CONSTITUTION FOR DIVINE SURGERY FOR THE WORLD
16th MAY 2015
- THE CHURCH AND ITS NAME
The Church means members of the charitable unincorporated association governed by this constitution and known as Divine Surgery For The World (or such other name as shall subsequently be adopted by decision of the Church Members’ Meeting and with the consent of the Charity Commission). - PURPOSE
The principal purpose of the Church is the advancement of the Christian faith according to the principles of the Christian Interdenominational. The Church may also advance education and carry out other charitable purposes in the United Kingdom and/or other parts of the world. - BELIEFS
3.1 THE BIBLE TEACHING
We believe that the entire Scripture, both Old and New Testament are written by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit – II Tim. 3:16-17. All the Christian teachings and the Christian attitude of the Children of God are such as are established in the Holy Bible – II Tim. 3:10-15; II Peter 1:21; John 17:17; Ps. 119:105.
We believe that the Bible is the written and revealed Will of God. Man’s position to God, the way to obtain salvation, woe and destruction awaiting sinners that refuse to repent and everlasting joy that is kept for the born again souls. All the Bible teachings are holy, what the Bible reveals as the will of God are such that we should accept, and whatever God writes in the Bible and His Law are to remain unchangeable; for the Heavens and Earth may pass away but the Word of God stands forever. Deut. 4:22; Rev. 22:18, 19; Matt. 24:34-38.
3.2 ABOUT GOD: Ps. 33:6-9
As revealed unto us by the Bible, we believe that there is only one God, Who is the Creator of both visible and invisible creatures -Gen. 1:1; Ps. 86:9-10; Is. 43:10-11; John 1:1-3. Only God will be in existence forever. Ez. 3:14; in God every creature receives life -John 5:26.
3.3 ABOUT JESUS CHRIST
We believe that He is the Son of God; Who took away our sins, and the Savior of the world. We also believe that Jesus is God and was born by Mary the Virgin. He is God revealed in the flesh. Through Him all things were created. John 1:1-14; John 14:9; Matt. 1:18-25, Is 9:6; Is 53:5-6. We believe in His death on the Cross, and resurrection, by which He brought redemption – Is. 53:4-10; I Pet. 2:24; John 10:11; Gal. 3:13, Matt. 20:28; I Cor. 15:3; Rom. 4:25; II Cor. 5:14; Heb 2:9; Heb 9:26.
3.4 ABOUT THE HOLY SPIRIT
The Holy Spirit is the third Person in the TRINITY. He has the same power, the same glory with God the Father and God the Son – John 14:16-17; John 15:26; Matt. 3:16; Acts 13:24. He is one with Father and the Son who is to be worshiped and served. Three Persons that become one are the source of blessings to all the living creatures in Heaven and on earth – Matt. 28:19; II Cor. 13:14; I John 1:5-7. The Holy Spirit has a great work to perform. He Teaches, He Speaks to men, and bears witness in us – Acts 16:6-7; He performs the work of regeneration for man- John 3:5-6; He also performs the work of Sanctification in the born again souls until they are fully sanctified – John 16:8; Eph 1:17-19; II Thess. 2:13; I Cor. 6:11. This same Holy Spirit endows believers with gifts they can use – I Cor 12:7; He empowers one in the Lord. Acts 1:8.
3.5 ABOUT TRINITY
The egg is comprised of three parts: The yellow yolk, the whitish part, and the shell. Despite these three (3) substances, the egg is not three but one. Likewise, we believe that God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost are one God, but made of three persons – hence they are ONE IN TRINITY – Gen. 1:16-29; Matt. 3:16-17; Matt. 18:19.
3.6 ABOUT THE DEVIL
We believe that there is a devil, who seeks the down fall of every man. He brought sickness, sin and death into the world. Gen. 3:1-16. He seeks the destruction of those who exercise their faith in the Lord Jesus. Matt. 4:1-11; James 4:7; I Peter 5:8. The devil has several unclean spirits over whom he governs – Matt. 12:24. A time would soon come when he shall be thrown into the pit and chained for one thousand years- Rev. 20:7-9. After this, he will be put into the lake of fire where he will remain suffering together with his followers for ever and ever. Rev. 20:10
3.7 ABOUT MAN
Things He created. Gen. 1:26. God formed man of the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living soul – Gen 2:7. Therefore man is of three parts, namely body, soul and spirit. Man is God’s ambassador on earth to take control over all other creatures on His behalf on earth. Gen. 1:26-28. God allows man to take part in His work and thereby reveal His love for mankind more than any other creatures – Gen. 2:15. This also shows how God elevates man more than the other creatures upon the earth.
3.8 REPENTANCE UNTO GOD
Repentance is the sorrow of a godly man for his sins with decision to abstain from them – Acts 3:19; 20:21; II Cor. 7:10; Mark 1:15; Is. 55:7; II Chron. 7:14; Ezek. 18:21.
3.9 JUSTIFICATION OR NEW BIRTH
This is God’s grace whereby we are cleansed from our sins by which we are able to stand before God as though we have never sinned. Acts 13:39; Rom. 3:25-26; Rom 5:1; I Cor. 6:11; Gal. 3:24; John 1:12-13; 3:3; II Cor. 5:9; Titus 3:5; I Peter 1:23; Acts 10:43; John 3:3,5.
