RBC Articles of Faith

BACKGROUND

Since its inception, Riverside Baptist Church (RBC) has subscribed to a balanced doctrinal statement of The New Hampshire Confession (NHC) of 1833. A small revision was done when RBC adopted the confession on
September 20, 1953. (For instance, the meaning of inspiration is explained. A comparison of the NHC’s 1833 and RBC’s 1953 will readily reveal where these revisions are applied.) Nonetheless, RBC has retained the balanced biblical statement which the NHC sought to achieve. On December 29, 2019, an augmentation to the RBC’s confession (articles XIX through XXVIII) was
adopted by unanimous vote with Pastor Christian J. Torres, presiding. While these articles have always been embedded in the Scriptures for millennia, it has become necessary for the 21st century church to clearly articulate them. May the Lord Jesus Christ, the true Head of the church, be glorified!

RIVERSIDE BAPTIST CHURCH ARTICLES OF FAITH

I. OF THE SCRIPTURE
We believe that the Holy Bible was written by men supernaturally inspired; that it has truth without any admixture of error for its matter; and therefore is, and shall remain to the end of the age, the only complete and final revelation of the will of God to man; the true center of Christian union and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds and opinions should be tried.

(EXPLANATORY)

By “the Holy Bible” we mean that collection of sixty-six books, from Genesis to Revelation, which, as originally written does not only contain and convey the Word of God, but IS the very Word of God. By “inspiration” we mean that the books of the Bible were written by holy men of old, as they were moved by the Holy Spirit, in such a definite way that their writings were supernaturally and verbally inspired and free from error, as no other writings have ever been or ever will be
inspired. II Tim. 3:16-17; II Pet. 1:19-21; Acts 1:16; Acts 28:25; Psa. 119:160; Psa. 119:105; Psa. 119:130; Luke 24:25-27; John 17:17; Luke 24:44-45; Psa. 119:89; Prov.
30:5-6; Rom. 3:4; I Pet. 1:2-3; Rev. 22:19; John 12:48; Isa. 8:20; Eph. 6:17; Rom. 15:4; Luke 16:31; Psa. 19:7-11; John 5:45-47; John 5:39.

II. OF THE TRUE GOD
We believe that there is one, and only one, living and true God, an infinite, intelligent Spirit, the maker and supreme ruler of heaven and earth; inexpressibly glorious in holiness and worthy of all possible honor, confidence and love; that in the unity of the Godhead there are three persons, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, equal in every divine perfection, and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of redemption. Ex. 20:2-3; Gen. 17:1; I Cor. 8:6; Eph. 4:6; John 4:24; Psa. 147:5; Psa. 83:18; Psa. 90:2; Jer. 10:10; Ex. 15:11; Rev. 4:11; I
Tim. 1:17; Rom. 11:33; Mark 12:30; Matt. 28:19; John 15:26; I Cor. 12:4-6.

III. OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
We believe that the Holy Spirit is a divine person; equal with God the Father and God the Son and of the same nature; that He was active in the creation; that in His
relation to the unbelieving world He restrains the evil one until God’s purpose is fulfilled; that He convicts of sin, of judgment and of righteousness; that He bears witness to the truth of the Gospel in preaching and testimony; that He is the agent in the new birth; that He seals, baptizes, endures, guides, teaches, witnesses, sanctifies and helps the believer. John 14:16-17; Matt. 28:19; Heb. 9:14; John 14:26; Luke 1:35; Gen. 1:1-3; II Thess. 2:7; John 16:8-11; John 15:26-27; Acts 5:30-32; John 3:5-6; Eph. 1:13-14; Matt. 3:11; Mark 1:8; Luke 3:16; John 1:33; Acts 11:16; Luke 24:49; John 16:13; John 14:26; Rom. 8:14; Rom. 8:16; II Thess. 2:13; I Pet.1:2; Rom. 8:26-27.

IV. OF THE DEVIL, OR SATAN
We believe that Satan was once holy, and enjoyed heavenly honors; but through pride and ambition to be as the Almighty, fell and drew after him a host of angels; that he is now the malignant prince of the power of the air, and the unholy god of this world. We hold him to be man’s great tempter, the enemy of God and His Christ, the accuser of the saints, the author of all false religions, the chief power back of the present apostasy; the lord of the anti-Christ, and the author of all the powers of darkness – destined however to final defeat at the hands of God’s Son, and to the judgment of an eternal justice in hell, a place prepared for him and his angels. Isa. 14:12-15; Ezek. 28:14-17; Rev. 12:9; Jude 6; II Pet. 2:4; Eph. 2:2; I Thess. 3:5; Matt. 4:1-3; I Pet. 5:8; Zech. 1:3; I John 3:8; Matt. 13:25, 37:39; Luke 22:3-4; Rev. 12:10; II Cor. 11:13-15; Mark 13:21-22; I John 4:3; II John 7; I John 2:22; Rev. 13:13-14; II Thess. 2:8-11; Rev. 19:11,16,20; Rev. 12:7-9; Rev. 20:1-3; Rev. 20:10; Matt. 25:41.

V. OF THE CREATION
We believe in the Genesis account of creation, and that it is to be accepted literally, and not allegorically or figuratively; that man was created directly in God’s image and after his own likeness; that man’s creation was not a matter of evolution or evolutionary change of species, or development through interminable periods of time from lower to higher forms; that all animals and vegetable life was made directly, and God’s established law was they should bring forth only “after their kind.” Gen. 1:1; Ex. 20:11; Acts 4:24; Col. 1:16-17; Heb. 11:3; John 1:3; Rev. 10:6; Rom. 1:20; Acts 17:23-26; Jer. 10:12; Neh. 9:6; Gen. 1:26-27; Gen. 2:21-23; Gen. 1:11; Gen. 1:24.

