bylaws

Section 1: General

FBC Marlow (henceforth known as FBCM) is an autonomous Southern Baptist Church, under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. The membership of FBCM (henceforth known as “membership” or “members”) retains the exclusive right of self-government in all phases of the spiritual and temporal life of FBCM. The membership retains the right to determine who shall be members of FBCM and the conditions for such membership.

Section 2: Membership

A. Requirements: Membership shall be open to any person who professes faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and is in harmony with its doctrines and practices, namely: 1) The person was a believer prior to baptism. 2) The baptism by immersion was carried out by the authority of a church of like-minded theology.

B. Method: Membership may be obtained through the participation in and completion of a membership orientation process.

C. Responsibilities:

● Personal Holiness: To bring to FBCM a submitted and Spirit-filled life. Our relationship with the Lord is the source of everything we have to offer one another. It is impossible to help others improve their relationship with God, or others, apart from God working in us. (John 15:5)

● Christian Relationships: To pursue godly relationships within FBCM. The Bible teaches that the Church is the Body of Christ in the world. We are appendages, members, of that Body. It is imperative that each part of the Body pursue healthy relationships, respecting and caring for the other parts of the Body. (Rom. 12; 1 Cor. 12; 2 Cor. 1:12).

● The Investment of Life: To seek to serve more than be served. We live in a society that encourages self-centeredness. As the people of God, we are called to give our time, talents, spiritual gifts and financial resources in service to others. (Mark 10:35-45; John 13:12-15; 1 Corinthians 12; Rom. 12:3-21; 2 Cor. 4:5) Jesus’ commission (Matthew 28:18-20) speaks of the call of every believer to make disciples of all nations. It is the true investment of life.

Section 3: Rights

A. General: Every member, who is at least 16 years of age, is entitled to vote at all elections and on all questions brought before FBCM, provided the member is physically present at the meeting.

B. Termination: Membership shall be terminated by any of the following events:

1) Death

2) Transfer of membership to another Church

3) Voluntary withdrawal

4) Inactivity

5) Removal as described in Article I, section 3, subsection E

C. Discipline: It is the intent of FBCM to emphasize that every reasonable measure will be taken to assist a troubled member. Redemption and change in behavior, rather than judgment, should be the goals for one member when seeking to help another. (Matthew 18:15-17; 1 Cor. 5; Galatians 6:1) The purpose of church discipline is to glorify God by:

1) Maintaining purity in the church.

2) Protecting believers by deterring sin.

3) Promoting the spiritual welfare of the offending believer by calling him or her to return to biblical standards of doctrine and conduct.

D. Zero Tolerance Policy on Sexual Abuse: FBCM maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding sexual abuse. We are committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for all members, staff, and visitors. Any form of sexual abuse, harassment, or misconduct is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. This policy applies to all Elders, staff, volunteers, and members of FBCM.

Sexual abuse is defined as any unwanted or inappropriate sexual contact, behavior, or advances, including but not limited to physical contact, sexual exploitation, or harassment. Harassment is defined as any behavior that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment, including unwelcome sexual advances or comments. Details of our policy are as follows:

1) Zero Tolerance: FBCM will not tolerate any form of sexual abuse or harassment. Any individual found engaging in such behavior will face immediate disciplinary action, including potential termination of employment, removal from volunteer positions, and legal action if applicable.

2) Reporting: All incidents of sexual abuse or harassment must be reported immediately to the Department of Human Services (DHS) along with designated FBCM authorities. FBCM will ensure that all reports are taken seriously and investigated thoroughly. Retaliation against individuals who report abuse or cooperate with investigations is strictly prohibited.

3) Confidentiality: FBCM is committed to handling all reports of sexual abuse with the highest level of confidentiality. Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis to protect the privacy of all parties involved.

4) Training: FBCM will provide regular training for all Elders, staff, and volunteers on recognizing, preventing, and responding to sexual abuse. This training will also include information on how to report suspected abuse.

5) Support: FBCM will offer support and resources to individuals who have been affected by sexual abuse. This includes access to counseling services and assistance through the reporting and investigation process.

By adhering to this zero-tolerance policy, FBCM reaffirms its commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all members of our community.