3.10 SANTIFICATION(HOLINESS)
Sanctification is another grace of God by which our souls are progressively and completely cleansed. This is the second accomplishment of the grace which through our faith in the Blood of Jesus Christ is wrought after we have been justified and free from our sins or regenerated – John 17:15-17; I Thess. 4:3; Heb. 2:11; 12:14; 13:12; I John 1:7; Luke 1:74, 75; II Cor. 7:1; I Peter 1:16; Eph. 5:25-27; I Thess. 5:23-24; II Thess. 2:13.
3.11 WATER BAPTISM
A. The Kinds of Baptism
We believe in baptism by the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost – Matt. 28:19. The teaching is revealed in the New Testament and all Christians must obey this rule of the Lord – Acts 2:24; Acts 16:15; Acts 18:8; Acts 19:4-5. Every saved soul automatically qualifies for Water Baptism – Acts 8:29-39; 16:18-23.Baptism by Trinity
We believe that all members of this Church should receive immersion Water Baptism, in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, as believers who would not add to, or take out of the Word of God. Matt. 28:19. C. The Reason for Water Baptism Water Baptism stands for a sign and an example of two things.1. It is an outward sign, an example of a true repentance of a sinner from his or her sins. Acts 2:38; Acts 22:6
2. Anybody who is baptized is joined with Christ in His death, burial and resurrection – Rom. 6:1 – 23; Col. 2:113. Therefore anybody baptized is dead to the world and the evils thereof – Gal. 6:14.3.12 BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
All born-again souls should ask for the Holy Spirit from above, as the Apostles were ordered to wait in Jerusalem until they were filled from above. It is the promise of the Father.It is God’s gift which He gives to those who obey Him – Luke 24:49; John 4:14-26; Acts 1:4-5; Acts 5:32; Acts 8:14-17. It is God’s promise unto those who are far and all whom the Lord shall call – Acts 2:38-39. Any Christian who receives the baptism of the Holy Spirit must speak in tongues Acts 2:4; Acts 10:34-36; Acts 19:2-6.
3.13 ABOUT PRAYER
A Christian without condemnation of heart has a right to thank God and be in adoration and in prayer unto the Lord always – Zek. 12:10. His soul thirsts for God – Ps. 42:2. The Holy Spirit helps his infirmities in prayer – Rom. 8:26. We must pray only by the Name of JESUS – John 16:23; ; I Tim. 2:25. Without faith our prayer shall be powerless before God – James 1:6-8; Heb. 11:6. Those who are unable to pray annoy God – Is. 42:22; Is. 64:6-7. Much trouble and danger are encountered in the absence of prayer – Zeph 1:4; Dan 9:13-14; Hosea 8:13-14. We are commanded to pray and not to faint and to pray without ceasing – Col. 4:2; I Thess. 5:17; I Cor. 7:5; Luke 18:1. The Apostles put prayer first in their life and they spent much time in prayer – Acts 6:4; Rom. 6:4; Rom 1:9; Col. 1:9. It is God’s plan and order that we should pray to receive all the goods He has promised in His treasure for us – James 4:2; Dan. 9:3; Matt. 7:7-11; Matt. 9:24-29; Luke 11:13.
3.14 ABOUT RESTITUTION
Restitution is a sign of true repentance. This is payment for what is damaged – Ez.. 22:3. Whatever cannot give us a clear conscience before man and God should be restituted without delay – Lev. 6:1-7; Luke 19:8; Prov. 28:13; Acts 24:16.
3.15 DIVINE HEALING(WITHOUT MEDICINE)
Healing without medicine is Biblical – Matt. 4:23; Ps. 103:3; Sickness is caused because of the fall of man. The force behind this is Satan – Job 2:1-9; Luke 13:15; Acts 10:3. But JESUS came to destroy the works of the devil – I John 3:8. Christ purchased our soul from the curse of sin. He bore our infirmities and carried our sorrow – Matt. 8:15-17. By His stripes we are healed. Is 53:4-5; Gal. 3:13; I Peter 2:24. Healing without medicine is of the Gospel – Matt. 9:35; Mark 6:10-18. We read that the twelve Apostles and the seventy disciples combined healing with their Ministry of the Gospel – Luke 9:1-2; Luke 10:1-9. The Lord commanded us to go into the world, just to teach the nations alone, but that we should also heal the sick – Matt. 28:19-20; Mark 10:1, Mark 16:15-18.
We could obtain our healing in these four ways: 1. By individual prayer – John 14:13-14 2. By two people (or a group of people) who have agreed to pray by faith – Matt. 18:19-20. 3. By the laying of hands on the head – Mark 16:18; Acts 9:18; Acts 28:8. 4. By the Ministry of the Elders, anointing the sick with prayer of faith – James 5:14-15 Special Notice – Before we can work by healing without medicine, we would have sanctified our life to the doing of the Law – Rom. 6:13, 19; Rom. 12:1; Matt. 16:24; II Cor. 8:5, 15. Many miracles were performed by the Apostles – Acts 9:33-42; Acts 19:11-12; Acts 28:8-9.
