Box Church
General Provisions
Non-Profit Status
This church shall be organized and operated exclusively for religious purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, or the corresponding provision of any future United States Internal Revenue law in order to:
1. Minister the Word of God;
2. Conduct regular religious worship services through various forms of ministries;
3. Promote and encourage, through the ministries of the organization, cooperation with other organizations ministering within the community;
4. Spread the Gospel by ministering to all through seminars, radio, television, and other forms of mass media.
5. Conduct a local and international church by direction of the Lord Jesus Christ and under the leadership of the Holy Spirit in accordance with all the provisions set for in the Bible.
6. Maintain local office and missionary facilities as needed.
This church is not organized, nor shall it operate for pecuniary gain or profit, and it does not contemplate the distribution of gains, profit, or dividends to its members and is organized solely for non-profit purposes. The property, assets, profits and net income of this church are irrevocably dedicated to charitable, educational and religious purposes and not part of these profits or net income of this church shall ever insure to the benefit of any individual.
Prohibition against sharing in corporate earnings
No employee, committee member or person connected with the church or any other private individual shall receive at any time any of the net earnings or pecuniary profit from the operations of the church, provided that this shall not prevent the payment to any such persons of such reasonable compensation for services rendered to or for the church in effecting any of its purposes as shall be fixed by the church leadership, and no such person or persons shall be entitled to share in the distribution of any of the church assets upon dissolution of the church.
Exempt Activities
Notwithstanding any other provision of these Bylaws, no employee or representative of this church shall take any action or carry on any activity by or on behalf of the church not permitted to be taken or carried on by an organization exempt under Section 501(c)(3) or the Internal Revenue Code and its regulations as they now exist or as they may hereafter be amended, or by an organization, contributions to which are now deductible under Section 170(c)(2) and 509(a)(1) of such Codes and Regulations as they now exist or as they may hereafter be amended.
Preamble
Recognizing that God has called His people to meet, worship, and serve together in structured ways which the New Testament refers to as local churches, and that it is God’s desire that all things be done decently and in order (1 Corinthians 14:40), we, the people of Box Church, have set forth the following Bylaws as a basis for that structure and order.
Our paradigm for function is like that of a family. While we recognize that Bylaws are necessary for proper order, we also affirm that the attitudes of love, honor, and respect are the true foundation for any healthy group of people who seek to fulfill God’s purpose.
Article One
Purpose
Box Church is a contemporary expression of the New Testament Church. Our desire is to imitate, experience, and live out the reality of Christ’s presence in the way the ‘Acts’ church did. Scripture paints a picture of a church committed to five primary purposes: worship, fellowship, discipleship, evangelism, and service.
These purposes are drawn from the two directives given by Jesus Himself, the Great Commandment (Mark 12:28â€34) and the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18â€20) and the Great Example of the early church (Acts 2:42â€47).
It is our stated objective to love God and to love people, joining God in the renewal of all things. We want to exhibit and proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ in our world, to call people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus, and through our love and service to work for the common good.
Article Two
Name
The name of this organization is Box Church, Inc.
Article Three
Prerogatives
Box Church shall have the right to govern itself and conduct its own affairs according to the standards of the New Testament and the values of healthy family function. Our objective, as an organization, is to follow Jesus in a unified and effective way.
These rights for selfâ€governance shall include such matters as the calling of a Lead Pastor, selection of a Board, discipline of people, and the conduct of all its services, ministries, and initiatives.
It shall also have the right to purchase, acquire by gift, own, use, sell, mortgage, lease, or dispose of any real estate and/or property as may be necessary for the furtherance of its purposes.
Article Four
Affiliation
Box Church shall have perpetual existence and is a sovereign assembly. As such, Box Church maintains the right to govern its own affairs. Box Church also reserves the right to network with other organizations of ‘like mind’ as it deems beneficial.
Article Five
Statement of Faith
Box 1: We Believe the Bible is the very word of God, comprising fully the writings of the Old and New Testaments (66 books). We believe it is inspired by God in every word, is completely without error in the original writings, and is the infallible and authoritative guide for one’s lifestyle (behavior) and world-view (beliefs).
(Ephesians 2:8–10).