E. Removal: Should some serious condition exist, which would cause a member to become a serious liability to the witness of FBCM, every reasonable measure will be taken as appropriate to the need to resolve the problem. All measures shall be pervaded by a spirit of Christian love and patience. But, if it is found that the witness of FBCM would be best served by the removal of the member, Matthew 18:15-17 will guide our process led by the Elders.

F: Restoration: The desire of FBCM is always restoration of a believer into a proper relationship with Christ. Any person whose membership has been terminated may, upon request, be restored to membership upon evidence of repentance and reformation.

Section 1: General

As a body of believers, FBCM understands men and women are equally loved by God and equally called to ministry (Galatians 3:26-29) to fulfill the Great Commission. We affirm that men and women are valued in servant leadership roles. Furthermore, FBCM understands the Biblical model of church leadership found in the New Testament to be centered around a designated group of Elders. (henceforth known as “Elder” or “Eldership”)

Section 2: Eldership

A. General: The administrative and pastoral structure for a New Testament church is to utilize a plurality of leadership. FBCM will follow this scriptural example by utilizing qualified men to serve as an Eldership. These men must:

● meet specific moral and spiritual qualifications before they serve. (I Timothy 3:1-7)

● be motivated and empowered by the Holy Spirit to do their work. (Acts 20:28)

● be ordained and confirmed in a public manner by the membership. (1 Timothy 5:22)

After affirmation of calling, review, examination, and appointment, men affirmed by FBCM to serve as Elders shall constitute the “Eldership”. To effectively perform their duties, the Eldership needs the prayers, support, and acceptance of the membership. FBCM is called upon to honor their Elders and to protect them against false accusations (1 Timothy 5:19). If an Elder falls into a lifestyle of habitual sin and refuses to repent, then he must resign his position as an Elder.

B. Responsibilities: The members of the Elders shall:

1) Feed the Church (1 Timothy 3:2, 5:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:12; Titus 1:9) Following the principles found in Acts 6:1-6 and 1 Peter 5:1-4, the Elders shall devote their time to prayer, the ministry of the Word by teaching and encouraging sound doctrine.

2) Lead the Church (Acts 20:28; 1 Thessalonians 5:12; Hebrews 13:17) In practical manners (Acts 6:1-6), in matters of doctrine (Acts 15, 16:4), and in matters of spiritual discipline and character (Hebrews 13:17), the Elders shall provide guidance for the membership.

3) Care for the Church (James 5:14-15; Acts 20:35; Hebrews 13:17) The Elders will faithfully administer kindness, compassion, and care for the membership. Additionally, they will administer these gifts to ministerial staff through scheduled sabbaticals (as outlined in our Policy and Procedures Manual), counseling, retreats, etc. as needed.

4) Protect the Church (1 Peter 5:2-3; Acts 20:28) The Elders will guard the church, keeping her as a pure, spotless bride of Christ through prayer, wise counsel, and accountability.

5) Hear the Church (Acts 6:1) The Elders will fulfill the purposes of FBCM through prayer, fellowship, discussion, and decisions made for the local body of Christ.

C. Qualifications: The qualifications for this office are described in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9. He must be:

1) Blameless as a steward of God; above reproach (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6)

2) The husband of one wife (1 Timothy 3:2)

3) Temperate, sober, vigilant (1 Timothy 3:2)

4) Sober minded, prudent (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8)

5) Of good behavior; orderly, respectable (1 Timothy 3:2)

6) Given to hospitality (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8)

7) Able to teach; can encourage believers and refute false teaching (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:9)

8) Not given to much wine (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7)

9) Not violent; not quarrelsome (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7)

10) Patient, forbearing, moderate, gentle (1 Timothy 3:3)

11) Not a brawler; not soon angry or quick tempered (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7)

12) Not covetous; not a lover of money; not greedy (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7)

13) Manages his own house well; his children are faithful, not accused of rebellion to God (1 Timothy 3:4; Titus 1:7)

14) Not a novice; not a new convert (1 Timothy 3:6)

15) Has a good report or reputation with people outside of the church (1 Timothy 3:7)

16) Not arrogant (Titus 1:7)

17) Lover of what is good (Titus 1:8)

18) Just and fair (Titus 1:8)

19) Holy, devout (Titus 1:8)

20) Self-controlled (Titus 1:8

D. Duties: The Elders shall perform their duties in good faith, with ordinary care, and in a manner they reasonably believe to be in the best interest of the Church. They may rely on information, opinions, reports, statements, financial data, persons, other officers of the church, professional advisors, or experts such as accountants or attorneys. They do all this with a heart to lead, shepherd, and protect the bride of Christ. Elders have no authority to act on behalf of the Church unless they have been delegated that authority by statute, these bylaws, or by resolution approved by the Eldership. Individual Elders have no individual management authority.