3.16 DECENCY IN THE CHURCH
The Bible teaches us to abstain from all appearance of evil – I Thess. 5:22. “But follow after righteousness, faith, love, purging ourselves from unclean things so that we may be vessels unto honor, sanctified, and prepared unto every good work” – II Tim. 2:21-22. Therefore we must not see our Church members in dancing halls, or cinema halls, reveling, for such things are works of the flesh. All people doing such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God – Gal 5:19-21; I Peter 4:3-4; Prov 31:4-5; Rev. 1:5-6; Gen 19:30-38.
Swearing and Cursing Forbidden All Christians should not swear or curse or blaspheme for we were not taught of Jesus in such a way. “Bless, and curse not” Rom. 12:14. Swear not at all, neither by Heaven, nor by the earth or any other swearing. But let your yes by yes, and No be No so that you do not run into condemnation – Matt. 5:34; James 5:12.
3.17 DUE REVERENCE TO PARENTS AND AUTHORITIES
All Christians are to obey the law of the country, obey the government and authority. They should honor their parents and elders. I Peter 2:13-14; Rom 13:1-5; Eph. 6:1-3.
3.18 REBELLION AGAINST CHURCH AUTHORITY FORBIDDEN
Rebellion against Church Ministers is against the Will of God. Those who rebelled against Moses did not escape unpunished – Num 12:1-10; Num. 16:1-4,32. The Bible teaches that we should obey our Spiritual leaders and submit to them – Heb 13:17; Joshua 1:16-18.
3.19 DEBTS FORBIDDEN
Any member of this Church must not willfully enter into any debt which he finds difficult to repay for the Bible teaches us “owe no man anything, but to love one another” – Rom. 13:7-8. About Debt: 1. Monetary Debt 2. Debt of promise or Vow – Ps. 105:8 3. Debt of time – Eccl. 3:1-8 4. Debt of not preaching the Gospel – I Cor. 16-17
3.20 OUR GARMENT
We believe that any born again soul is a child of God and is clothed with white garment which is the Righteousness of Christ. It is received freely, a gift unto them that lead a victorious life – Rev. 19:7-8. Furthermore, we are advised to put on charity, which is the bond perfectness – Col. 3:13-14. It is not our policy to have special robes. We believe that all members must be moderate in adornment. “Not with braided hair, or gold or pears, or costly array, but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price” I Tim. 2:8-9; I Peter 3:1-6; Gen. 35:1-4; Ex. 32:1-8.
3.21 LAYING OF HANDS AND ANOINTING THE SICK
We believe in the laying on of hands and anointing the sick on the head in the Name of the Lord and that prayer of faith shall save the person – James 5:14-16; Mark 16:17-18. But we do not use any other methods which are not according to Bible teaching, sanctification of water for the sickto drink is allow. The order of our Lord is that we should heal the sick free of charge – Matt 10:8. We do not receive money or charge money before we offer prayer for anybody, – Mark 16:18; James 5:14; Matt 10:7-8; Mark 6:13.3.22 HOLY MATRIMONY
Marriage is honorable in all – Heb. 13:4. Therefore all members who wish to marry could do so in the church. They are not to follow the worldly patter with drumming and dancing, drunkenness or wear clothes that:30-31; I John 2:15-17; Rom. 12:2.3.23 PROPHECY IN THE CHURCH
We believe in all the prophecies in the Bible; likewise we believe that we can be given the gift of prophecy by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit – I Cor. 14:29. Despise not prophesying – I Thess. 5:20. But any prophecy that is against the Bible is rejected.
3.24 CHURCH DISCIPLINE
Above all, whatever is not Bible teaching should be ignored entirely by all members. If there be found any member disobeying these teachings he may be disciplined privately, but if any backslider would not admit discipline and restitute his way, he may be disciplined openly as it is written in Matt. 18:15-18, So that truth might be established by the witness of two or three according to the Word of God. Rebuke them that sinned before all that others also may fear – I Tim. 5:20; I Cor. 5:1-13; II Cor. 2:6-11; Heb. 12:5-12.
3.25 ONE HUSBAND, ONE WIFE, CORRECT DIVORCE AND RE-MARRIAGE
The Word of God teaches us that monogamy has been the order since the beginning of the Law of Christ. Divorce is permissible only when a life partner has committed adultery. For the sake of prostitution or one wishes his or her partner death, it is better for remarry after counselling for restoration- 2 Cor 5:17; 1 Cor 7:15 – Matt. 5:31-32, 19:9; Mark 10:11-12; Luke 16:18; Rom. 7:2-3; Mal. 2:13-16; Gen. 2:18: Matt. 19:4-6.
3.26 HOLY COMMUNION OR THE LORD’S SUPPER
It is instituted by our Lord Jesus Christ shortly before His death. He commanded all Christians to gather together regularly to share the bread and wine till He comes back again – Luke 22:17-20; Matt. 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; I Cor. 10:18, 21; Acts 2:42; 20:7; I Cor. 11:23-30.
3.27 THE CHURCH OF GOD
The born-again souls are called the Church of God – Eph. 1:22; Col. 1:1-18; Eph 3:10; 5:24-29. The assembly of the believers, the sanctified souls in Christ Jesus, Those who we call the Holy people of God – I Cor. 1:2; Acts 14:23; Phil. 4:15; Acts 13:28. Therefore all that God has called to gather together in a place and fed with the Word of God – Acts 2:41-47; They accept Christ as the head of the Church. They gather from time to time to worship God in truth and Spirit to share the bread and eat. Their major assignment is to spread the Gospel of Christ to all Nations – Matt. 28:19.
