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.
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
1609 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.