E. Selection: As God calls men to serve in this office of Elders, they shall be nominated by the current Eldership and/or membership. Each candidate nominated is to be thoroughly examined, vetted, and shepherded through our defined Eldership process. Upon being confirmed by the current Eldership, the candidate will then go before the membership for affirmation. A 75% affirming vote of the voting members present at a special called business meeting is required for appointment of the nominee.

The candidate will then be confirmed and ordained publicly among the membership. Nowhere does Scripture define a clear number of elders in any local church setting. As such, the Eldership shall be comprised of no less than 5 men, serving as “active” Elders, who satisfy the qualifications as listed (see Article II, Section 2.C.). A determination for additional members in the future should be based upon the work of God in FBCM and the availability of those with a God-given desire and calling to serve in such a role.

F. Term of Office: Eldership is a lifetime appointment. With that said, FBCM seeks to protect each Elder through boundaries and terms. This means that through various seasons, Elders will be seen as “active” or “inactive” Elders. “Active” Elders are those serving alongside the Lead Pastor actively, attending regular meetings, making necessary decisions for the future direction of the church. An active Elder’s term shall be set at five (5) years. After an active Elder, other than the Lead Pastor, has served his term, he becomes inactive. He may be re-activated at the discretion of the Eldership after a mandatory one-year absence. He may also request to become or remain inactive at his discretion. An Elder may be removed from office by either death, resignation or by dismissal. A 75% majority vote of the voting members present at a special called business meeting is required to dismiss the member from the Eldership.

G. Discipline and Removal: Any member of the Eldership may be removed from office if he becomes physically or mentally incapacitated, spiritually unqualified, or his ability to serve is in question. FBCM has the right to rebuke an Elder due to a continuing sin in his life, based upon 1 Timothy 5:19-20. Finally, if an Elder falls into sin, and continues in sin, he must fall under the discipline of the church. He may be removed from the eldership as a result of this disciplinary action by a unanimous vote of the other members of the Eldership or in a Special Called Business Meeting with a 75% majority vote of the voting members present at such meeting.

H. Trustees: The active Eldership shall function as the trustees of FBCM. They manage FBCM property, both real and personal, as fiduciaries. They shall represent FBCM in all legal matters. Other FBCM members may be appointed by the Eldership for specific functions, as necessary to facilitate timely church procedural operations.

Section 3: Lead Pastor

A. Role: The Lead Pastor is responsible for guiding FBCM to function as a healthy New Testament Church under the leadership of the Holy Spirit. The Lead Pastor will lead the congregation, the church organizations, and the FBCM staff to achieve the Church’s mission. The Lead Pastor serves as an Elder and is the ONLY staff-Elder. He is accountable to the Elders in the areas of character, competency, and culture. (i.e. annual performance reviews, salary, benefits, annual goal setting, marital health, and family leadership) He will model relational discipleship in his home, the workplace, and in the community as he calls others to do the same.

B. Duties: In addition to his shepherding role, as an elder the Lead Pastor’s primary responsibility is the ministry of the Word and prayer, in order to provide strategic leadership and vision to the body. He is called to help believers mature in their faith through insightful and accurate presentation of biblical truths, equipping them to be the true “ministers” of the body. (Eph. 4:11-12)

C. Election: A Lead Pastor will be chosen and called by the membership whenever a vacancy occurs. A pastor search team consisting of nine (9) members and one (1) alternate will be nominated and approved by the church membership for the purpose of seeking God’s leadership toward a candidate. Neither FBCM ministerial staff members nor their spouses shall be eligible to serve on this Lead Pastor search team. “The Lead Pastor search team will present only one candidate at a time for the church’s consideration”. The election shall take place at a meeting called specifically for that purpose. Election shall be by secret ballot, requiring at least 75% affirmative of voting members present as necessary for a call to ministry. The Lead Pastor shall serve until the relationship is terminated by his resignation, his death, or removal.