3.28 THE DEDICATED CHRISTIAN OR SEPARATION
Dedication is very important for the children of God for the Lord is Holy – John 17:19; I Peter 1:15-16. If we want god to be our Father, we must separate and dedicate ourselves unto God – II Cor. 6:17-18. God called us unto Holiness – I Thess. 4:7; Rom. 12:1-2. The dedicated Christian would avoid foolish talking or jesting, Eph. 5:4. He or she would not wear clothing of the opposite sex, Deut. 22:5. Marriage would be esteemed honorable in all respects in the life of the dedicated Christian, and he or she would be a hearer as well as a doer of the Word of God at all times.
3.29 THE DEAD IN CHRIST
We believe that a brother who sleeps in the Lord is with Christ already – Phil. 1:21-23; I Cor. 5:1-9. Paul said that it is better to come out of this flesh and be with the Lord forever in our Heavenly home. Further still he emphasizes that ” But I would not have you to be ignorant brethren concerning them which are asleep that ye sorrow not even as there which have no hope” I Thess. 4:13-18. Therefore all members should separate themselves form the things of this world in worshiping the dead by which we become idolaters – Deut 14:1.
3.30 RESURRECTION
We experience daily the resurrection of the Spirit, all the born-again souls who are passed from death to life – Eph. 6:14; Rom 6:11; John 5:20. As this body is dissolved, immediately we are entering into our Heavenly Home or house not made with hands eternal in the Heavens – I Cor. 5:1-8 There is resurrection of the Body. Jesus taught us plainly that the buried body will be raised up from the tomb at the last day Job 5:28-29. Paul also explained this to us – Acts 24:15; I Cor. 15:22, 42-44; Phil. 3:21; Dan. 12:2. Only Holy people will be at the resurrection those who belong to Jesus when He appears; but the sinners shall resurrect in hell, a place where people whose names are not found in the Lamb’s Book – Rev. 20:4-5; John 5:28-29; Rev. 20:12-15.
3.31 THE SECOND COMING OF CHRIST
The Second coming of Jesus Christ will be in physical form and will be visible to all in like manner as He was seen ascending up to heavens – Acts 1:9-11; John 14:3. His return will be in two stages: A. Christ’s return in the sky – The Saints or Bride of Christ will be raptured to meet Christ in the sky – I Thess. 4:15-17; I Cor. 15:51-52; Matt. 24:40-44; Matt 25:10 B. His return to the earth – He will return to the earth to judge the sinners and the ungodly – Rev. 19:19-21; II Thess. 1:7-10; Jude 1:14-15; Zech. 14:3-4.
3.32 THE TRIBULATION PERIOD
The time between His coming to receive the brides or saints into heaven and His coming to administer judgments will be the time of Tribulation – Matt 24:21; 22:29; Rev. 9; Rev. 16; Is. 26:20-21; Mark 13:19; Jer. 30:7; Daniel 12:1; Malachi 4:1.
3.33 THE MILLENNIAL REIGN (CHRIST 1,000 YEARS’ REIGN)
After Christ appears upon earth, He would set up His Kingdom with the Holy people for one thousand years – Rev. 20:1-6; Rev. 2:26-27. This one thousand years will be entirely different from any kingdom ever set on earth. The Kingdom is peace all over – Is 65:18-20. There will be no death – Is. 65:18-20. There will be no poverty – Mich. 4:4; Is. 65:21-23; Christ is the ONLY KING in the Kingdom – Dan. 2:44-45; Dan. 7:13,14,22,27.
3.34 SATAN IN PRISON
At this time – millennium, Satan will be chained – Rev. 20:2-3, and it will be the time of peace and blessing to mankind also – Is. 11:6-9; 65:25; Hosea 2:18; Zech 14:9-20; Is 2:2-4.
3.35 THE COMING JUDGEMENTS
We believe that there will be three special judgements. i) The Judgement of the Believers: This would start immediately believers are caught up in the sky, they shall stand before Christ. After this judgment they will descend down with Christ upon the earth – II Cor. 5:10; I Cor. 3:3; 11-15; James 1:12; Rom 2:16. ii) The Judgement of the Nation: This will be the time when Jesus appears upon earth between the millennial reign and final judgement. Acts 17:31; Joel 3:2; Ez. 14:15; Jud. 1:14-15; II Thess 1:7-10; Rom 2:16; Rev. 1:7; Mal. 16:21. iii) The Judgement of the Unbelievers: or the White Throne Judgement : This will happen after Christ’s one thousand years reign at the White Throne. – Rev. 20:11-15; II Peter 3:7; Dan. 12:2.
3.36 NEW HEAVEN AND NEW EARTH
The Word of God teaches us that after judgement, this wicked world will be removed. God will create a new Heaven and a new earth in which HOLINESS will exist – Matt. 24:35; II Peter 3:12-13; Rev. 21:1-3; Is. 65:17:; 66:22
3.37 ETERNAL LIFE AND ETERNAL PUNISHMENT
The Bible teaches us that there is eternal punishment as well as eternal life – Matt. 25:46. The wicked people will be sent to a fiery hell made of sulphur, to be tormented both day and night. The punishment will continue forever and ever – Rev. 14:10-11; Luke. 16:24; Mark 9:43-44.
