CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS OF THE MOODY CHURCH

Revised and Adopted on
30 April, 2000
25 April, 1995
21 October, 1986
21 February, 1973

Preamble

We, the members of The Moody Church, in order to win men, women, and children to Christ, and to spread the gospel of the grace of God to the ends of the earth, and to build up believers in the faith and knowledge of Christ, for ourselves and for others who shall hereafter become members of The Moody Church do ordain and establish this Constitution and Bylaws for The Moody Church to which we, as members thereof, agree and voluntarily submit ourselves.

Constitution Index

Article 1. Name
Article 2. Articles of Faith
Article 3. Membership
Article 4. Government
Article 5. Business Meetings
Article 6. Executive Committee
Article 7. Commissioning, Licensing and Ordination
Article 8. Change of or Amendments to the Constitution

Bylaws Index

Article 1. Conduct of Church Members
Article 2. Church Discipline
Article 3. Warning about Worldliness
Article 4. Annual Meeting
Article 5. Committees
Article 6. Change of or Amendments to the Bylaws

Constitution

Article 1. Name

This organization shall be known as

The Moody Church

by which name it is incorporated under the laws of the state of Illinois.

Article 2. Articles of Faith

Section A.The scriptural doctrines to which we ask the assent of all applicants for membership are briefly contained in the following Articles of Faith. In subscribing to these Articles of Faith, we affirm that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are God’s own written Word, given to us through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. The knowledge and belief of the truth as stated in our Articles of Faith we deem necessary to sound doctrine and, therefore, requisite for membership at The Moody Church.

Section B. God. We believe in the only true God (Joh.17:3), the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (Mat.28:19), Who created all things (Rev.4:11), and upholds all things by the word of His power (Heb.1:3), in Whom we live and move and have our being (Act.17:28), a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He (Deu.32:4), and He shall judge the world (Psa.9:8). We believe that the Godhead eternally exists in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; and that these three are one God, having precisely the same nature, attributes, and perfections, and worthy of precisely the same homage, confidence, and obedience (Mar.12:29; Joh.1:1-4; Mat.28:19-20; Act.5:3-4; 2Co.13:14; Heb.1:1-3; Rev.1:4-6).

Section C. Scripture. We believe all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works (2Ti.3:16-17). We believe that the 66 books of the Bible are all given by the inspiration of God in the sense that the Holy Spirit guided holy men of old in their choice of the very words of the sacred writings; and that His divine inspiration is not in different degrees, but extends equally and fully to all parts of these writings: historical, poetical, doctrinal, and prophetical, and to the smallest word, provided such word was present in the original manuscripts (2Ti.3:16; 2Pe.1:21).

Section D. Man. We believe that by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for all have sinned (Rom.5:12), and judgment came upon all men to condemnation (Rom.5:18). For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord (Rom.6:23). We believe that man, originally created in the image and after the likeness of God, fell from his high and holy estate by eating the forbidden fruit, and as the consequence of his disobedience the threatened penalty of death was then and there inflicted, so that his moral nature was not only grievously injured by the fall, but he totally lost all spiritual life, becoming dead in trespasses and sins, and subject to the power of the devil (Gen.1:26, 3:17; Eph.2:1-3; 1Jo.3:8).

Section E. Salvation. We believe there is no other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved (Act.4:12). For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ (1Co.3:11). We also believe that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures (Col.1:21-22); and that He was buried and rose again the third day according to the Scriptures (1Co.15:3-4), and sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high (Heb.1:3), now to appear in the presence of God for us (Heb.9:24). We believe that God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life (Joh.3:16), and he that believeth not God hath made Him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of His Son, and this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in His Son (1Jo.5:10-11); he that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life, and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life but the wrath of God abideth on him (Joh.3:36), who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of His power (2Th.1:9). We believe that Christ, in the fullness of the blessings He has secured by His obedience unto death, is received by faith alone, and that the moment we trust in Him as our Savior we pass out of death into everlasting life, being justified from all things, accepted before the Father according to the measure of His acceptance, loved as He is loved, and having His place and portion, as linked unto Him, and one with Him forever (Joh.5:24; Act.13:39; Rom.5:1; Eph.2:4-9; 1Jo.4:17, 5:11-12).

