BIBLICAL DOCTRINE AND DISCIPLINE
Redeemed Calvary Church:
Biblical Doctrine and Discipline
Title Page
Title: Redeemed Calvary Church: Biblical Doctrine and Discipline
Subtitle: Guiding Principles for Living in Christ and Church Governance
Key Scripture: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)
1. Introduction
Purpose
This book provides biblical guidance for the life and practice of Redeemed Calvary Church. It includes foundational beliefs, church governance, and principles of conduct designed to encourage a Christ-centered community.
The Role of Scripture
We believe the Bible is the inspired, inerrant Word of God, and it serves as the ultimate authority for all aspects of faith, life, and church practice (2 Timothy 3:16).
2. Core Beliefs
The Authority of Scripture
We believe that the Bible is the complete and trustworthy Word of God, providing direction and truth for all matters of faith and practice (2 Timothy 3:16).
The Nature of God
We believe in one God who exists eternally in three persons: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19).
God is sovereign, holy, loving, and just.
Salvation
We believe that salvation is a gift from God, offered by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. It is through His life, death, and resurrection that we are reconciled to God (Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 5:8).
The Church
We believe that the Church is the Body of Christ, composed of believers who are called to worship God, fellowship together, and engage in the mission of spreading the Gospel (1 Corinthians 12:27; Matthew 28:18-20).
3. Church Governance
Leadership Structure
Pastors and Elders
Pastors and elders are responsible for shepherding the congregation, preaching the Word, providing spiritual oversight, and protecting the integrity of the faith (1 Peter 5:1-4).
Their leadership must be biblical, exemplifying Christ-like character and meeting the qualifications laid out in Scripture (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9).
Deacons
Deacons serve the church in practical areas, ensuring that the needs of the congregation are met and assisting in ministry efforts (Acts 6:1-6).
They are to serve with humility and a heart for service.
Congregational Involvement
All members are encouraged to be actively involved in the life of the church through worship, service, and mutual encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25).
The congregation shares responsibility for the health and growth of the church.
4. Christian Living
Holiness
As believers, we are called to live lives of holiness, reflecting the character of Christ in all that we do (1 Peter 1:15-16). This means striving to live in obedience to God's Word and living out our faith in everyday life.
Marriage and Family
Marriage is a sacred covenant between one man and one woman, ordained by God, and it is to reflect the relationship between Christ and the Church (Ephesians 5:22-33).
Family is a vital institution for raising children in the fear and knowledge of God, with parents responsible for teaching their children the ways of the Lord (Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Ephesians 6:4).
Stewardship
We believe that everything we have belongs to God. Therefore, we are called to steward our time, talents, and resources for His glory and for the expansion of His Kingdom (1 Peter 4:10; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7).
5. Worship and Sacraments
Baptism
Baptism is an outward expression of the inward change that has occurred through faith in Jesus Christ. It symbolizes our identification with His death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4).
The Lord’s Supper
The Lord’s Supper is a sacred practice in which we remember the body and blood of Christ, celebrating His sacrifice and anticipating His return (1 Corinthians 11:23-26).
Worship
Our worship is centered on honoring God in all things. This includes singing, praying, reading Scripture, and hearing the Word preached (John 4:24; Colossians 3:16).
6. Church Discipline
Purpose of Discipline
Discipline in the church is aimed at restoring those who have fallen into sin and maintaining the purity of the church. The goal is always reconciliation and spiritual growth (Matthew 18:15-17; Galatians 6:1).
Process of Discipline
Private Confrontation
If someone sins against another, the first step is for the offended party to address the issue privately, seeking reconciliation (Matthew 18:15).
Involvement of Witnesses
If the issue is unresolved, one or two others should be involved to help mediate the situation (Matthew 18:16).
Church Involvement
If necessary, the matter may be brought before the church to address the issue and encourage repentance (Matthew 18:17).
Final Action
If the individual refuses to repent, the church may take disciplinary action, with the hope of eventual restoration (1 Corinthians 5:4-5).
7. Accountability for Church Leaders
Biblical Accountability
Leaders within Redeemed Calvary Church are called to maintain high standards of personal holiness and integrity.
Scripture clearly calls for leaders to be above reproach (1 Timothy 3:2), serving as examples to the flock in both their personal and public lives.
The church holds its leaders accountable to God’s Word, ensuring that they lead with humility and according to the principles of Scripture (1 Peter 5:1-3).
Methods of Accountability
Personal Integrity
Leaders must regularly examine their own lives against the Word of God and seek accountability from other trusted leaders or mentors (James 1:22-25).
Congregational Oversight
The church body, particularly other leaders, has a responsibility to hold its pastors and elders accountable. This can include private counsel, public correction, and ongoing evaluation of leadership effectiveness (Galatians 6:1).
Transparency and Communication
Leaders should be open and transparent in their ministry decisions, financial management, and personal conduct. Open lines of communication between leadership and the congregation promote trust and ensure biblical accountability (Hebrews 13:17).
Disciplinary Action for Leaders
In cases where a leader falls into sin or misconduct, the same principles of church discipline apply to them, with additional care and respect due to their role (1 Timothy 5:19-20).
Leaders must be held to a higher standard, as their actions can affect the reputation of the church and the gospel.
Restoration of Leaders
The goal of accountability is always restoration. If a leader is found in sin, the church should walk alongside them in a spirit of humility, guiding them toward repentance and restoration in both their faith and leadership role (Galatians 6:1-2).
8. Unity and Peace
Pursuing Unity
The church is called to maintain unity in the Spirit, marked by love, humility, and peace (Ephesians 4:3). Disagreements should be resolved quickly and with the goal of building one another up (Romans 14:19).
Conflict Resolution
When conflict arises, we should seek to resolve it biblically, through honest communication and forgiveness, aiming to restore relationships (Matthew 5:23-24; Ephesians 4:32).
9. Conclusion
Commitment to Faithful Living
We are called to live out our faith with integrity, pursuing holiness, peace, and unity. Our lives should reflect the love and truth of Christ, both within the church and to the world around us (Philippians 2:14-16).
Final Encouragement
“Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (Ephesians 6:10-11)
Let us continue to grow in grace, serve one another in love, and keep our eyes fixed on the glory of God.
