What We Believe

What We Believe
Table Of Contents

Section 1.

We believe in the following light which has been revealed to us by the Lord Jesus Christ, through our first beloved Bishop-Overseer and spiritual leader, and we hereby adopt it as our fundamental basis of union to wit:

Section 2.

JUSTIFICATION by faith, through repentance and remission of sins, preached in His NAME among all nations (Luke 24:47), beginning at Jerusalem (Peace) (Romans 5: 1). "Then Peter said unto them, Repent and be baptized every one of you in the NAME of JESUS CHRIST (immersed) and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:38)." "And now, why tarriest thou? Arise and be baptized and wash away thy sins, calling on the NAME of the Lord (Acts 22:16)." "Therefore, being justified by faith we have peace with God through Jesus Christ, our Lord (Rom. 5:1)."

Section 3.

WATER BAPTISM by immersion only, in the NAME of the LORD JESUS CHRIST for the remission of sins, Matt. 28:19, -- not in names or titles of relationship, or a ceremony. (Acts 2:38; 10:48; 8:16; 19:5; 4:10-12, Col. 3:17, Rom. 6:4; 8:38;, Matt. 3:16, Mark 16:16, John 3:5).

Section 4.

SANCTIFICATION as a second definite work of Grace. Jesus prayed that believers be sanctified (consecrated, made holy, set apart from the world), John 17:17. John 17:8-9 shows that Jesus was not praying for sinners but for those who were believers. He prayed that they might have JOY (vs. 2) and the early followers received their Sanctification, or second blessing when He led them out as far as to Bethany, and they returned to Jerusalem with GREAT JOY (Luke 24:50-53). This was the first evidence of their Sanctification, BEFORE Pentecost. Jesus prayed that his followers would become ONE, even as He and the Father were ONE (John 17:11 and 21). We can read Acts 1:14 and Acts 2: 1 where they reached this ONENESS before the Holy Ghost descended, this being the second evidence of their Sanctification as a second definite work of Grace. These two witnesses, JOY and ONENESS must be believed (John 8:17). The Holy Ghost came upon them AFTER these two were in evidence (JOY' and ONENESS). Jesus sanctified himself as our example (John 17:19), and he extended this blessing to us through faith in Him through the testimony of His people, this being a third evidence that God does sanctify those who fully believe the things his followers wrote of Him. Jesus shed His blood for us that we may be sanctified (Heb. 13:12). He had power to forgive sins before He died on the cross, but not to sanctify until He had shed his blood. We are sanctified by faith in him (John 17:20, Acts 26:18), of which Joshua is a type (Josh 3:5). Paul taught it to be a second "benefit or grace" (2 Cor. 1: 15), and one without which no man shall ever see the Lord (Heb. 12:14). "Be ye therefore perfect even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect (Matt 5:48)." "Be ye holy for I am holy (I Pet. 1:16)." Sanctification takes out the root of bitterness (Heb. 12:15), the Adam nature of original sin and keeps us from the evil and worldliness about us (John 17:15).

Section 5. TRUE BIBLE HOLINESS

"According as He hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be without blame before him in love. (Eph. 1:4)."

There is no subject in all the Bible that is taught any plainer than the doctrine of true Holiness. We mean by that, a life that is made clean through the blood of Jesus, and kept holy and unspotted by the power of God. There is no other life that is acceptable with God but a life that is holy and without sin. The Bible says, "...we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before HIM, ALL the days of our life (Luke 1:74-75)." To live holy and righteous on Sunday only is not enough. We must "present our bodies a living sacrifice, HOLY and ACCEPTABLE unto God, which is our reasonable service (Rom. 12:1)." This must be every day and under every circumstance whether favorable or adverse. We cannot do this within ourselves; the Apostle Paul said, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me (Phil. 4:13)."

We must remember that God hates sin in every form and fashion. He was manifested to take away our sins; in Him there is no sin (1 John 3:5). After one has repented with a godly sorrow, been immersed in Jesus Name, his sins have been remitted (Acts 2:38). Then after becoming Sanctified with HIS BLOOD (Heb. 13:12), and being filled with the Holy Ghost, we can, if we will, live separate and apart from sin. It can be done through Jesus who will furnish the necessary power (Acts 1:8; 1 Cor. 10:13). We are saved FROM sin, and are to continue a life, with God's help, FREE FROM SIN. "Abstain from ALL appearances of evil. . . (1 Thess. 5:22-23)."

