Harbor Church
A Washington Non-profit Religious Organization
819 Olympia Avenue Olympia, WA 98506
Church Bylaws
Adopted Effective: December 2016
Amended: November 2019
PREAMBLE
We are a body of believers in Jesus Christ, organized for the purpose of leading people into a vibrant relationship with Jesus Christ that transforms every area and aspect of life to the glory of God the Father for the mission of God the Son by the power of God the Holy Spirit. As a living organism, we are to be earnestly urging others to exercise faith in Christ, to be provoking them to love and good works, and to be mutually equipping one another for the work of the ministry. As a local body, we deem it vital to have a defined framework so that all may be done decently and in good order. We resolve, as members of this body, that we shall govern ourselves according to these bylaws.
CONTENTS
ARTICLE 1: NAME
ARTICLE 2: PRINCIPAL OFFICE
ARTICLE 3: MISSION STATEMENT
ARTICLE 4: NONPROFIT STATUS
ARTICLE 5: AFFILIATIONS
ARTICLE 6: MEETINGS
ARTICLE 7: ARTICLES OF FAITH
ARTICLE 8: MEMBERSHIP
ARTICLE 9: GOVERNANCE, LEADERSHIP, AND ORGANIZATION
ARTICLE 10: ORDINANCES
ARTICLE 11: FACILITY USE
ARTICLE 12: PROPERTY AND FINANCES
ARTICLE 13: STANDING TEAMS
ARTICLE 14: AUXILIARY ORGANIZATIONS
ARTICLE 15: MISCELLANEOUS
ARTICLE 16; AMENDMENTS TO BYLAWS
ARTICLE 17: INDEMNIFICATION
ARTICLE 1: NAME
These bylaws govern the affairs of Harbor Church, a religious, non-profit corporation located in Washington State.
ARTICLE 2: PRINCIPAL OFFICE
The principal office for business transactions of Harbor Church is 819 Olympia Avenue NE, Olympia, WA 98506. This office is located in Thurston County.
The Full Council of Elders shall have full power and authority to change the principal office from one location to another. The Harbor Church secretary shall record any change in location of the principal office.
ARTICLE 3: MISSION STATEMENT
Harbor Church exists to lead people into a vibrant relationship with Jesus Christ that transforms every area and aspect of life to the glory of God the Father for the mission of God the Son by the power of God the Holy Spirit.
ARTICLE 4: NONPROFIT STATUS
Harbor Church is a nonprofit corporation under the laws of the state of Washington and is organized under the Washington Business Organization Code. Federal tax exemption is granted under Internal Revenue Code 501(c)(3).
ARTICLE 5: AFFILIATION
Believing in the independence of the local church as a fully autonomous body of believers, we have the right, under the leadership of the Holy Spirit and the direction of the Full Council of Elder (FCE), to govern our affairs independent of any denominational control. Recognizing, however, the benefits of cooperation with other churches and Christian organizations, the FCE has the right to affiliate the church with various missions, training, education, and networking associations as deemed appropriate for the good of the people of this church and the fulfillment of our mission and purpose.
ARTICLE 6: MEETINGS
6.1 Public Worship
Meetings for public worship shall be held as such times and places as may be provided under the direction of the Full Council of Elders.
6.2 Church Business Meetings
The Full Council of Elders shall have the authority to call a Harbor Church business meeting or special meetings as needed.
ARTICLE 7: ARTICLES OF FAITH
7.1 Statement of Biblical Authority
At the center of Christian faith and practice stands the belief that God has spoken to the world in the person and work of Jesus Christ, which is accurately and authoritatively revealed in the Christian Bible (“the Bible,” “Scripture” or “the Scriptures”). The Bible is the inspired, inerrant and sufficient Word of God and is thus the ultimate authority for life, faith and morals. Though the various theological statements of the Church reflect succinct summaries of biblical boundaries, it is the Bible itself to which we are in ultimate submission.
Members have the responsibility and opportunity to engage the Elders and Church Staff on areas of theological disagreement. However, membership carries with it the implicit understanding that the Full Council of Elders shall function as the interpretive authority on biblical meaning and application for the purpose of church doctrine, practice, policy and discipline.
7.2 Statement of Faith
The following Statement of Faith represents the core orthodox beliefs of the Church from a biblical and historical perspective. While Church Members are not required to fully understand or articulate all aspects of the Statement of Faith, the explicit rejection of any part of it disqualifies one from membership in Harbor Church. Revisions to the Statement of Faith in order to more clearly align to Scripture shall be at the sole discretion of the Full Council of Elders, with the understanding that such changes will be communicated to the Members of the Church.
The Trinity
There is one true and living God, eternally existing in three equally divine Persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Each member of the Trinity share the divine attributes as they infinitely know, love, and glorify one another in unity and holiness. Immortal and eternal, God perfectly and exhaustively knows everything from the beginning to the end and works all things for his redemptive purposes and glory.
(Genesis 1:1, 1:26-27, 3:22 • Psalm 90:2 • Matthew 3:16-17, 28:19 • 1 Peter 1:2 • 2 Corinthians 13:14)
God the Father
Head among the persons of the Trinity, God the Father is the grand architect and infinitely wise designer of creation, redemption, and consummation. He sustains and sovereignly rules over all things, and he providentially brings about his eternal good purposes to redeem a people for himself and restore his fallen creation. As the giver of every good and perfect gift, he exercises his care and compassion by disciplining, correcting, and loving his adopted children.
(Exodus 3:6 • Psalm 68:5 • Isaiah 63:16 • Malachi 2:10 • Matthew 23:9 • 1 Corinthians 8:6 • 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 • Ephesians 1:3, 4:6 • James 1:17)
God the Son
The second person of the Trinity, the eternal Son of God, is the creator and sustainer of all things, both visible and invisible. He added human nature to his divine nature and became both fully God and fully man, as Jesus Christ, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary so that he might reveal God to humankind and redeem sinful people. As Lord and Christ, Jesus accomplished salvation through his sinless life, sacrificial death, and victorious resurrection. After his witnessed resurrection, the Lord Jesus Christ ascended into heaven. He is now exalted at the right hand of God, where, as our High Priest, he fulfills the ministry of Intercessor, Mediator, and Advocate for those who belong to him until he returns.
(Matthew 1:21-23 • Isaiah 9:6-7 • John 1:1-5; 14:10-31 • Hebrews 4:14-15 • 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 • Romans 1:2-4 • Acts 1:9-11 • Colossians 1:15 • 1 Timothy 6:14-15 • Titus 2:11-14)
God the Holy Spirit
The third person of the Trinity, God the Holy Spirit was sent by God the Father and God the Son to convict the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment. As the Spirit of Life, he gives people faith to be born again in Jesus. Likewise, he baptizes all believers into the body of Christ, indwells them, and seals them unto the day of redemption. As the Spirit of truth, he works sanctification in believers by teaching us about Jesus, illuminating his Word, and empowering us to live for Jesus in loving obedience, doing the works he prepared in advance for us to do.
(John 14:15-17, 16:7-13 • Acts 1:8 • Romans 8:1-2 • 1 Corinthians 2:12, 3:16 • 2 Corinthians 3:17 • Galatians 5:22-25 • Ephesians 1:13-14, 5:18)
Revelation & Scripture
God has graciously shown his existence and power in creation and has supremely revealed himself in the person of his Son, the incarnate Word. God is a speaking God who by his Spirit has graciously made himself known through human words in the Bible, the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments. These writings alone constitute the verbally inspired Word of God, which is without error in the original writings and must not be added to, superseded, or changed by later tradition, extra-biblical revelation, or worldly wisdom.
The Bible is complete in its revelation of God’s will for salvation, sufficient for all that he requires us to believe and do, and final in its authority. All believers are exhorted to study the Scriptures and diligently apply them to their lives. God’s Word guides Christian life, practice, and doctrine. Every doctrinal formulation, whether of creed, confession, or theology, must be put to the test of the full counsel of God in Holy Scripture.
The Bible is to be believed, as God’s instruction, in all that it teaches; obeyed, as God’s command, in all that it requires; and trusted, as God’s pledge, in all that it promises. As God’s people hear, believe, and do the Word, they are equipped as disciples of Christ and witnesses to the Gospel.
(2 Timothy 3:16-17 • 2 Peter 1:20-21 • Psalm 119:105, 160, 12:6 • Proverbs 30:5 • Deuteronomy 6:6-9 )
About Human Beings
God created human beings, male and female, in his own image; therefore, all people, regardless of culture, race, gender, ability level, age, or social status, have dignity, value, and worth.