Section F. Second Coming. We believe in the imminent personal return of Christ for His church (1Th.4:16-17) and His premillennial coming to establish His kingdom on earth. Be ye therefore ready also; for the Son of Man cometh at an hour when ye think not (Luk.12:40; Tit.2:13). Although many people are being converted in this age, through the obedience of the church to the Great Commission (Mat.28:19-20), we also believe that the world is ripening for judgement. A fearful apostasy in the professing Christian body (Mat.24:24; 2Th.2:3-12; 2Ti.3:1-5) will culminate with the coming of Christ to establish His millennial kingdom, when Israel shall be restored to their own land and the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord (Jer.33; Zec.14; Rom.11:25-27).

Section G. Holy Spirit. We believe that the Holy Spirit was given on the day of Pentecost to unify all believers into one body, the church, in fulfillment of the promise Jesus gave to the apostles (Act.1:5; 1Co.12:13; Eph.4:3-6, 11-13). His presence in the lives of believers is revealed by His fruit: love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and self-control (Gal.5:22-23). We believe that the Holy Spirit, not as an influence, but as a Divine Person (Rom.8:27; Eph.4:30; 1Co.12:11), the source and power of all acceptable worship and service, is our abiding Comforter and Helper (Joh.14:16-17; 15:26; 16:13-14), that He never takes His departure from the church, nor from the feeblest of the saints (Eph.1:13-14), but is ever present to testify of Christ, seeking to occupy us with Him and not with ourselves nor with our experiences (Joh.7:38-39; Act.1:8; Rom.8:9).

Section H. Christian Living. We believe that we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works which God has before ordained that we should walk in them, remembering our responsibility to pray for all those in authority and to do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith (Eph.2:8-10; 1Ti.2:1-2; Gal.6:10). We believe that we are called with a holy calling to walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit, and so to live in the Spirit that we should not fulfill the lusts of the flesh; but the flesh being still in us to the end of our earthly pilgrimage, needs to be kept constantly in subjection to Christ, or it will surely manifest its presence to the dishonor of His name (Rom.8:12, 13:14; Gal.5:16-25; Eph.4:22-24; Col.3:1-10; 1Pe.1:14-16; 1Jo.3:5-9).

Section I. Church. We believe that the church is composed of all who are united by the Holy Spirit to the risen and ascended Son of God; that by the same Spirit we are all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, and thus, being members one of another, we are responsible in good conscience to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, loving one another with a pure heart fervently (Mat.16:16-18; Act.2:32-47; Rom.12:5; 1Co.12:12-27; Eph.1:20-23, 4:3-10; Col.3:14-15). We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ, who is the Head over all the church (Eph.1:22), commanded His people to observe two ordinances, neither of which is essential to salvation or to membership at The Moody Church, but both of which are an evidence of obedience and fellowship with the Lord. In neither of them has the unbeliever any part. Jesus commanded us to teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit (Mat.28:19). Furthermore, in the same night in which He was betrayed, He took bread, and when He had given thanks He broke it and said, “Take, eat. This is My body which is broken for you. This do in remembrance of Me.” After the same manner, also, He took the cup when He had supped, saying, “This cup is the New Testament in my blood. This do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of Me. For as often as ye eat this bread and drink this cup, ye do proclaim the Lord’s death until He come” (1Co.11:23-26). In accordance with His command, therefore, we observe the ordinances of believer’s Baptism and the Lord’s Supper.

Article 3. Membership

Section A. Those twelve years of age and over who desire to unite with The Moody Church, upon confession of faith, shall be examined by the Executive Committee as to their Christian experience, the basis of their salvation and their doctrinal belief. All applicants shall be required to give written assent to the Constitution and Bylaws before their acceptance into membership.

Section B. Such applicants for membership whose examination shows satisfactory fitness, and are affirmed by consensus of The Moody Church members through a publishing of names in the bulletin for two consecutive Sundays prior to the meeting of the Executive Committee, must be approved by two-thirds majority vote of the Executive Committee preceding the Sunday designated for the public reception of new members. Upon their approval by the Executive Committee, the applicants shall be notified when to appear to be received into membership, except insofar as provided for in Constitution Article 3, Section C.

Section C. In case of application for membership by those whose circumstances make it impossible for them to appear before the membership to be publicly received into fellowship of The Moody Church, the applicants shall fill out a form certifying their acceptance of and agreement to the Constitution and Bylaws, and shall also satisfy the Executive Committee as to their Christian experience and doctrine. The members of the Executive Committee, upon being satisfied as to the fitness of such applicants to become members of The Moody Church, shall recommend them to The Moody Church membership by a publishing of names in the bulletin for two consecutive Sundays prior to the meeting of the Executive Committee. Being duly affirmed by the consensus of The Moody Church members, then approved by a two-thirds majority vote of the Executive Committee, and upon subscribing to the Constitution and Bylaws, such applicants may be received into membership without appearing in person.