D. Resignation: The Lead Pastor may resign upon giving reasonable notice to the membership.

E. Removal: If the Eldership (excluding the Lead Pastor) is in unanimous agreement with the decision to remove the Lead Pastor, they have the authority to dismiss the Lead Pastor through the affirmation of a 75% majority vote of church members present in a Special Called Business meeting. Severance compensation shall be determined by the Eldership, with such compensation rendered in no more than 30 days. Compensation cannot exceed six months.

Section 4: Ministerial and Non-Ministerial Staff

A. General: All ministerial and non-ministerial staff are under the direction and responsibility of the Lead Pastor. His calling affords him the privilege and responsibility, alongside the eldership, of building the team, creating the culture, corrective measures, and all other personnel functions of the church. Executive staff members must be appointed/elevated with a unanimous agreement of the eldership.

B. Resignation: A staff member may resign upon giving reasonable notice to the membership.

C. Removal: Removal of staff members is at the discretion of the Lead Pastor in collaboration with the eldership. Executive staff members, however, can only be removed upon a unanimous agreement of the Eldership. Severance compensation shall be determined by the eldership, with such compensation rendered in no more than 30 days. Compensation not to exceed 3 months for ministerial staff, 1 month for non-ministerial staff.

Section 5: Deacons

A. General: In keeping with the New Testament model, FBCM utilizes qualified members to serve as Deacons; they are the leading servants of the church. As such, they must be Biblically qualified to serve in this capacity, as found in 1 Timothy 3:8-13 and Acts 6:3-6. They must feel God’s calling to serve in such a capacity and be publicly acknowledged as servants.

B. Duties: The ministry of the Deacon is to serve with and support the Lead Pastor, Ministerial Staff, and Eldership by identifying/serving tangible needs, protecting and promoting church unity, and to affirm the direction of the church.

C. Qualifications: Members must be Biblically qualified to serve in this capacity, as found in 1 Timothy 3:8-13 and Acts 6:3-6. They must feel God’s calling to serve in such a capacity and be publicly acknowledged as servants. To be eligible for this respected position, a Deacon must have been a member of this church for at least one year.

D. Election: When the determination is made for the need of more deacons, nominations will be made by the membership for those who are perceived to meet the qualifications of a deacon and have proved themselves to have a heart to serve others. These nominees will be reviewed by the Eldership and the Deacon Officers. Those who have been found to be qualified and confirm a sense of God’s calling to serve will attend Deacon Training. Upon successful completion, each deacon shall be ordained by the church (or presented to the church if previously ordained) at a worship service.

E. Term: Deacons of FBCM are ordained for life and can function as a Deacon as long as they are a member and meet the Deacon standards as outlined previously. (See Article II, Section 5, Part C) A Deacon seeking inactive status shall simply inform the Deacon Chairman of their desire to be inactive.

F. Removal: If a Deacon has engaged in conduct that violates the moral and ethical teachings of Scripture, the Eldership or any Deacon may initiate action that would result in the removal of the Deacon charged with the violation from the Deacon body. To the extent the violation does not disqualify the Deacon from service, all reasonable effort for restoring the Deacon to right fellowship shall be taken before an action of removal is initiated. If necessary, the Deacon may be removed from the Deacon body by a 75% majority vote of the Deacons.

G: Officers: The officers of the Deacon body shall be a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman, and a Secretary, each of whom must have served a minimum of one year as an active Deacon at FBCM prior to elections. The length of term shall be three (3) years for each office. Officers shall be elected from nominations from the floor of a called Deacons meeting. A majority vote of the Deacons present is required to affirm a Deacon to an office.

H. Meetings: The Deacons meet as called by the Eldership or Deacon Chairman. The Eldership shall be notified of all Deacons’ meetings and be invited to attend.

Section 6: Offices

A. General: The five offices of FBCM are Clerk, Assistant Clerk, Treasurer, Vice- Treasurer, and Trustee. With the exception of Trustees (see Article 2, Section 2, Letter H), the offices of the church are appointed by the Eldership and affirmed by the church body. All offices of FBCM must be members in good standing. An officer may be removed at any time by the Eldership or may resign at any time by delivering notice to the Eldership.

