Our Constitution

Constitution of

The Upper Room Bible Church

(including Doctrinal Statement)

and the

Procedure for Restoration of Believers

The Upper Room Bible Church – Established 1972

Constitution Established 2002

Last Amended 2020

Index of the Ten Articles

I. Purpose and Doctrinal Statement

II. Board of Elders

III a. Board of Deacons

III b. Women’s Ministry Board

IV. Trustees/Treasurer

V. Pastors

VI. Other Employees

VII. Ministry/Service Committees

VIII. Members

IX. Finances

X. Procedures

Article I – Purpose

The purpose of this church shall be to make disciples of Jesus Christ through evangelism, Bible teaching, prayer, worship, fellowship, music, and missions, by any appropriate method. This shall include both evangelism (bringing people to Christ) and discipleship (bringing Christians to maturity) through the authority of God the Father, the provision of the shed blood of Jesus Christ, and the power of the Holy Spirit.

Doctrinal Statement

A. We believe the Bible, both Old and New Testaments, to be the inspired Word of God, without error in the original writings, the complete revelation of His will for the salvation of men, and the final authority for all Christian faith and life. (II Tim 3:16-17)

B. We believe in one God, Creator of all things, infinitely perfect and eternally existing in three persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. (Gen 1:1; Col 2:9; Deut 6:4; Matt 28:19; 2Cor 13:14)

C. We believe that Jesus Christ is true God and true man, having been conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He died on the cross as a sacrifice for our sins according to the Scriptures. Further, He arose bodily from the dead, ascended into heaven, where, at the right hand of the Majesty on High, He now is our High Priest and Advocate. (I Cor 15:3-4; I Jn 2:1; Lk 1:35)

D. We believe that the ministry of the Holy Spirit is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ, to convict and regenerate the unbeliever, and to indwell, guide, instruct, and empower the believer for godly living and service. (Jn 15:26; Jn 16:7-14)

E. We believe that man was created in the image of God but fell into sin and is, therefore, lost and only through regeneration by the Holy Spirit can salvation and spiritual life be obtained (Gen 1:27; Rom 3:23; Jn 3:3)

F. We believe that the shed blood of Jesus Christ and His resurrection provide the only ground for justification and salvation for all who believe, and only such as receive Jesus Christ are born of the Holy Spirit, and thus become children of God. (Heb 9:22; Rom 5:1; Jn 3:16)

G. We believe that the Lord’s Supper and Believer’s Baptism are ordinances to be observed by the Church during this present age. They are, however, not to be regarded as means of salvation. (Mt 28:19-20; I Cor 11:23-26)

H. We believe that the true Church is composed of all such persons who, through saving faith in Jesus Christ, have been regenerated by the Holy Spirit and are united together in the body of Christ of which He is the head. (Eph 4:1-6; I Cor 12:13)

I. We believe that only those who are thus members of the true and invisible church shall be eligible for membership in the local church. (Acts 2:47)

J. We believe that it is the duty of a Christian to make other disciples by giving witness in word and in deed to what God has done for them. We should seek to spread the gospel to those in Paxton, the surrounding area, and around the world. (Acts 1 8; II Cor. 5:19, 20; Rom. 1:14).

K. We believe in the personal, premillennial and imminent coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and that this Blessed Hope has a vital bearing on the personal life and service of the believer. (I Thess 4:14-16; Acts 1:11; I Jn 3:1-3)

L. We believe in the bodily resurrection of the dead, of the believer to everlasting blessedness and joy with the Lord, of the unbeliever to judgment and everlasting conscious punishment. (II Cor 5:10; Rev 20:15; II Thess 1:7-9)

Position on Cultural Issues

The Word of God never changes and our doctrinal statement will reflect that.  However, our American culture changes constantly, and issues that are contrary to His Word are continually appearing.  In this section, we address elements of our culture, which are particularly out of step with the Word of God.  Had our church been in existence in the 1850s, we may have addressed slavery, or in the 1960s we may have addressed civil rights.   Due to our evolving culture, we expect this section to be more likely to change over time.