True Bible Holiness includes freedom from ALL filthiness of the flesh as well as from the spirit (2 Cor. 7: 1). There are those things which must be condemned by this Assembly as being unholy and wrong. It is not our aim, in placing our strong disapproval on these things, to do so in a manner which will seem to be "running one or two things into the ground," and at the same time ignoring other things just as wrong in the sight of God. We know that the use of tobacco, alcoholic beverages, dope of any sort, is not only a filthiness of the flesh, but are a destroyer of the body physically. These things are heartily condemned as being wrong and evil and of the devil.

Let it be known that we have elected to not specify in this article all the things which we consider to be activities of the world. We feel it to be incorrect just to name a few specifics while leaving off the many other activities of the world. Let it also be known, however, that just because certain activities are not mentioned in this article is not to be interpreted that this body is sanctioning their approval. If at any time, in years ahead, and as iniquity abounds worse and worse, any such things would arise which would snare the sheep of any flock, the pastor of that flock may declare such things as being unholy and thereby being those things refrained from for that local church. The Bishop-Overseer may do the same thing for the entire Assembly.

There are those other things such as: Excessive and worldly looking ,'make-up"; excessive jewelry; immodest and indecent dress that exposes the body (1 Tim. 2:19). A woman is to retain her hair inasmuch as God has given it to her for a covering and for her glory (1 Cor. 11: 14,15). We are to refrain from watching or listening to ungodly and unholy radio and television programs.

All of these above mentioned things are to be condemned by this Assembly as being wrong and of the world and of the devil. At the same time TRUE HOLINESS holds no place for unkind feelings of jealousy, envy, strife, backbiting, or the numerous other things that go to make up an ugly spirit. The very strictest of practices where man and woman are concerned is to be taught as a necessity of Holy Living. Our business transactions are to be honest in every way, and the very highest standard of morals must be kept at all times and under every circumstance.

God has promised that His children CAN live free from sin; men are sending themselves to hell every day because of the sin they desire to retain in their lives.

Today's "worldly churches" may be filled with those who do those very things this Assembly stands out against, but God's CHURCH is to be made up of those people who have become "NEW CREATURES" through the NEW BIRTH (John 3:5), and who are DEAD to sin. David prayed, "Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, oh Lord, my strength and my redeemer (Psa. 19:14)." There are those who lay claim to "being born again," who use slang words, by words, and even some filthy words. To laugh at a dirty joke and to let them be told in your presence without reproving those guilty, makes one guilty themselves. To bear a reproach against a neighbor (brother) (to carry the news to someone else) is just as unholy as beginning the reproach yourself (Psa. 15, and Chapter 24). A life of TRUE HOLINESS is a life of beauty and is pleasing to God. "FOLLOW PEACE WITH ALL MEN AND HOLINESS WITHOUT WHICH NO MAN SHALL SEE THE LORD (Heb. 12:14)." Section 6. (Jn. 3:11, Acts 1:15, 11, 16; 2:4)

BAPTISM OF THE HOLY GHOST

This gift is for all believers (Jn. 7:37-39; 14:16, Acts 19:2). The Holy Ghost will testify of Jesus (Jn. 15:25-27), and ye shall also bear witness with evidence of speaking with new tongues (languages) as the Spirit of God gives the utterance (Acts 2:4; 10:46; 19:5, Mark 16:17). Paul, who spoke with tongues more than any other, (1 Cor. 14:18); commanded to "forbid not to speak with tongues," (I Cor. 14:39). This was prophesied, (Isaiah 28:11-12; Jer. 6:16; Matt. 11:28; Joel 2:26) for all who believe, (Mark 16:16; Jn. 7:37-39; Eph. 2:13-17); commanded to tarry at Jerusalem for it (Luke 24:47).