Adam and Eve, our first parents, belonged to the created order that God himself declared to be very good. Each of them imaged God fully and completely and were loved and valued by God equally. They lived in holy and devoted fellowship with their Maker and served as stewards to care for, manage, and govern creation.
As part of God’s design to fill the earth and demonstrate the relationship between Christ and his church, Adam and Eve were also made to complement each other in a one-flesh union.
This covenantal union between one man and one woman establishes the only normative pattern of sexual relations and marriage for men and women. In God’s wise purposes, men and women are not simply interchangeable, but rather they complement each other in mutually enriching ways. God ordains that they assume distinctive roles that reflect the loving relationship between Christ and the church, the husband exercising headship in a way that displays the caring, sacrificial love of Christ, and the wife submitting to her husband in a way that models the love of the church for her Lord.
(Genesis 1:26-28, 2:24 • Psalm 8:3-6 • Ephesians 5:22-32)
The Fallenness of Humankind
Adam, made in the image of God, distorted that image and forfeited his original blessedness—for himself and all his offspring after him—by choosing to sin against God. As a result, all human beings are hostile to and alienated from God, yet we are responsible to him and subject to his divine wrath.
Humankind’s depravity is radical and pervasive, extending to every aspect of our being (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual) and bringing us under the dominion of darkness. As fallen and sinful people, no matter our character or accomplishments, we are lost and without hope apart from salvation in Christ.
The supreme need of all human beings is to be reconciled to the God under whose just and holy wrath we stand; the only hope of all human beings is the undeserved love of this same God, who alone can rescue us and restore us to himself.
(Isaiah 53:6a, 59:1-2 • John 1:12, 14:6 • Romans 3:23, 5:1, 6:23, 10:9 • Ephesians 2:8-9 • Titus 3:5 • Galatians 3:25-26)
Election
From all eternity, God determined in grace to save a great multitude of guilty sinners from every tribe and language and people and nation, and to this end, he foreknew them and chose them. God justifies and sanctifies those who, by grace, have faith in Jesus and that he will one day glorify them—all to the praise of his glorious grace. In love, God commands and implores all people to turn from sin and rebellion and believe in Jesus, having set his saving grace on those he has chosen and having ordained Christ to be their Redeemer.
(Matthew 24:31 • Romans 9:11 • Ephesians 1:3-10 • 2 Timothy 2:10 • 2 Peter 1:10)
The Gospel
The gospel is the good news of Jesus Christ and that his kingdom has come to earth. The message of the Gospel declares that Jesus, who is God, came in fulfillment of the Scriptures to be the King and Savior of this world. Jesus lived a sinless life, died a substitutionary death for our sins, and rose from the grave on the third day in order that the power of God might be revealed. It is through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection that we receive salvation, are reconciled to God, and are given eternal life.
The truth of the gospel is exclusive (one can be saved by no other means), biblical (his death and resurrection are according to the Scriptures), historical (if the saving events did not happen, our faith is worthless, we are still in our sins, and we are to be pitied more than all others), apostolic (the message was entrusted to and transmitted by the apostles, who were witnesses to the risen Lord Jesus), and intensely personal (where it is received, believed, and held firmly, individual persons are saved).
(John 1:14, 3:16-17, 14:6 • Romans 6:23, 8:16-18 • 1 Corinthians 2:7-9, 15:12-19 • Revelation 20:15)
Redemption & Salvation
According to the plan of God to adopt us into His family, the Lord Jesus Christ accomplished our redemption. By his incarnation, life, death, resurrection, and ascension, Jesus Christ acted as our representative, substitute, and mediator. He did this so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. As our representative, Jesus lived a perfect sinless life for us. As our substitute, Jesus canceled our record of sin, satisfied the wrath of God, and made reconciliation with God possible. By his resurrection, Christ Jesus was vindicated by his Father, broke the bondage of sin, defeated the power of death, conquered Satan and all demonic forces, and brought everlasting life to all his people. As our mediator, Jesus, who ascended to heaven, sits on his heavenly throne interceding for us in prayer and preparing a place for us to be with him.
Salvation is a free gift of God that is not earned but rather given by grace alone, through faith alone, because of Christ alone, to the glory of God alone. God the Father ordains the plan of salvation, God the Son accomplishes the work of salvation, and God the Spirit applies salvation in the life of a believer by making them born again.
(John 14:6 • Romans 5:1; 6:23; 10:9-10 • Galatians 3:26 • Ephesians 2:8 • Titus 3:5)
Empowerment of the Holy Spirit
Sent by the Father and the Son, the Holy Spirit glorifies the Lord Jesus Christ and is present with and in believers. He convicts the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment, and by his powerful and mysterious work, he regenerates spiritually dead sinners, awakening them to repentance and faith, and in him they are baptized into union with the Lord Jesus Christ.
By the Spirit’s agency, believers are renewed, sanctified, adopted into God’s family, and given spiritual gifts. The Holy Spirit is himself the down payment of the promised inheritance of eternal life, and, in this age, he indwells, guides, instructs, equips, revives, liberates, and empowers believers for Christ-like living and service.
The Holy Spirit empowers our sanctification and seeks to produce his fruit in us as our minds are renewed and we are conformed to the image of Christ. Though indwelling sin remains a reality, as we are led by the Spirit, we grow in the knowledge of the Lord and obedience to him. Under the Holy Spirit’s guidance, we are free from the bondage of sin to worship Jesus. In freedom, we strive to live in the world in such a way that all people may see our good works and glorify our Father who is in heaven.
The Holy Spirit indwells the believer at the moment of conversion, not as a separate event, and he continually fills each believer with increased power for Christian life, witness, and service. He imparts his supernatural gifts for the edification of the Body and for various works of ministry in the world. All the gifts of the Holy Spirit at work in the first century church are available today and should be earnestly desired and practiced. The work of the Holy Spirit through believers is vital for the mission of God.
(Psalm 51:11 • Matthew 3:11, 28:19 • John 14:26 • Acts 1:8, 2:4, 2:38 • 1 Corinthians 6:19 • Ephesians 1:13, 4:30 • Galatians 5:22-23 • 2 Timothy 1:14 • Titus 3:5)
The Kingdom of God
Those who have been saved by the grace of God enter into the kingdom of God and delight in the blessings of new covenant relationship with God. Living as salt in a world that is decaying and light in a world that is dark, believers should neither withdraw into seclusion from the world, nor become indistinguishable from it; rather, we are to do good in the world for the glory of God. As citizens of God’s kingdom, Christians are to love our neighbors as ourselves and do good to all, especially to those who belong to the household of God. The kingdom of God, already present but not fully realized, is the exercise of God’s sovereignty in the world toward the eventual redemption of all creation. The kingdom of God is an invasive power that plunders Satan’s dark kingdom and regenerates and renovates through repentance and faith the lives of individuals rescued from that kingdom. It therefore inevitably establishes a new community of human life together under God.
(Matthew 5:13-16, 6:33 • Mark 1:14-15, 10:15 • Luke 4:43, 6:20, 17:20-21 • 1 Corinthians 15:50)
The Church
The universal Church is not a religious institution but rather the community of all Christians throughout history and the world. It is comprised of local churches; thus, each “local church” is, in fact, the church and the household of God. As the head of the church, Jesus leads and rules his body. As the bridegroom of his church, Jesus loves and cherishes his bride. As the Chief Shepherd of his church, Jesus cares for and protects the flock of God.
God’s mission to spread his glory through all the earth and reconcile all things to himself is accomplished through his church, worshipping him in spirit and truth and faithfully serving as his ambassadors to the unbelieving world. He makes his appeal through us when the gospel is preached, disciples are made, and new churches are planted. Ultimately, God’s mission through his Church is to make disciples of Jesus who make disciples.
The church is a people—sinners made saints who have been adopted as God’s children and live together in unity, love, and community as family, the household of God. God’s people are devoted to the teaching of God’s word, fellowship with each other, practicing the sacraments, prayer, and mission. Jesus established human leadership within the church who the Bible calls elders and deacons. Elders are the pastors of the church who minister the word of God and who oversee, protect, and care for the people. Deacons are servants who help the elders and serve the greater body.