Box 2: We Believe God is the only One, True, and Living God who is the majestic and infinite, yet personal, creator of the entire universe and all mankind. He sustains and controls all things according to His will, and is one in essence but eternally exists in three fully equal, yet distinct, persons: Father, Son, Holy Spirit.
(Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Genesis 1:1; Genesis 2:7; Acts 17:24-28; John 17:3).
Box 3: We Believe Jesus Christ is fully God, and has always existed as the Son of God. He became a human being by being born of a virgin, offered Himself as a sinless, substitutionary sacrifice for a lost human race through His death on the cross, was physically resurrected from the dead to show that His redeeming work was perfectly accomplished and completely satisfactory to the Father, ascended into heaven in order to begin His present heavenly ministry as our High Priest, Head of the church, and as our Advocate before the Father, and is the Agent of Creation and currently sustains all creation by the power of His command.
(Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 4:15; 7:26-28; 1 Peter 2:21-24; 3:18; Luke 24:50-51; Ephesians 1:22-23; Hebrews 8:1-2; 1 John 2:1; Acts 2:32-33; Romans 1:2-4; 1 Corinthians 15:3-6; Hebrews 1:2-3).
Box 4: We Believe the Holy Spirit is fully God and has always existed as the third person of the Trinity. He was active in the creation of all things, the inspiration of the Scriptures, and the incarnation of the Son. He is active in the world today glorifying Christ, convicting unbelievers of sin, righteousness, and judgment, and is working in believers to produce new life, indwell, provide security, give gifts of service, guide, empower, and transform them toward Christlike maturity.
(Acts 5:3-4; 2 Corinthians 5:17-18; Genesis 1:2; Job 33:4; 2 Peter 1:21; Matthew 1:18-25; John 16:14; 7-11;14:16-17; Romans 8:9-11; 1 Corinthians 6:19; 12:7-13; Galatians 5:22-23; Ephesians1:13-14;4:30;5:18; Titus 3:5).
Box 5: We Believe Humanity is personally created by God in His image in order to glorify God by enjoying him forever. Humanity voluntarily sinned against God in Adam, which resulted in a state of spiritual separation from Him, and are now sinners by birth, by nature and by conduct, and is totally depraved and unable to do anything on his own to gain a relationship with God.
(Genesis 1:26-27; Psalms 8:3-6; Ecclesiastes 5:18-19; 1 Corinthians 10:31; 1 Timothy 6:17; Genesis 3:1-24; Psalm 51:5; Isaiah 59:2; Romans 1:18-20; 3:10-12; 23; 5:12-19; 1 Corinthians 1:30;2:14; Ephesians 2:1-5; Romans 6:23; Romans 5:15-16).
Box 6: We Believe Salvation is entirely a free gift of God’s grace that is neither earned or secured in part or in whole by any virtue or work of man. It is given through personal trust in Christ and His death and resurrection on our behalf, and is an eternal possession of all who are truly born again by the Holy Spirit through faith.
(Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 3:28; 5:1; 1 John 5:11-13; John3:16;10:28-29; Romans 8:30; 38-39).
Box 7: We Believe the Church is an organized assembly of born again, baptized believers (“the called-out onesâ€) and is God’s primary means of accomplishing His purposes in the world today (unto the Lord). The church is the body of Christ that seeks to follow the Great Commandment and fulfill the Great Commission. It is to practice the two ordinances commanded by Christ: believer’s water baptism by immersion as an identification with Christ and his church, and second, the Lord’s Supper which is seen as a continuing memorial of the broken body and shed blood of Christ.
(Matthew 16:18-19; Ephesians 3:10-11; Matthew 22:34-40; 28:18-20; Acts 2:41-47; Matthew 3:13-17; 26:26-30; 28:19-20; Acts 2:41-42; 1 Corinthians 11:23-27).
Box 8: We Believe the Future will include the personal return of Jesus Christ to earth to rule his kingdom for 1,000 years, and will include eternal punishment for all who reject the Lord Jesus Christ and eternal fellowship with God in a new heaven and earth for all who have placed their trust in Him.
(Titus 2:13; Matthew 24:29-30; Revelation 20:1-3; Hebrews 9:27; 2 Peter 3:7; Revelation 20:10-15; 21:1-4).