B. Clerk/Assistant Clerk: The church clerk’s responsibilities shall be to record minutes of the business procedures of FBCM. The clerk shall also keep a suitable record of all the actions of the church, except as noted otherwise in this document. The church clerk shall keep a record of members’ information, issue letters of dismissal, preserve on file all communications and written official reports, and give legal notice of all meetings, as indicated in these bylaws. Time limits for records maintained are defined in the Policy and Procedures Manual. The church clerk may delegate some of the clerical responsibilities to other members of the church staff, if necessary. These records shall be maintained in the office of FBCM. In the event of the church clerk’s absence, the assistant clerk shall perform the duties of that office. The term of this office shall be for a period of three (3) years and may be re-appointed to successive terms. Elders are not eligible for these offices.

C. Treasurer/Vice-Treasurer: It shall be the duty of the treasurer at each regular business meeting to render a report of the receipts and disbursements of the church. The church treasurer shall work cooperatively with the Lead Pastor, Executive Staff Members, and Eldership to ensure proper stewardship of church finances, as well as planning and implementing sound practices for the church’s financial foundations. In the event that the office of Treasurer is or becomes vacant, the Vice-Treasurer shall serve as the Treasurer. The term of this office shall be for a period of three (3) years and may be re-appointed to successive terms. Elders are not eligible for these offices.

Section 1: Baptism

Baptism pictures 3 things: It pictures the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, it pictures our death to sin and our resurrection to a new life in Christ, it pictures our faith that if we die and are buried, we will one day be raised from the dead.

1. Any person who has received Jesus Christ as Savior by faith shall be eligible for baptism.

2. Baptism shall be by immersion in water.

3. Baptism shall be administered as an act of worship.

Section 2: Lord’s Supper

As an act of worship, the Lord’s Supper is a symbolic act of obedience in which believers commemorate the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, anticipating His coming through the partaking of the bread and fruit of the vine. (For more information, see Appendix A)

Section 1: Worship Services

The membership shall gather regularly, as determined by the Lead Pastor, Ministerial staff, and Eldership. The purpose of these gatherings will be for Biblical teaching, prayer, evangelism, discipleship, ministry, fellowship, and worship of Almighty God. Worship services will be open to all interested worshipers and shall be conducted under the leadership and direction of the Lead Pastor or his designated substitute. Services and activities which are essential to the promotion of the purposes of the church may be scheduled on the church calendar as well.

Section 2: Regular Member Meetings

Member meetings shall be held regularly at a minimum of twice annually. These meetings are for the purpose of regular communication from the Eldership to the members. Communication includes, but is not limited to, financial and facility reporting, vision casting, general updates, and celebration.

Section 3: Special Business Meetings

A Special Called Business Meeting may be called to address matters of significant nature. These meetings can be requested by any member of FBCM, and must be approved and scheduled by the Eldership. Notice of the subject, time, date, and location of such meeting shall be given at least fourteen (14) days prior to the meeting. FBCM shall use standard communication channels for notification, including but not restricted to the verbal announcement during a regularly held worship service.

Section 4: Quorum and Voting

A quorum is met when at least 2% of the current number of resident members attend a properly called meeting. Each member (16 years of age and older) shall have one (1) vote on every matter submitted to the membership for a vote. There shall be no absentee, proxy, or cumulative voting. Unless specifically set forth in these bylaws, the moderator of the meeting shall determine the method by which votes shall be cast at the meeting.

Section 5: Moderator

The Lead Pastor shall determine the moderator of the meeting. In the instance of a lack of a Lead Pastor, the Eldership shall determine the moderator for all meetings.

Section 6: Procedural Rules

The guide for parliamentary rules of procedure for all member meetings shall be Robert’s Rules of Order, Revised.

Section 1: Budget

The budget will be crafted by the ministerial staff annually. The Lead Pastor along with the Executive Pastor(s) shall present the budget to the Eldership for approval. Once approved by the Eldership, the budget will be presented to the congregation for affirmation. The budget shall be distributed one week in advance of a regularly called member meeting and shall be presented and discussed at that meeting.

