master he stands or falls...so then each of us will give an account of himself to God...So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Romans 14:1, 4, 12, 22 III. In All Beliefs We show l....while knowledge may make us feel important, it is love that really builds up the church. 1 Corinthians 8:1b (NLT) 11

12 PART 4: CENTRAL S ESSENTIAL BELIEFS: I. ABOUT GOD God is the Creator and Ruler of the universe. He has eternally existed in three personalities: The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three are co-equal and are one God. (Genesis 1:1, 26, 27; Psalm 90:2; Matthew 28:19; 1 Peter 1:2; 2 Corinthians 13:14) II. III. IV. ABOUT JESUS CHRIST Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He is co-equal with the Father. Jesus lived a sinless human life and offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all people by dying on a cross. He arose from the dead after three days to demonstrate His power over sin and death. He ascended to Heaven s glory and will return again some day to earth to reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. (Matthew 1:22,23; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:1-5, 14:10-30; Hebrews 4:14,15; 1 Corinthians 15:3,4; Romans 1:3,4; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Timothy 6:14,15; Titus 2:13) ABOUT THE HOLY SPIRIT The Holy Spirit is co-equal with the Father and the Son of God. He is present in the world to make men aware of their need for Jesus Christ. He also lives in every Christian with power for living, understanding of spiritual truth, and guidance in doing what is right. He gives every believer a spiritual gift when they are saved. As Christians, we seek to live under His control daily. (2 Corinthians 3:17; John 16:7-13, 14:16,17; Acts 1:8; Ephesians 5:18; 1 Corinthians 2:12, 3:16; Ephesians 1:13; Galatians 5:25) ABOUT THE BIBLE The Bible is God s Word to us. It was written by human authors, under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is the supreme source of truth and authority for Christian beliefs and living. (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21; 2 Timothy 1:13; Psalm 119:105,160, 12:6; Proverbs 30:5) V. ABOUT HUMAN BEINGS People are made in the spiritual image of God, to be like Him in character. People are the supreme object of God s creation. Although every person has tremendous potential for good, all of us are marred by an attitude of disobedience toward God called sin. This attitude separates people from God and causes many problems in life. (Genesis 1:27; Psalm 8:3-6; Isaiah 53:6; Romans 3:23; Isaiah 59:1,2) VI. VII. VIII. ABOUT SALVATION Salvation is God s free gift to us. We can never make up for our sin by self-improvement or good works. Only by trusting in Jesus Christ as God s offer of forgiveness can anyone be saved from sin s penalty. When we turn from our self-ruled life and turn to Jesus in faith, we are saved. Eternal life begins the moment one receives Jesus Christ into his/her life by faith. (Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:9; John 14:6, 1:12; Titus 3:5; Galatians 3:26; Romans 5:1) ABOUT ETERNAL SECURITY Because God gives us eternal life through Jesus Christ, the true believer is secure in that salvation for eternity. If you have been genuinely saved, you cannot lose your salvation. Salvation is maintained by the grace and power of God, not by the self-effort of the Christian. It is the grace and keeping power of God that gives us this security. (John 10:29; 2 Timothy 1:12; Hebrews 7:25, 10:10,14; 1 Peter 1:3-5) ABOUT ETERNITY People were created to exist forever. We will either exist eternally separated from God by sin, or eternally with God through forgiveness and salvation through Jesus Christ. To be eternally separated from God is Hell. To be eternally in union with Him is eternal life in Heaven. Heaven and Hell are real places of eternal existence. (John 3:16, 5:11-13; Romans 6:23; Revelation 20:15; Matthew 1:8, 2:44-46) 12