3.38 DEDICATION OF CHILDREN
We believe that after a child is born on the 8th day, the parent should bring himor her unto the House of the Lord for dedication unto the Lord – 1 Sam. 1:22; Luke. 22:22-24; Matt. 19:13-15.
3.39 THE LORD’S DAY
We believe that the first day of the week called Sunday is a special day which the believers should separate as the Lord’s day during which time are to gather to worship – Acts 20:7; 1Cor. 16:2; Rev. 1:10. The Lord resurrected on the first day of the week – Mark 16:9; Ezek. 31:12-14.
3.40 PROSPERITY OF THE SAINTS
We belief strongly in Tithe and offering, Seed sowing, First fruits and Sacrificial offerings. Malachi 3:10, Haggai chapter 1, Acts of Apostle 4:32-35.
3.41 “That our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, God manifest in the flesh, is the sole and absolute authority in all matters pertaining to faith and practice, as revealed in the Holy Scriptures, and that each church has liberty, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to interpret and administer His laws.
That Christian Baptism is the immersion in water into the name of the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit, of those who have professed repentance towards God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ who ‘died for our sins according to the Scriptures; was buried, and rose again on the third day’.
That it is the duty of every disciple to bear personal witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ, and to take part in the evangelisation of the world.”
- ACTIVITIES
4.1 Churches are voluntary organisations, so the activities will change. In fulfilling the Purpose the Church will engage in a range of Activities either on its own or with others that will vary from time to time with Activities being initiated, expanded, or closed, as appropriate.
4.2 The Activities may include but are not restricted to:
- regular public worship, prayer, Bible study, preaching and teaching;
- baptism
- the Communion of the Lord’s Supper which shall normally be observed at least once a month;
- evangelism and mission, locally, regionally, nationally and internationally;
- the teaching, encouragement, welcome and inclusion of young people;
- nurture and growth of Christian disciples;
- education and training for Christian and community service;
- giving and encouraging pastoral care;
- supporting and encouraging charitable social action in the United Kingdom and abroad;
- encouraging relationships with and supporting member and other Christians.
4.2 Those leading the church’s Activities remain accountable to the Church, and cannot operate independently of the church. Notwithstanding the appointment of persons to accept responsibility for any of the Activities all individuals, organisations, groups, and committees operating within the life of the Church, and their leaders, shall be accountable to the Charity Trustees and also through any specific direction of the Church Members’ Meeting.
- AFFILIATION AND RELATIONSHIPS
The Church is an independent church, member of the charitable organisation.
5.1 Some of the activities listed will happen in all churches, but other activities will vary depending on local circumstances and the availability of suitable volunteers. The Church will normally promote, encourage, support and advance the work, World Mission through prayer, through financial contributions and, where appropriate, by making personnel available from the membership of the Church. When it is able the Church will also support local parishes and ecumenical gatherings.
- BELONGING TO THE CHURCH
6.1 The responsibilities of membership normally include:
- attending worship and participating in Church Activities;
- personal prayer and Bible study;
- participation at the Communion of the Lord’s Supper as a privilege and a priority;
- helping the Church whenever possible by using gifts and abilities to advance the Purpose of the church through its Activities;
- attending and participating in Church Members’ Meetings;
- giving regular financial support to the Church in proportion to personal resources and circumstances;7
- upholding Christian values.
6.2 If there are differences that lead to difficulties between members of the Church (and it is recognised that these will sometimes arise) each member should try to resolve the situation with gentleness and humility following Christian and Biblical principles. It may be necessary for another wise and experienced member of this Church (or if invited a member of a neighbouring Church or representative of the Association) to act as mediator or friend to those seeking to achieve reconciliation.
- JOINING AND BECOMING A CHURCH MEMBER
7.1 Baptism by immersion upon personal profession of faith is the normal mode of entry into the membership.
7.2 The church shall apply the following Baptismal qualification for Church Membership.
7.3 Church Membership is open to those who:
- accept the Beliefs of the Church;
- meet the Church’s qualification on Baptism;
- commit themselves to serving Christ within the Church and beyond;
- abide by the decisions of the Church Members’ Meeting;
- acknowledge their responsibilities as Church Members;
- have their membership application accepted by the Church Members’ Meeting.
7.4 A person wishing to become a Church Member shall apply in a manner determined by the Church Members’ Meeting.
7.5 The Church Members’ Meeting will consider and vote on the application for membership and if accepted the new member will normally be welcomed publicly.
7.6 The Church Member Must pay his or her tithes, to be fully accepted . The tithe is an obligatory becasuse it is for the maintenance and helping the ministry in all sundry.
7.7 Before the Church will conduct any ceremony such as wedding, naming or funeral to any Member, he or she Must pay all her necessary due.
7.8 The Member must attend the Sunday services for 6 months to be fully accepted as a minister.
- THE MEMBERSHIP LIST
8.1 A list of the current Church Members shall be maintained by the Charity Trustees incorporating routine changes because of additions or deletions arising through death, transfer to another church, resignation, or a resolution by Church Members’ Meeting.