A. We believe that God has commanded that no intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of a marriage. We believe that any form of homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, bestiality, incest, fornication, adultery, and pornography are sinful perversions of God’s gift of sex. (Gen. 2:24; Gen 19:5, 13; Lev. 18:1-30; Rom. 1:26-29; 1 Cor. 5:1; 6:9; 1 Thess. 4:1-8; Heb. 13:4)

B. We believe that the only legitimate marriage is the joining of one man and one woman. (Gen. 2:24; Rom 7:2; 1 Cor. 7:10; Eph. 5:22-23)

C. We believe that human life begins at conception and that the unborn child is a living human being. Abortion constitutes the unjustified, unexcused taking of human life. (Job 3:16; Ps. 51:5; 139:14-16; Isa. 44:24; 49:1, 5; Jer. 1:5; 20:15-18; Luke 1:44)

Article II – Board of Elders

  1. The Board of Elders shall be responsible for the overall spiritual leadership of the Church according to I Peter 5:1-4. This shall include responsibility for the elements of discipleship mentioned in the purpose statement and will include the active shepherding of ministry committees and the active identification and discipleship of potential elders and deacons (II Timothy 2:2). As Overseers, the Elders shall have ultimate responsibility in all matters regarding the church.
  2. Members: The Elder Board shall consist of three to nine men. The Elder Board shall consist of Congregational members, the Senior Pastor, and other associate Pastors as the Elder Board sees fit.
  3. Eligibility: Potential elders must meet the qualities listed in I Timothy 3:2-7. Candidates for elder shall be members of the Church and attended consistently for at least one year.
  4. Appointment: Potential candidates for the Elder Board shall be selected by the existing Elder Board and presented to the membership at the annual meeting
  5. Tenure: An elder shall serve as long as he feels led by the Lord unless dismissed for Biblical cause. If led by the Lord, an Elder may step down. If an elder steps down, he shall be considered an inactive elder. In order to preserve orderly continuity, it is preferable that an Elder serves for at least three years and announce a decision to step down during the annual appointment process.
  6. Officers: Each year, the Elder Board shall elect a chairman, vice-chairman, and secretary. The chairman shall set the agenda and preside over all elder board and membership meetings. The vice-chairman shall fill in for the chairman, and the secretary shall notify appropriate parties regarding meetings and take minutes at all elder and membership meetings. As of July 1, 2008, the chairman shall not be a pastoral elder. The Chairman is limited to no more than two consecutive full one-year terms. He may finish out an incomplete term prior to starting his two-year term.
  7. Meetings: The Elder Board shall hold a regular monthly meeting. Special meetings may be called by the Chairman upon notice of time, place, and purpose of the meeting. The Chairman of the Elder Board may also call joint meetings of the Elders and Deacons.
  8. Decision making and voting: A single member of the board cannot make a decision on any URBC business without first discussing it with the rest of the board members. Action will be taken only if a majority vote is reached. A majority vote can be obtained in a formal meeting, by email, or over the phone.
  9. Inactive Elders: An inactive elder may be called upon to act as an elder on appropriate occasions (serving communion, laying on of hands, etc.) and may rejoin the Elder Board as an active elder by the same process as any eligible Congregational member.
  10. Dismissal: An elder may be dismissed for Biblical cause by unanimous vote of the remainder of the Elder Board.