13 PART 5: CENTRAL S LIFESTYLE STATEMENTS (What We Practice; B.A.P.T.I.S.T.) **Beliefs are shown through actions. Based on what the Bible teaches, we feel strongly about the following seven practices: I. B as our sole authority Since God s Word is the only completely reliable and truthful authority, we accept the Bible as our manual for living. Our first question when faced with a decision should be, What does the Bible say? The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration of God and is useful to teach us what is true and make us realize what is wrong in our lives; it straightens us out and helps us to do what is right. 2 Timothy 3:16 (GN) II. A of each local church Christ is the recognized Head of our church, not any person, group, or religious organization. While recognizing the value of associating and cooperating with other groups of Christians, we believe every local church should be self-governing and independent from any denominational control. Christ is the head of his Body, the church. He is the source of the Body s life Colossians 1:18 (GN) III. P of every believer The Bible teaches that every Christian is called to full-time Christian service, regardless of his or her vocation. Every believer has direct access to God through prayer and Bible reading. We encourage every member to find a place of service and ministry to practice this truth. Christ loves us, and by his death he has freed us from our sins and made us a kingdom of priests to serve God Revelation 1:6 (GN) But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation 1 Peter 2:9 IV. T At Central Baptist Church, we practice tithing for the support of Christ s Body, the church, as God commands in the Bible. We recognize that giving 10% of our gross income is the beginning of the biblical standard of giving. A tithe of everything you produce belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord. Leviticus 27:30 (GN) V. I We practice believer s baptism by immersion under water. For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ Colossians 2:12 (GN) 13

14 VI. S -led living We believe the only way possible to live the Christian life is by God s power within us. Therefore, we seek to practice a daily dependence on God s Spirit to enable us to do what is right. (Philippians 2:13; Ephesians 5:18) (Jesus said) I am the Vine, you are the branches. If you abide in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit: but apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:5 VII. T others about Christ: Evangelism! It is the responsibility of every Christian to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with those with those God brings into our lives. We practice personal sharing about Christ and inviting friends to church. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. 1 Peter 3:15 PART 6: CENTRAL S CONSTITUTION & BYLAWS ** Copies are available for all members. 14

15 SESSION 3 OUR STRATEGY When I am with those who are oppressed, I share their oppression so that I might bring them to Christ. Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone so that I might bring them to Christ. 1 Corinthians 9:22-23 (NLT) PART 1: WHO ARE WE TRYING TO REACH FOR CHRIST? Target Audience: Focused in Our Community Within a five-mile radius of our church: Family Households: 72% Married Couples with children 21% Single Mothers with children 5% Single Fathers with children Population Age: 15% 0 to 8 28% 9 to 28 32% 29 to 49 19% 50 to 67 6% 68 to 85 1% 86 & up Education: 17% No High School diploma 31% High School Graduate 33% College/No Degree 16% College Degree 5% Graduate Degree Church Involvement 28% Not Involved 29% Somewhat Involved 42% Strongly Involved **Between 2010 and 2015, the population is projected to increase by 10.5% or 2,916 additional persons. (Info taken from Baptist State Convention of North Carolina Percept data, 2010.) 15

16 PART 2: WHAT ARE WE TRYING TO DO TO PEOPLE? TARGET PURPOSE LEVELS OF COMMITMENT ** Our goal is to m p from the community into the core. I. THE COMMUNITY: Unbelievers who live within a 10-mile radius of our church and do not attend services at any church. II. III. IV. THE CROWD: Church members who attend worship only and sporadic worship attendees who have not made a commitment to Christ or church membership. THE CONGREGATION: Persons who have made a commitment to church membership, are consistent in worship attendance, and are active in a small group. THE COMMITTED: Church members who are committed to spiritual growth and express this through involvement in discipleship ministries within the church. V. THE CORE: Church members who are mature disciples who are committed to using their spiritual gifts to minister in the church and to complete their mission in the world. These people are leaders in the church. 16

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19 SESSION 4 OUR STRUCTURE PART 1: HOW OUR CHURCH IS STRUCTURED **THE STRUCTURE OF THE CHURCH SHOULD NOT BE DETERMINED BY CULTURE, BUSINESS PRACTICES, OR DENOMINATION TRADITIONS I. What The Bible Says About The Church: A. THE CHURCH IS A F. They continued steadily learning the teaching of the apostles, and joined in the fellowship... Acts 2:42 A top priority in a fellowship is u and h. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:3 So let us concentrate on the things that make for harmony and the growth of our fellowship together. Romans 14:19 B. THE CHURCH IS A F. You should be like one big happy family, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds. I Peter 3:8 (LB) Because the church is a family we operate based on r, NOT r. Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity. I Tim 5:1-2 * Implication: A healthy structure promotes u and downplays d. (Often)... your meetings do more harm than good because I hear that when you come together as a church, there are divisions among you... I Corinthians 11:17-18 C. THE CHURCH IS A B. (I Corinthians 12:27; Ephesians 1:22-23, 5:23; Colossians 1:18) We are a body not a business! We are an organism not an organization! In an organization maintenance, becomes the focus; but in an organism, ministry growth is the focus. 19