Section 7. ONENESS

That Jesus is God manifested in the flesh (2 Tim. 3:16), and that the FULLNESS of the GODHEAD dwells in Him, the One Supreme Being (Col. 2:8-9). The Father is the Spirit, (John 4:24) and hath not flesh and bones (Luke 24:39) such as did Jesus, that was the flesh and who died for us, (1 John 3:6) and the Spirit that lives in us is Jesus (John 14:1, 8, 17) and these three are ONE, (1 John 5:7; John 10:30) like your soul, spirit, and body makes you one person and not two or three. (Gen. 1: 1, John 1:14; 6:58, Col. 2:8-9, Mark 12:29, Exo. 3:15, Col. 1:16, Rev. 1:8, 18, Isa. 41:4, Rev. 21:13).

Section 8. PASSOVER (LORD'S SUPPER) AND FEET WASHING

"For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us (1 Cor. 5:7)." The Bible teaches that the old Jewish Passover has been replaced under the new covenant with the Lord's Supper, which IS the BODY and BLOOD of Jesus (Mark 14:22-24). This ORDINANCE is both natural and spiritual, and is to be observed only once each year in season, just as the old passover was kept once a year in its season.

God said concerning this passover under the Law; "and this day shall be unto you for a memorial, and ye shall keep it a feast of the Lord throughout your generations; ye shall keep it a feast by an ordinance forever" (Ex. 12:14). "Thou shall therefore keep this ordinance in His season from year to year" (Ex. 13:10). This passover was to be kept FROM YEAR TO YEAR and not every week. Just as God commanded the lamb to be killed in the evening, Jesus instituted the Lord's Supper at evening or night (I Cor. 11:23). Under the law, no uncircumcised were to join the company in this feast; when Jesus instituted our passover, only the disciples were present. This is a marvelous truth and light (1 Cor. 5:6).

We must remember that while they were eating the passover in the upper room that Jesus took bread and blessed it and break it and gave to them and said, "THIS IS MY BODY" (Mark 14:22), and likewise the cup saying, "THIS IS MY BLOOD" (Mark 14:24). The Bible does not teach the unleavened bread nor the wine as emblems or symbols. Jesus said, "THIS IS MY BODY, and THIS IS MY BLOOD." We also want to remember that Jesus said, "Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, ye have no life in you; for my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. Whoso eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day" (John 6:53-55).

Paul said, "For as OFTEN as ye eat the bread and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till he come (1 Cor. 11:26). The word "OFTEN" does not signify the frequency of the act, but means as many times or when you repeat the act, ye do show the Lord's death till he comes.

With the Lord's supper or our Passover, we must connect another ordinance given by Jesus, and one that has great importance. We read from John's writings as to how, "Jesus ariseth from the supper and poured water in a basin, after he had laid aside his garments and girded himself with a towel. He began to wash the saints feet, and to wipe them with the towel." When Peter refused at first to allow the Lord to wash his feet, Jesus told him that if he did not let him wash his feet that he (Peter) would have no part with Him. Whereupon Peter said, "Lord, not my feet only but my hands and my head also." Jesus explained what he had done by saying, "If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet, ye also ought to wash one anothers feet." And he ended by saying, "If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them." (John 13:4-17.)

Section 9. DIVINE HEALING

Divine Healing emanating from God means healing for our bodies as well as for our souls, for all those who know the TRUTH and who "believe in JESUS NAME." David wrote, "Bless the Lord, Oh my soul, and forget not all His benefits; who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth ALL thy diseases." (Psa. 103:1-3). Surely he hath born our griefs, and carried our sorrows; yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgression, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." (Isa. 53:4-5). "...Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses." (Matt. 8:17.)

"Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead unto sin, should live unto righteousness: BY WHOSE STRIPES YE WERE HEALED." (I Peter 2:24). "Is any sick among you? let him call for the Elders of the church; and let them pray over him, annointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins they shall be forgiven him." (James 5:14-15). "And these signs shall follow them that believe ... they shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover." (Mark 16:17a-18b).