Article III a – Board of Deacons

  1. The Board of Deacons shall be responsible for the overall physical needs of the Church as delegated by the Elder Board (Acts 6). This shall include responsibility for the physical church building and property and administration of the collection and dispersal of church funds through the annual budget process. The Deacon Board shall have responsibility for actively shepherding the service committees.
  2. Members: The Deacon Board shall consist of three to nine men. Active Pastors may attend any/all meetings of the Deacon Board as non-voting members.
  3. Eligibility: Potential deacons must meet the qualities listed in I Timothy 3:8-13. Candidates for the Deacon Board shall be members of the Church and consistently attend for at least one year.
  4. Appointment: Potential candidates for the Deacon Board shall be selected by the Elder Board and presented to the Congregational membership at the annual meeting
  5. Tenure: A deacon shall serve as long as he feels led by the Lord unless dismissed for Biblical cause. If led by the Lord, a deacon may step down. In order to preserve orderly continuity, it is preferable that a deacon serves for at least three years and announces a decision to step down during the annual appointment process.
  6. Officers: Each year, the Deacon Board shall elect a chairman, vice-chairman, and secretary. The chairman shall set the agenda and preside over all Deacon Board meetings. The vice-chairman shall fill in for the chairman, and the secretary shall take minutes at all Deacon Board meetings. The Chairman is limited to no more than two consecutive full terms. He may finish out an incomplete term plus serve two one-year terms.
  7. Meetings: The Deacon Board shall hold a regular monthly meeting. Special meetings may be called by the Chairman upon notice of time, place, and purpose of the meeting.
  8. Decision making and voting: A single member of the board cannot make a decision on any Deacon business without first discussing it with the rest of the board members. Action will be taken only if a majority vote is reached. A majority vote can be obtained in a formal meeting, by email, or over the phone.
  9. Inactive Deacons: An inactive deacon may rejoin the Deacon Board as an active deacon by the same process as any eligible Congregational member.
  10. Dismissal: A deacon may be dismissed for Biblical cause by unanimous vote of the Elder Board.

Article III b – Women’s Ministry Board (WMB)

(Established 2010)

  1. The Women’s Ministry Board shall be responsible for the women’s and children’s ministries of the church and other tasks as delegated by the Elder Board (Acts 6). The Women’s Ministry Board shall have responsibility for budget line items relating to these ministries and actively shepherding service committees ministering to women and children and other tasks delegated by the Elders.
  2. Members: The Women’s Ministry Board shall consist of three to nine women. Active Pastors may attend any/all meetings of the Women’s Ministry Board as non-voting members.
  3. Eligibility: Potential WMB members must meet the qualities listed in I Timothy 3:8-13 (as understood in gender terms specific to women). Candidates for the Women’s Ministry Board shall be members of the Church and consistently attend for at least one year.
  4. Appointment: Potential candidates for the Women’s Ministry Board shall be selected by the Elder Board and presented to the Congregational membership at the annual meeting
  5. Tenure: A WMB member shall serve as long as she feels led by the Lord unless dismissed for Biblical cause. If led by the Lord, a WMB member may step down. In order to preserve orderly continuity, it is preferable that she serves for at least three years and announces a decision to step down during the annual appointment process.
  6. Officers: Each year, the Women’s Ministry Board shall elect a chairman, vice-chairman, and secretary. The chairman shall set the agenda and preside over all Women’s Ministry Board meetings. The vice-chairman shall fill in for the chairman, and the secretary shall take minutes at all Women’s Ministry Board meetings. The Chairman is limited to no more than two consecutive full terms. She may finish out an incomplete term plus serve two one-year terms.
  7. Meetings: The Women’s Ministry Board shall hold a regular monthly meeting. Special meetings may be called by the Chairperson upon notice of time, place, and purpose of the meeting.
  8. Decision making and voting: A single member of the board cannot make a decision on any Women’s Ministry business without first discussing it with the rest of the board members. Action will be taken only if a majority vote is reached. A majority vote can be obtained in a formal meeting, by email, or over the phone.
  9. Inactive Members: An inactive WMB member may rejoin the Women’s Ministry Board as an active member by the same process as any eligible Congregational member.
  10. Dismissal: A WMB member may be dismissed for Biblical cause by unanimous vote of the Elder Board.