All leaders must meet biblical qualifications and set an example in love, humility, and discipleship in Jesus. As an extension of God’s created order, both men and women are encouraged to serve Christ and to be developed to their full potential in the manifold ministries of the people of God. The distinctive leadership role of the office of elder is given to qualified men and is grounded in creation, fall, and redemption and must not be changed by appeals to culture.
Every Christian is part of the body of Christ and is expected to participate in the life of the body by being a member of a local church. Members of the local church build up the body of Christ by loving each other, ministering to each other, calling each other to faith, hope, and devotion to Christ alone.
(Matthew 16:18 • Acts 14:23, 14:27, 16:5, 20:28 • 1 Corinthians 11:18 • Ephesians 5:23-32 • Romans 12:5 • 1 Corinthians • Ephesians 3:6, 4:11-12)
Stewardship
God is the source of all blessings, temporal and spiritual. He is the giver of every good and perfect gift. He gives to all people life and breath and all things. All that we have and all that we are, we owe to Him, because all things belong to him and we belong to him.
As our Creator, God made humankind to live and serve as stewards to care for, manage, and govern creation under his dominion. Because of the fall, our stewardship became distorted and broken. We were rescued by Christ by a great act of infinite generosity. Jesus Christ laid aside his wealth in glory and became poor in order to redeem us. He gave himself for us. He bought us. He is the example and model for generosity and stewardship. It is because of his great generosity to us, we can be generous in return. As redeemed stewards we can now willingly, sacrificially, cheerfully, and generously invest the God-given time, talent, and treasure entrusted to us for God’s glory and the expansion of his kingdom.
(Matthew 7:11, 25:14-30 • 1 Corinthians 9:17 • Colossians 1:25 • James 1:17 • 1 Peter 4:10)
Baptism & Communion
There are two ordinances given by the Lord Jesus himself: baptism and communion.
After conversion, baptism happens once in a believer’s life. Our practice of baptism is full immersion of a professing believer in water. Baptism symbolizes the believer's faith in a crucified, buried, and risen Savior. As the believer goes into the water, it represents death to sin and burial of the old life. As the believer comes out of the water, it represents new life in Christ, our union with Him, and the freedom to walk in newness of life.
Communion is an ongoing practice throughout the believer’s life. As with water baptism, communion (or the Lord’s Supper) is to be observed only by those who have become genuine followers of Christ. This ordinance symbolizes the breaking of Christ’s body and the shedding of his blood on our behalf. As we partake of the Lord’s Supper with an attitude of faith and self- examination, we remember and proclaim the death of Christ and signify our unity with other members of Christ’s body.
These ordinances are simultaneously a reminder of God’s grace to Christians and a Christian’s public declaration of union with Christ in his life, death, and resurrection. They are done in obedience to nourish and sustain our faith as we anticipate Jesus’ return and the consummation of all things.
(Matthews 28:19-20 • Acts 2:41 • Ephesians 2:8-9 • Colossians 2:12 • Matthew 26:26-30 • Mark 14:22-26 • Luke 22:19-20 • 1 Corinthians 11:23-29)
Consummation
Along with all creation, the Bride of Christ eagerly awaits the personal, glorious, and bodily return of our Lord Jesus and the complete consummation of his kingdom on earth. God alone knows the timing of Christ’s return. The consummation includes: the resurrection of the dead and the transformation of those alive in Christ, the judgment of the just and the unjust, and Christ’s renewal of creation, including establishing a new heavens, new earth, and New Jerusalem.
Satan, demons, and all those who do not trust in Christ for salvation will be finally separated from the benevolent presence of God, enduring eternal conscious punishment. The righteous, in glorious resurrected bodies, shall live and reign with him forever. On that day, because of the obedience, suffering, and triumph of Christ, the Church will be presented pure and spotless, free and rid of all the effects of sin.
Afterward, God will dwell with this people, face to face, where they will enjoy the presence of God forever, serving him and giving him unending praise and glory.
(Philippians 1:6 • 1 Corinthians 15:20-28, 42, 50-58 • Revelation 21:1-8)
Marriage and Sexuality
It is the biblical position that marriage involves the union of one man and one woman in permanent sacred fidelity. Though various cultures and customs have evolving definitions of marriage, it is God alone who has ultimate authority to prescribe and describe the marital relationship.
(Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:1-9, Mark 10:1-12).
Furthermore, sexual intimacy is only properly exercised and pursued within the confines of this marital relationship. Sexual immorality, defined as any sexual activity outside of the boundaries of the sacred marital relationship between one man and one woman, is clearly and expressly prohibited by the Lord.
(Matthew 15:19; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; Hebrews 13:4)
As a consequence, the church regards any and all forms of sexual immorality, including adultery, fornication, homosexual behavior, bisexual conduct, bestiality, incest, pornography, or even lustful intent toward such, as sinful and ultimately unsatisfying. Moreover, the church also regards as sinful the intent or desire to surgically alter one’s biological sex to a different sex. Because the body is a creation of God, the church holds sexual identity to be biologically determined, and associated gender norms are to be observed as appropriate to biblical standards. Disagreement with one’s biological sex only leads to spiritual confusion and emotional chaos.
(Genesis 1:27; Romans 1:26-32; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11)
In order to preserve the function and integrity of the church as the local Body of Christ and to provide a biblical example to the church members and the community, it is imperative that all persons employed by the church in any capacity or united to the church in membership should abide by and agree to this “Statement on Marriage and Sexuality” and conduct themselves accordingly.
Though sinful sexual expression is egregious (as is all sin), the gospel provides redemption and restoration to all who confess and forsake their sin, seeking mercy and forgiveness through Jesus Christ.
(1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Ephesians 2:1-10; Titus 3:3-7)
Furthermore, there is a difference between temptation and unrepented sin. Jesus was tempted in all ways as we are, yet he never sinned. Members, employees, volunteers, and attendees of the church wrestling with all manner of sexual temptation will find a church that is ready to point them to Jesus and join with them to fight for their obedience to Christ. Jesus called the weary and heavy-laden to himself. As a church desiring to follow Christ fully, the church will be a safe place for men and women fighting sexual temptations of all kinds. For those fighting temptation and repenting of sin, the church will provide love, care, and direction.
(Matthew 11:28-30; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Hebrews 2:17-18; Hebrews 4:14-16).
The church’s “Statement on Marriage and Sexuality” must be expressed through compassion, love, kindness, respect, and dignity and does not provide grounds for bigotry, bullying, or hate, as we fully believe that every person has been created in the image of God. Hateful and harassing behavior directed toward any individual are to be repudiated as sinful and are not in accordance with the Scriptures nor the doctrines of the church.
The church’s “Statement on Marriage and Sexuality” is based on God’s will for human life as conveyed to us through the Scriptures, upon which this church has been founded and anchored, and this shall not be subject to change through popular vote; referendum; prevailing opinion of members or the general public; influence of or interpretation by any government authority, agency, or official action; or legal developments on the local, state, or federal level.
ARTICLE 8: MEMBERSHIP
Overview
As Christians, we are members of God’s household (Ephesians 2:19) which means we are a family. We are called to function, participate, and minister in a particular place as the Body of Christ. A healthy body requires healthy members of the body. In the same way, a healthy church requires healthy members of the church. Our desire is for each member of our church to be thriving in their relationship with Jesus, to be sacrificially committed to one another in Christian love and relationship, and to be fully devoted to the mission of God.
We are disciples of Jesus and function together in unity and diversity by doing the works of service that God has prepared in advance for us to do (Romans 12:9-13; Ephesians 2:10, 4:12). We are diverse in ethnicity, cultural perspectives, social status, gender, and age, yet unified by our identity in Christ (Ephesians 4:3). This diversity is expressed by different parts of the body having different spiritual gifts and this unity is expressed in what we believe and the way we collaborate in loving God, loving fellow Christians, and loving non-Christians.
At Harbor Church, we hold one another in high regard; as such, we desire to inwardly build up the Body of Christ together and outwardly lead as missionaries of the gospel to the world. By joining our church, members demonstrate in a concrete way their desire to unite with us to advance Christ’s mission in the world.