Section D. In regard to those who give evidence of regeneration and express a desire to become members of The Moody Church, it shall be required that they attend an instruction class before consideration of acceptance.

Section E. Members in good standing leaving the local area permanently, or for at least a year, may request associate membership by making application to the Executive Committee in writing.

1. This associate membership has no voting rights. It is solely a means of maintaining the fellowship bond between The Moody Church and the believer. Upon return to the local area and application in writing to the Executive Committee, full membership may be restored.

2. There are, on occasion, persons desiring associate membership who have never been members of The Moody Church. Examples of such are a student or serviceman whose permanent residence is out of Chicago, or the spouse of a Moody Church missionary whose membership is with his/her home church. Provision is hereby made that, with the approval of the Executive Committee, such persons as indicated in the above examples or in similar circumstances, may become associate members on the following terms:

• a. Each applicant should give evidence of conversion and be required to give written assent to the Constitution and Bylaws.
• b. When possible, he/she shall be received into associate membership at one of the Sundays designated for the public reception of new members.
• c. Associate members will not have voting privileges, nor may they hold office in The Moody Church in any position where election to such office is voted upon by The Moody Church membership.
• d. The associate member roll shall be reviewed periodically by the Executive Committee to insure that those whose names are listed still wish to remain as associate members. Associate members may be dropped from the roll if all efforts to make contact with them are unsuccessful.
• e. Associate membership does not qualify a student or serviceman for support as a missionary.

Section F. The following is The Moody Church Covenant of membership and is read at each reception of new members:

We, the members of The Moody Church, do join together in the fellowship of the Gospel. We covenant together, God helping us, that we will love one another, pray for one another, and seek to help one another grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

We will put away from us all bitterness, wrath, anger, and evil speaking; and we will be kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another even as God for Christ’s sake has forgiven us.

We will not forsake the assembling of ourselves together for worship and service, but will honor the Word of God and will seek to follow those who have the spiritual rule over us. We will be good stewards of all that God has given us, and will give as God has prospered us, not grudgingly or of necessity, for God loves a cheerful giver.

We will seek to win others to Christ by sharing the Gospel in word and deed. As we have the opportunity, we will do good to all men, especially those who are of the household of faith. We will strive to carry out His commission to spread the Gospel throughout the whole world.

Section G.Anyone preaching or teaching regularly in any ministry of The Moody Church is required to be a member or associate member in good standing.

Section H.Membership in The Moody Church may terminate in the following ways:

1. By Transfer. Letters of transfer to churches of like faith shall be granted to members who apply for them, provided that such members are in good standing and not subject to or under discipline at the time of application. Applications for transfer from The Moody Church, and requests for recommendation for membership in sister churches, should be made in writing to:

The Moody Church Clerk
1635 N. LaSalle Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60614

giving full information as to the name and location of the church with which the applicant desires to be affiliated. Letters of transfer will be sent to the church in which the applicant is seeking membership.

2. By Request. Request for termination of membership may be made in writing to the Clerk.

3. By Exclusion. It is right, proper, and in harmony with the Scriptures to exclude from this fellowship  any member who holds false and heretical doctrines (Gal.1:8-9), or who lives inconsistently with a Christian profession or in violation of the law and/or public morals, or walks disorderly (2Th.3:6-11; 1Co.5:11), or any member who would disturb the unity and peace of The Moody Church (Tit.3:10-11; Bylaws Article 2).

4. By Prolonged Absence. The Executive Committee may drop from the membership roll those who have been absent for a prolonged period of time and whose address cannot be located.

Article 4. Government

Section A. The government of The Moody Church is vested in its membership

Section B. All other powers not specifically reserved in the membership of The Moody Church shall be delegated to the an Executive Committee; such powers include the examination of candidates for membership, church discipline, appropriation of moneys, and supervision of suborganizations. The Executive Committee will consist of the incumbents of the following offices chosen and elected as hereinafter set forth, namely: Senior Pastor, Pastoral Staff, Elders, Deacons, Trustees, Clerk, Assistant Clerk, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer, Director of Ushers, Assistant Director of Ushers, Director of Sunday School, Assistant Director of Sunday School, and of such other offices as may at any time be designated by the Executive Committee.

Section C. All officers must be members of The Moody Church and at the first meeting of the Executive Committee following the Annual Meeting, each member of the Executive Committee shall be required to subscribe to the statements of doctrine contained in the Constitutions and Bylaws. These signatures shall be procured by the Clerk and kept in the records of The Moody Church.