Article IV – Trustees/Treasurer

  1. Trustees: The trustees have all powers and duties of “trustees” as the term is used in the statutory provisions of the State of Illinois pertaining to religious corporations.
  2. The trustees shall consist of the Chairman of the Elder Board, the Chairman of the Deacon Board, and the Church Treasurer.
  3. Treasurer: The Church treasurer shall be appointed by the Elder Board and shall:
    1. Have been a member of the church for at least one year
    2. Maintain the funds of the Church (write checks, etc.)
    3. Keep an accurate account of all receipts and distributions in accordance with the financial policy of the Church
    4. Prepare annual statements for the Elder and Deacon Boards
    5. Report annually to the membership

Article V – Pastors

  1. The Pastor(s) shall be responsible for teaching and interpreting the Scriptures according to Colossians 1:25-29.
  2. Eligibility: Pastoral candidates shall meet the same standard as elders (I Timothy 3:2-7), agree with the church’s doctrinal statement, and be able to work under this document.
  3. Positions: Pastoral positions may include: The Senior Pastor, the Pastor Emeritus, and Associate Pastor(s).
  4. Senior Pastor: While under the ultimate authority of the Elder Board, the Senior Pastor shall have day-to-day responsibility for all areas of ministry described in the purpose statement. He shall be responsible for either preaching or designating preaching responsibilities in his place.
  5. Pastor Emeritus: The Pastor Emeritus shall have the role of spiritual advisor and be free to pursue ministry opportunities approved by the Elder board.
  6. Associate Pastors: If the church has both the need and resources for Associate Pastors, they will assume leadership of clearly defined ministry areas under the day-to-day direction of the Senior Pastor.
  7. Appointment: The Elder Board shall appoint Pastors. Before a new pastoral position may be established, the salary line item must be established in the budget. Before any pastoral candidate is appointed, the membership must meet the candidate, hear him preach, and provide feedback to the Elder Board. The Congregational membership must confirm a new Senior Pastor with a 75% majority (see Article X, Section D) of members present.
  8. Tenure: A Pastor shall serve as long as he feels led by the Lord unless dismissed for Biblical cause.
  9. Administration: The Elders shall administer pastoral salaries, vacation, and other employment issues. The Elders shall review each pastor’s job performance annually prior to the development of the annual budget. The Senior Pastor shall have day-to-day authority over all associate pastoral staff activities.
  10. Dismissal: A Pastor may be dismissed for Biblical cause by unanimous vote of the remainder of the Elder Board.

Article VI – Other Employees

  1. Other employees shall be responsible for accomplishing the duties of their job description as unto the Lord according to Ephesians 6:7-8.
  2. Appointment: The Deacon Board shall hire all other employees subject to prior budget approval.
  3. Administration: The Deacons shall administer employee salaries, vacation, and other employment issues. The Deacons shall review the employee’s job performance annually prior to the development of the annual budget.
  4. Dismissal: An employee may be dismissed for any cause by recommendation of the Deacon Board and vote of the Elder Board.

Article VII – Ministry/Service Committees

  1. Ministry Committees: Ministry committees may be established by the Elder Board to oversee specific spiritual ministries of the church or its members. (Possible examples: Prayer, Worship, Sunday School, Wednesday Night Ministries, Evangelism, Missions, Sports Ministries, Community Impact)
  2. Service Committees: Service committees may be established by the Deacon Board to oversee specific areas pertaining to the physical needs of the church or its members. (Possible examples, Kitchen, Library, Grounds, Maintenance, Janitorial, Meals, Shut-In House Maintenance, Community Service).
  3. Accountability: Ministry committees shall be accountable to the Elder Board. Service committees shall be accountable to the Deacon Board. Women’s and children’s ministry (including Nursery) and women’s and children’s service committees shall be accountable to the WMB.
  4. Reporting: Each of the three chairpersons shall have an annual opportunity to report committee progress/needs to the Board to which the committee reports.
  5. Size/Eligibility: Committees may consist of one or more persons. All Congregational members shall be eligible for selection as committee chairpersons or members. Non-members may serve on committees subject to the approval of the supervising board. All persons working in ministries must be in regular church attendance for at least one year. Elders can make an exception based on previous observation or knowledge of previous ministry.
  6. Appointment: Committee chairpersons shall be appointed by the Board to which they report. Committee members shall be selected by the committee chairperson subject to the approval of the appropriate Board. Potential committee members shall not be approached regarding the opportunity to serve until the appropriate Board has approved their names.
  7. Tenure: The term of office, for chairpersons and committee members shall be three years; reappointment for successive terms is allowable.
  8. Expenditures: If the committee requires funds to be expended in the course of fulfilling its duties, that committee shall have a specific line item assigned to it on the annual church budget. The committee shall have the discretion to approach the church treasurer regarding the expenditure of funds from its budget line-item subject to fund availability in that line-item and in the general church account.
  9. Dismissal: A committee member may be dismissed for any cause by vote of the Board to which they report.
  10. Vacancies: The appropriate administrating Board shall appoint a committee chairperson to fill an unexpired term. A committee chairperson shall appoint committee members, subject to the appropriate Board under the appointment procedure stated above.
  11. Meetings: Each committee shall meet as often as necessary to fulfill its obligations.
  12. Duties of Committee Chairpersons:
    1. To formulate a written mission statement and short-term goals for the group subject to the approval of the appropriate administrating Board.
    2. To motivate the committee to take action to accomplish these goals