Section 2: Management

All funds received for any and all purposes shall be counted under dual control and deposited by the financial secretary to be recorded on the books of the church. A system of accounting that will adequately provide for the handling of all funds shall be the responsibility of the Church Treasurer, and the Executive Staff Members. This system will adopt account procedures and controls which will be monitored by the Executive Pastor of Operations. (See Financial Policies in Policy and Procedures Manual)

Section 3: Fiscal Year

The church fiscal year shall begin on January 1 and end on December 31 of each year.

Section 4: Property

All real property shall be held in the name of FBCM. No person, committee, or otherwise shall cause FBCM to buy, sell, expand, mortgage, pledge, lease, or transfer any real property that exceeds $50,000.00, without a majority vote of voting members present at a Special Called Business meeting.

Section 5: Compensation

Any person receiving compensation directly or indirectly from FBCM shall not be in a position to determine the nature or amount of such compensation or remuneration.

Section 6: Dissolution

Upon dissolution of FBCM, the Eldership shall cause the assets herein to be distributed to another Southern Baptist church or Southern Baptist mission agency.

Section 7: Remote Campuses

A. REMOTE CAMPUS CHURCHES Background

From time-to-time, non-affiliated church congregations and properties are offered to FBCM, based on a vote of its members. These offers are accepted on the basis of financial viability, no continuing control by the existing members, a recommendation by the FBCM Elders, and a 75% affirming vote of voting members present in a special called business meeting. Members of remote campuses must initiate and complete the process of becoming members at FBCM.

B. Legal Entity

At the initiation of incorporation, Remote Campus churches become the property of FBCM. Details of these transactions are contained in legal documents applicable to each Remote Campus.

C. Remote Campus Church Governance

All Remote Campus Churches are governed by these bylaws, the FBCM constitution, and our Policy and Procedure Manual. The pastor of each Remote Campus church shall be appointed by the Senior Pastor of FBCM. Ministries in the Remote Campus are operated as Remote Campus ministries of the relevant main campus organization.

Section 1: General. Amendments to the Constitution and By Laws of FBCM shall require approval from the members. Amendments can be made at any member meeting, provided each proposed amendment shall have been presented in writing at least three (3) weeks before a member meeting or special business meeting. Copies of the proposed amendment shall be furnished in writing and made available for examination using her standard communication channels.

Amendments to the constitution and/or bylaws shall be made by a 75% majority vote of the voting members present at a member meeting or special business meeting.

God is the Creator and Ruler of the universe. He has eternally existed in three persons: the Father, the Son, and Holy Spirit. These three are co-equal and are one God.

Scripture References: John 1:1; Genesis 1:1, 26-27; 3:22; Deuteronomy. 6:4; Psalm. 90:2; Isaiah 9:6, 45:18; Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14; 1 Peter 1:2; Matthew 3:16-17

God the Father: We believe that God the Father holds all the attributes of God while exercising a unique role in the triune God. The Godhead is in agreement with the role of each: God as Father, Son as sacrifice, and Spirit as power. He is the father of Jesus Christ, by the power of the Holy Spirit, and yet still one with both as God. The Father adopts believers into relationship with him. as their Father. With Christ, believers have the privilege of being heirs to God's glory. He actively prunes/ disciplines believers to strengthen them for His glory.

Scripture References: Luke 1:35; Matthew 3:17; Romans 8:15-17; John 15:1&2; Hebrews 12:7-11

Jesus Christ: Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He is co-equal with the Father as God. Jesus lived a sinless hum.a life and offered himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all people by dying on the cross. He arose from. the dead after three days to demonstrate His power over sin and death. He ascended to Heaven's glory and will return again someday to claim. His own and take them. to Heaven.

Scripture References: Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:22-23; John 1:1-5; 8:58; 14:10-30; Acts 1:9-11; Romans 1:3-4; I Corinthians 15:3-4; I Timothy 6:14-15; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 4:14-15; Rev. 1:8

The Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is co-equal with the Father and the Son of God. He is present in the world to make men aware of their need for Jesus Christ. He also lives in every Christian from. the moment of salvation. He provides the Christian with power for living, understanding of spiritual truth, and guidance in doing what is right. As Christians we seek to live under His control daily.