VI. OF THE FALL OF MAN
We believe that man was created in innocence under the law of his Maker, but by voluntary transgression fell from his sinless and happy state, in consequence of which, all mankind are now sinners, not by constraint, but of choice; and therefore under just condemnation without defense or excuse. Gen. 3:1-6; Gen. 3:24; Rom. 5:12; Rom. 5:19; Eph. 2:1,3; Rom. 1:18; Ezek. 18:19-20; Rom. 1:32; Rom. 1:20; Rom. 1:28; Cal. 3:22.

VII. OF THE VIRGIN BIRTH
We believe that Jesus Christ was begotten of the Holy Ghost in a miraculous manner; born of Mary, a virgin, as no other man was ever born or can ever be born of woman, and that He is both the Son of God and God, the Son. Gen. 3:15; Isa. 7:14; Matt. 1:18-25; Luke 1:35; Mark 1:1; John 1:14; Psa. 2:7; Gal. 4:4; I John 5:20; I Cor. 15:47.

VIII. OF THE ATONEMENT FOR SIN
We believe that the salvation of sinners is wholly of grace; through the mediatorial offices of the Son of God, who by the appointment of the Father, freely took upon Him our nature, yet without sin, honored the divine law by His. personal obedience, and by His death made a full and vicarious atonement for our sins; that His atonement consisted not in setting us an example by His death as a martyr but was the voluntary substitution of Himself in the sinner’s place, the Just dying for the unjust, Christ, the Lord, bearing our sins in His own body on the tree; that, having risen from the dead, He is now enthroned in heaven and uniting in His wonderful person the tenderest sympathies with divine perfection. He is every way qualified to be a suitable, a compassionate and an allsufficient Savior. Eph. 2:8; Acts 15:11; Rom. 3:24; John 3:16; Matt. 18:11; Phil. 2:7; Heb. 2:14; Isa. 53:4-7; Rom. 3:25; I John 4:10; I Cor. 15:3; II Cor. 5:21; John 10:18; Phil. 2:8; Cal. 1:4; I Pet. 2:24; I Pet. 3:13; Isa. 53:11; Heb. 12:2; I Cor. 15:20; Isa. 53:12; Heb. 9:12-15; Heb. 7:25; I John 2:2.

IX. OF GRACE IN THE NEW CREATION
We believe that in order to be saved, sinners must be born again; that the new birth is a new creation in Christ Jesus; that it is instantaneous and not a process; that in the new birth the one dead in trespasses and in sins is made a partaker of the divine nature and receives eternal life, the free gift of God; that the new creation is brought about in a manner above our comprehension, not by culture, not by character, nor by the will of man, but wholly and solely by the power of the Holy Spirit in connection with divine truth, so as to secure our voluntary obedience to the gospel; that is proper evidence appears in the fruits of repentance and faith and newness of life. John 3:3; II Cor. 5:17; Luke 5:27; I John 5:1; John 3:6-7; Acts 2:41; Acts 16:30-33; II Pet. 1:4; Rom. 6:23; Eph. 2:1; II Cor. 5:19; Col. 2:13; John 3:8; John 1:12-13; Cal. 5:22; Eph. 5:9.

X. OF THE FREENESS OF SALVATION
We believe in God’s electing grace; that the blessings of salvation are made free to all by the gospel; that it is the immediate duty of all to accept them by a cordial,
penitent and obedient faith; and that nothing prevents the salvation of the greatest sinner on earth but their own inherent depravity and voluntary rejection of the gospel; which rejection involves him in an aggravated condemnation. I Thess. 1:4; Col. 3:12; I Pet. 1:2; Titus 1:1; Rom. 8:29-30; Matt. 11:28; Isa. 55:1; Rev. 22:17; Rom. 10:13; John 6:37; Isa. 55:6; Acts 2:38; Isa. 55:7; John 3:15-16; I Tim. 1:15; I Cor. 15:10; Eph. 2:4-5; John 5:40; John 3:18; John 3:36.

XI. OF JUSTIFICATION
We believe that the great gospel blessing which Christ secures to such as believe in Him is justification; that justification includes the pardon of sin, and the gift of eternal life on principles of righteousness; that it is bestowed not in consideration of any works of righteousness which we have done; but solely through faith in the Redeemer’s blood. His righteousness is imputed unto us. Acts 13:39; Isa. 53:11; Zech. 13:1; Rom. 8:1; Rom. 5:9; Rom. 5:1; Tit. 3:5-7; Rom. 1:17; Hab. 2:4; Cal. 3:11; Rom. 4:1-8; Heb. 10:38.

XII. OF REPENTANCE AND FAITH
We believe that repentance and faith are solemn obligations, and also inseparable graces, wrought in our souls by the quickening Spirit of God; thereby, being deeply convicted of our guilt, danger and helplessness, and of the way of salvation by Christ, we turn to God with unfeigned contrition, confession and supplication for mercy; at the same time heartily receiving the Lord Jesus Christ and openly confessing Him as our only and all-sufficient Savior. Acts 20:21; Mark 1:15; Acts 2:37-38; Luke 18:13; Rom. 10:13; Psa. 51:1-4; Psa. 51:7; Isa. 55:6-7; Luke 12:8; Rom. 10:9-11.