Article VIII – Members

  1. Membership: In order to become a member a person must:
    • Attend a membership class
    • Profess belief in Jesus Christ as personal Savior and Lord according to Romans 10:9-10
    • Publicly proclaim that profession by believer’s baptism. (Baptism administered by another Orthodox Church body shall be recognized as believer’s baptism. Infant baptism shall not constitute believer’s baptism. The mode of baptism in this church shall be believer’s baptism by immersion unless the individual has a physical impairment that would preclude immersion.)
    • Approve, agree, and live in accordance with the church constitution/doctrinal statement, and restoration policy.
    • Give testimony of the above facts at a meeting of the Elder Board.
    • Receive an affirmative vote of the Elder Board
  2. Membership class, at a minimum, shall include the following:
    • Signing statement of faith
    • Understand the Church’s desire for regular attendance and active service
  3. Ministry opportunities: Membership in this church is not intended to be a “spectator sport”. Members are encouraged to prayerfully:
    • Identify, understand, and use his/her God-given spiritual gift(s) to make disciples
    • Seek ministry and service opportunities
    • Approach the appropriate Board about how to implement such opportunities
    • Ministry approval will be in accordance with the vision and purpose of the church
  4. Termination: The Elder Board may place a member in inactive status subject to the church’s restoration policy. This process may include exclusion from fellowship and termination of membership. However, the ultimate goal shall always be restoration of fellowship and the subsequent reinstatement of membership. The church may also periodically purge inactive members from its roles.
  5. Voting rights: All active members 18 years old or older are eligible to vote on issues requiring a membership vote.

Article IX – Finances

  1. Finances: The Elders shall have the ultimate responsibility and authority over the funds of the church. In an effort to concentrate their attention to the spiritual matters of the church, they may delegate financial supervision to the Deacon Board as they see fit.
  2. Budget: The Church shall have an annual budget. The Elders shall create the annual church budget in advance of the annual meeting, the budget shall be discussed with the membership at the annual meeting, and the Deacons shall administrate and report on actual receipts/expenditures in relation to the budget. Each budget line item is to be administrated by the either the Elder, Deacon, or WMB.
  3. Contracts: The Elder Board may authorize any trustee(s) or agent(s) of the Church, in addition to the trustees authorized by this constitution, to enter into any contract or execute and deliver any instrument in the name of and on behalf of the Church and such authority.
  4. Deposits: All funds of the Church shall be deposited to the credit of the Church in the financial institution selected by the Elder Board. The person depositing funds shall be designated by the Elder Board and shall be someone other than the Treasurer (the person writing checks).
  5. Use of Funds: No part of the income of the Church shall be distributed to its members, board members, trustees, or other private persons with the exceptions of reasonable compensation for services rendered (I Timothy 5:18) and funds duly authorized for distribution to the needy, starting with the Church Membership (Galatians 6:10).
  6. Gifts: The Elder Board, Deacon Board, or WMB may accept or decline any contribution, gift, bequest, or device for the purpose of the ministries of the Church.