20 II. Therefore, we function based on our S.H.A.P.E.: S G H A P E Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We each have different gifts according to the grace given us. Romans 12:4-6 ***AT CENTRAL BAPTIST, WE HAVE A SIMPLE STRUCTURE SO WE CAN MAXIMIZE M AND MINIMIZE M. I. The Role of the Council of Elders: 1 Peter 5:1-3 To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ's sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers--not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. A. S the flock. Serving in all humility, Elders are to guide, direct, guard and protect the members of the body, seeking to meet their needs and assist in any way possible, warning against harmful influences and guarding against false teachers. (1 Peter 5:1-3; Acts 20:35) B. Lead through e. Elders are to provide a scriptural role model and are to set a pattern before the flock of a rightly ordered life - with a single purpose, to glorify God. (1 Timothy 3:4-5; 5:17) C. T and exhort. Elders are to see that the flock is fed through insightful and accurate biblical instruction and admonition. Teaching will be centered on equipping the members of the body to perform works of ministry. (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:9-16; John 21:17) D. R those who contradict truth. Elders are to confront those who are teaching false doctrine or who are continuing in a behavioral pattern contradictory to biblical truth. Thus, Elders are to keep closing potential entrances for Satan, so that the truth of Christ will remain credible to both the congregation and the community. (Acts 20:17, 28-31; 1 Thessalonians 5:12) 20

21 E. Manage and o the church of God. Elders are to oversee the life of the Church with the assistance of other godly leaders. They must be people who can "rule well. Deacon qualified men are to be selected to assist the Elders in the management and ministry of t he Church. (1 Timothy 5:17) F. P for the sick. Elders are to pray for the spiritual and physical well being of members of the congregation. (James 5:14-15) Elders, like church members, have no individual authority, but must act together as a Council to represent the best interest of the church. The Elders may also establish various advisory committees to assist them in both administrative and ministry matters. II. Current Elder Structure: ** THE PASTORAL STAFF AT CENTRAL BAPTIST ARE E. God gave some to be pastors and teachers to prepare God s people for works of ministry, so that the body of Christ may be built up... Ephesians 4:11-12 A. Lead Elder (Senior Pastor: Preaching & Teaching Elder) 1. Oversees the visionary leadership of the church 2. Oversees the preaching and teaching ministry 3. Oversees the pastoral care ministry of the church 4. Oversees Global Missions and Church Planting 5. Oversees the ministry of the professional staff B. Prayer Ministry Elder: (Lay Elder) C. CARE Ministry Elder (Lay Elder) D. Deacon Ministry Elder: (Lay Elder) E. Membership Elder: (Lay Elder) F. Administrative & Facilities Elder: (Lay Elder) G. Full Day Preschool Elder: (Lay Elder) H. Treasurer Elder: (Lay Elder) I. Eagle Rock Farm Ministry Elder: (Lay Elder) J. ** Future Elders may be determined by vision and ministry needs 21