XIII. OF THE CHURCH
We believe that a church of Christ is a congregation of baptized believers associated by a covenant of faith and fellowship of the Gospel; observing the ordinances of Christ; governed by His laws; and exercising the gifts, rights and privileges invested in them by His Word; that its officers of ordination are pastors or elders and deacons, whose qualifications, claims and duties are clearly defined in the Scriptures; we believe the true mission of the church is found in the Great Commission: First, to make individual disciples; Second, to build up the Church; Third, to teach and instruct as he has commanded. We do not believe in the reversal of this order; we hold that the local church has the absolute right of self government, free from the interference of any hierarchy of individuals or organizations; and that the one and only superintendent is Christ through the Holy Spirit; that it is scriptural for true churches to cooperate with each other in contending for the faith and for the furtherance of the Gospel; that every church is the sole and only judge of the measure and method of its cooperation;
on all matters of membership, of policy, of government, of discipline, of benevolence, the will of the local church is final. Acts 2:41; Acts 2:42; I Cor. 11:2; Eph. 1:22-23; Eph. 4:11; I Cor. 12:4,8-11; Acts 14:23; Acts 6:5-6; Acts 15:23; Acts 20:17-28; I Tim. 3:1-13; Matt. 28:19-20; Col. 1:18; Eph. 5:23-24; I Pet. 5:1-4; Acts 15:22; Jude 3,4; II Cor. 8:23-24; I Cor. 16:1; Mal. 3:10; Lev. 27:32; I Cor. 16:2; I
Cor. 6:1-3; I Cor. 5:11-13.

XIV. OF BAPTISM AND THE LORD’S SUPPER
We believe that Christian baptism is the immersion in water of a believer; in the name of the Father, the Son, and of the Holy Spirit; to show forth in a solemn and beautiful emblem our faith in the crucified, buried and risen Saviour, with its effect in our death to sin and resurrection to a new life; that it is prerequisite to the privileges of a church relation and to the Lord’s supper; in which to commemorate together the dying love of Christ; preceded always by solemn self-examination. Acts 8:36-39; Matt. 3:6; John 3:23; Rom. 6:4-5; Matt. 3:16; Matt. 28:19; Rom. 6:3-5; Col. 2:12; Acts 2:41-42; Matt. 28:19-20; I Cor. 11:23-28.

XV. OF THE PERSEVERANCE OF THE SAINTS
We believe that such only are real believers as endure unto the end; that their preserving attachment to Christ is the grand mark which distinguishes them from
superficial professors; that a special Providence watches over their welfare; and that they are kept by the power of God through faith unto eternal salvation. John 8:31-32; Col. 1:21,23; I John 2:19; Matt. 13:19-21; Rom. 8:28; Matt. 6:30; Psa. 121:3; Heb. 1:14; I Pet. 1:5; Phil. 1:6; John 10:28,29; John 16:8; Rom. 8:35-39.

XVI. OF THE RIGHTEOUS AND THE WICKED
We believe that there is a radical and essential difference between the righteous and the wicked; that such only as through faith are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and sanctified by the Spirit of our God, are truly righteous in His esteem; while all such as continue in impenitence and unbelief are in His sight wicked, and under the curse, and this distinction holds among men both in and after death, in the everlasting felicity of the saved and the everlasting conscious suffering of the lost. Mal. 3:18; Gen. 18:23; Rom. 6:17-18; Prov. 11:31; I Pet. 4:18; Rom. 1:17; I Cor. 15:22; Acts 10:34-35; I John 2:29; I John 3:7; Rom. 6:16; I John 5:19; Gal. 3:10; Rom. 7:6; Rom. 6:23; Prov. 14:32; Luke 16:25; Matt. 25:34,41; John8:21; Luke 9:26; John 12:25; Matt. 7:13-14.

XVII. OF CIVIL GOVERNMENT
We believe that civil government is of divine appointment, for the interests and good order of human society; that magistrates are to be prayed for, conscientiously honored and obeyed; except only in things opposed to the will of our Lord Jesus Christ; who is the only Lord of the conscience, and the coming Prince of the Kings of the earth. Rom. 13:17; II Sam. 23:3; Ex. 18:21-22; Acts 23:5; Matt. 22:21; Tit. 3:1; I Pet. 2:13,14; I Pet. 2:17; Acts 5:29; Acts 4:19-20; Dan. 3:17-18; Matt. 10:28; Matt. 23:10; Phil. 2:10-11; Psa. 72:11

XVIII. OF THE RESURRECTION AND RETURN OF CHRIST AND RELATED EVENTS
We believe in and accept the sacred Scriptures upon these subjects at their face and full value. Of the Resurrection, we believe that Christ rose bodily “the third day according to the Scriptures;” that He ascended “to the right hand of the throne of God;” that He alone is our “merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God;” “that this same Jesus which was taken up from you into Heaven shall so come in like manner as you have seen Him go into heaven” — bodily, personally and visibly; that the “dead in Christ shall rise first;” that the living saints “shall all be changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump;” “that the Lord God shall give unto Him the throne of His Father David;” and that “Christ shall reign a thousand years in righteousness until He hath put all enemies under His feet.” Matt. 28:6-7; Luke 24:39; John 20:27; I Cor. 15:4; Mark 16:6; Luke 24:2,4-6; Acts 1:9; Acts 1:11; Luke 24:51; Mark 16:19; Rev. 3:21; Heb. 8:1; Heb. 12:2; Heb. 8:6; I Tim. 2:5; I John 2:1; Heb. 2:17; Heb. 5:9-10; John 14:3; I Thess. 4:16,17; Matt. 24:27; Matt. 25:13; Matt. 24:42; Heb. 9:28; I Cor. 15:42-44; I Cor. 15:51-53; Phil. 3:20-21; Luke 1:32; Isa. 9:6-7; Acts 9:29-30; I Cor. 15:25; Isa. 11:4-5; Psa. 72:8; Rev. 20:1-4; Rev. 20:6.