Membership Covenant
Key Scripture References
For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body— Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit. For the body does not consist of one member but of many. — 1 Corinthians 12:12–14
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. — 1 Peter 2:9–10
But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit. — Ephesians 2:13–22
Membership Covenant Preamble
It is an amazing thought that God would grant forgiveness of sin to anyone, but that is exactly what God has done through the person and work of his Son, Jesus Christ. What is more, God not only forgives our sins, but he also adopts us into his family (Galatians 4:4-7). As children of God, ransomed by the blood of Jesus, we are granted to share in the treasure of heaven as coheirs with Jesus Christ himself (Galatians 3:29). We who were once far off are now called near to God through the blood of Jesus (1 Peter 1:18–19). Having been called, saved, and baptized into this body of believers, it is with great joy and with sober-mindedness that we enter into this covenant as Covenant Members of Harbor Church. May God grant us a spirit of unity and joy as we seek to live out the commitments of this member covenant.
Purpose of a Membership Covenant
God is a covenant-making and a covenant-keeping God. It is in keeping with the character and nature of God that this covenant is set forth. However, some may ask, “Why is a membership covenant important?” or “Is such a covenant really necessary?” First, a membership covenant says to a low-commitment culture that we are not afraid to commit to that which is most valuable. Jesus is not ashamed to call us his brothers (Hebrews 2:11), and we are not ashamed to be known as his people (Romans 1:16).
Second, God says that the elders of the church will give an account to Jesus for those members of the body entrusted to them (Hebrews 13:17). A membership covenant is a tangible way for these elders to know whom they are to shepherd and for whom they will give an account.
Third, a membership covenant is a way to remember that the church is not a building or an event, but a people (Colossians 1:18). By covenanting together, the Covenant Members of a church intentionally and relationally commit themselves to both God and one another.
In 21st century American culture, the word “membership” often brings to mind images of a commitment at the level of an athletic club or a grocery store. This is in sharp contrast to the biblical example. In the Bible, “membership” is not the low-commitment of these modern examples, but a covenant relationship built on the example of God himself, the God who covenants with broken people such as us. By covenanting together, we can live out the many biblical images given for the church: a body (1 Corinthians 12), a nation (1 Peter 2:9), a family (Matthew 12:49–50), and a temple (1 Peter 2:5).
Role of Elders and Members of the Congregation
Based on the pattern of Scripture, Harbor Church is led by a plurality of male elders. However, the Covenant Members of the church in no way hold a status that is inferior to the elders with regard to their standing before Christ. Because of the fundamental equality of believers (Galatians 3:28), each Covenant Member of Harbor Church plays an important role in the mission of the church. Although the entire congregation does not have responsibility for the primary governance of the church, Covenant Members still contribute to the life and health of the church in critical and invaluable ways. The Covenant Members are responsible to give voice and input in order to aid the elders in their leadership of the church, including certain specific responsibilities as outlined in this member covenant and the bylaws of the church.
Additionally, as followers of Jesus, each has been given gifs by the Holy Spirit with the responsibility to pursue active ministry for the accomplishment of the mission of the church and the care of its members. This takes place through the various ministry roles and service opportunities afforded to elders (reserved only for biblically qualified men), deacons (any qualified adult), ministry leaders, and through the daily lives of every Covenant Member of Harbor Church, as they live all of life unto God (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Covenant Member Commitments to God, to the Elders, and to Each Other
I covenant to submit to the Bible as the final authority on all issues of life and belief (Psalm 119; Timothy 3:14–17; 2 Peter 1:19–21).
I covenant to pursue the Lord Jesus Christ through regular practice of the spiritual disciplines found in Scripture: Bible study, prayer, fellowship, silence, solitude, rest, fasting, etc. (Luke 18:1; Acts 17:11; 1 Corinthians 9:24–27; Ephesians 5:1–21; 1 Thessalonians 5:12–22).
I covenant to faithfully participate in the ordinances of baptism and communion, celebrating new life in Christ and remembering the sacrifice that has given that new life (Matthew 28:18–20; 1 Corinthians 11:17–34).
I affirm, in obedience to Scripture, that I have been baptized as a public declaration of my faith in Jesus, partaking in his death and resurrection, and as a sign of membership in his eternal covenant community (Colossians 2:12; 1 Peter 3:21).
I covenant to submit to the elders and other appointed leaders of Harbor Church, out of reverence to, and in recognition of, the loving authority of Jesus Christ, who is the head of the Church, and to diligently strive for unity and peace within the body (Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 5:5).
I covenant to regularly contribute to the life and health of Harbor Church by attending weekly services, engaging in biblical community (e.g. Life Groups), and serving those inside and outside of this church (Acts 2:42–47; Hebrews 10:23–25; Titus 3:14).
I covenant to financially contribute cheerfully and generously in support of the ministries of Harbor Church, the expenses of the church, the aid of church members experiencing financial hardship, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the gospel (2 Corinthians 8–9; Galatians 2:10; 3 John 5–8).
I covenant to walk together in familial love, exercising affectionate care and watchfulness over one another, faithfully admonishing and entreating one another as circumstances may require. Additionally, I covenant to pay careful attention to the dozens of “one-another” commands given in Scripture, in order to joyfully seek the building up of the body of Christ, and my own sanctification (John 3:34; Romans 12:9-16; 14:13, 19; 15:7, 14; Galatians 5:13; Ephesians 4:32; 5:21; Colossians 3:9; 1 Thessalonians 4:18; Hebrews 10:24; James 5:16).
I covenant to regularly pray for Harbor Church, its leaders, its Covenant Members, and for the advancement of the gospel through its ministries (1 Thessalonians 5:17, 25; Colossians 4:3; 1 Timothy 2:1–2; 2 Thessalonians 3:1).
I covenant to take seriously and to live out intentionally and actively my commitment to the mission, values, and beliefs of Harbor Church (Ephesians 4:1; Colossians 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 2:12; Philippians 2:13; Hebrews 13:20–21).
I covenant to communicate to the elders or any other Covenant Member regarding any offense that I feel may have been committed against me only after I have first prayerfully considered the situation and I am confident that I am seeking an outcome focused on understanding, forgiveness, reconciliation, and gentle rebuke and correction where necessary, as fits the circumstances of the situation and in keeping with Matthew 18:15–20. (Ephesians 4:29–32; Galatians 6:1)
I covenant to participate in the affirmation of the church elders and certain other leaders as well as the affirmation of anything else the elders bring before the covenant members as a fully engaged and well-informed participant in the mission of Harbor Church.
I covenant to prayerfully reconsider my commitment to Harbor Church and the Covenant Member affirmations listed here on an annual basis in order to intentionally reassess my ongoing alignment with the church’s mission, values, and beliefs. If at any time I feel I can no longer adhere to these covenant commitments and live them out joyfully, I will notify the elders of Harbor Church and seek to work through my questions or concerns peaceably, in pursuit of the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:1–6; Romans 12:18)
If at some point I move on from this church, I will inform the leaders of Harbor Church, and then as soon as possible unite with another church where I can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the biblical principles of God’s Word (Hebrews 10:24-25).
Summary
This is our exclusive covenant commitment to the local body of believers as members of Harbor Church. This covenant is an acknowledgment of our submission to the oversight, shepherding, and care of the elders of this church. If at any time we can no longer commit to this covenant, we will notify the Elders of Harbor Church.
Qualifications for Membership
Membership in Harbor Church shall be open to anyone who meets the following:
Is a Christian and gives testimony to Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior
Demonstrates evidence of regeneration by living a life that is consistent with their profession of faith and submits to the authority of Scripture
Regularly participates in the life of the church by attending worship services, serving, giving financially, and living in community
Has been baptized as a professing Christian
Affirms the Statement of Faith of Harbor Church and agrees to abide by the membership covenant and bylaws of this church
Agrees not to participate as a leader or member of another church
Membership Process
Anyone who meets the above qualifications and completes the membership process instituted by the Full Council of Elders will be eligible for membership.
Membership Responsibilities
Participate in the life of the body as per the membership covenant.
Membership Renewal and Removal
Membership is reviewed and renewed on a periodic basis. Members can be removed through (a) failure to renew their membership, (b) voluntary resignation of membership by one in good standing, (c) death, or (d) a decision by the Full Council of Elders as a result of the disciplinary process. Members are prohibited from voluntarily resigning their membership while subject to the formal disciplinary process.
Cancellation, Discipline, and Restoration of Members
Cancellation by Absenteeism
The elders shall make reasonable efforts to contact any member of the church who has been absent from church services and community life for three or more months. Where infrequent attendance is determined to be the result of spiritual neglect or indifference of the member, loving restoration will be attempted by the elders. Where such an attempt is not successful, cancellation of membership may be affected by the elders.
Cancellation by Member in Good Standing
Members who request that their membership be canceled or who unite with another church shall inform the elders in writing so that their names may be removed from the membership roster.