Scripture References: John 14:16-17, 16:7-13, 17; Acts 1:8; Romans 5:5; I Corinthians 2:12; 3:16; 2 Corinthians 3:17; Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 1:13, 5:18

The Bible: The Bible is God's Word to us. It was written by human authors, under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is the supreme source of truth for Christian beliefs and living. Because it is inspired by God, it is the truth without any mixture or error. The Bible is infallible, inerrant, and absolute truth. Where it speaks we listen and obey.

Scripture References: Psalms 12:6, 119:105, 160; Proverbs 30:5; 2 Timothy 1:13, 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21

Baptism: Baptism is the immersion of a believer in water after they have professed Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. Baptism does not save but is an act of obedience on the part of the one who believes. Baptism pictures three things – the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ; our death to sin and our resurrection to a new life in Christ; and our faith that when we die, we will also be raised from the dead in Christ.

Scripture References: Matthew 3:16, 28:19-20; John 2:23; Acts 2:41, 8:34-39; Romans 6:3-5; and Colossians 2:11-12

Man: Man was made in the image of God to be like Him in character. Although every person has tremendous potential for good, all of us are marred by an attitude of disobedience toward God called "sin". This attitude separates people from God and causes many problems in life.

Scripture References: Genesis 1:27; Psalms 8:3-6; Isaiah 53:6a; Isaiah 59:1-2; Romans 3:23; Genesis 3

Salvation: Salvation is God's free gift to us, but we must accept it. We can never make up for our sin by self-improvement or good works. Only by trusting in Jesus Christ and God's offer of forgiveness can anyone be saved from sin's penalty. When we turn from our self-ruled life and turn to Jesus in faith we are saved. Eternal life begins the moment one receives Jesus Christ as Lord of his life. This is evidenced by repentance, confession, baptism by immersion, and a life committed to His service.

Scripture References: John 1:12, 14:6; Romans 5:1, 6:23; Galatians 3:26; Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5

The Church: The church is the body and bride of Christ also the household of faith. It is a living temple where God dwells in His people. We believe that everyone that has been saved by Christ is a member of the church. We believe that the church exists throughout the world and is witnessed and experienced in local autonomous gatherings of believers.

Scripture References: Ephesians 4:16; Romans 12:4&5; Ephesians 5:24-32; Gal. 6:10; 1 Peter 2:4-5; 1 Cor. 3:16; Acts 14:23; Matthew 16:16-18; Acts 2:42-47; Romans 12:5; 1 Cor. 12:12- 27; Ephesians. 1:20-23; 4:3-10; Col. 3:14-15.

The Priesthood of Every Believer: The Bible teaches that every Christian is called to "full-time" Christian service, regardless of his or her vocation. We practice the truth that every believer is a minister by encouraging every member to find a place of service and ministry.

Every believer has direct access to God through Bible reading/study, prayer, and the leading of the Holy Spirit. Every Christian is to be a disciple developing relational environments in which they share their faith with those around them by word and by action.

Revelation 1:6a (NASB95) ...and He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father

1 Peter 2:9 (NIV) But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

Marriage, Gender, and Sexuality: We believe that God wonderfully and immutably creates each person as male or female, in His image. (Gen. 1:26-27)

We believe that the term "marriage" has only one meaning: the uniting of one man and one woman in a single, exclusive union, as delineated in Scripture. (Gen. 2:18-25)

We believe that God has established marriage as a lifelong, exclusive relationship between one man and one woman, and that all intimate sexual activity outside the marriage relationship, whether heterosexual, homosexual, or otherwise, is immoral and therefore sin. (Gen. 2:24-25; Ex. 20:14, 17, 22:19; Lev. 18:22-23, 20:13, 15-16; Matt. 19:4-6, 9; Rom. 1:18- 31; I Cor. 6:9-10, 15-20; I Tim. 1:8-11; Jude 7)

We believe that neither the federal government, the state, the church, nor any other individual possess the authority or jurisdiction to set or alter Scripture's definition of marriage. Therefore, unions or partnerships that do not conform to the Biblical definition of marriage are not acknowledged by FBCM. We do not permit staff of FBCM to perform such partnerships, nor do we permit any facility to be utilized for such partnerships.