XIX. OF SEPARATION
We believe that all the saved should live in such a manner as not to bring reproach upon their Savior and Lord. God commands His people to separate from all religious apostasy, all worldly and sinful pleasures, practices, and associations; and to refrain from all immodest and immoderate appearances, piercings, and bodily markings. Rom. 12:1-2; 14:13; 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1; 2 Tim. 3:1-5; 1 John 2:15-17; 2 John 9-11; Lev. 19:28; 1 Cor. 6:19-20.

XX. OF HUMAN SEXUALITY
We believe that God has commanded that no intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of a marriage between a man and a woman. We believe that any form of homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, bestiality, incest, fornication, adultery, and pornography are sinful perversions of God’s gift of sex. We believe that God disapproves of and forbids any attempt to alter one’s gender by surgery or appearance. Gen. 2:24, 19:5, 13, 26:8-9; Lev. 18:1-30; Rom. 1: 26-29; 1 Cor. 5:1; 6:9; 1 Thess. 4:1-8; Heb. 13:4. We believe that the only legitimate marriage is the joining of one man and one woman. Gen. 2:24; Rom. 7:2; 1 Cor. 7:10; Eph. 5:22-23. In keeping with our beliefs regarding human sexuality as expressed in this statement of faith, we have the following practical policies: All people are welcome to attend our regular worship services. Those who attend may not display behavior that is indicative of the sinful behaviors listed in Article XX in church services, at church functions, and on the church grounds. Church representatives are not to display overt disrespect for those who are involved in the sinful behaviors listed in Article XX. The pastor of the church will preach consistently against all forms of sinful behavior as listed in Article XX, as well as other sinful behaviors.

XXI. OF FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS
We believe that men and women are spiritually equal in position before God but that God has ordained distinct and separate spiritual functions for men and women in the home and in the church. The husband is to be the leader of the home, and men are to be the leaders (pastors and deacons) of the church. Accordingly, only men are eligible for licensure and ordination by the church. Gal. 3:28; Col. 3:18; 1 Tim. 2:8-15; 3:4-5, 12. We believe that God has ordained the family as the foundational institution of human society. The husband is to love his wife as Christ loves the church. The wife is to submit herself to the Scriptural leadership of her husband as the church submits to the headship of Christ. Children are an heritage from the Lord. Parents are responsible for teaching their children spiritual and moral values and leading them, through consistent lifestyle example and appropriate discipline, including Scriptural corporal correction. Gen. 1:26-28; Ex. 20:12; Deut. 6:4-9; Psa. 127:3-5; Prov. 19:18; 22:15; 23:13-14; Mark 10:6-12; 1 Cor. 7:1-16; Eph. 5:21-33; 6:1-4, Col. 3:18-21; Heb. 13:4; 1 Pet. 3:1-7.

XXII. OF DIVORCE AND REMARRIAGE
We believe that God disapproves of and forbids divorce and intends marriage to last until one of the spouses dies. Although divorced and remarried persons or divorced persons may hold positions of service in the church and be greatly used of God for Christian service, they may not be considered for the offices of pastor or deacon or those administrative positions within the church that would consist of pastoral duties. Mal. 2:14-17; Matt. 19:3-12; Rom. 7:1-3; 1 Tim. 3:2, 12; Titus 1:6.

XXIII. OF ABORTION
We believe that human life begins at conception and that the unborn child is a living human being. Abortion constitutes the unjustified, unexcused taking of unborn human life. Abortion is murder. We reject any teaching that abortions of pregnancies due to rape, incest, birth defects, gender selection, birth or population control, or the physical or mental well being of the mother are acceptable. Job 3:16; Ps. 51:5; 139:14-16; Isa. 44:24; 49:1, 5; Jer. 1:5; 20:15-18; Luke 1:44.

XXIV. OF EUTHANASIA
We believe that the direct taking of an innocent human life is a moral evil, regardless of the intention. Life is a gift of God and must be respected from conception until natural death. Thus we believe that an act or omission which, of itself or by intention, causes death in order to eliminate suffering constitutes a murder contrary to the will of God. Discontinuing medical procedures that are extraordinary or disproportionate to the expected outcome can be a legitimate refusal of over-zealous treatment. Ex. 20:13, 23:7; Matt. 5:21; Acts 17:28.

XXV. OF LAWSUITS BETWEEN BELIEVERS
We believe that Christians are prohibited from bringing civil lawsuits against other Christians or the church to resolve personal disputes. We believe the church possesses all the resources necessary to resolve personal disputes between members. We do believe, however, that a Christian may seek compensation for injuries from another Christian’s insurance company as long as the claim is pursued without malice or slander. 1 Cor. 6:1-8; Eph. 4:31-32.

XXVI. OF MISSIONS
We believe that God has given the church a great commission to proclaim the Gospel to all nations so that there might be a great multitude from every nation, tribe, ethnic group, and language group who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. As ambassadors of Christ we must use all available means to go to the foreign nations and not wait for them to come to us. Matt. 28:19-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:46-48; John 20:21; Acts 1:8; 2 Cor. 5:20.

XXVII. OF GIVING
We believe that every Christian, as a steward of that portion of God’s wealth entrusted to him, is obligated to support his local church financially. We believe that God has established the tithe as a basis for giving, but that every Christian should also give other offerings sacrificially and cheerfully to the support of the church, the relief of those in need, and the spread of the Gospel. We believe that a Christian relinquishes all rights to direct the use of the tithe or offering once the gift has been made. Gen. 14:20; Prov. 3:9-10; Acts 4:34-37; 1 Cor. 16:2; 2 Cor. 9:6-7; Gal. 6:6; Eph. 4:28; 1 Tim. 5:17-18; 1 John 3:17.