Article X – Procedures

  1. Annual meeting: The Congregational Membership shall meet annually on the third Sunday of June to hear reports from the Pastor(s), the Elder Board, the Deacon Board, the Treasurer and any other committee deemed appropriate by the Elder Board.
    1. Each Pastor report shall include an account of his ministry activities for the past year and any plans for the coming year.
    2. The Elder Board report shall include a list of the elders and deacons for the next year, a discussion of any changes to the church constitution and an account of ministry activities for the past year and any plans for the coming year.
    3. The Deacon Board report shall include a discussion of the new annual budget, any fiscal issue involving an amount outside of the annual budget, and an account of service activities for the past year and any plans for the coming year.
    4. The WMB report shall include a discussion of existing and new women’s / children’s ministries and any plans for the coming year.
    5. The Treasurer’s report shall include a discussion of actual expenditures compared to the prior year’s annual budget.
    6. The membership shall vote on any proposal presented to them according to the provisions of Section D of this Article.
  2. Communication: All items specifically mentioned above shall be available in writing to the membership at least two weeks prior to the annual meeting. A complete listing of all committee chairpersons and committee members shall be maintained by the appropriate Board and posted for the membership. A weekly reporting of all offering amounts and a quarterly reporting of budget items shall be made available to the membership.
  3. Quorum/Voting: A quorum for any Board/Committee meeting shall be a majority of those persons entitled to attend with the exception of committees of three or less which shall require the attendance of all to constitute a quorum. WMB, Deacon, Elder meetings (and votes at those meetings) shall require a minimum 2/3rds quorum. Unless stated elsewhere in this document, all decisions made by boards or committees shall require a majority vote of more than 50%.
  4. Situations Requiring a Membership Vote: Any voting proposal brought before the congregational membership must first be passed by the Elder Board or passed by the Deacon Board or WMB and approved by the Elder Board.
    • Any proposed initiatives concerning major changes to the building structure or requiring an amount greater than 25% of last year’s annual budget shall require a majority membership vote in order to pass.
    • Any proposed initiative involving the assumption of debt, the purchase of land, the building of a new building or major building addition, or the expenditure of an amount exceeding last year’s budget shall require a 75% majority of the membership vote in order to pass.
    • The calling of a Senior Pastor shall require confirmation from a 75% majority of the membership present at a special Membership meeting called for this specific purpose, in order to pass.
    • The details of any proposed initiative requiring a membership vote shall be communicated to the membership at least two weeks before a vote requiring a majority vote and four weeks before a vote requiring a 75% majority approval.
  5. Parliamentary procedure: Robert’s Rules of Order shall serve as parliamentary procedure for the Church.
  6. Fiscal Year: The fiscal year shall be July 1st to June 30.
  7. Non-Church Activities: Disseminating propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation shall constitute no substantial part of the activities of the Church. The Church shall not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office (including the publishing or distribution of statements). Notwithstanding any other provisions of this constitution, the Church shall not conduct activities not permitted by a corporation:
    Exempt from Federal income tax under Section 501(c) (3)
    To which contributions are deductible under Section 170(c) (2)
    According to the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended, (or the corresponding provisions of any future United States Internal Revenue Law).
  8. Dissolution: Upon the dissolution of the Church, the Elder Board shall, after paying or taking provisions for the payment of all liabilities of the Church, dispose of all assets of the Church exclusively for such organization(s) operated exclusively for the furtherance of the gospel of Jesus Christ and qualified under Section 501 ( c ) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 (or corresponding provisions of any future United States Internal Revenue Law). The Circuit Court of Ford County shall dispose any assets not so disposed.
  9. Use of Church Facilities: Church facilities shall be used only in accordance with Doctrinal Statements and positions on cultural issues as detailed in Article I of this constitution. Specifically, wedding and funeral events shall be approved by the Elder Board. Other events shall be approved by the Deacon Board with any issues or concerns being directed to the Elder Board.
  10. Amendments: This constitution shall be amended only by vote of the Elder Board.

Procedure for Restoration of Believers

The Upper Room Bible Church

“Our goal is to see that people are restored in their relationship with the Lord and that the testimony of God’s holiness is not compromised.”

There are times when believers fall away into sinful lifestyles. The Bible tells us that the church body should intervene in these situations and gives very specific instructions for the process.