Section 10. WOMEN PREACHERS

Exodus 15:20; Joel 2:28-29; Acts 2:17-18; Judges 4:4; Luke 2:36; Jonah 3:2-4; Acts 21:8-9)

1 Cor. 14:34 says, "Let your women keep silence in the Churches." Some interpret this as meaning for them not to teach, prophesy nor to preach. Others declare that it means that a woman cannot be a pastor or a spiritual leader. These views are not the right dividing of God's Word. It means, concerning the question of tongues and prophecy in tongues that when no interpreter is present, both men and women are to remain silent (read verse 28). "If there be no interpreter present, let HIM keep silence in the Church..." Verse 34, of I Cor. 14, says that the woman in the church is to be in obedience, as also saith the law. Let us take an instance under the law and see what role the woman did play. In Judges 4:4 we have an account of Deborah, a woman who arose under the law covenant when God's people were in distress and darkness. She arose a mother in Israel, given from God, to lead His people from the new gods back to the true God; out of darkness into light. The wisdom of God was in her to speak prophecies and to do judgment. God's people came from far and near to lay their complaints before her and to be judged by her. This shows that the law did not forbid a woman to lead nor to prophecy (preach).

In Luke 2:36, "And there was one, Anna, a PROPHETESS, which departed not from the temple." The Prophet Joel prophesied that God would pour out his Spirit on sons and daughters, and that they would prophesy (Joel 2:28-29). Acts 21:9 tells of Paul lodging with Phillip, who had four daughters which prophesied (preached).

Section 11

We believe in GRANTING LIBERTY of the Sabbath, and worshipping God on the first day of the week as did the early church. Matt 28:1; Mark 16:9; John 20:19, 20:26.

Section 12. MARRIAGE AND DIVORCE

For FORNICATIONS, which we believe dissolves the marriage vows the same as death (Matt. 5:32, 19:9). The term "fornication" with reference to unholy carnal knowledge is ALL inclusive, but that this commandment does NOT apply to sinners, unholy or unsanctified people, heathens, or unbelievers, any more than does any other commandment apply to this category of people (Ezra 10:10-15), and that ALL marriages made by sinners, unsanctified or unholy people are fornications in the sight of God, whether solemnized by the laws of man or not, even though sanctioned by laws and respected by society. Exodus 22:16; Lev. 19:20; Numbers 25; Deut. 22:44; Acts. 15:20; Eph. 5:5; 1 Cor. 5:9-11; 2 Cor. 12:21; Col. 3:5; 1 Thess. 4:3; Heb. 13:4; Jude 7:3.

No marriages in heaven, Matt. 22:30; Whoso looketh to lust, Matt. 5:28. But if the UNBELIEVER depart, let him depart, a brother or sister (believer) are not under bondage in such cases (1 Cor. 7: 15), but the innocent is bound by the law until loosed by death or divorce (legal death); but if her spouse be dead, either by fornication and loosed by law (divorce) she may marry again, but THIS TIME ONLY IN THE LORD (1 Cor. 7:14, 39).

Section 13. TITHES AND OFFERINGS

The word "tithes" means a TENTH. An "offering" is that which is given over and above the tenth. The Tithe or tenth belongs to God; the offering is to be given from the ninety percent of your increase AFTER you have PAID the tenth to God. We believe that ALL members of the Emmanuel Church of Christ should tithe of ALL their increase, whether it is derived from money earned or given, of the first fruits of their other increase, whether it be from crops, fruits, houses or lands, cattle, fowls or whatsoever it may be. (Mal. 3:7-12; Deut. 28:15-19; Ezra 3:16-17; Acts 20:26-27; Proverbs 3:9-10; Neh. 13:10, 13:12; 2 Tim. 3:16; Matt. 4:4, 23:23; Gen. 14:18-20; Heb. 7:1-9; Lev. 26:30-32; I Cor. 16:1-2; Luke 11:42).

When a person "robs God" of the tithe or tenth that rightfully belongs to Him, they cannot hope to prosper (Mal. 3:9). The tithes should be paid by ALL members to the Pastor (Storehouse) of the church they count as being their "home church." ALL Pastors should pay their tithes, as should also ALL ordained ministers, who hold "3rd LEVEL" Licenses, directly to the Bishop-Overseer. Tithes should be paid on the first day of the week such as God has prospered you.