Discipline of Members
Discipline is an exercise of scriptural authority for which the church is responsible
(Matthew 16:19, 18:15-20; Luke 17:3; John 20:23; Acts 16:4; Ephesians 5:11; 1 Timothy 5:20; 2 Timothy 4:2; Hebrews 13:17).
Members of the church are expected to conduct their lives in accordance with biblical standards as they grow to be more like Christ. When a member knowingly ignores the direct commands and prohibitions of scripture and continues in persistent sin, he or she shall be cared for in accordance to the principles of discipline and restoration found in the scriptures.
(Matthew 7:1-5, 18:15-17; Galatians 6; 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13;
1 Timothy 1:20; and 2 Timothy 2:17-18.)
The purpose of discipline is to promote repentance, reconciliation, and restoration. It is to be redemptive in nature as well as corrective. Any member of this church and any non-member who voluntarily participates in the fellowship of this church is subject to discipline on the basis of unrepentant sinful conduct or departure from the core doctrines of the Bible as outlined in our statement of faith, as determined by the sole discretion of the Full Council of Elders.
Discipline Procedure
Harbor Church will follow the disciplinary procedure set forth in Matthew 18:15-20. This procedure consists generally of the following steps:
The person who feels a brother/sister is in sin or has sinned against them should go to that person to resolve the matter.
If the two parties are unsuccessful in resolving the matter, the aggrieved party may ask an elder to discuss the matter with both parties to gain understanding and help bring reconciliation.
If the matter is still unresolved and an elder determines there is sin on the part of one party (or both parties), the offending person/s shall again meet with the elders or with a designated committee of elders and deacons in an effort to resolve the matter privately.
A person found to be hardhearted and unrepentant may have their membership cancelled from the church (Matthew 18:17) or be subject to other appropriate discipline as determined by a majority of the Full Council of Elders.
If discipline results in cancellation of membership by the Full Council of Elders, the elders may notify the church if they deem it necessary. Members and regular attenders of this church are not guaranteed confidentiality regarding issues of church discipline. According to Scripture, the elders may share issues of a sensitive or personal nature for the good and protection of the body (1 Corinthians 5; Matthew 18:17).
Restoration of Cancelled Members
All discipline is intended to be restorative after its purpose is accomplished. Restoration to membership shall occur only after confession, repentance, and reconciliation is witnessed as determined by the Full Council of Elders.
Membership Governance
Member Meetings: This church will have a minimum of one member meeting each year. The purpose of this meeting will be established by the Full Council of Elders and may include but is not limited to the following:
Affirming elder candidates as elders
Affirming the annual operating budget
Presenting financial reports and other reports pertaining to the health of the church
Testifying to the evidences of God’s grace in the church.
Notice: Notice will be given in the church announcements two weeks ahead of the meeting and may also be given electronically.
Affirmations: As a church governed and led by the Full Council of Elders, membership in this church does not entitle the member to a vote at member meetings. However, from time to time and as fits the occasion, the Full Council of Elders may submit to the Covenant Members of Harbor Church certain items for affirmation and response. Though the affirmation is not a vote, it nonetheless is a means of showing that our membership is unified with and in support of the direction and decisions of the Full Council of Elders.
Restrictions: Membership is an ecclesiastical concept and members of this church are not statutory members under the Washington Nonprofit Corporation Act. Those admitted to the church membership do not constitute a legislative body, nor can they vote on or pass resolutions binding upon the church as a corporation.
ARTICLE 9: GOVERNANCE, LEADERSHIP, AND ORGANIZATION
Jesus is the Chief Shepherd
Jesus Christ, God’s Son, is the sole Head of Harbor Church and we submit ourselves to him (Ephesians 1:22, 23; Matthew 23: 8-11; 1 Peter 5:4). He communicates His will for the church through His Word and gives guidance through the Holy Spirit. He also shepherds the flock by gifting the church with godly leaders who are commissioned under His leadership with the task of equipping the flock (Ephesians 4:7-16).
Officers of the Church
The Bible specifies only two offices in the church: Pastor (also known as elder, overseer, or bishop) and deacon. Each is referred to as being a plurality in a local body of believers.
Elders (Vocational and Volunteer)
Harbor Church will strive to have a plurality of elders (the Full Council of Elders) who love and lead the church through biblical wisdom, vision, and theology. In the Full Council of Elders (FCE), there will be equal authority among the elders but different roles and responsibilities based on individual gifting. One elder will function as the lead pastor. The lead pastor will be responsible for leading the FCE, casting vision, preaching and overseeing the day to day affairs of the church and its staff.
The FCE will be comprised of vocational elders and volunteer elders. Vocational elders are ordained elders of the church who, in response to God's call, have devoted their vocational lives to the service of Jesus’ church. Vocational elders will receive reasonable compensation for fulfilling their vocational responsibilities as employees of the church. Volunteer elders are ordained elders who, in response to God's call, serve Jesus’ church in a volunteer capacity without receiving compensation or salaries for their service.
Qualifications of an Elder
Elders must be men who are above reproach in relation to the qualities of character and competency given in 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:6-9, and 1 Peter 5:1-4 and are an example to the flock of God.
Husband of one wife (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6)
Sober-minded (1 Timothy 3:2)
Self-controlled (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8)
Respectable (1 Timothy 3:2)
Hospitable (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8)
Able to teach & defend sound doctrine (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:9)
Hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught (Titus 1:9)
Not a drunkard (1 Timothy 3:3)
Not quarrelsome (1 Timothy 3:3)
Not-quick tempered (Titus 1:7)
Not violent (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7)
Not domineering (1 Peter 5:3)
Gentle (1 Timothy 3:3)
Not a lover of money or greedy for gain (1 Timothy 3:3, Titus 1:7; 1 Peter 5:2)
Managing his own children and household well (1 Timothy 3:4; Titus 1:6)
Well thought of by outsiders (1 Timothy 3:7)
A lover of good (Titus 1:8)
Upright (Titus 1:8)
Not arrogant (1 Timothy 3:6; Titus 1:7)
Not a recent convert (1 Timothy 3:6)
Holy and disciplined (Titus 1:8)
Duties and Responsibilities
The duties of the elders will be, in general, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, so that the whole flock may be built up toward Christ-likeness and unity (Ephesians 4:11-16). In their responsibility for equipping the church, the elders will fulfill the following by the power and authority of Christ:
EQUIPPING BY MINISTERING THE WORD
In exposition (teaching) 1 Timothy 5:17; Hebrews 13:7
In exhortation (preaching) Titus 1:9
In admonition (counseling) 1 Thessalonians 5:12
In humble example (life) 1 Timothy 3:1-7; Hebrews 13:7; 1 Peter 5:3-5
EQUIPPING BY DIRECTION
In leading and guiding into new things (decision-making) Acts 16:4; 1 Timothy 3:5, 5:17; Hebrews 13:7, 17, 24
In overseeing the existing life of the church (evaluation and administration) Acts 11:30, 20: 28; 1 Thessalonians 5:12; Hebrews 13:7
EQUIPPING BY PROTECTION
In guarding the flock from false teaching - Acts 20:28-31
In refuting false teachers and scoffers - Titus 1:9
EQUIPPING BY WILLING SERVICE
In working hard at personal Bible study - 1 Timothy 5:17; Titus 1:9
In opening his home in loving hospitality - 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8
In helping the weak according to their needs - Acts 20:35
In anointing and praying for the sick - James 5:14
EQUIPPING BY RECOGNIZING NEW ELDERS IN THE CHURCH (1 Timothy 4:14)
Each elder will have a specific role within the ministry of the church. The arrangement of ministries among the various elders in the church will be determined according to the mutual submission of the elders to one another under the Lord, for His glory and for the good of the whole church. The Full Council of Elders (FCE) will have sufficient time together in prayer and mutual exhortation in order that their unity may be preserved under the leadership of Christ.