XXVIII. OF LOVE
We believe that we should demonstrate love for others, not only toward fellow believers, but also toward both those who are not believers and those who oppose us. We are to deal with those who oppose us graciously, gently, patiently, and humbly. God forbids the stirring up of strife, the taking of revenge, or the threat or the use of violence as a means of resolving personal conflict or obtaining personal justice. Although God commands us to abhor sinful actions, we are to love and pray for any person who engages in such sinful actions. Lev. 19:18; Matt. 5:44-48; Luke 6:31; John 13:34-35; Rom. 12:9-10; 17-21; 13:8-10; Phil. 2:2-4; 2 Tim. 2:24-26; Titus 3:2; 1 John 3:17-18.

THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST
1. You must understand that God is holy and righteous. “For You are not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness, nor shall evil dwell with You” (Psalm 5:4). “For the LORD is righteous, He loves righteousness; His countenance beholds the upright” (Psalm 11:7).
2. You must understand that humanity is morally corrupt, guilty and condemned. The Bible teaches us that although humankind was created good (Genesis 1:26, 31), all humans have fallen into spiritual death (Ephesians 2:1). Jesus said, “For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies” (Matthew 15:19). “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Examine yourself.
3. The great dilemma is : if God is good, what will He do with those of us who are not? “God is a just judge, And God is angry with the wicked everyday” (Psalm 7:11). What will a good and righteous God do with human beings who are self-centered, inclined to evil, and disobedient? “The soul who sins shall die” (Ezekiel 18:4).
4. God’s answer to our dilemma is the good news of Jesus Christ. Jesus took our place. “But God demonstrates His love towards us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). Christ bore our sin. He suffered our curse. Christ suffered the wrath of God for us. He died in our place; buried, and resurrected from the grave—as full payment for our sin.
5. What is your response? Repent of your sins, and place your life’s trust in the person and work of Jesus Christ! He said, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel” (Mark 1:15). “That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9). Take God at His word. Call out to Him now. “For whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved” (Romans 10:13).

LET US KNOW OF YOUR DECISION SO WE MAY REJOICE WITH YOU AND FURTHER ENCOURAGE YOU IN YOUR NEW LIFE AS A BELIEVER OF THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST.

RBC Church Constitution & By-Laws

BACKGROUND

Since its inception, Riverside Baptist Church (RBC) has abided by its Constitution and By-Laws as unanimously adopted on September 20, 1953. While we are grateful to the Lord for this constitution which He has used for this church for nearly seventy years, it has become necessary for the 21st century church to revise it. A copy of the 1953 constitution is provided as a matter of record, and a copy of the revision is hereby proposed. May the Lord Jesus Christ, the true Head of the church, guide us in adopting this proposed revision!

CONSTITUTION
of Riverside Baptist Church, Riverside, California
Preamble

We, the members of Riverside Baptist Church, having placed our faith solely in the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation, having been scripturally immersed in baptism following our salvation, and accepting the Bible as the inspired and inerrant Word of God, do band together as a local expression of the body of Christ. This document declares our beliefs and the procedures that will help us to accomplish the Lord’s work consistently, decently, and in order.

Article I – Name
The name of this congregation shall be Riverside Baptist Church of Riverside, California.

Article II – Purpose
Riverside Baptist Church exists to glorify God by pointing unbelievers to new life in Christ (evangelism of the lost), and also by leading believers into a fuller life through Christ (Christian growth through discipleship which includes the equipping of the saints).

Article III – Articles of Faith
Please see RBC Articles of Faith as unanimously adopted on December 29, 2019.

Article IV – Membership
Section 1 – Admission
Any person desiring membership of Riverside Baptist Church shall notify a member of the Pastoral staff of their desire. Upon such notification, he/she shall become a candidate. A candidate shall meet with a member of the Pastoral staff and/or the Deacons to verify that he/she meets the conditions of membership. Candidates for membership must profess faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and be scripturally baptized by immersion. Candidates shall be received into the church body in one of the following ways:
A. Profession of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ followed by scriptural baptism. 1 of 10
B. A letter of transfer from church of like faith.
C. Persons under discipline from another church of like faith and practice may be admitted subsequent to examination and approval by Pastor and Deacons.
Members are expected to have read the Constitution and the Articles of Faith and to be supportive of the doctrine and practice of Riverside Baptist Church. Membership is granted upon a unanimous vote of the church members following a recommendation of the Pastor and Deacons. Membership may be voted on at a public service.

Section 2 – Responsibilities
All members are expected to obey the moral precepts and principles taught in the Word of God and to support the church through attendance, giving, prayer, and faithful service.

Section 3 – Legal Action
Each member of Riverside Baptist Church agrees that he/she will not initiate legal action against the church, nor against the Pastors, Deacons, Trustees or church staff/leaders in connection with their performance of official duties. Any Church member considering legal action against another Church member (especially concerning church matters) is encouraged to heed Biblical teaching on this matter. We do believe, however, that a Christian may seek compensation for injuries from another Christian’s insurance company as long as the claim is pursued without malice or slander (1 Cor 6:1-8; Eph 4:31-32).

Section 4 – Dismissal
A member may be dismissed from the membership in one of the following ways:
A. By death.
B. By request. Any member, not under church discipline, who personally wishes to withdraw from the fellowship of the church for any reason—no letter is granted.
C. By letter. Any member in good standing who wishes to transfer to another church of like faith and practice—a letter of recommendation is granted to the church.
D. By continued absence. Any member who is absent for a consecutive period of one year, may be removed from the active membership upon the Pastor and Deacons’ recommendation.
E. By discipline. Any member, including the Pastor and staff members, may be dismissed after the exercise of scriptural church discipline (see Section 5 below).