Box 9: We Believe Marriage is exclusively the union of one biological man and one biological woman, and that intimate sexual activity is to occur exclusively within that union. This Biblical marriage serves as the core foundation of a stable society.
(Genesis 2:18-25; Ephesians 5:21-33; Hebrews 13:4; Exodus 20:14; Mark 10:6-9; 1 Corinthians 7:2; 1 Corinthians 7:2).
Box 10: We Believe Life is sacred and created by God, and is of inestimable worth in all its dimensions, including pre-born babies, the aged, the physically or mentally challenged, and every other stage or condition from conception through natural death. We are therefore called to defend, protect, and value all human life.
(Psalm 139: 13-16).
Box 11: We Believe the Believer is indwelled by the Holy Spirit and is activated by Him to love God above all else and love and serve one another in the context of community as commanded in the New Testament.
(John 14:15-17; John 16:7-11; Romans 8:9-11; Matthew 22:37-39; Romans 13:8; Galatians 5:13; Hebrews 10:25).
Article Six
Ordinances
We believe and practice two primary New Testament Ordinances. First, Baptism by immersion in water is administered to all who profess faith in Christ. It is an outward declaration of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus and the new life that becomes ours as a result of faith in Him. Second, we regularly celebrate the Lord’s Supper as taught in the Scriptures.
Article Seven
Governance
Box Church seeks be led by the Holy Spirit in all its decisions. The Lead Pastor, The Council of Pastors (COPs) and the Board of Stewardship (BOS), all have a role in the body’s leadership. The ultimate goal of the leadership process of Box Church is the implementation and obedience to the specific will of Jesus defined through the Bible and the leading of the Holy Spirit.
The Lead Pastor’s office is responsible for developing and communicating the vision and overseeing the dayâ€toâ€day ministry of the church and developing the proposed budget of the church to be adopted by the BOS. The goal of Pastoral Leadership is to equip the church for ministry in keeping with the purpose of the ministry gifts listed in Ephesians 4:11â€16. When those with ministry gifts are empowered to lead, the entire body is built up, unified, and reaches the fullest measure of its potential in Christ.
The Council of Pastors (COPs) are to protect the church through counsel, prayer, and if required, the discipline of the Lead Pastor, as described in Article Nine.
The Board of Stewardship (BOS) is to serve the church as described in Article Ten. The BOS shall serve as the board of directors of the corporation and exercise all corporate powers. The BOS shall work in cooperation with the Lead Pastor and the COPs for the overall governance of the church.
The Regional Overseers, as described in Article 12, will serve as the lead overseers of the local network of churches in that specific area under the direction of the Lead Pastor, much like the Ephesian Elders did in the Apostle Paul’s day. Their role would be to council, encourage Box Church Leaders, protect the church from false teachers, exhort and admonish the saints in sound doctrine, pray for the sick and judge doctrinal issues as needed.
Box Church Leaders will serve as the local leaders of their particular box as described in Article 13. Their role will be to facilitate Box Church services, encourage the people underneath their care, admonish those under their care, council and support those that God has placed underneath their leadership.
Article Eight
Lead Pastor of the Church/President of the Corporation
Section 1
Qualifications & Responsibilities
(Paragraph1) Qualifications
The Lead Pastor shall meet the requirements of New Testament leadership and be licensed or ordained.
(Paragraph 2) The Dual Responsibilities
The Lead Pastor is uniquely called to be the primary visionary and apostolic leader of Box Church. Because the church has two complementary branches †the spiritual Body of believers and the legal Corporation †it is the Lead Pastor who administratively bridges the gap between the two branches. The Lead Pastor is primarily responsible for the spiritual life of the church; therefore, he must be in a position corporately to ensure that financial strength is directed toward the Ministries of his choice. Therefore, he shall serve as Lead Pastor of the Church and President of the Corporation.
