The Christian Church is the Body of Christ and is destined to be His Bride. In as much as every local church is an expression of the whole Body it is needful for her to be committed to vigilance in all of her relationships:

 

In Relationship to Christ

Believing that Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church...

We will honor and exalt Him in all of our relationships and ministries. We will keep ourselves free from all policies and practices which might tend to mar the beauty of the Bride of Christ.

 

In Relationship to Fellow-Members

Believing that the local church is an expression of the family of God...

We will promote unity among the members of the congregation, resisting all jealousy, rivalry, self-seeking and division which would disturb that unity.

We will “... make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” (Romans 14:19)

 

In Relationship to Other Churches

Believing that the Church is a universal body...

We will attempt to maintain honorable relationships with other churches in the community.

 

In Relationship to the Community

Believing that the witness of the church in the community affects the ministry of that church to the community and reflects on Christ, the Head of the Church...

We will endeavor to keep our dealings with agencies, businesses and individuals in the community honest and above reproach.

 

In Relationship to the Conference

Believing that our membership in the Conservative Congregational Christian Conference is not only a privilege but also involves responsibility...

We will fulfill our fellowship, ministry and financial obligations to the Conference to the best of our ability.

We will uphold the doctrines and principles of the Conference.

 

In Relationship to the Pastor and Other leaders of the Church

Believing that the pastor and other spiritual leaders are shepherds of Christ’s flock...

We will love, honor and submit to them as they, by example and word, watch over our souls.

We will support the pastor financially so that he may be able to meet his obligations without bringing reproach upon himself or us.

We will not allow anything among us that would undermine the pastor’s ministry or rob him of the confidence of the church and the community.

We will endeavor to respond to all criticism dealing with the pastor, other spiritual leaders, or their families in an honorable manner, not tolerating subversive or clandestine meetings.

Whenever legitimate criticism or charges against anyone arise, we will follow Scriptural direction for church discipline, always with a desire for reconciliation and restoration and always making use of the cloak of love.

 

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