Section 5 – Discipline
Our Lord Jesus Christ gave the responsibility of discipline to the church. Each local church must guard its doctrine (1 Tim 3:15), discipline its members (Matt 18:15–17; 1 Cor 5:4–5; 2 Thess 3:6), and maintain internal unity (1 Cor 1:10). It is the duty of the church to fulfill this responsibility, even when it means excluding from its fellowship any member who persists in sin and disobedience to God’s Word (Matt 18:15–20; 1 Cor 5). Understanding that the 2 of 10 primary goal of church discipline is the restoration of the sinning member, we have established the following guidelines.
A. Grounds. Should any member become an offense to the church and a stumblingblock to the ministry by means of non-Christian conduct, by consistent breach of the Constitution and By-Laws, or by reason of heretical beliefs, the church may terminate his/her membership.
B. Procedures:
1. Every effort will be made according to the Scripture (Matt 18:15–17), prayer, and persuasion to restore the individual to fellowship (Gal 6:1–2).
2. When every effort has failed to restore such a member, the Pastor and Deacons shall, by majority vote, recommend to the congregation disciplinary discharge from the membership of the church. A public recommendation to consider termination of membership shall be made only by the Pastor or Deacons.
3. The member in question shall then be notified by the Pastor or an appointed Deacon as to the time of when such a recommendation is to be presented to the church. This notification shall be given at least one week before the day of the business meeting.
4. The recommendation of the Pastor and Deacons need not include any more information than that which is necessary to indicate clearly sufficient grounds for disciplinary discharge. The repentance ought to be as public as the sin is notorious. That is, publicly known sins are to be repented of publicly.
5. Members of the church shall be notified at least one week in advance of the meeting to recommend disciplinary discharge.
6. Only voting members may attend such a meeting, and a majority vote of an ordinary quorum shall be required for passage of recommendation.
7. The person discharged for disciplinary reasons shall be regarded lovingly by the church. All contact by church members with the disciplined member should be for the purpose of restoration (Matt 18:17; 1 Cor 5:11; 2 Thess 3:15). However, the church shall endeavor by prayer and invitation to win him back into fellowship with Christ, hoping constantly for restoration with the church.

Section 6 – Restoration
Upon confession to God of personal offenses and giving satisfactory evidence to the church of repentance, those who have been disciplined from the membership of the church may have their membership restored by a two-thirds majority vote at a regular service or business meeting of the church, following recommendation by the Pastor and Deacons.

Article V – Meetings
Section 1 – Regular Services
A. The primary services of the church will be held on Sunday. The number and times of which will be determined by the church to meet the needs of the church upon the recommendation of the Pastor, Deacons and Trustees. Additional meetings may be held throughout the week for further instruction, fellowship and service.
B. Observance of the Lord’s Table. The church shall normally observe the Ordinance of the Lord’s Supper once per month, on the first Sunday of the month. Special observance of the Lord’s Table may be called and conducted as the Pastoral staff may deem necessary.
Section 2 – Business Meetings
A. Regular Business Meetings of the church shall be held as needed and according to a predetermined, publicized schedule.
B. Special Business Meetings, including, but not limited to, meetings in which a vote will be taken for the purchase or sale of real estate, shall be called by the Pastor or upon his approval. Special meetings may be called at any time provided notice is given in two regular services prior to the special meeting.
C. Moderator. The Pastor shall moderate all business meetings; in his absence, there shall be no meeting to transact Church business.
D. Quorum. Those voting members present at a scheduled business meeting shall constitute a quorum.
E. Voting. All members eighteen years of age and older in good standing and present in person may vote on matters of business which are legally and properly presented at any business meeting. Except as otherwise specified herein, a simple majority vote of all members present as stated above shall be required for passage of any motion, resolution, or any transaction of business.

Article VI – Responsibilities of Officers and Leaders
Since officers and leaders are in positions of respect and example, all those who have been elected or appointed to offices and leadership positions must conscientiously endeavor to live faithfully to the precepts and principles taught in the Word of God. All personnel must be born-again Christians, striving to live blameless lives in service to the Lord and his work. Endeavoring to live lives that are above reproach in heart and in conduct they should abstain from those things that could cause a fellow Christian to stumble or hinder their testimony (1 Cor 8:13, Mt 5:16), such as the use of alcoholic beverages, tobacco, gambling/gaming, ungodly dancing, secret societies, and other amusements and organizations dishonoring to God. They shall also endeavor to be faithful in personal Bible study and prayer, evangelism and discipleship, stewardship and attendance to this church, and to be exemplary in matters of Christian conduct, such as modesty in dress and appearance, use of language, attitude, etc.