Every Child of God should be as liberal with their offerings as they can. God loves a cheerful giver.

Section 14 MUSIC IN THE CHURCH

We believe that our Bible teaches us that it is not only proper to play musical instruments in the church, but that it is a command that we do so. We believe in the playing of instruments to accompany the singing (sacred and spiritually inspired songs in the church and in the home (Ex. 15:20; Gen. 4:21; 1 Sam. 16:23, 18:6,22; 1 Chron. 15:28; 2 Chron. 2:6, 25:25-26; Psa. 33:2,3; 81:2; 92:3; 108:1-2; 147:7; 150(entire chpt.); Luke 15:25; Neh. 12:36; Rev. 5:8; 14:2; 18:22; Matt. 26:30; Mark 14:26; Eph. 5:9; Col. 3:16; 1 Cor. 14:15.)

Section 15. TONGUES

We believe that the Bible teaches three different kinds of Tongues or languages: First, NEW languages or TONGUES (other) as the evidence of the initial entry of the Holy Ghost Baptism. These NEW or OTHER TONGUES are given as the Spirit gives the utterance (Acts 2:4; 10:46; 19:5). Second, the GIFT of TONGUES, 1 Cor. 12:28, when they can speak at any time, the possessor of the Gift should not use it in preaching unless an interpretation be made. Third, the UNKNOWN TONGUE, spoken in no KNOWN language of the earth (Dan. 5:25), "...for he that speaketh in an UNKNOWN TONGUE, speaketh not unto man but unto God, for NO man understandeth him, howbeit in the Spirit he speaketh mysteries" (1 Cor. 14:2). "...but if there be no interpreter, let him (the one with the gift) keep silence" (1 Cor. 14:28). Paul, even though he said that there were times when tongues were not profitable and that those possessing the Gift of Tongues should remain in silence, Paul DID NOT condemn SPEAKING WITH TONGUES. On the other hand he said , "I thank my God that I speak with tongues more than ye all..." 1 Cor. 14:18, and in verses 38 and 39, "But if any may be ignorant let him be ignorant. Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy and FORBID NOT TO SPEAK WITH TONGUES."

Section 16. OTHER LIGHT

We believe in, and will accept other light on God's Word as may be revealed to us from time to time by the Holy Ghost and substantiated by the Word itself. It is true that God's Holy Word tells of dreams and visions; however, we will never take any dream or vision to reveal new light or to give directions to anyone, when that supposedly light and directions cannot be substantiated from God's Word.

Section 1. DUTIES OF THE MINISTRY

To give themselves to prayer and fasting, that they may be more spiritual (Acts 6:4; Matt. 4:2; Zech. 8:19; Acts 14:23; 1 Cor. 7:5; Mark 9:29).

Section 2.

It shall be the duty of all unassigned ministers to have a "Home Church," which they will attend when not at another church filling an appointment. They will support this "Home Church" with their offerings, and will cooperate with the Pastor of that church, doing any task they are asked to do. They are not to infringe, in any manner, upon the duties of the Pastor. (Pastor's duty outlined under Local Government, Article 16).

Section 3.

No minister of this Assembly shall become affiliated with any Ministers Alliance, or any other body of ministers when such groups are even partially composed of those who promote the doctrine of the "trinity". Nor should any minister of this Assembly attend or take Part in any worship service or cause any member of this Assembly to attend or take part in any worship service where "Trinitarians" take part, whether it be in church building or other public place.

Section 4.

Tithes and offerings. Every ordained minister holding 3rd level license shall send the tithe or tenth of his or her increase to the Bishop Overseer. You should send your tithes as God prospers you.

Section 5.

Every minister should freely testify to the Gospel of the Grace of God (Acts 20:24). Every minister, from local to Bishop, should be an example in all things to the congregation where they worship. "If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain . (James 1:26). "Pure religion and undefiled, before God the Father is this: to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. (James 1:27)

Section 6.

Every minister shall obey all those who are set in authority over them. (Heb. 13:7, 17).

Section 7.