Article 5. Business Meetings

Section A. Regular business meetings of The Moody Church membership shall be held twice yearly in the months of October, known as the Annual Meeting, and April, known as the Semi-annual Meeting. The Senior Pastor shall be chairman of all regular business meetings. When the office of Senior Pastor is vacant, the chairman of the Elders will act as interim chairman. The chairman shall arrange the details of these meetings and make necessary preparation for their proper conduct.

Section B. Prior to the Semi-annual Meeting each year, the Executive Committee shall choose and select three of its members, one of whom must be an Elder, to serve on the Nominating Committee. Thereupon, the membership at the Semi-annual Meeting shall choose and select three others to serve on the Nominating Committee who are not members of the existing Executive Committee. They shall have been members of The Moody Church in good standing for at least one year. One of these shall be a teacher or officer of the Sunday School. The said six members so chosen shall constitute the Nominating Committee of which the appointed Elder shall be chairman. The Senior Pastor may attend meetings of the Nominating Committee, if required to do so, for the purpose of consultation.

Section C. The Nominating Committee so chosen shall select, prepare, and submit a list of candidates for the various offices to be filled at the ensuing election to be held at the Annual Meeting. All such candidates shall have been members of The Moody Church in good standing for at least one year prior to the date of the said election. Offices to be filled will be those of Elders, Deacons, and Trustees (in accordance with the rotation set forth in Constitution Article 6), Clerk, Assistant Clerk, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer, Director of Sunday School, and Assistant Director of Sunday School. Before presenting its list of candidates to The Moody Church membership, the Nominating Committee shall carefully and thoroughly investigate the character and fitness of all its nominees and, in so doing, shall present to each prospective candidate the following interrogations, which must be answered affirmatively before favorable consideration of any candidate can be entertained:

1. Do you believe the entire Bible to be the verbally inspired Word of God?
2. Have you read the scriptural qualifications for the office of a Deacon (1Ti.3:8-15)?
3. Have you read the Constitution and Bylaws of The Moody Church, and are you in hearty accord therewith in every particular?
4. Do you maintain regular family devotions?
5. Do you consistently engage in personal evangelism and seek to lead others to Christ?
6. Do you practice proportionate giving as taught in the Scriptures and as indicated in Bylaws Article 1, Section C?
7. Are you opposed, both in theory and in practice, to indulgence in all questionable amusements and practices, such as indicated in Bylaws Article 3, Sections A-E?
8. Do you refuse to engage in any doubtful or unscriptural practices in connection with the business in which you are engaged?
9. If married, is your wife in harmony with your religious convictions?
10. If elected to office, will you faithfully perform any duties of your office and attend meetings of the Executive Committee as regularly as possible?

Section D. The Nominating Committee shall cause its report and list of candidates to be published in the bulletin for two consecutive Sundays immediately preceding the date of the Annual Meeting.

Section E. The Annual Meeting of The Moody Church membership shall be held during the month of October in each year. The procedure at such a meeting is governed by Bylaws Article 4.

Section F. The Moody Church membership may be called together for the transaction of any special business by a majority vote of the Executive Committee, by the Senior Pastor, or by a group of members of The Moody Church equal to the number of members of the then Executive Committee. Printed notice of the time and purpose of such a meeting shall be given at two regular church services, the first of which shall be two Sundays preceding the day of the business meeting. The Clerk shall call said meeting to order and keep the minutes thereof. A chairman shall be chosen by a majority vote of the members present.

Article 6. Executive Committee

Section A. Senior Pastor. Upon recommendation of the Executive Committee, the Senior Pastor shall be chosen by the vote of not less than two-thirds of the members called for the purpose by notice given at public worship on the two preceding Sundays.

1. No name may be brought before The Moody Church membership for consideration unless he is supported by three-fourths of the Executive Committee present at a meeting called for the express purpose of making a recommendation to The Moody Church membership.
2. Only such men shall be considered as can and will conscientiously and without mental reservation subscribe to the Constitution and Bylaws. The Senior Pastor shall be the spiritual leader of The Moody Church and its chief administrative officer. He shall be chairman of the Executive Committee, a member of the Elders, and an ex officio member of all subcommittees.

Section B. Pastoral Staff. Additional Pastoral Staff may be called in the same manner and on the same conditions as outlined in Constitution Article 6, Section A.