8.2 Routine changes to the membership list shall be reported at the next convenient Church Members’ Meeting.
8.3 A regular review is helpful in keeping the list up to date. In order to keep the membership list up to date the membership list shall be reviewed at least once every three years when the Church Members’ Meeting may resolve to make any appropriate deletions.
8.4 At any time, in exceptional circumstances where the conduct of a Member is considered to be contrary to the Purpose and Beliefs of the Church and/or disruptive to the relationships between Members then the Charity Trustees may recommend to a Church Members’ Meeting that the membership of that person be reviewed. The Church Members may, after considering the facts, terminate the membership of that person. The Church Member shall be allowed to hear what is said at the Church Members’ Meeting, to correct any errors of fact and offer any explanation of the circumstances or reasons for their actions before withdrawing from the meeting so that the Church Members’ Meeting may prayerfully and carefully consider whether they should resolve to remove that person’s name from the list of Members.
- CHURCH MEMBERS’ MEETINGS
9.1 Church Members shall meet together in a Church Members’ Meeting under the guidance of the Holy Spirit and under the Lordship of Christ to discern the mind of God in the affairs of the Church.
9.2 The Church Members’ Meeting shall have reserved authority in the appointment and removal of a Minister, the appointment and removal of Charity Trustees, decisions related to church property including (without limitation) any purchase, sale, lease, mortgage, or redevelopment of property, the administration of the membership list, and the closure of the Church.
9.3 Any decisions taken under 9.2 in relation to property must comply with the requirements of statute law and any specific property trusts under which the land and buildings are used and occupied by the church.
- ORDINARY AND SPECIAL CHURCH MEMBERS’ MEETINGS
10.1 There are two types of formal Church Members’ Meetings, Ordinary Church Members’ Meetings and Special Church Members’ Meetings.
10.2 Ordinary Church Members’ Meetings shall be held at regular intervals on not less than four occasions in any calendar year and shall be an opportunity to consider and review routine matters associated with the life of the Church including issues related to church membership, the appointment of the Charity Trustees, the approval of the budget, with opportunities for considering proposals from the Charity Trustees or other Church Members for the development of the Church and the advancement of its Purpose through its Activities.
10.3 One Ordinary Church Members’ Meeting each year shall include the Annual Church Members’ Meeting for the Church Members to receive annual accounts and reports, to appoint Auditors or Independent Examiners, and to consider proposals for the strategy and vision of the church in the coming year, with other appropriate matters.
10.4 A Special Church Members’ Meeting shall be convened when necessary to consider the appointment or dismissal of a minister, or the dismissal of a Charity Trustee, matters relating to the purchase, sale, lease, mortgage or redevelopment of church property, the closure of the church, or matters considered by the Charity Trustees to be of sufficient importance to require the calling of a Special Members’ Meeting.
- CALLING CHURCH MEMBERS’ MEETINGS
11.1 Church Members’ Meetings shall be convened by the Charity Trustees so as to be convenient for as many Church Members as is reasonable.
11.2 An Ordinary Church Members’ Meeting shall be properly convened if as a minimum requirement the date, time and place for the meeting are publicised at the worship service or services on the previous Sunday (or other regular weekly meeting time when the Church gathers together) with an indication (if possible) of the matters to be considered.
11.3 A Special Church Members’ Meeting shall be properly convened if as a minimum requirement the date, time and place for the meeting are publicised, with as full an indication of the matters to be considered as possible, at the public worship service or services on the two previous Sundays (or other regular weekly meeting time when the Church gathers together).
11.4 Additional meetings whether Special or Ordinary shall be convened by the Charity Trustees as necessary but they shall have specific responsibility to convene a Special Church Members’ Meeting as soon as possible upon the receipt of a written request for a meeting signed by at least one tenth of the church membership or twelve Church Members, whichever is the less.
11.5 Members, invited guests, and, if publicly invited, those who normally attend church events may attend a Church Members’ Meeting but only Members may vote.
- THE CONDUCT OF CHURCH MEMBERS’ MEETINGS
12.1 Worship including prayer and the reading of Scripture shall be a key feature of the Church Members’ Meeting. The discussion of any matters affecting the life and activities of the Church shall be set in this context with the intention that, so far as possible, practical issues are not perceived as being separate from the spiritual aspects of the Church.
12.2 A quorum of 10% of the total number of Church Members (excluding Trustees) shall apply to Church Members’ Meetings.
12.3 The Church Members’ Meeting shall appoint a person (who may or may not be a Minister of the church) to chair the Church Members’ Meetings.
12.4 A resolution passed at either an Ordinary Church Members’ Meeting or a Special Church Members’ Meeting shall not be rescinded within one year, unless notice of the resolution for rescission is given at the Church Members’ Meeting prior to that at which there is to be a vote on the resolution to rescind.
- VOTING
- MINUTES
14.1 The business conducted at Church Members’ Meetings and, in particular, any decisions of the Members shall be recorded in the Minutes for future reference.
14.2 The Minutes shall be written or printed and filed in a book or binder set aside for this purpose using materials of sufficient quality to ensure that they survive for many years and shall be kept in a safe place.