Section 2
The Office of the Lead Pastor
(Paragraph 1) Responsibilities of the Lead Pastor
It is the Lead Pastor’s responsibility to:
1. Provide Biblical vision and direction for the church;
2. Define and communicate the church’s purpose;
3. Oversee and coordinate the dayâ€toâ€day of the congregation and administration of the church, including, but not limited to:
i. All employment decisions
ii. Delegation of responsibilities to all staff
iii. Dayâ€toâ€day operations
4. Chairman of the BOS;
5. Official spokesman for Box Church;
6. Ex Officio member of all committees, teams, groups, and ministries;
7. Recognize and enlist apostolic, prophetic, evangelistic, pastoral and teaching ministries, along with additional staff members as he deems Biblical and necessary for the healthy spiritual development of the body of believers;
(Paragraph 2) The Pastor’s Spiritual Leadership
The Lead Pastor may work with the COPs, BOS, Pastoral Staff or anyone serving in the functions or offices as outlined in Ephesians 4:11â€13 in whatever way he determines is biblical to serve the spiritual needs of the church. Additionally, the Lead Pastor may budget moneys, hire staff, develop projects, create small groups, programs or other ministries within the budget, according to his convictions and Biblical understanding.
(Paragraph 3) The Pastor’s Responsibility for Services
Times, order of services and the leadership of services are to be determined by the Lead Pastor or by the spiritual church structure he establishes. No person shall be invited to speak, teach or minister at a service held in church owned facilities, or in the name of the church, without the approval of the Lead Pastor.
Section 3
The Office of the President
(Paragraph 1) The President
The Corporation defines its leadership under the Lord Jesus Christ and in its president. The Lead Pastor shall serve as the president, Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation and Chairman of the Board of Stewardship. He shall preside at all the meetings of the BOS and shall see that all orders and resolutions of the board are put into effect. He shall execute in the name of the Corporation all deeds, bonds, mortgages, contracts and other documents authorized by the BOS. He shall be an ex-officio member of all standing committees, and shall have the general powers and duties of supervision and management usually vested in the office of the president of the Corporation.
(Paragraph 2) The President’s Administrative Role
The president is the senior administrator of the church. He is ultimately responsible for all dayâ€toâ€day administrative decisions of the church.
(Paragraph 3) The President’s Role With Staff
The president hires, directs and dismisses staff. As the Lead Pastor, his call is confirmed to the church, and those hired by him are to assist him in fulfilling this calling.
(Paragraph 4) The President’s Role in Establishing Salaries
The president, or the spiritual church structure he establishes, determines all salaries and writes pay scales for fullâ€time salaried employees. Pay scales shall be explained to new fullâ€time salaried employees. Changes in pay scales will be given in writing to the affected employees. In addition, all partâ€time salaries and hourly wages are variable and are to be determined between the president and the employee.
(Paragraph 5) Budget
An annual budget must be prepared. The budget is to be set by the president to be adopted by the BOS.
(Paragraph 6) Expenditures
Budgeted amounts are not to be considered actual moneys available. The president can only spend actual funds that are available, and those moneys are to be spent according to the budget. The president may not borrow money, sign leases, buy or sell real estate, or make any agreements that could force indebtedness upon the church. Should the church borrow, the BOS shall give the president authority to spend those moneys on the project for which the funds were borrowed. All undesignated moneys available to the Corporation above budgeted amounts are deemed discretionary and are available to be spent by the president, but he may only obligate funds currently on hand.
Section 4
Manner of Election
The Lead Pastor shall be responsible for naming a successor to replace him when he chooses to step down from his position of authority. If he is removed by the COPs as stated in Section 6, the COPs along with the BOS will be tasked with fulfilling the position of Lead Pastor for Box Church.
Section 5
Term of Office
The term of the Lead Pastor’s office shall be for an indefinite period. The term will expire upon thirty days written notice given either by the resignation of the Lead Pastor or by action of the COPs in consultation with the BOS.
Section 6
Confrontation and Discipline
The Lead Pastor is morally, theologically, and ethically accountable to the COPs. Confrontation and discipline for the Lead Pastor should follow the principles outlined in Matthew 18:15â€20.
1. A member of the Board of Stewardship (BOS), or here or referred to as board member, should initiate the process of Matthew 18 and hold a one onâ€one session with the Lead Pastor to confront the issue.
2. If there is no resolution, the board member should bring a second board member with him to hold a mediation session and attempt to resolve the issue.
3. If there is no resolution, the board members previously involved should contact a member of the COPs to assist in resolution of the matter.