Some groups call this process “church discipline”. We believe, however, that since the ultimate goal is not discipline, but restoration, that this process is more correctly called ‘restoration.”

At Issue: A Lifestyle of Sin If a brother or sister is currently, blatantly, persistently, adamantly, and consciously engaging in a lifestyle of sin such as those described in 1 Corinthians 5 (Immorality, covetousness, idolatry, reviling {abusiveness}, drunkenness, and swindling) and another member of the body becomes aware, the biblical process of restoring that individual should take place. Please notice that this process applies to a certain set of stated blatant sins, not to every doctrinal or personal disagreement between believers (see Romans 14 and I Corinthians 8.)

The Goal: A Right Relationship with God A right relationship with God comes from the redemptive work of Jesus Christ on the cross. Once a person becomes a believer, they are new creations in Christ and are called to put off the old way of life and its sinful ways and to put on a lifestyle consistent with their profession of Christ as Savior and Lord.

The Problem: Sin While delivered from the domination of sin and the slavery to sin (Rom 6), we know that sin still exists even in the life of the believer (Rom 7). Sin, which is rebellion against God, can be destructive to the believer, detrimental to fellow believers, a stumbling block to the lost, and is an offense to a Holy God. The Lord said to us through James that we are tempted when we are carried away and enticed by our own lust and that when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death. (James 1:13-16)

The Answer: The Holy Spirit working through the dynamic of the Body of Christ

The Bible commands us to bear one another’s burdens, love one another, and serve one another (balanced with the admonitions to not be busybodies). What should our response be to a brother or sister who is a member of our church who persists in a sinful lifestyle? This is especially important for us to consider given the corporate nature of the church. We are part of one another and our actions affect not only ourselves, but ultimately have consequences on the lives of others. We should also be concerned about the spiritual well-being of others and the possible damage that a persistently sinful lifestyle could have on others.

Sidebar: Gossip is also a sin. The members of this church should not use this Restoration Process as an excuse for gossip. It is proper to talk to the person about his lifestyle, not about the person’s lifestyle to someone else – even under the pretext of praying for that person.

What is at stake? – The fellowship of this individual with the Lord, the reputation of the corporate body, the spiritual health and vitality of the church, and upholding the Holiness of God. Our goal is to see that people are restored in their relationship with the Lord and that the testimony of God’s holiness is not compromised. Everything must be done in prayer and humility. May the Lord give us wisdom in following His Word and bless His church.

The Reconciliation Process

Step 1 – Awareness: If one member of the body becomes aware that another member of the body has fallen into a lifestyle of sin, it should first cause his heart to grieve the devastating effect of sin and broken fellowship with God that the offending individual is experiencing. The one who becomes aware must be reminded that it is only by the grace of God that he hasn’t fallen as well.

Step 2 – Private Confrontation: The member who has become aware of the sin should prayerfully, gently, and privately confront the one sinning. The purpose of this confrontation is that the offending member will turn from sin, repent, and be restored to fellowship with the Lord (and, if it applies, with other individuals). The confrontation must be done in a humble and loving manner reflecting the character of Christ so that the offending member will recognize the action is in their best interest.

Step 3 – Elder Intervention: If the offending member persists in their sinful lifestyle, and refuses to be reconciled, an Elder(s) should be contacted and informed about what has taken place. The Elder will take at least one other Elder and meet with the offending individual, seeking to reconcile that member to the Lord. Such action would be carried out humbly and in the love of Christ. This step shall be repeated even if Step 2 was initiated by an Elder.

Step 4 – Public Excommunication: If the one who has broken fellowship with the Lord repents, we can rejoice at their reconciliation. The process has worked successfully. If, however, they refuse to heed the scripture and the call to come back to the Father, there is a final action which the Elders must take: the individual will be removed from membership in the Upper Room Bible Church. The intent of excommunication is to awaken the sinning individual to the serious position in which they have placed themselves.

a. A letter shall be sent to the offender setting forth the information serving as the basis for excommunication.

b. The recipient of the letter has no less than two weeks to respond, in person before a meeting of the Elders. It is hoped that the matter can be resolved at that time. If not, then the Elders will act to remove the offending member’s name from church membership and announce such action at a special meeting of the church members called for this purpose.