It shall be the duty of the pastor to spend as much time as possible in fasting, study, and prayer; to feed the flock and to watch for their spiritual welfare in general; to do the work of an evangelist and to make full proof of their ministry. The pastor is to receive the tithes from their congregations (this includes all ministers with local or general license), and is to send the tithe or tenth of his or her increase to the Bishop-Overseer as God prospers them.

Section 8

No pastor should ever invite any minister of the "trinitarian" faith to take part in the worship services or to even place them in a position where they might promulgate such trinitarian doctrine to their flock. No minister from another "Oneness" organization should be invited to preach or hold revivals unless the pastor is absolutely certain that said minister is committed to strict holiness and to the "oneness" of God. It would be well to speak with the Bishop-Overseer concerning such appointments. (Read 2 John vs. 9, 1 1)

Section 8b.

The pastor of most congregations will have from time to time those unassigned ministers who will be worshipping with them. The pastor has the right to assign any task in the church as a temporary assignment to these ministers, who are to give their fullest of cooperation. But under no circumstances are such temporary appointed ministers to try to take charge of or to direct the work of the congregation, other than the job given to them by the pastor.

Section 9.

Pastors should be an example to their flock in their promptness in paying their tithes and in the giving to the work of the gospel.

Section 10.

The pastor shall have the authority to deal with their own local members who may be of a rebellious attitude, disobedient and causing confusion and strife in the church. The pastor has complete authority to withdraw fellowship from such members. The Bishop-Overseer may be called to take charge upon request of pastor. The Bishop-Overseer, along with the entire Board of Elders may be called in when a minister is involved.

Section 11.

Any minister holding license with the Emmanuel Churches of Christ and who are seated and their license revoked for any reason and who desire to regain ministerial status with full credentials, shall follow these procedures:

They shall worship at a "home" church in this Assembly, and shall be under the guidance and instructions of the pastor of this "home" church for a period of twelve (12) months, divided as follows:

1. For the first six (6) months period, all activities shall be confined to the "home" church and shall be directed by the pastor. No appointments are to be made or held outside of the "home" church.

2. At the end of the six (6) months, if the above guidelines have been properly carried out, and if the "home" church pastor feels that progress merits, the minister in question may (as any other local minister) accept appointments to preach in any other church of this Assembly, but only after proper contact and with permission of the "home" church pastor.

During this twelve (12) months probation period, while credentials are withheld, the minister in question shall give their support and tithes to the pastor they are under. After this twelve (12) months probation period, and if all these above procedures have been faithfully observed and upon recommendation by the pastor, full credentials shall be granted and the minister shall be re-instated into this Assembly.

Any minister who has ever been or any minister who shall ever be asked to resign as pastor of a congregation due to either confessed or proven acts of immoral conduct, even though said minister be forgiven and restored to the ministry, shall never be allowed to pastor the church or congregation from which he or she was forced to resign.

Section 12 BISHOPS AND ELDERS

All Bishops are Elders but not all Elders are Bishops. Elders are ordained ministers of the (I Tim. 5:1-4) both men and women when called of God to preach the gospel and ordained by prayer and laying on of hands. Elders are to feed the flock (when the Elder is a pastor); Elders are to annoint with oil and pray for the sick. Only ordained Elders are to annoint with oil (James 5:14), all believers may lay on hands (Mark 16:16-20). Elders ordained, (Acts 20:28, Titus 1:5); also read Heb. 11:2; Acts 14:23; Gal. 3:28; 2 John, Acts 6:6, 21:8, 13:2; 1 Tim. 3.

Every Ordained Elder who can fil1 the qualifications of 1 Tim. 3:1-8; Titus 1:4, 5 ,6, 9 with 1 Peter 5:1-4; 1 Tim. 5:17, may be ordained as Bishop at the Overseer's pleasure and as the need arises.

Section 13. ORDINATION OF MINISTERS

The Bishop-Overseer shall ordain the first minister with reading from the Word of God, with exhortations, and with laying on of hands (I Tim. 4:14). The Bishop-Overseer, along with the first minister to be ordained, shall ordain by the same procedure any others; after this, any two duly ordained ministers may with prior consent of the Bishop-Overseer ordain others.