Section C. Elders. There shall be not less than seven and not more than twelve active Elders (excluding the Senior Pastor and any life members) chosen from among the married male members of The Moody Church who have served for at least three years on the Executive Committee. Elders shall be elected for a term of seven years, so long as they continue as members of The Moody Church in good standing. Elders shall be qualified by, and perform the duties of their office as outlined in, the Scriptures (1Ti.3:1-7; Tit.1:5-9; 1Pe.5:1-4). They shall have the spiritual oversight of The Moody Church and shall, together with the Senior Pastor, seek by every means possible to maintain the highest spiritual welfare of The Moody Church. The Elders shall appoint Deaconesses who will serve under their direction. When the term of office of an Elder expires, he shall be eligible for re-election. The Elders may bring a unanimous recommendation to the Executive Committee to the effect that an Elder who has completed two consecutive terms of office and who has, in their judgment, rendered valuable service to The Moody Church, should be elected as a life member of the Elders. Such an appointment would require a three-fourths majority of the Executive Committee present and voting at a regular meeting.

Section D. Deacons. There shall be a minimum number of nine Deacons, elected for a term of three years, who qualify as set forth in 1Ti.3:3-13. Deacons shall assist in the administration of the Lord’s Supper and serve in such other scriptural duties as shall be assigned to them by the Executive Committee. They will seek in every way possible to encourage fellowship among the members of The Moody Church. Approximately one-third of the elected numbers of Deacons shall retire by rotation each year. When the term of office expires they shall be eligible for re-election.

Section E. Trustees. There shall be five Trustees, one to be elected each year. The term of office shall be five years. Trustees must be resident and in actual attendance upon the duties of this office. The duties, powers, and responsibilities of the Trustees shall be as the laws of the state of Illinois vest in such office, and as they shall be assigned thereto by the Executive Committee. In particular, they shall have the responsibility of maintenance, insurance, and repair of The Moody Church properties, and shall assume the supervision of maintenance personnel. They shall not, however, be entitled to incur obligations on behalf of The Moody Church except as approved by the Executive Committee.

Section F. Treasurer. The Treasurer shall be elected for a term of one year and shall keep, in conjunction with the Business Administrator (or other of similar title or function), proper books of account of all church funds, receipts, and disbursements; shall submit the books of account for an audit in such a manner as may be prescribed and directed by the Executive Committee; and shall prepare and present a complete and comprehensive financial statement and annual report to The Moody Church membership at the Annual Meeting.

Section G. Assistant Treasurer. The Assistant Treasurer shall be elected for a term of one year. In the case of the absence, death, resignation, or other inability of the Treasurer to act and perform the duties, functions, and responsibilities of his office, the Assistant Treasurer shall act in the said capacity.

Section H. Clerk. The Clerk shall be elected for a term of one year. He shall take the minutes of all business meetings of the membership and the Executive Committee and shall keep a record of all the business transacted at such meetings. He shall also procure after the Annual Meeting the signature of each member of the Executive Committee to the Constitution and Bylaws.

Section I. Assistant Clerk. The Assistant Clerk shall be elected for a term of one year. In case of the absence, death, resignation, or other inability of the Clerk to act and perform the duties, functions, and responsibilities of his office, the Assistant Clerk shall act in the said capacity.

Section J. Director of Sunday School. The Director of Sunday School shall be elected for  a term of one year. He shall be the chief executive officer of the Sunday School. He shall perform such duties as are prescribed for him in the Sunday School Constitution.

Section K. Assistant Director of Sunday School. The Assistant Director of Sunday School shall be elected for a term of one year and shall perform all such duties as may be assigned to him by the Director of Sunday School. In case of the absence, death, resignation, or other inability of the Director to act and perform the duties, functions, and responsibilities of his office, the Assistant Director shall act in the said capacity.

Section L. Director of Ushers. The Director of Ushers shall be elected for a term of one year. He shall be responsible for the seating arrangements at the services and meetings of The Moody Church, and the receiving of all offerings at such meetings. To assist him in his work, the Director of Ushers shall choose and train a band of ushers and assistants.

Section M. Assistant Director of Ushers. The Assistant Director of Ushers shall be elected for a term of one year and shall perform all such duties as may be assigned to him by the Director of Ushers. In case of the absence, death, resignation, or other inability of the Director to act and perform the duties, functions, and responsibilities of his office, the Assistant Director shall act in the said capacity.

Section N. The Senior Pastor, Pastoral Staff, and all officers shall serve until their elected period of service is terminated or until their resignation is offered to or requested by the Elders. Such resignation or termination may then be recommended to the Executive Committee for confirmation. A reasonable period of notice from one to three months should be given. In the event that the Senior Pastor should become non-resident or in any way incapable of continuing in active service, the Elders may declare his office vacant, and may recommend a temporary replacement to the Executive Committee until a permanent replacement may be found.