4. If there is still no resolution, the COPs should convene a meeting of the BOS and COPs to decide together upon a course of action.
5. A consensus of the COPs is required to take disciplinary action. With such a consensus, the COPs shall assume complete authority over the Lead Pastor. They may decide to remove him from his position or to discipline him in a way they deem necessary. When a vacancy shall occur, candidates for the Lead Pastor position shall be arranged for by the COPs or whoever they designate.
Article Nine
Council of Pastors (COPs)
(Paragraph 1) Qualifications
The COPs shall consist of no less than three and no more than five. Members of the COPs must include pastors of respected congregations who know and love Box Church and the Lead Pastor.
1. Agree to make themselves available to serve Box Church if requested by the Lead Pastor;
2. Willing to provide spiritual protection to Box Church through prayer and by exemplifying honorable Christian lives;
3. Be in a mentoring or an accountability relationship with the current Lead Pastor;
4. Be committed to the vision and longâ€term success of Box Church;
(Paragraph 2) Biblical Qualifications for COPs
“Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self -controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect. (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?) He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap†(1 Tim. 3:2â€7).
(Paragraph 3) Duties
The COPs serve as an external source of support, wisdom, ministry, and encouragement to the Lead Pastor and overall leadership of Box Church. They will be asked to serve in the following ways:
1. Provide personal mentoring and encouragement to the Lead Pastor;
2. Speak into the life of Box Church through the Lead Pastor through regular visits, consultations, and prayerful input;
3. Provide a place of appeal and mediation regarding conflicts that are unresolved in Box Church (specifically where the Lead Pastor is concerned);
4. Along with the BOS, identify a pastor to appoint as Lead Pastor during a time of vacancy and transition;
5. Stand in support of Box Church during moments of crisis and need.
(Paragraph 4) Terms and Conditions
The COPs shall be selected by the Lead Pastor. They will serve in that capacity indefinitely and without term limitation. Each one shall serve one year at a time and the relationship shall be reviewed annually.
(Paragraph 5) Removal
At any time, a member of the COPs can be removed by recommendation of the Lead Pastor and the affirmation of a majority of the BOS.
Article Ten
Board Of Stewardship (BOS)
(Paragraph 1) Qualifications
The BOS shall consist of no less than three and no more than seven. Board members must be people of mature Christian experience and knowledge, sound in faith and of good report, according to the scriptural standards of Acts 6 and I Timothy 3:8â€13.
(Paragraph 2) Duties
The BOS shall act in an advisory capacity to the Lead Pastor in regard to the strategic planning and ministry development of Box Church. The BOS shall oversee and be responsible as fiduciaries for the management of Box Church. They will approve the budget and set the salary of the Lead Pastor.
(Paragraph 3) Manner of Election
Board members shall be recommended by the BOS Board Selection Committee and affirmed by a majority vote of the BOS.
(Paragraph 4) Term of Office
BOS members will be selected for a threeâ€year term with a maximum of two consecutive terms unless the BOS deems it necessary to continue said term for a specified reason. That continuance term shall not exceed 1 year, making it a full 7 years of total service. Board members may be considered eligible for voting back on after one year. The Lead Pastor will setup an initial system for rotating members off to provide continuity of the group.
(Paragraph 5) Removal
In the event that a BOS member is not fulfilling the duties of his or her office, is not being effective, or is acting in a way that is immoral, unethical, or divisive, recommendation can be made by the Lead Pastor for his or her removal from office. Such action shall be ratified by a majority of the COPs.
(Paragraph 6) Meetings
A meeting of the BOS shall be held on a quarterly basis with two of those meetings being by phone or video conference and two being face to face. The Lead Pastor will set the dates for those meetings. If at all possible, the Lead Pastor is to attend and lead each meeting. If that is not possible, the secretary/treasurer shall lead the meeting. The act of a majority of the BOS shall be the act of the board. In the absence of a quorum at any meeting, a meeting of the BOS members present may adjourn the meeting without further notice until a quorum shall be established.
(Paragraph 7) Compensation
Board Members, with the exception of the Lead Pastor, shall not receive any salaries for their services.