Further responsibilities of the FCE will include but are not limited to the following:
Fulfilling the role of elder as outlined in the Harbor Church elder covenant
Appointing officers to the Board of Directors (majority vote)
Approving changes to the church bylaws (majority vote)
Approving changes to the church doctrinal statement (Unanimous vote)
Canceling membership in cases of absenteeism or discipline (majority vote)
Approving men to become elder candidates (Unanimous vote)
Training, equipping, and testing elder candidates
Approving elder candidates to be presented to the body for affirmation as new elders (Unanimous vote)
Reviewing and affirming existing elders annually (majority vote)
Planting new churches (majority vote)
Overseeing discipline of elders, deacons, and members
Providing frequent and clear communication to the body about the finances, health, and direction of the church
Identification and Preparation
A man who demonstrates the qualifications and aspires to the office of an elder may be considered for entrance into the theeldership process by one of the following ways:
Being recommended to the elders by one or more Covenant Members of the church
Being recommended by one of the elders
Personally sharing their aspirations towards eldership with a current elder
After a recommendation to the elders, the FCE will determine through prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit if it is appropriate for a man to pursue eldership and enter into the elder candidate training process. The FCE will vote to approve the potential elder candidate. After approval, the man will become an elder candidate and enter a training, equipping, and qualifying process as determined by the FCE.
Affirmation, Election, and Installation
After a candidate completes the eldership process, the Full Council of Elders (FCE) will vote again to affirm him as an elder and confirm that he is ready to be presented to the body.
After he is affirmed by the elders, the candidate will be presented to the body at all church services at least two weeks prior to the members meeting where membership affirmation will take place. The Covenant Members will have two weeks to bring written affirmations and concerns about the candidate to the FCE. Concerns cannot be anonymous and must be expressed in writing. The FCE will investigate concerns and determine if there is reason to withhold the candidate from being affirmed by the members of the church.
After the minimum two-week period for input from the body, the members will vocally affirm the candidate at a member meeting. If the elder candidate does not receive a clear supermajority (as determined by the FCE) of member affirmation, the FCE should endeavor to find out the basis for concern about the candidate. If he is affirmed, he will be installed at a members meeting. Elders will be ordained at the time of installation by the laying on of hands and prayer by the other elders.
Licensing and Ordination of Elders
Vocational and volunteer elders have the right to minister the word of God for Jesus’ church through officiating weddings, funerals, and other events as deemed necessary by the FCE. In the event a man is released from eldership, his ordination shall be revoked.
Elder Covenant and Accountability
Each elder will abide by the guidelines of the Elder Covenant to maintain a trusting and committed brotherhood among the FCE.
Elder Covenant to God and to the Covenant Members
The Elders of Harbor Church understand, affirm, and make the following covenants to God, to one another, and to the Covenant Members of Harbor Church:
The elders covenant to care for and tend to their own relationships with God as first priority so that they can love, serve, and lead the church out of the overflow of Christ in them (John 15).
The elders covenant to pastor and care for their own families, understanding that their care for the church is to first be lived out in their own homes (1 Timothy 3:4–5; Titus 1:6).
The elders covenant to love, shepherd, teach, lead, serve, help, equip, protect, and care for the Covenant Members of Harbor Church as under-shepherds of the Chief Shepherd, Jesus. They will seek to do so in the same gracious manner in which Jesus shepherds all of us (1 Peter 5:1–5).
The elders covenant to proclaim Jesus, to share his gospel, and to teach the full counsel of the Word of God (Acts 20:27; 1 Corinthians 15:3–11, 2 Timothy 3:16).
The elders covenant to hold to and contend for the mission, values, and essential doctrines of Harbor Church as identified in the church’s foundational documents as they accord with Scripture (1 Timothy 4:16).
The elders covenant to protect the flock entrusted to their care from “wolves,” those who teach a false gospel that is contrary to the true gospel of Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:15– 20; Galatians 1:8–9).
The elders covenant that the elders and deacons of the church will be tested and approved according to the criteria assigned to them in the Scriptures (1 Timothy 3:1–13; 5:17–22; Titus 1:5–9; 1 Peter 5:1–4).
The elders covenant to pray for the members of the church regularly, particularly when they are sick (James 5:14).
The elders covenant to exercise church discipline when necessary, always seeking to do so from a heart of love and gentleness. The goal of any such discipline is teaching, restoration, and redemption (Matthew 18:15–20; 1 Corinthians 5; Galatians 6:1; Hebrews 12:3– 17).
The elders believe that God uses his people to sharpen one another for their good and his glory. Therefore, we covenant to humbly accept the communication of any offense (perceived or actual) because we know that we are not-and will never be-without sin (Proverbs 27:17; Romans 5:12).
The elders covenant to care for and submit to one another. Each elder individually covenants to act in unity even when their own opinion is of the minority opinion on a given decision, whenever doing so would not violate the clear teaching of Scripture (1 Timothy 4:14; Titus 1:5; Proverbs 11:14).
The elders covenant to seek God’s will for the church community to the best of their ability, through study of the Scriptures, by following the Spirit, and by seeking godly counsel (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:1–5).
The elders covenant to set an example by joyfully fulfilling of the commitments of covenant membership at Harbor Church (1 Corinthians 11:1; Philippians 3:17; 1 Timothy 4:12).
The elders covenant to help the members understand and joyfully fulfill all the commitments and pursuits of covenant membership at Harbor Church.
Eldership Term
We believe eldership is not necessarily a lifetime calling and should be regularly reevaluated by each man himself and by the FCE to determine what is best for the individual, the FCE, and the church.
An elder may be voluntarily or involuntarily released from the office for four reasons:
Season of life (new life stage, career, ongoing illness, or tragedy in family, etc.)
Sharp disagreement on doctrine or philosophy of ministry (similar to Paul and Barnabas parting ways in Acts 15)
Disqualifying sin (failure to meet qualifications of an elder in Scripture)
Failure to uphold the elder covenant as deemed by a majority of the FCE
In matters of alleged disqualifying sin, the FCE will determine next steps. If the elder in question admits to persistent or disqualifying sin, the FCE may vote to remove the elder from office. A majority vote (with the elder in question abstaining) will result in removal from office and further discipline if necessary. If the elder in question denies having persistent or disqualifying sin then the FCE will follow the formal charges process.
Terms for Volunteer Elders
Volunteer elders will serve a two-year term. A volunteer elder may serve consecutive terms contingent upon agreement between the elder in question and the FCE that he should continue. A two-thirds affirmative vote of the FCE constitutes “agreement”.
Formal Charges Against an Elder
If a member or fellow elder has witnessed an offense committed by an elder and wants to press formal charges against him, the following process will be used. (This process assumes that reconciliation attempts have been made using the principles given in Matthew 18:15-16.)
The offended party presents the offense to the FCE in writing (1 Timothy 5:19).
The FCE (minus the elder in question) will review the charge(s) to determine the severity and nature of the offense (e.g., doctrinal issue, personal issue, sin issue). If the issue is limited to a personal conflict or misunderstanding, the FCE will facilitate discussions and seek reconciliation.
If the charges are determined by the FCE to be substantive, the FCE will be responsible to investigate. The elder in question will be put on leave (paid leave if staff) until the investigation is complete. The investigation will involve separate interviews with the offender, the offended, and all identified witnesses. Each party will be encouraged to have an advocate present with them in the interview. If, at this point the elder in question admits to persistent or disqualifying sin, the FCE will determine next steps.
The FCE will review the investigation with the elder in question. The charged elder will be given an opportunity to agree or disagree with the findings.
If agreement about the grievance between the FCE and the charged elder is reached, the FCE will institute a plan for correction and restoration.
If the charged elder does not agree that there is an issue, is unrepentant, or does not want to submit to the rest of the FCE in the matter, the FCE may, but need not, bring in a third-party to aid in counseling or a reconciliation process.
The FCE will vote on whether to remove the elder from office. A two-thirds or greater vote (with the elder in question abstaining) will result in removal from office and further discipline if necessary. If an elder persists in sin, the FCE may rebuke him publicly per 1 Timothy 5:20.
Meetings and Voting
The Full Council of Elders shall meet regularly and as often as necessary to faithfully perform their duties as elders. Meetings may be called by the lead pastor or any two elders provided electronic notice is given to all elders at least 24 hours in advance. Quorum will be two thirds of the elders. Decisions that require a vote from the elders will be approved by a simple majority unless the bylaws require otherwise, and in all cases, giving due heed and respect to the voice and concerns of the minority. The lead pastor will set the agenda and lead the meetings but any elder is able to add to the agenda. In the absence of the lead pastor, the elders present will appoint a chair for the meeting.
Elders may participate remotely via available technologies in a meeting.