Article 7. Commissioning, Licensing, and Ordination

Section A. Commissioning, acknowledging God’s call for a special ministry assignment, may be granted to individuals or groups as directed by the Elders.

Section B. A license to perform marriages and other ministerial functions my be granted to candidates called to full-time Christian service. The call and qualifications of the candidate will be reviewed by the Senior Pastor and/or the Elders and, if his application is approved by the Elders, it will be recommended to the Executive Committee for ratification. Licensing is often a preliminary step to ordination at a later time.

Section C. Ordination to proclaim the gospel of the grace of God and administer the ordinances may be granted to candidates called to the ministry of preaching. Candidates must submit their application in writing to the Elders substantiating their ordination request, complete certain ordination study requirements as set forth by the Elders, and have at least one year of acceptable public preaching experience. The call, qualifications, and completed study requirements of the candidate will be reviewed by the Senior Pastor, Pastoral Staff, and Elders and, if unanimously approved, will require ratification by the Executive Committee.

Section D. Commissioning, Licensing or Ordination by The Moody Church can be rescinded in cases where the recipient fails to live consistently with, or minister upholding the standards, presented in Scripture and affirmed in The Moody Church Constitution and Bylaws. Any recommendation for the rescinding of Commissioning, Licensing or Ordination must be made in writing to the Elders and signed by at least three people (1Ti.5:19). Once the recommendation is submitted to the Elders, the process will follow the procedures outlined in Bylaws Article 2, Paragraphs 6 and 7, regarding church discipline.

Article 8. Change of or Amendments to the Constitution

The Moody Church may make any changes to the Constitution or amendments thereto which may be deemed necessary and proper. Such changes or proposed amendments shall be mailed to the members at least two weeks preceding the date of the special meeting called for the consideration of such proposed changes or amendments. The vote of two-thirds of the members in attendance shall be required for their adoption, providing a quorum (Bylaws Article 4, Section A) is present.

Bylaws

Article 1. Conduct of Members

Section A. We shall require of each other in our daily life and conduct to give loyal obedience to all the moral and spiritual teachings laid down in the Word of God so plainly as to need no definition.

Section B. We urge upon each other the observance of all public and private means of edification, such as regular attendance upon the services of God’s house, including the Lord’s Supper and believer’s Baptism; the daily, systematic reading of the Bible, private and family prayer; personal and public testimony, and the winning of others to Christ.

Section C. Because we believe that proportionate giving is clearly taught in the Word of God (Mal.3:8-11; 1Co,16:2; 2Co.8:11-12), we urge our members to covenant and pledge themselves to a systematic contribution for the support and maintenance of The Moody Church, of such a portion of their income as they believe God requires of them according to the principle laid down in 1 Corinthians 16:2.

Article 2. Church Discipline

Section A. Because of the sensitive nature of church discipline, it shall be administered according to the following principles:

1. It shall be corrective in its nature. The intention shall be that the erring member be brought to full restoration within The Moody Church.

2. Corrective discipline implies imperfection and a tendency to sin and to cause offense. Every effort should first be made, therefore, to clear up difficulties and remove offenses before church action is taken.

3. The Elders may recommend to the Executive Committee different kinds of discipline in accordance with the offense. Some cases, which may not be adjudged as deserving of excommunication, may entail suspension from ministry within The Moody Church or abstinence from the Lord’s Supper. At the end of the suspension, the Executive Committee shall determine whether the member shall be restored to good standing because of evidence of repentance and right living, or whether further corrective measures shall be imposed.

4. Discipline may be recommended for the following offenses:

a. A member who is absent from the services of The Moody Church for a period of twelve months without giving a satisfactory reason for such absence.

b. A member exhibiting indifference to his/her covenant as stated in Constitution Article 3, Section F.

c. A member who, after coming into the membership, is found to be out of harmony with the practices of The Moody Church, or whose conduct or doctrine is called into question.

5. Any member of The Moody Church, having heard of an offense, should go privately to the person in question to seek a resolution of the matter (according to Mat.5:23-24,18:15-17). If the matter is unresolved, either because the accused denies wrongdoing or refuses to repent, the second step is to ask one or two of the Elders/Senior Pastor/Pastoral Staff to join in the reconciliation process. If, in the opinion of the Elders/Senior Pastor/Pastoral Staff, the matter merits further consideration, the Elders may then be informed of the facts.