14.3 Each set of Minutes shall be approved by the Church Members attending the next Church Members’ Meeting. They shall have the opportunity to review the Minutes and to correct any errors of fact before a formal vote on the approval of the Minutes is taken. If the Minutes are approved the person chairing the Church Members’ Meeting shall confirm the Members’ acceptance of the Minutes by signing and dating them as a correct record of the preceding meeting.
14.4 The signed Minutes shall be conclusive evidence of the decisions taken at the Church Members’ Meeting to which they relate.
- THE APPOINTMENT AND REMOVAL OF CHARITY TRUSTEES
15.1 The statutory definition of Charity Trustees in Section 97(1) of the Charities Act 1993 is “persons having the general control and management of the administration of a charity.
15.2 The Church Members’ Meeting shall appoint Charity Trustees to be responsible for the governance of the Church and where there is a Minister that person is a Charity Trustee because of their role and responsibilities. Subject to any specific or general directions of the Church Members’ Meeting and the provisions of 9.2 the control management and administration of the Church shall be by the Charity Trustees, save that the Charity Trustees are not required to do anything that would cause them to be in breach of this Constitution or any trustee duty placed upon them as a result of this role.
15.3 No person may serve as a Charity Trustee if they are disqualified.
15.4 Charity Trustees shall with the possible exception of any newly appointed Minister be chosen from among the Church Members with the maximum number of Charity Trustees being agreed from time to time by the Church Members’ Meeting.
15.5 In this Church it shall be the Minister(s) if any and:
- Apostle the Spiritual leader.
- Prophets
- Evangelists
- Prophetess
- Pastors
- Teachers
- Deacons
- Deaconess
- Elders
- Secretary
- Treasurer
- Leadership Team
- Other (specify title)
- Other (specify title)
- Including the Church hierachy in our structure and mandate of the council.
who together are the Charity Trustees of the Church at the time of adoption of this constitution or the registration of the Charity with the Charity Commission.
The Churches choose their secretary and treasurer from among the ‘deacons’ or Charity Trustees already chosen by the Church Members. This clause does not inhibit the operation of this process.
15.6 The Church Members’ Meeting shall arrange for the appointment of a Church Secretary and Church Treasurer (or equivalents) who shall by the nature of their responsibilities be Charity Trustees.
15.7 Any person qualified to be a Member of the Church shall be eligible for election as a Charity Trustee (unless disqualified by statute).
15.8 A close family member (spouse, parent, child, sibling) of a serving Charity Trustee shall not be eligible for appointment as a Charity Trustee..
15.9 Charity Trustees shall serve so long as they have the support of the Church Members’ Meeting and (except for those in ministerial office) shall be actively appointed and reappointed at least once every three years.
15.10 Charity Trustees (except for those in ministerial office) shall be appointed for one term of three years with the opportunity to be nominated for one further three year term only that must be followed by a vacant year when they shall not be eligible for reappointment.
15.11 The appointment of Charity Trustees shall be undertaken by processes that are public, clear and open so that all Church Members are enabled to consider prayerfully who should be appointed as Charity Trustees. The process shall ensure that notice is given of any forthcoming election so that Church Members may freely nominate prospective Charity Trustees whose names shall be submitted (after they have indicated a willingness to be appointed) for decision to the Church Members with the intention of ensuring that those appointed have a sufficient level of support from them.
15.12 In this church:
12.1 Nominations for the role of Charity Trustee other than a Minister shall be made to the Church Secretary (or equivalent) not later than three Sundays (or other regular weekly meeting time when the Church gathers together) before the Ordinary Church Members’ Meeting at which the election is to be held. Nominations must be submitted in writing with the supporting signature of two other Church Members and the consent of the candidate. No person may nominate more candidates than there are places vacant. Requests for nominations shall be made at all services on the two Sundays (or other regular weekly meeting time when the Church gathers together) immediately before that Sunday [ alternative or day ] when nominations must cease.
12.2 Where a Special Church Members’ Meeting is considering the dismissal of a Charity Trustee (except for those in ministerial office) the Charity Trustee shall be allowed to hear what is said to the Church Members’ Meeting and to correct any errors of fact and offer any explanation of the circumstances or reasons for their actions before withdrawing so that the Church Members’ Meeting may prayerfully and carefully consider whether the appointment should be terminated.
- RESPONSIBILITIES OF CHARITY TRUSTEES
16.1 The Charity Trustees shall be responsible for the governance of the Church and the fulfilment of the Purpose through its Activities acting according to the will of God as discerned by the Church Members’ Meeting and subject to any specific or general directions of the Church Members’ Meeting in relation to the matters set out in clause 9.2.
16.2 The Charity Trustees should keep in an appropriate state of repair and insure to their full value against fire and other usual risks all the buildings of the Charity (except those where the responsibility is of a third party where they shall use reasonable endeavours to ensure that the third party does so). They must ensure that suitable public liability and employer’s liability insurance is in place.
- PROCEEDINGS OF CHARITY TRUSTEES
17.1 Worship including prayer and the reading of Scripture shall be key features of any meeting of the Charity Trustees whose leadership and administration of the church shall be characterised as much by mutual accountability, service, and pastoral care, as strategic thinking and effective management.
17.2 The Charity Trustees shall determine when and how frequently they shall meet provided that they shall convene meetings of the whole group not less than once every two months.
17.3 The Charity Trustees shall determine a quorum for their full meetings that shall not be less than two persons or half of their number whichever is the greater number.