Article Eleven
Officers
Section 1. Board Secretary
(Paragraph 1) Qualifications
The Secretary shall:
1. Be spiritually minded, of mature age and of sound business judgment.
2. Be capable of recording the minutes of business sessions and of doing all correspondence necessary in the conduct of official church business.
3. Have the same spiritual qualifications as the other Board members. The secretary does not have to be a Board member in order to serve.
(Paragraph 2) Duties
Oversee the keeping of records of all business meetings of the Board.
(Paragraph 3) Manner of Election
The Secretary shall be elected by members of the BOS by a majority vote of those present.
(Paragraph 4) Term of Office
The term of office shall be for a period of one year with the option to renew each year by the recommendation of the Lead Pastor.
Section 2. Treasurer
(Paragraph 1) Qualifications
The Treasurer shall:
1. Be spiritually minded, of mature age and of sound business judgment.
2. Be capable of doing the accounting required to maintain the books.
3. Have the same spiritual qualifications as the other Board Members. The treasurer does not have to be a BOS member in order to serve.
(Paragraph 2) Duties
The Treasurer shall:
1. Oversee the disbursement of all funds as authorized by the BOS.
2. Participate in the presentation of an itemized financial report at the regular meetings of the BOS.
(Paragraph 3) Manner of Election
The Treasurer shall be elected by the members of the BOS by a majority vote of those present.
(Paragraph 4) Term of Office
The term of office shall be for a period of one year with the option to renew each year by the recommendation of the Lead Pastor.
Article Twelve
Regional Overseers
(Paragraph 1) Qualifications
Regional Overseers must be people of mature Christian experience and knowledge, sound in faith and of good report, according to the scriptural standards of Acts 6 and I Timothy 3:8â€13.
(Paragraph 2) Duties
Regional Overseers shall act in an authoritative role to the Box Church leaders under their care in their particular region. They will assist those leaders in the care, council and pastoral leadership of the flock.
(Paragraph 3) Manner of Election
Regional Overseers shall be recommended to the Lead Pastor and the BOS by the people of Box Church just like the Biblical manner found in Acts 7.
(Paragraph 4) Term of Office
Regional Overseers will hold their positions as long as they live in the particular area in which they minister unless they are deemed unfit for service by the Lead Pastor or by the spiritual church structure he establishes.
(Paragraph 5) Removal
In the event that a Regional Overseer is not fulfilling the duties of his office, is not being effective, or is acting in a way that is immoral, unethical, or divisive, recommendation can be made by the Lead Pastor to the BOS, or by the spiritual church structure he establishes, for his removal from office.
(Paragraph 6) Meetings
Regional Overseers will meet monthly to discuss ministry, finances and spend time in prayer for the boxes underneath their care. A written report of each meeting shall be given to the BOS, or the entity they have established to oversee this particular area of ministry.
(Paragraph 7) Compensation
Regional Overseers may be financially compensated for their services as they are serving in a pastoral role.
Article Thirteen
Box Church Leaders
(Paragraph 1) Qualifications
1. Professed faith in Jesus Christ and decided to become His disciple.
2. Been baptized in water following their decision to choose Christ.
3. Demonstrate a willingness to be governed by the church and its leaders.
4. Demonstrates a giftedness toward pastoral care.
5. Financially supports the mission and vision of Box Church.
(Paragraph 2) Procedure
Individuals interested in becoming Box Church Leaders must go through the proper training made available by Box Church.
(Paragraph 3) Removal
Regional Overseers have the right to request removal to the Lead Pastor, or to the spiritual church structure he establishes, for the removal a Box Church Leader from his or her position if there is a Biblical cause to do so. Box Church Leaders may be restored by the Regional Overseers in the spirit of 2 Corinthians 2:7-8 and Galatians 6:1-2 when their attitude and lifestyle are judged to be again in accordance with the qualifications for their position of leadership.
(Paragraph 4) Compensation
Box Church Leaders shall not receive any salaries for their services.
Article Fourteen
Selection of Leadership
Section 1. Lead Pastor Search Team
In the event that the office of Lead Pastor is vacated, the Overseers and the BOS shall serve as the official Search Team.
(Paragraph 1) Responsibility
The Search Team will carry out the following responsibilities:
1. Appoint an interim pastor (if that option is available) and a Temporary BOS Chairman, until a new Lead Pastor is selected.