6. The Elders may elect to deal with that matter confidentially. If such measures fail, the Executive Committee may be told of the matter. The accused should be notified in writing of the charges and the procedure of discipline. The accused does have the right to defend himself/herself at an agreed meeting of the Executive Committee at some definite date and time, not less than one week following the forwarding of said notice to appear. The accused, on being notified, may immediately choose any member of the Executive Committee to assist and represent him/her in the examination and hearing on the charges indicated. The chairman of the Executive Committee shall appoint one of its members to present the charges and proofs in support thereof.

7. After a full and impartial hearing of all the witnesses accessible, and all the facts ascertainable, if, by majority vote, the Executive Committee finds the charges have been sustained and the guilt of the accused member established, the Elders shall recommend to the Executive Committee a form of discipline deemed appropriate to the offense. The said form of discipline shall be ratified by majority vote of the Executive Committee.

8. If the offense is deserving of public mention, before said discipline is applied, The Moody Church membership shall be informed of the matter and encouraged to urge the erring member to repent. No member’s name shall be taken from the membership roll until at least four weeks after The Moody Church membership has been so informed. If there is no repentance, the form of discipline ratified by the Executive Committee will be applied and The Moody Church membership will be notified. The failure or refusal on the part of the accused to appear for trial or to answer the charges shall not prevent the Executive Committee from hearing the evidence and rendering a finding on the proofs presented. The person(s) concerned shall be proceeded against in conformity with the conditions that the member(s) signed in coming into membership, as follows:

“ If I at any time find myself out of harmony with the Constitution and Bylaws of The Moody Church, or if my conduct or doctrine is called in question, and if the matter is taken up by the Executive Committee, I agree to submit the differences or charges to the Executive Committee, and if it is found that I am unwilling to settle the differences or charges on scriptural grounds, I hereby authorize the Executive Committee to drop my name from the membership roll and to announce such action publicly at a succeeding regular meeting of The Moody Church.”

Section B. The Moody Church also has the right to restore disciplined members who give satisfactory evidence of repentance (2Co.2:6-8). The purpose of the discipline having been accomplished, the Executive Committee shall advise The Moody Church membership of the restoration of the penitent member.

Article 3. Warning Against Worldliness

Section A. In view of the apparent increase of worldliness among Christians, it is necessary that The Moody Church call the attention of believers who would join The Moody Church membership to the plain teaching of God’s Word concerning worldly amusements, and having fellowship and entangling alliances with unbelievers, as given in the following and many other passages:

1. “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” (2Co.6:14-7:1)

2. “It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine nor anything whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.” (Rom.14:21)

Section B.The above Scriptures plainly admonish the child of God to abstain from the unwholesome pleasures and conformity to the world in conduct and questionable practices which mar his/her fellowship with Christ or might be a stumbling block to others, particularly the weak.

Section C. Although each believer is in a different stage of spiritual growth, we believe that each should strive, in dependence upon God, to abstain from all forms of sensuality, whether found in music, films, reading material, or any other kind of entertainment. We should be free from all habits and chemical indulgences that would enslave us and be separate from all worldliness such as the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. (1Jo.2:15-17)

Section D. We must not be involved in any practices which are considered cause for church discipline such as being united with unbelievers in secret oath-bound organizations, indulging in the occult, sexual immorality, etc.

Section E. In those matters that are of themselves neutral, we must follow the principles given by the Apostle Paul:

1. We should not judge each other in those activities where participation may be acceptable for one believer but not for another (Rom.14:1-8).

2. We should curb our liberty if our actions cause a brother or sister to stumble, be made weak, or be offended (Rom.14:13). The fact that we have liberty in a given matter does not mean we should necessarily exercise it. Paul taught that if meat caused his brother to stumble, he would not eat meat as long as he lived (1Co.8:13).

3. We must have a clear conscience. If we cannot believe that God is pleased with our conduct, then for us it is wrong even if, in itself, the action may be right. We must believe we have God’s blessing for what we do, or else we are living in disobedience (Rom.14:22-23).

4. We must not merely separate right from wrong, but the good from the best. Many activities may be neither harmful to the participant nor to others, but are a distraction from more important spiritual duties (1Co.6:12).

5. We must do all for the glory of God, believing that He is honored by our conduct (Col.3:17).

Section F. The foregoing (2Co.6:14-7:1) also plainly teaches that Christians should not marry unbelievers.