Section 1. QUALIFICATIONS OF DEACONS

The qualifications of Deacons shall be the same as those set out for ministers (I Tim. 3:8-13; Acts 6:3-6), and shall be the "natural" servants of the church, assisting the Pastor in all temporal matters of the church.

Section 2. ORDINATION OF DEACONS

Deacons shall be ordained in the same manner as are the ministers, with the reading of God's Word, exhortations, and the laying on of hands. This ordination may be carried out by one or more duly ordained ministers of this faith and order, and after a period of time has passed wherein the candidate has proven themselves.

DEALING WITH DISOBEDIENT AND REBELLIOUS MEMBERS

Section 1.

"Now I beseech you brethren mark them which cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned, and avoid them. (Rom. 16:17) "Avoid" means to keep away from; to shun. "I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators; yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolators; for then must ye needs go out in the world. But I now have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolator, or a railer, or a drunkard or an extortioner; with such an one not to eat. For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? Do not ye judge them that are within? (I Cor. 5:9-12)" If any man teach otherwise and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of the Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; he is proud knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmising, perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness; from such withdraw thyself. But godliness with contentment is much gain." (I Tim. 6:3-6) "We command you brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly and not after the tradition which he received of us." (II Thess. 3:6)

A few words to the Churches: Saints of God, to withdraw yourself from the ones that walk disorderly or contrary to this doctrine, is just as scriptural as baptism in Jesus Name. Notice again the command that was given in II Thess. 3:6. It was one of the highest commands that could be given, for it was given in Jesus Name.

Brethren let us comply with the orders and instructions as are given by God's Word and we shall prosper.

Section 2.

At a special Board of Elders meeting held Jan. 4, 1971, the following subject was raised, discussed, placed in motion and unanimously approved by the Board: "Inasmuch as our Bible teaches us that it is right not to count a disfellowshipped member as an enemy, but to admonish them as a brother; that when we encounter disfellowshipped ministers or members at funerals, it is better to go ahead and shake hands with them just as you do with all others present. When these people attend our church service, we may, at our own option, shake hands with them as a method of greeting and not in an act of fellowship, and at the same time give to them, in the spirit of godliness, such admonishment as the occasion allows.

This does not give us the privilege to go out of our way to greet these and no pastor is to allow a disfellowshipped minister or member to mount his pulpit or rostrum for any cause other than to make restitution to God and to the church.

Section 3.

The act of withdrawing fellowship from anyone is most certainly a very serious matter and not to be taken lightly. It should only be made as a last resort, after both pastor and church have gone their limit in prayer and in trying to right all wrongs done. No pastor should ever be guilty of injecting their personal feelings into such a serious matter as this.

Section I - PROPER PLACE FOR MEMBERS TO WORSHIP

It is customary, all things being equal, for each member to worship at the church nearest to them, of this faith. But if the member becomes dissatisfied, and if he does no sin that requires a with-drawing of fellowship, we find in the scriptures where the Lord gives them permission to go to another Church of this faith to worship. (Deut. 23:15-16) "Thou shalt not deliver unto his master the servant which is escaped from his master unto thee. He shall dwell with thee, even among you, in the place which he shall choose in one of thy gates where it liketh him best; thou shalt not oppress him." This scripture simply means for us not to crush or put down our brother that chooses to worship at the place best for him. In Psa. 118:19-20, David said, Open unto me the gates of righteousness; I will go into them and I will praise the Lord, this gate of the Lord into which the righteous shall enter." In Jer. 7:2, we find the word of the Lord that came to Jeremiah: "Stand in the gate of the Lord's house, and proclaim there this word, and say, Hear the word of the Lord, all ye of Judah, that enter in at these gates to worship the Lord."

In the 13th chapter of Genesis, Abraham gives advice concerning this matter. Gen. 13:7-10 "And there was strife between the herdsmen of Abrams cattle and the herdsmen of Lot's cattle; and the Canaanite and the Perizzite dwelled in the land. And Abraham said unto Lot, "Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdsmen and thy herdsmen; for we be brethren. Is not the whole land before thee? Separate thyself, I pray thee, from me; if thou wilt take the left hand, then I will go to the right; or if thou depart to the right hand, then I will go to the left."