We believe that any form of sexual immorality (including adultery, fornication, homosexual behavior, bisexual behavior, transgenderism, bestiality, incest, and use of pornography) is sinful and offensive to God. We further believe that sexuality is assigned by God at birth, whatever that may be, and the Holy Scripture does not permit an individual to alter their sexual identity physically or otherwise. (Matt. 15:18-20; 1 Cor. 6:9-10; Deut. 23:1)

Consistent with the Church’s sincerely held religious beliefs, gender specific bathroom facilities may only be utilized consistent with gender assigned at birth and not gender identity or expression. Optional family (non-gender specific) bathrooms may also be made available. We believe that God offers redemption and restoration to all who confess and forsake their sin, seeking His mercy and forgiveness through Jesus Christ. (Acts 3:19-21; Rom. 10:9-10; 1 Cor. 6:9-11, 1 John 1:9-10)

We believe that every person must be afforded compassion, love, kindness, respect and dignity. (Mark 12:28-31; Luke 6:31)

Spiritual Gifts: Few areas of theology within the church have caused more division than the subject of spiritual gifts. Some in our church believe all of the spiritual gifts spoken of in 1 Corinthians 12-14 are for today. Others believe some of the gifts are for today. And there are those who believe none of the gifts are for today.

We do not believe that this subject constitutes a salvation issue.

• You can believe some of the gifts are for today and be wrong and still be a Christian.

• You can believe that all of the gifts are for today and be wrong and still be a Christian.

• You can believe that none of the gifts are for today and be wrong and still be a Christian. For those who believe that the gifts are present today, remember: The Spirit of God does not work contrary to the Word of God!

Behavior that Unifies: At FBCM, it is okay to believe differently on this issue, but we will act in this way:

• Because this is a non-salvation area of contention between believers, we will not have a place in our church where the gift of tongues is encouraged.

• We will not allow the discussion of a non-salvation issue to destroy the Lord's work.

• We do believe God does miracles and answers our prayer and through the work of the Holy Spirit, and that the Holy Spirit empowers us to serve Him and do good works.

1 Peter 4:7-11 (NIV) The end of all things is near. Therefore, be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. As he serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Communion: The Lord's Supper is the remembrance of Christ's body devoted, and of His blood shed for the remission of our sins. This remembrance cannot take place without faith. 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 (NIV) For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, "This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me." In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me." For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes.

• Communion is a memorial.

• Communion is a new covenant. • Communion is a proclamation.

We do not believe you have to take communion every week; however, when you take it, you are to do so in a worthy manner. 1 Corinthians 11:27- 28 (NIV) Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup. We do this by self-examination.

• Do I have any sins to confess? (1 John 1:9)

• Do I have relationships to repair? (Matthew 5:23-24)

• Do I need to recommit my life? (Romans 12:1) Who should take it?

• Only those who believe.

• With regard to children, we believe a child should not take communion until they can understand the concepts of sin and salvation and have accepted Christ. However, we do believe communion is a teaching opportunity to explain the concepts of sin and salvation, and our need for Jesus.

Stewardship: God is the giver of all earthly and heavenly blessings. God is the giver of all that we have and all that we are. Christians have a spiritual responsibility to the whole world. Christians have a responsibility to share the gospel. Christians have a duty to be good managers of their possessions. They have the responsibility to serve Him with their time, talents, and possessions. Christians should know that all of these are given to them to use for pleasing God and for helping others.

Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV) "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is there your heart will be also." I Corinthians 16: 1-4 (NIV) Now about the collection for God's people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do, On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income...II Corinthians 8:7 (NIV) But just as you excel in everything-in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us - see that you also excel in this grace of giving. II Corinthians 9:7 (NIV) Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. Philippians 4:18 (NIV) I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. Giving from our financial resources is an expression of worship, a testimony of our faith and supports our church and ministry operations. At Marlow First we practice giving acceptable gifts to God as God's Word commands.

Reviewed and Approved by Elected Bylaws Team & Legal Counsel: September 3, 2024

Reviewed and Approved by the Deacon Body: September 27, 2020

Adopted by the FBCM Congregation: October 11, 2020

Amended by the FBCM Congregation: on June 27, 2021 (Article II Leadership, Section 1 General)

Amended by the FBCM Congregation on March 5, 2023 (Article II Leadership, Section 2 Lead

Pastor, Subsection B: Election and Article II Leadership, Section 4 Ministerial Staff, Subsection B

Nomination and Article VII Amendments, Section 1 General)