Section G. By reason of the present laxity in divorce laws, and the prevalence of Christians to resort thereto, it is considered necessary that these guidelines be observed:

1. Christ taught: “And I say to you, whosoever shall put away put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, commits adultery” (Mat.19:9). While every attempt must be made to reconcile the partners of the marriage, sexual immorality (which is the meaning of the word “fornication”) can be grounds for divorce and subsequent remarriage.

2. Paul gives the second instance of a breach of covenant: “But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace” (1Co.7:15). The word “depart” refers to the dissolution of the marriage bond, and the freedom Paul speaks about includes the right to remarry. The verse applies only to those marriages in which the unbeliever departs because of the professed conversion of the spouse.

3. Since The Moody Church is committed to marry only those couples who are dedicated Christians and appear to have a scriptural basis for a happy, compatible marriage, the Senior Pastor and Pastoral Staff are under no obligation to perform a wedding even if a couple meets the above criteria for marriage or remarriage. Reconciliation must be sought whenever possible and each case of anticipated marriage will be considered separately.

Article 4. Annual Meeting

Section A. The chairman shall call the meeting to order. The Clerk shall be ex officio clerk of the meeting. A quorum necessary to carry on the Annual Meeting of The Moody Church shall consist of twice the number of members of the then existing Executive Committee.

Section B. The order of business for the Annual Meeting shall be substantially as follows:

1. The reading of the minutes of the previous Annual Meeting, and any subsequent special business meetings of the membership of The Moody Church.

2. Unfinished business.

3. Reports of the Senior Pastor, Pastoral Staff, Elders, Trustees, Clerk, and Treasurer shall be given at this Annual Meeting. The reports of all other committees and organizations of The Moody Church shall be made available in written form.

4. Report of the Nominating Committee.

5. Election of officers for the ensuing year and appointment of tellers by the chairman. Voting shall be done by a secret ballot permitting a vote for or against individuals nominated. A candidate must have a simple majority of the votes cast in order to be elected. Members of The Moody Church shall be encouraged to submit names to the Nominating Committee up to 60 days prior to the Annual Meeting. The Nominating Committee shall then proceed to examine persons so named as to their character and fitness for the office.

6. New Business.

Article 5. Committees

Section A. At least 60 days prior to the Annual Meeting, the Senior Pastor and Elders shall recommend to the Executive Committee the number of regular standing committees they deem necessary. The naming and appointing of members to their respective tasks shall be considered by the Senior Pastor and the three members of the Executive Committee who served on the current Nominating Committee. The recommendation of this group, known as the Committee on Committees, shall be brought before the Executive Committee for approval. Each subcommittee may draft a maximum of four members of The Moody Church in good standing to assist them in their duties but not to attend Executive Committee meetings. Members so drafted may be women, if desired. All such members shall be approved by the Executive Committee, and will have full voting rights on the subcommittees on which they serve.

Section B. The purpose of the subcommittees as formed shall be:

1. To carry out the decisions of the Executive Committee with utmost expedition, and to undertake such duties as may from time to time be allotted to them by the Executive Committee.

2. To promote and speed the task of world evangelization committed to the church, making such recommendations to the Executive Committee for this purpose as they may deem advisable.

Section C.No subcommittee shall be entitled to obligate The Moody Church either financially or in matters of policy without sanction of the Executive Committee.

Section D. The Treasurer shall be assisted in his duties by a Finance Committee who shall be responsible to the Executive Committee for all financial matters affecting The Moody Church. No official of The Moody Church shall be entitled to incur expenditure without the sanction of a Finance Committee who shall obtain the approval of the Executive Committee for all expenditures they may recommend. Each subcommittee shall operate upon an annual budget approved by the Finance Committee, and shall not be entitled to exceed this amount without application to that Committee.

Section E. The Elders and Trustees shall, at their first meeting after the Annual Meeting, choose their respective chairman and vice-chairman. In the case of all other subcommittees, these officers shall be appointed by the Committee on Committees.

Section F. It is required that these subcommittees keep written minutes of all proceedings, business, or matters transacted in the scope of their respective meetings and functions.

Section G. The Executive Committee may make and establish such rules and regulations as it may deem advisable in addition to those outlined in Bylaws Article 5, Sections A-F, in assigning to the various subcommittees the respective powers, duties, and responsibilities of work.

Article 6. Change of or Amendments to Bylaws

The Moody Church may make any changes in the Bylaws or any amendments thereto which may be deemed necessary and proper. Such changes or proposed amendments shall be mailed to the members at least two weeks preceding the date of the special meeting called for the consideration of such proposed changes or amendments. The vote of two-thirds of the members in attendance shall be required for their adoption, providing a quorum (Bylaws Article 4, Section A) is present.