Article VII – Church Officers
Section 1 – Pastor
A. Qualifications. The Pastor shall be a male called of God to preach and meet the scriptural demands set forth in 1 Tim 3:1–7 and Titus 1:5–11. He must believe and without qualification adhere to the Word of God, constitution, and articles of faith, spiritual and moral standards as set forth in this document, and be uncompromising in the preaching of these truths.
B. Call. The Deacons shall act as the pulpit committee. Other spiritually minded men may be placed on the committee by the recommendation and approval by vote of the pulpit committee. In case of death or resignation of the Pastor, the pulpit committee shall call several preachers that the congregation may hear them speak and know their form of teaching. Upon unanimous vote, the pulpit committee may submit to the congregation one man as candidate. After careful examination of his person, family, ministry, and beliefs, he shall be asked to preach at both Sunday services as a candidate and to be interviewed by the congregation. (The committee shall inform the congregation of his credentials prior to his appearing.) He shall have been previously informed by the committee concerning the proposed call, responsibilities, tenure, financial stipulations, and all facets of the church’s ministry. Upon proper announcement by the committee, the membership shall vote by secret ballot the following Sunday on his being called to the pastorate. He shall be elected by a three-fourths majority of voting members present. The candidate will be informed of the result of the vote and be asked if he will accept the call (He must desire the office and meet the Biblical qualifications.) Should he not accept the call, the committee will then consider another candidate. Only one man shall be considered at a time. He must be voted on by the congregation before another may candidate for the position.
C. Tenure. The Pastor shall continue in office until he resigns or is dismissed by a three-fourths majority vote of the members present at any business meeting where his dismissal has been announced at least two weeks in advance and in at least three services of the church. At least thirty days notice shall be given by either party in case of desired separation.
D. Responsibilities. The Pastor, as the under-shepherd responsible to the Lord Jesus Christ, shall preach the Word of God and administer the ordinances of the church. He shall be the leader of the church and shall advance the spiritual life of the congregation. He is the overseer of all phases of the church life, work and ministry from worship, evangelism, baptism, teaching to the equipping of the saints for the work of the ministry. He is at liberty to schedule special meetings such as Bible conferences, evangelistic meetings, missionary conferences, and special guest speakers as he is led of the Lord. The Pastor is an ex-officio member of every committee and organization of the church.
E. Salary. The Pastor’s salary and allowance(s) shall be fixed prior to the time of election and may be changed at any regular business meeting of the church provided that prior notice has been given to the church (see Business Meetings

Article V, (Section 2)
Section 1 – Pastor
The amount shall be reviewed at least annually by the budget committee and its recommendation made subject to approval of the church.
Section 2 – Deacons
A. Qualifications. Deacons shall be male and meet the scriptural qualifications of the office set forth in Acts 6:3 and 1 Tim 3:8–13, and shall have been active members of the church for at least twelve months.
B. Election and Tenure. The congregation shall elect Deacons by ballot. Deacons shall serve a term of one year and may be re-elected each year so long as they fulfill their office godly and satisfactorily to the church. The number of Deacons shall be determined by the needs of the church and the men scripturally qualified to serve. Installation of new Deacons will be by a dedication service following their election.
C. Responsibilities. Being directly accountable to the Pastor, Deacons shall assist the Pastor in carrying on the work of the church. They shall relieve the Pastor of many responsibilities in order to better meet the needs of the church including, but not limited to ministering to the sick, benevolence, care of property, and visitation. They shall be vitally active in the discipleship and evangelism ministries of the church and shall assist in the ordinances of the church. (The duties of the Deacons wives are the same as the duties of the Deacons with the exception of usurping any authority of the Worship Service.) The Pastor shall call a Deacons’ meeting when such need arises, giving sufficient notice to all, considering the circumstances. All Deacons are expected to be faithful to meetings. Any Deacon who is remiss in his responsibilities or whose life or family brings reproach to his office should resign or the Pastor may recommend his dismissal to the congregation.
D. Miscellaneous. The Deacons may also serve as Trustees in case that state requires a different number than the current number of Trustees.
Section 3 – Church Staff
In order to meet the needs of the congregation adequately, the Pastor is at liberty to fill positions, salaried and unsalaried with personnel who are equipped for the task and meet the spiritual qualifications as well as in full agreement with the Articles of Faith previously set forth. The salaried positions may be filled upon approval of the Deacons and Trustees and to be voted upon by three-fourths majority of the active members of the church. These positions include Executive Pastors, Assistant/Associate Pastors, Youth and/or Music ministers, Musicians, Church Secretaries, Custodial Staff, Superintendents, Ushers and other staff positions. It is expected that the Pastor make a wise and prayerful decision after seeking the council of the Deacons and in the best interest of the church. Salaried personnel may be hired only after the congregation has allocated the funds for that position in the budget. The Pastor is entrusted with the responsibility of dismissing staff members. This may include, but is not limited to those who violate the conduct required of the officers of the church, the RBC Articles of Faith, or who are remiss in their duties. The staff is directly responsible to the Pastor in their duties.
Section 4 – Trustees
A. Qualifications. Trustees will be nominated by the Pastor and Deacons, and voted on by the congregation at the annual business meeting.
B. Election and Tenure. The congregation shall elect Trustees by ballot. Trustees shall serve a term of one year and may be re-elected each year so long as they fulfill their office godly and satisfactorily to the church. The number of Trustees shall be determined by the needs of the church and the men scripturally qualified to serve. Installation of new Trustees will be by a dedication service following their election.
C. Responsibilities. They shall act as the legal agents of the church. They are the guardians of the church’s legal papers and valuables. The Trustees are the officers of this corporation in legal matters; they shall audit or arrange for an audit of the church finances as needed, and maintain the church insurance. They are also in-charge of maintaining proper care of church property but have no power to buy, sell, mortgage, lease or transfer any such property without the specific vote of the church authorizing such action. They may act only by direction of the congregation.
Section 5 – Treasurer
A. Election and Tenure. The Pastor and Deacons shall nominate a Treasurer and/or Assistant Treasurer to the congregation at the annual business meeting. The congregation shall elect Treasurer/s by ballot. Treasurer/s shall serve a term of one year and may be reelected each year so long as they fulfill their responsibilities in a godly and satisfactory manner. Installation of new Treasurer/s will be by a dedication service following their election.
B. Responsibilities. The treasurer shall have custody of all church money, shall keep an accurate record of all offerings and expenditures, and shall without special order pay all expenditures authorized by the church budget. All other bills shall be paid only after they have been approved by the church. A report of such shall be given at least monthly as well as a yearly report at the annual business meeting.
Section 6 – Financial Secretary
A. Election and Tenure. The Pastor and Deacons shall nominate a Financial Secretary to the congregation at the annual business meeting. The congregation shall elect Financial Secretary by ballot. Financial Secretary shall serve a term of one year and may be re-elected each year so long as they fulfill their responsibilities in a godly and satisfactory manner. Installation of new Financial Secretary will be by a dedication service following their election.
B. Responsibilities. The financial secretary shall keep a just, accurate, and confidential record between the church and its members of all money received from any source in behalf of the church and provide the same to the Treasurer/s. He/she shall submit reports as needed by the Pastor and annually and shall provide a record of giving to individual members who so desire at the end of each year.
Section 7 – Clerk
A. Election and Tenure. The Pastor and Deacons shall nominate a Clerk to the congregation at the annual business meeting. The congregation shall elect Clerk by ballot. Clerk shall serve a term of one year and may be re-elected each year so long as they fulfill their responsibilities in a godly and satisfactory manner. Installation of new Clerk will be by a dedication service following their election.
B. Responsibilities. The clerk shall keep a correct and permanent record of all the business meetings of the church, shall present the minutes at each business meeting, shall be the custodian of all the legal documents of the church, shall keep in his/her possession all deeds, insurance policies, securities and valuable papers, subject to the order of the church and in service to the Trustees, and shall keep a register of all the members of the church, and send appropriate letters to other churches in regard to the receiving and dismissing of members.
Section 8 – Ancillary Ministries
All missionaries, mission boards, and ministries shall be dismissed if they no longer follow the RBC Articles of Faith.