Step 5 – Repentance, then Restoration, Reconciliation, and Reaffirmation: Whether it happens before, during, or after Step 2, 3, or 4, the ultimate goal is not excommunication, but repentance. Repentance shall be evidenced by a changed lifestyle. The goal is that the sinning individual will be reconciled to the Lord, restored to fellowship with the body, and reaffirmed in his walk. The repentant individual may choose to ask the Elders to address the congregation. Re-admittance to membership is under the direction of the Elders.

Appendix A: Related Scriptures

Process Overview

(Mat 18:15-17 “If your brother sins, go and show him his fault in private; if he listens to you, you have won your brother.  But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that BY THE MOUTH OF TWO OR THREE WITNESSES EVERY FACT MAY BE CONFIRMED.  If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.

Step 1

(Gal 5:19-21) Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

(Mat 7:1-3) “Do not judge so that you will not be judged.   For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you.  Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?

(1 Cor 5:9-13) I wrote you in my letter not to associate with immoral people;  I did not at all mean with the immoral people of this world, or with the covetous and swindlers, or with idolaters, for then you would have to go out of the world.  But actually, I wrote to you not to associate with any so-called brother if he is an immoral person, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or a swindler–not even to eat with such a one.  For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Do you not judge those who are within the church?  But those who are outside, God judges. REMOVE THE WICKED MAN FROM AMONG YOURSELVES.

(2 Th 3:11-15 For we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined life, doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies. Now such persons we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ to work in a quiet fashion and eat their own bread. But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary of doing good. And if anyone does not obey our instruction in the letter, take special note of that man and do not associate with him, so that he may be put to shame. And yet do not regard him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.

Step 2

(Lev 19:17-18) You shall not hate your fellow countryman in your heart; you may surely reprove your neighbor, but shall not incur sin because of him. You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the sons of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself; I am the LORD.

(Luke 17:3) “Be on your guard! If your brother sins, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him.

(Gal 6:1) Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.

(James 5:19-20) My brethren, if any among you strays from the truth and one turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.

Step 3

(1 Pet 5:1-5) Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed, shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock.  And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.  You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.

Step 4

(1 Tim 5:20) Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning. (Note from the context that this applies to Elders. See also Gal 2:14, Eph 5:11, 2 Tim 4:2)

Step 5

(2 Cor 2:6-11) Sufficient for such a one is this punishment which was inflicted by the majority, so that on the contrary you should rather forgive and comfort him, otherwise such a one might be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.  Wherefore I urge you to reaffirm your love for him.  For to this end also I wrote, so that I might put you to the test, whether you are obedient in all things.  But one whom you forgive anything, I forgive also; for indeed what I have forgiven, if I have forgiven anything, I did it for your sakes in the presence of Christ, so that no advantage would be taken of us by Satan, for we are not ignorant of his schemes. (See also 2 Cor 7:8-11)

Appendix B: Related Sections in the Constitution of the Upper Room Bible Church

Article VIII Members Section D

Termination: The Elder Board may terminate membership subject to the church restoration policy. This process may include exclusion from fellowship and termination of membership. However, the ultimate goal shall always be restoration of fellowship and the subsequent reinstatement of membership. The church may also periodically purge inactive members from its roles.

Article II Board of Elders Section A

The Board of Elders shall be responsible for the overall spiritual leadership of the Church according to I Peter 5:1-4. This shall include responsibility for the elements of discipleship mentioned in the purpose statement and will include the active shepherding of ministry committees and the active identification and discipleship of potential elders and deacons (II Timothy 2:2). As Overseers, the Elders shall have ultimate responsibility in all matters regarding the church.

Appendix C: Implementation

A copy of these Procedures shall be communicated to those seeking membership in the church and shall be effective to them when they become members. These Procedures, as amended from time to time, shall be published annually to the members of the church and shall be made available at the church upon request.