After Abraham used this humble spirit, the Lord spoke to him, verse 14, "And the Lord said unto Abraham, after that Lot had separated from him, Lift up your eyes and look from the place where thou art northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward. For all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed forever." Jesus said in John 8:39, "If ye were Abraham's children, ye would do the work of Abraham." So let us all divide the Word rightly and stay true to Jesus.

Section 2.

At any time a member desires to move his membership, they must hav a proper letter of release from the pastor of the church they are leaving to the pastor of the church to which they are going, relating that they are in full fellowship with this Assembly. No other pastor is to accept them as their members without this release from former pastor.

Section 1. OTHER RELATED DOCTRINE

The True Church. 1 Cor. 1:1; 1 Tim. 4:16; Matt. 16:18; I John 3:16; Acts 20:18; Rom. 16:16; Heb. 12:33; I Cor. 3:9; Eph. 5:23-28; Acts 2:47; I Cor. 12:13; Rom. 13:14.

Section 2.

Jew and Gentile. Rom. 2:28; Rom. 1:16; Rom. 3:29; Acts 13:46; Gal. 2:2; Gal. 3:28; Rom. 11, entire chapter.

Section 3

Unholy Works of the Flesh, Holy Fruit of the Spirit. Gal. 5:19-24; Rom. 8.

Section 4.

Signs of the Time. Matt. 24:24-32; Luke 21:11, 25-26; Daniel 4:3; Matt. 16:1-3; II Tim. 3:1-5, 7, 9, 12, 13; II Tim. 4:3-4; Daniel 12:4, 9; Zech. 14:7; Nahum 2:3-6.

Section 5

Tribulation: Deut. 4:30; Daniel 12: 1, 10-11; Matt. 21:30; Luke 21:23; Acts 14:22; Matt. 13:21; Rev. 1:9; Rev. 2:9, 10, 22; Rev. 7:14.

Section 6.

Marriage Supper (Rapture) Rev. 9:7-9; Luke 14:16-25; Matt. 22:1-15; I Thess 4:14; Matt. 24:30; Luke 12:36,44

Section 7.

Second Coming: Daniel 7:13; I Thess. 4:17; Zech. 14:1-5; Matt. 24:27-31; Matt. 25:31-46; Revelation 1:7; Rev. 3:3; Rev. 20:1-12

Section 8.

The Beast: II Thess. 2:1-12; Rev. 17:17; God put in their hearts to agree, and to give their kingdom unto the Beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled. Daniel 7:25 The laws shall be given into his hands; he shall have power to change them. Rev. 13:6-9; He will have power over all the nations. Daniel 11: 32-45; Rev. 13: 1, 11; Rev. 17:8, 11; Rev. 19:19; Rev. 20:10.

Section 9.

The Thousand Year Reign: There shall we reign upon the EARTH Isa. 34:15; Rev. 20:1; Isa. 11:4; Isa. 65:17; Ezek. 37:38; Ezek. 34:32.

Section 10.

Final Resurrection (General) I Cor. 15:12-21; Luke 20:27; Matt. 27:51-52; Acts 1:22; Acts 2:31: Phil. 3:10; John 11:25; I Cor. 15:42-46.

Section 11.

Final Judgment: Ecc. 12:14; Rom. 14:10-12; Matt. 12:36, 37; Luke 10:10, 11; James 5:3; II Cor. 5:10; Matt. 25:32-46; Rev. 20:11-15; Heb. 9:27.

Section 12.

Eternal Punishment: Matt. 25:46; Luke 16:19-21; Psa. 9:17; II Peter 2:4; Rev. 20:10; Mark 9:43-45; (Jude 7, Mal 4:1; Matt. 18:8 EVERLASTING, John 3:16 and Matt. 25:41 RV ETERNAL FIRE) Matt. 25:46 (Gr. eons et eons: ages upon ages)

Section 13.

Equality of Male and Female: Gal. 5:28; Jas. 2:5; John 1:12; Joel 2:28.