17.4 Notwithstanding the joint and several responsibilities of all the Charity Trustees and in addition to regular meetings of the whole group they may meet in such sub-groups as are necessary and convenient. Reports of such subgroup meetings must be made to the next full Charity Trustees Meeting.
17.5 Every issue may be determined by a simple majority of votes cast at a meeting of the Charity Trustees but if there is an equality of votes on any matter the resolution will be considered rejected and the matter shall be referred back to the submitter for review and if appropriate resubmission to a subsequent meeting for consideration.
17.6 The Charity Trustees shall always act in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution and the general law.
17.7 Subject to clause 9.3 the Charity Trustees shall act in accordance with the specific directions of the Church Members’ Meeting in relation to matters relating to church property including any purchase, sale, lease, mortgage or redevelopment of church property.
17.8 Minutes shall be prepared of the proceedings at the meetings of the Charity Trustees including any appointments, the names of those present, the decisions taken, and where appropriate the reasons for the decisions and the Charity Trustees shall decide from time to time whether all or part of these minutes shall be treated as confidential.
17.9 Charity Trustees shall respect the confidentiality of their meeting.
- POWERS OF CHARITY TRUSTEES
18.1 The Charity Trustees shall have specific power subject to any general or specific directions of the Church Members’ Meeting to apply for and accept grants and to provide security in respect of obligations under grant agreements.
18.2 For the avoidance of doubt the Charity Trustees shall have power to borrow money, receive grants, give guarantees and or security for loans, and to make grants or loans of money towards the advancement of the Purpose. In the event of a charge over land and/or buildings being required this must be consistent with provisions in the trusts for the land and with statute law.
18.3 For the avoidance of doubt the Charity Trustees shall have power to make grants to other charities working elsewhere in the United Kingdom and/or other parts of the world.
- APPLICATION OF INCOME AND CAPITAL
The Charity Trustees must use the income and may use the capital where trusts permit it to be spent to promote the Purpose provided that the Charity Trustees may apply an appropriate reserves policy in accordance with the general law.
- MINISTERS
20.1 The Church may have a Minister or more than one Minister or no Minister. Where a Minister is appointed it is expected that they will become a Member of the Church.
20.2 The Church can transfer any Minister from one parish to another around the globe.
20.3 All the Ministers are subject to the order of the Spiritual Leader.
20.4 Spiritual Leader’s position is a permanent till he pass away.
20.5 The Spiritual leader will pray before chosen a new leader, this is not a family business and the new leader must be honest, loyal, faithful since he or she join the Church in all ramifications.
- THE APPOINTMENT AND REMOVAL OF MINISTERS
21.1 When the Church is seeking to appoint a Minister it will normally consult the appropriate Leadership within the Association before commencing any appointment process and follow, so far as practicable, procedures and recommended terms for the settlement of Ministers.
21.2 A Minister will be appointed or removed by a resolution of the Church Members at a Special Church Members’ Meeting at any time with the approval of the Spiritual Leader.
21.3 Where a Special Church Members’ Meeting is considering the dismissal of a Minister the Minister shall be allowed to hear what is said to the Church Members’ Meeting and to correct any errors of fact and offer any explanation of the circumstances or reasons for their actions before withdrawing so that the Church Members’ Meeting may prayerfully and carefully consider whether the appointment should be terminated.
21.4 The Church and the Minister shall normally agree ‘terms and conditions of appointment’ including termination procedures based on the standard terms of appointment.
- PASTORAL VACANCIES AND THE APPOINTMENT OF A MODERATOR
When there is no appointed Minister the Church Members’ Meeting may appoint a person who is a Church Member or a member of another Church to be the Moderator (but if they do not do so then the Association may make an appointment of a suitable person) who will hold this office until a new Minister is appointed or until they resign or are released or dismissed by the Church Members’ Meeting.
- FINANCE
23.1 The Charity Trustees are jointly and severally responsible for the financial administration of the Church.
23.2 Once in each year the Charity Trustees shall present a budget of subsequent years’ projected income and expenditure at a convenient Church Members’ Meeting.
- RECORD KEEPING AND ACCOUNTING
24.1 The Church’s annual financial year will run from 1 January to 31 December.
24.2 Financial statements of all Church organisations that form part of the Activities shall be presented to the Charity Trustees and incorporated into the Church’s financial statements.
24.3 A statement of the Church Accounts (audited or independently examined as required by law) shall be received by a Church Members’ Meeting.
24.4 Financial Records, annual reports and statements of account relating to the Church for the previous six years must be available for inspection by any Charity Trustee.
24.5 The law requires Charity Trustees to make the annual report and accounts available to any person who requests these. The Charity Trustees may make a reasonable charge to cover the administration costs of meeting this request.
- CONSTITUTION
25.1 A copy of this Constitution will be made available to Church Members and to every applicant for membership with the intention that every Member shall be informed about the organisation of the Church and be enabled to participate in the life of the Church and in Church Members’ Meetings.
25.2 No amendment to be made without the consent of the Spiritual Leader.
Amendment may be made to this Constitution that would have the effect by the power of the Spiritual Leader.
25.3 All the Acts of the Trustees can be found in the MOMORANDUM OF ASSOCIATION ACT 2006 OF THE CHARITY.