Deacons (Vocational and Volunteer)
Harbor Church will have qualified men and women serve within the church as deacons; a word that literally translates as “servants”. In Acts 6, as the burden of ministry grew in the early church, the elders established deacons to assist them by taking on large aspects of leadership within the body so that the elders could focus on the ministry of the word and prayer. Under the oversight of the elders, deacons minister with delegated authority as an extension of the love and care of the elders.
Deacons who are paid staff will be considered vocational deacons and deacons who are not paid staff will be considered volunteer deacons.
Qualifications of a Deacon
Deacons must be men or women who are above reproach in relation to the qualities of character and competency given in 1 Timothy 3:8-12 and Acts 6:3. To discern the character and gifting of a potential deacon requires relationship in context of ministry. For someone to be considered as a potential deacon, they must first be serving as a faithful member of the church.
Dignified (1 Tim. 3:8)
Not double-tongued (1 Timothy 3:8)
Not addicted to wine or drugs (1 Timothy 3:8)
Not greedy (1 Timothy 3:8)
Hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience (1 Timothy 3:9)
Tested and blameless (1 Timothy 3:9)
For female deacons (1 Timothy 3:11)
dignified
not slanderers
sober-minded
faithful in all things
For male deacons (1 Timothy 3:12)
husband of one wife
managing their children and their own households well
Good reputation (Acts 6:3)
Full of the Spirit and of wisdom (Acts 6:3)
Duties and Responsibilities
Each deacon will have a specific role within the ministry as determined by the elders. As the ministry grows some deacons will oversee other deacons as necessary.
Appointment and Removal
Prospective deacons may recommend themselves or be recommended by an elder, deacon or church member. All deacon recommendations will be directed to the Full Council of Elders for consideration. After a recommendation for deacon is accepted by the Full Council of Elders (FCE), the potential deacon will enter a process for training and approval as a deacon as determined by the FCE. Deacons will be approved by the FCE and after approval may occupy the spiritual office of deacon indefinitely or for a limited season, depending on the nature of the person’s role and the guidance of the elders. Vocational deacons may be terminated as employees by their supervisor with approval of the lead pastor.
Board of Directors
To comply with requirements from the state and lending institutions, a Board of Directors (BOD) will be appointed by the Full Council of Elders of Harbor Church. The BOD will consist of the lead pastor, and vocational/volunteer elders from the FCE. The BOD will have a minimum of three members, but will not exceed seven members in total. The BOD will be responsible for financial and legal oversight of the church.
A separate Finance Committee may be created by the FCE to review and recommend any changes to staff compensation. Changes to staff compensation must be approved by the FCE. The Finance Committee will consist of a majority of volunteer elders, deacons, or other Covenant Members as determined by the FCE.
Election
Board members will be appointed by the FCE. The loss of a board member because of death, resignation, or removal shall be deemed a vacancy that must be filled by the FCE at its earliest convenience, specifically if this loss results in the BOD consisting of less than three members.
Removal
Removal: Any discipline that results in removal from eldership or deaconship will automatically result in removal from the BOD.
Terms for BOD Members
Members of the BOD will serve a one-year term. BOD members may serve multiple terms as determined by the Full Council of Elders.
Officers of the Board
In General: The lead pastor is the president of the corporation. If there is no lead pastor, then the FCE will designate an elder to serve as the president of the corporation until such time as a lead pastor is installed as an elder of Harbror Church. The FCE will appoint secretary, and treasurer. The FCE may also appoint a vice-president for the BOD.
President: The President shall perform such duties as are incumbent upon such officer, including making certain that all orders and resolutions of the Full Council of Elders (FCE) and Board of Directors (BOD) are carried into effect. He shall have general supervision and direction of the activities and officers of the Corporation. He shall set the agenda for meetings and preside at all meetings when he is available, which are to be conducted according to scriptural principles such as set forth in Philippians 2:2-8. He shall also have such powers and duties as may be prescribed by the FCE or the bylaws.
Vice President: Vice President shall, in the absence of the President, or in the event of the President’s inability or refusal to act, perform the duties and exercises of the powers of the President and shall perform other duties as needed in the absence of the President. The Vice- President shall be an elder (vocational or volunteer), if possible.
Secretary: The Secretary shall keep, or cause to be kept, a book of minutes of all meetings of the BOD and all votes taken at such meetings. He shall have charge of the official records of the church, and he shall perform such other duties as are incident to the office of Secretary and as may be assigned by the BOD or President. Likewise, the Secretary shall keep, or cause to be kept, at the principal office in the State of Washington the original and a copy of the Corporation’s articles and bylaws, as amended to date.
Treasurer: The Treasurer shall serve as the overseer of the financial operations of the Church. Paid church staff members shall be accountable to the Treasurer for management of the financial aspects of the church. The Treasurer shall perform such other duties and have other responsibilities as may be assigned to him from time to time by the BOD.
Resignation, Removal, and Vacancies
Any officer of the BOD may be removed from office by a two-thirds majority vote of the FCE even if not subject to discipline as a member, elder, or deacon. An officer may resign. Any vacancies will be filled by the FCE as necessary.
ARTICLE 10: ORDINANCES
We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ has commanded two ordinances to the local church, baptism and communion.
Baptism
After conversion, baptism happens once in a believer’s life. Our practice of baptism is full immersion of a professing believer in water. Baptism symbolizes the believer's faith in a crucified, buried, and risen Savior. As the believer goes into the water, it represents death to sin and burial of the old life. As the believer comes out of the water, it represents new life in Christ, our union with Him, and the freedom to walk in newness of life
Communion
Communion is an ongoing practice throughout the believer’s life. As with water baptism, communion (or the Lord’s Supper) is to be observed only by those who have become genuine followers of Christ. This ordinance symbolizes the breaking of Christ’s body and the shedding of his blood on our behalf. As we partake of the Lord’s Supper with an attitude of faith and self-examination, we remember and proclaim the death of Christ and signify our unity with other members of Christ’s body.
These ordinances are simultaneously a reminder of God’s grace to Christians and a Christian’s public declaration of union with Christ in his life, death, and resurrection. They are done in obedience to nourish and sustain our faith as we anticipate Jesus’ return and the consummation of all things.
(Matthews 28:19-20 • Acts 2:41 • Ephesians 2:8-9 • Colossians 2:12 • Matthew 26:26-30 • Mark 14:22-26 • Luke 22:19-20 • 1 Corinthians 11:23-29)
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ARTICLE 11: FACILITY USE
Weddings, Funerals, and Memorial Services
In general, only members will be allowed to have weddings, funerals, and memorial services in the church building or on the church property. These services will be performed by an elder of Harbor Church or by another person designated by the FCE. However, the Full Council of Elders (FCE) has the sole discretion to make exceptions. Those wanting to have a wedding in this church must agree to the statement of faith of this church and abide by the guidelines documented in this church’s Wedding Agreement.
ARTICLE 12: PROPERTY AND FINANCES
Purchase, Sale, or Encumbrance of Property
All purchases, acquisitions, mortgage, pledge, or disposition of real property shall require a majority affirmative vote by the Full Council of Elders (FCE).
Contributions
It is understood that membership in this church involves financial obligations to support the church and its causes with regular and proportionate giving. Each member shall be encouraged in scriptural giving, with tithing as the ideal minimum. The identity of individual givers will not be made public.
Special offerings may be sought by the church, or by any of its organizations, with the approval of the FCE. This shall not preclude individuals from making special offerings or designated gifts at any time as the Spirit of God may move them, provided, however, the church will not accept any restricted gift unless the restriction is approved by the BOD. The BOD will establish a gift acceptance policy prior to the church accepting any non-cash gifts other than publicly traded securities or small tangible items of nominal value.
Financial Management
The management and operational expenses of this church shall be provided for by the tithes, offerings, and gifts of the members and friends of this church and administered under the Full Council of Elders (FCE)..
The church shall operate from an annual budget that is created and approved by the Full Council of Elders (FCE). The FCE will review monthly financial statements within 30 days of the end of each month. Appropriate internal controls and separation of duties will be implemented, especially with regards to the handling of cash, payment of invoices, payment requests, and budget limits. Non-budgeted expenses exceeding $1,000.000 shall be referred to the FCE for consideration and disposition in a timely manner.
Compensation of Staff
All staff salaries and other allowances or benefits will be determined by the FCE. A committee led by a volunteer elder or deacon and consisting of a majority of volunteer members (elders and deacons) will set compensation for all staff. The committee will have no fewer than three members. Ordained vocational elders are eligible for housing allowances, which shall be designated prior to the beginning of each calendar year.