Article VIII – Church Government
Section 1 – Autonomy
This church, as a corporation, shall be non-stock, non-profit, and an exclusively religious corporation. This church is an independent Baptist church that is totally self-governing.
Section 2 – Authority
Jesus Christ, the great Shepherd, is the highest authority of the church. God has commissioned the Pastor to oversee the local church and to shepherd His sheep. The Pastor leads by the call of Christ and the consent of the congregation, the government of this church being vested in its membership.
Section 3 – Associations and Fellowships
Riverside Baptist Church shall be and shall always remain independent and autonomous. However, it may participate in fellowship and activity with other local churches or organizations of like faith and practice which consistently uphold the truth of God’s Word and the spirit of this constitution and by-laws. Although said churches or organizations may have common interests, none of those interests may be pursued to the detriment of this local congregation.

Article IX – Separation
This church is opposed to any and all compromising movements, persons, and organizations. Therefore, Riverside Baptist Church shall refuse to collaborate with, or will withdraw cooperation from, any ecclesiastical organization or religious leader that clearly and/or purposely deviates from the Word of God in doctrine and practice

Article X – Committees
Section 1 – Budget Committee
The budget committee shall consist of the Treasurer/s, Trustees, Pastoral staff, Deacons, and at least one at-large member appointed by the Pastor. Prior to the annual business meeting, the budget committee shall prepare a recommended budget for the church, which shall be submitted at the annual meeting and considered for adoption by the congregation for the ensuing year.
Section 2 – Nominating Committee
The nominating committee shall consist of the Deacons and the Pastoral staff. They will announce a list of the offices to be filled at least three weeks prior to the election of officers. Members may suggest qualified persons by submitting their names to the committee. The committee will review all names and add any which they consider qualified. The committee will then recommend qualified and willing persons to the church for vote. No further nominations will be made from the floor. Voting for officers will be done by secret ballot.
Section 3 – Other Committees
All other committees and committee positions shall be considered, set up, and appointed by the Pastor and Deacons. All such committees and officers shall be responsible to the Pastor and the congregation. Job descriptions and/or responsibilities will be approved by the Pastor and Deacons.

Article XI – Ministries
All ministries, departments, organizations, classes, and groups are subservient parts of the church and shall under no circumstances be considered as separate and apart from the church or as operating independently of the church, its Pastor, and the Deacons.

Article XII – Finances
The financial needs of the church shall be met by the voluntary offerings and contributions of its members and friends. No entertainment venues, suppers, bazaars, rummages sales, or other similar methods for fund-raising shall be given by the church or auxiliary organizations whatsoever. Special offerings may be received apart from those collected in regular services. From time to time the church, in the exercise of its religious, educational, and charitable
purposes, may establish various funds to accomplish specific goals. Contributors may suggest uses for their contributions, but all suggestions shall be deemed advisory rather than mandatory in nature. All contributions made to specific funds or otherwise designated shall remain subject to the exclusive control and discretion of the Pastor and the board of Deacons. No fiduciary obligation shall be created by any designated contribution made to the church.

Article XIII – Property and Equipment
Decisions relative to the acquisition or sale of real property shall require a two-thirds majority vote of the members at a properly called congregational business meeting. All buildings, property, and equipment shall be used only by permission of the Pastor, Pastoral staff, Deacons, and/or Trustees. Use shall be principally for the use of this church, its functions, and related activities of the church.

Article XIV – Adoption and Amendments
Section 1 – Adoption
Upon adoption, this constitution bears immediate and complete constitutional authority upon this church.
Section 2 – Amendments
A. Procedure
This constitution may be revised or amended at any business meeting of the church, provided the meeting has been announced at least two weeks in advance and in at least three services of the church. The amendment shall be ratified by a three-fourths vote of the members present and voting.
B. Recording
A record of all amendments to this constitution and by-laws shall be kept in a book solely for that purpose. All said amendments shall be added to later additions of the constitution with the amendment date noted.

Article XVI – Dissolution of Corporation
In the event this church becomes incapable or unwilling to carry out its purposes, the church may be dissolved by a two-thirds majority vote of the voting members present at a meeting called for the consideration of dissolution. In the event of dissolution, the title to all remaining assets of the church, after all debts are paid, shall pass to (a) non-profit organization(s) standing for the fundamental truths of the Word of God as outlined in Article III of this constitution. No remuneration will go to any of the members or officers of this church.