22 III. The Role of the Deacon Fellowship: Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. 1 Timothy 3:8-10 God s appointed s of the church. What do deacons do? Serve the various needs of the membership through a comprehensive member care ministry; Guard the unity and testimony of the church by keeping down the murmuring and grumbling; Partner with the elders and ministerial staff in projecting God s vision to the congregation; Model a godly character and a lifestyle of ministry; Encourage the congregation. PART 2: OUR AFFILIATION(S) I. Central Baptist Church voluntarily chooses to cooperate with the following entities for the purpose of world missions, evangelism and discipleship: A. The Raleigh Baptist Association 131+ churches that fellowship together and work together to advance the gospel and build the Kingdom of God. B. The Baptist State Convention of North Carolina 4,200+ churches that fellowship together with the goal of advancing the gospel and building the Kingdom of God. C. The Southern Baptist Convention 42,000+ churches that cooperate together in a world-wide effort of missions and evangelism. Southern Baptist Churches cooperate financially through the Cooperative Program 1. It is the largest association of Christian churches in North Carolina and in America One out of every ten churches in America is affiliated with the SBC (42,000 churches and 16 million members more than most other denominations combined). 2. It is a diverse association of churches SBC churches include every almost every race, nationality, and ethnic group. In Raleigh, our association includes Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Hispanic, Vietnamese, African American, Arabic, African, Filipino, and Iranian Southern Baptist churches. D. Additionally, we remain open to and currently support other mission partners provided evangelism, missions and/or discipleship, are they sole purposes of existence. 22

23 II. WHY NOT JUST BE AN INDEPENDENT CHURCH? We are an independent church! Every SBC church is completely independent. There is no denominational control or hierarchy, as there are in most other denominations. Each church is self-governed and determines its own affairs. For example: Every SBC church chooses its own pastoral staff Every SBC church owns its own buildings and assets Every SBC church determines its own budget, programs, and percentage of missions giving PART 3: WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A MEMBER The difference between attendees and members is their level of c. Commitment builds character. Therefore, at Central Baptist we want to challenge people to commit themselves to biblical standards. The primary person that will benefit from your commitment is you! You become what you are committed to. Four Reasons We Ask for A Commitment: 1. A b reason: Jesus was committed to the church. If you want to be like Jesus then you need to do the same.... Christ loved the church, and He gave His life for it. Ephesians 5:25 2. A c reason: It is a solution to our society. We live in an age in which few people want to commit to anything a job, a marriage, a country. This attitude causes many people to play the church hopping game. Commitment to a local faith family goes against America s consumer mentality. Commitment is needed to counter a harmful consumer minded culture. 3. A p reason: It identifies who can be counted on. Every team must have a roster, every school an enrollment, every business a payroll, every army an enlistment. Membership identifies those to whom you have committed and those who have committed to you. 4. A p reason: It produces spiritual growth. The New Testament places a major emphasis on the need for Christians to be accountable to one another for spiritual growth. Accountability will never work without commitment. 23

24 WHAT IS EXPECTED OF ME AS A MEMBER? The Central Baptist Membership Covenant "Having received Christ as my Lord and Savior and been baptized by immersion, and being in agreement with Central Baptist s statements, strategy, and structure, I now feel led by the Holy Spirit to unite with the Central Baptist Church family. In doing so, I commit myself to God and to the other members to do the following..." I will p the unity of the church by acting in love toward the other members by refusing to participate in gossip or other unwholesome talk by encouraging, supporting, and honoring the God-ordained leadership of the Church by complying with the Operating Bylaws of Central Baptist Church, Inc. "Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification Romans 14:19...Have a sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply from the heart 1 Peter 1:22 "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs." Ephesians 4:29 Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be no advantage to you. Hebrews 13:17 I will s the responsibility of the church by praying for its growth by inviting the unchurched to attend by warmly welcoming those who visit by giving regularly (tithes/offerings) To the church- We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers 1 Thess 1:1-2 Then the Master told his servants, Go out to the roads and the country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be full Luke 14:23 Accept one another, then, just as Christ in order to bring praise to God Romans 15:7 On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his own income. 1 Corinthians 16:2 A tithe from everything from the land, -. belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord. Leviticus 27:30 I will s the ministry of the church by discovering and using my spiritual gifts and talents by being equipped for the works of service and the building up of the Body by developing a servant's heart Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God s grace in its various forms 1 Peter 4:10 (God) gave some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ might be built up Ephesians 4:11-12 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as Christ Jesus Made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant Philippians 2:3-4, 7 I will s the testimony of the church by attending faithfully by living a godly life by honoring Christ in all relationships Let us not give up meeting together but let us encourage one another Hebrews 10:25 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ Philippians 1:27 24