Financial Clarity and Communication
Annually, the approved budget will be presented to the members at the members meeting. At least annually, a financial report will be presented to members comparing the budget to actual expenditures. A more detailed quarterly financial statement will be available to any member upon written request to the Full Council of Elders. The financial statement will also be submitted to the FCE quarterly. The books of account shall be open to inspection by any elder. An end of fiscal year report will be given to the members of the church communicating a summary of the annual budget and expenditures.
ARTICLE 13: STANDING TEAMS
The FCE shall establish or dissolve leadership teams as it deems necessary to properly manage the affairs of the church. Leadership teams shall be responsible for various programs of the church that require decision and or policy making. Members in good standing will be invited to participate on the teams as deemed necessary by the elders. All official ministries will be sanctioned by the FCE and will be in line with the doctrine and mission of the church.
ARTICLE 14: AUXILIARY ORGANIZATIONS
All auxiliary organizations of the ministry shall be considered as under the general oversight and leadership of the elders. All such organizations shall serve as expressions of the most efficient means to realize the church’s vision and goals in obedience to Scripture, but none shall be started without prior approval of the elders. All officers and teachers in the auxiliary organizations must be members in good standing, with the exception that a member of another church of like faith and practice may be permitted to have a role in an auxiliary organization of this church provided there is prior approval by the FCE.
ARTICLE 15: MISCELLANEOUS
Execution of Documents
The FCE may authorize by majority vote and written delegation of authority any officer or officers, agent or agents to enter into any contract or execute any instrument in the name of on behalf of the church; such authority may be general or confined to specific instances. Unless so authorized, no officer agent or other such person shall have any power or authority to bind the church by any contract or engagement, to pledge its credit, or to render it liable for any purpose or to any amount.
Inspection of Documents
The church shall keep in its principle office the original or a copy of its Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws, as amended to date and certified by the secretary.
These documents shall be made available to members upon written request to the FCE.
ARTICLE 16: AMENDMENTS TO BYLAWS
New bylaws may be adopted or existing bylaws may be amended or repealed by a two-thirds majority vote of the Full Council of Elders (FCE). Any changes to the bylaws will be communicated to the members of the church before the next members meeting.
ARTICLE 17: INDEMNIFICATION
Powers
Power to Indemnify
The corporation may indemnify and hold harmless to the full extent permitted by applicable law each person who was or is made a party to or is threatened to be made a party to or is involved (including, without limitation, as a witness) in any actual or threatened action, suit or other proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, and whether formal or informal (hereinafter a “proceeding”), by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation or, being or having been such a director, officer, employee or agent, he or she is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee, agent, trustee, or in any other capacity of another corporation or of a partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, including service with respect to employee benefit plans, whether the basis of such proceeding is alleged action or omission in an official capacity or in any other capacity while serving as a director, officer, employee, agent, trustee or in any other capacity, against all expense, liability and loss (including, without limitation, attorneys’ fees, judgments, fines, ERISA excise taxes or penalties and amounts to be paid in settlement) actually or reasonably incurred or suffered by such person in connection therewith. Such indemnification may continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation and shall inure to the benefit of his or her heirs and personal representatives.
Power to Pay Expenses in Advance of Final Disposition
The corporation may pay expenses incurred in defending any proceeding in advance of its final disposition (hereinafter “advancement of expenses”); provided, however, that any advancement of expenses shall be made to or on behalf of a director, officer, employee or agent only upon delivery to the corporation of: (a) a written affirmation of the director’s, officer’s, employee’s or agent’s good faith belief that he or she has met the standard of conduct described in RCW 23B.08.510; and (b) a written undertaking, by or on behalf of such director, officer, employee or agent, to repay all amounts so advanced if it shall ultimately be determined by final judicial decision from which there is no further right to appeal that such director, officer, employee or agent is not entitled to be indemnified under this Article or otherwise, which undertaking may be unsecured and may be accepted without reference to financial ability to make repayment.
Power to Enter Into Contracts
The corporation may enter into contracts with any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation in furtherance of the provisions of this Article and may create a trust fund, grant a security interest in property of the corporation, or use other means (including, without limitation, a letter of credit) to ensure the payment of such amounts as may be necessary to effect indemnification as provided in this Article.
Expansion of Powers
If the Washington Business Corporation Act or the Washington Nonprofit Corporation Act is amended in the future to expand or increase the power of the corporation to indemnify, to pay expenses in advance of final disposition, to enter into contracts, or to expand or increase any similar or related power, then, without any further requirement of action by the directors of this corporation, the powers described in this Article shall be expanded and increased to the fullest extent permitted by the Washington Business Corporation Act and the Washington Nonprofit Corporation Act, as so amended.
Limitation of Powers
No indemnification shall be provided under this Article to any such person if the corporation is prohibited by the Washington Business Corporation Act or other applicable law as then in effect from paying such indemnification. For example, no indemnification shall be provided to any person in respect of any proceeding, whether or not involving action in his or her official capacity, in which he or she shall have been finally adjudged to be liable on the basis of intentional misconduct or knowing violation of law by the person, or from conduct of a director in violation of RCW 23B.08.310, or that the person personally received a benefit in money, property or services to which the person was not legally entitled.
Indemnification of Directors, Officers, Employees and Agents
Directors
The corporation shall indemnify and hold harmless any person who is or was a director of this corporation, and pay expenses in advance of final disposition of a proceeding, to the full extent to which the corporation is empowered.
Officers, Employees, and Agents
The corporation, by action of its Board of Directors (BOD), may indemnify and hold harmless any person who is or was an officer, employee or agent of the corporation, and provide advancement of expenses to the full extent to which the corporation is empowered, or to any lesser extent which the BOD may determine.
Character of Rights
To the extent the rights of indemnification and advancement of expenses have been conferred by or pursuant to this Article, such rights shall be contract rights.
Enforcement
A director (“Claimant”) shall be presumed to be entitled to indemnification and/or advancement of expenses under this Article upon submission of a written claim (and, in an action brought to enforce a claim for an advancement of expenses, where the undertaking described above has been delivered to the corporation) and thereafter the corporation shall have the burden of proof to overcome the presumption that the Claimant is so entitled.
If a claim under this Article is not paid in full by the corporation within sixty days after a written claim has been received by the corporation, except in the case of a claim for advancement of expenses, in which case the applicable period shall be twenty days, the Claimant may at any time hereafter bring suit against the corporation to recover the unpaid amount of the claim. If successful in whole or in part, the Claimant shall also be entitled to be paid the expense of prosecuting such claim. Neither the failure of the corporation (including its Board of Directors or independent legal counsel) to have made a determination prior to the commencement of such action that indemnification of or advancement of expenses to the Claimant is proper in the circumstances nor an actual determination by the corporation (including its Board of Directors or independent legal counsel) that the Claimant is not entitled to indemnification or advancement of expenses shall be a defense to the action or create a presumption that the Claimant is not so entitled.
If the corporation elects to indemnify and hold harmless or advance expenses to its officers, employees or agents, it may, in its sole discretion, provide the enforcement rights set forth in this section.
Rights Not Exclusive
The right to indemnification and advancement of expenses conferred in this Article shall not be exclusive of any other right which any person may have or hereafter acquire under any statute, provision of the Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws of the corporation, agreement, vote of disinterested directors, or otherwise.
Insurance
The corporation may purchase and maintain insurance, at its expense, to protect itself and any director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation or any person who, while a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation, is or was a director, officer, partner, trustee, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise against any expense, liability or loss, whether or not the corporation would have the power to indemnify such person against such expense, liability or loss under the Washington Business Corporation Act.
Survival of Benefits
Any repeal or modification of this Article shall not adversely affect any right of any person existing at the time of such repeal or modification.
Severability
If any provision of this Article or any application thereof shall be invalid, unenforceable or contrary to applicable law, the remainder of this Article, or the application of such provision to persons or circumstances other than those as to which it is held invalid, unenforceable or contrary to applicable law, shall not be affected thereby and shall continue in full force and effect.
Applicable Law
For purposes of this Article, “applicable law” shall at all times be construed as the applicable law in effect at the date indemnification may be sought, or the law in effect at the date of the action, omission or other event giving rise to the situation for which indemnification may be sought, whichever is selected by the person seeking indemnification.
The undersigned, being the secretary of the corporation hereby certifies that these Bylaws consisting of thirty-three pages are the Bylaws of the corporation, adopted by resolution of the directors on