2. Interview, research and appoint any candidates for Lead Pastor.
(Paragraph 2) Lead Pastor Selection
The Lead Pastor must be elected by secret ballot and by 2/3 of the COPs present at a duly called special meeting.
Section 2. BOS Selection Committee
Board Members shall be recommended by the Board Selection Committee. The Board Selection Committee shall consist of two current BOS Members, and the Lead Pastor. The Lead Pastor shall chair this team and its function.
(Paragraph 1) Responsibility
The Selection Team shall consider the following qualifications for Board Members in their recommendation:
1. Active in the overall vision of Box Church.
2. Positive attitude. Ability to keep confidence.
3. Provides some needed competency of expertise to assist the church in its function.
(Paragraph 2) Board Member Selection
Board Members shall be recommended by the Board Selection Committee.
1. Board Members who have a concern about the qualifications regarding any of the recommended candidates shall have the opportunity to express in writing their concern to the Selection Team prior to the Board Vote.
2. Board Candidates who have been duly presented, and have no valid objection to their qualifications, shall be affirmed by a majority of the BOS present at a BOS meeting.
Section 3. Other Pastors, Staff, and Employees
All other pastors, staff, and employees shall be appointed by or released at the discretion of the Lead Pastor and a majority vote of the BOS.
Section 4. Other Leadership
Teams, Committees, Task Forces, and any other ministry positions shall be appointed by or released at the discretion the Lead Pastor or by the spiritual church structure he establishes
Article Fifteen
Indemnification
Section 1: General
Except for responsibility or liability of a Pastor or Board pursuant to any criminal statute or the liability of a Pastor for the payment of taxes pursuant to federal, state or local law, a Pastor shall not be personally liable for monetary damages for any action taken unless the Pastor breached or failed to perform the duties of his office or the breach or failure to perform constitutes selfâ€dealing, willful misconduct or recklessness.
Section 2: Thirdâ€Party Actions
The corporation shall indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (other than action by or in the right of the corporation) by reason of the fact that the person is or was a representative of the corporation, against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with the action or proceeding, if such person acted in good faith and a manner the person reasonably believed to be in, or not opposed to, the best interests of the corporation, and, with such care, including reasonable inquiry, skill and diligence, as a person or ordinary prudence would use under similar circumstances, and with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. The termination of any action or proceeding by judgment, order, settlement or conviction or upon a pleas of nolo contender or its equivalent shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did not act in good faith and in a manner which the person reasonably believed to be in, or not opposed to, the best interests of the corporation, and, with respect to any criminal proceeding, that the person had reasonable cause to believe that his or her conduct was unlawful.
Section 3: Mandatory Indemnification
To the extent that a representative of the corporation has been successful on the merits or otherwise in the defense of any action, suit or proceeding referred to in Section 2 of this Article, or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, such person shall be indemnified against expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection therewith.
Section 4: Supplementary Coverage
The indemnification provided by the Section 2 of this Article shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those seeking indemnification may be entitled under the Nonprofit Corporation Law of 1988, any other provision of law, the Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws or any agreement, vote of disinterested Directors and Elders or otherwise, both as the action in person’s official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding such office, and shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be a representative, and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a person.
Article Sixteen
Discipline
We believe that God has given the leadership of the church responsibility for the care and welfare both of the overall body and also for the individual soul. Our desire to provide effective shepherd like care for both, even in moments of discipline. The purpose of discipline is to protect the churchâ€atâ€large and to promote repentance in the person involved. Discipline is redemptive, corrective, and protective in nature.
Box Church reserves the right to exert discipline in matters of theological or ethical/moral indiscretion as it relates to every official church function, event, or activity endorsed by Box Church.
Article Seventeen
Dissolution
Upon the dissolution of Box Church, none of its funds or assets shall be distributed to any Pastor, Officer, Board Member, or any other individual. The BOS, after paying or making provision for the payment of all liabilities of Box Church, shall dispose of all the funds and assets of the church by conveying to a similar entity, provided that the said entity at the time qualifies as an exempt organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. These said funds shall be conveyed with the express intent and hope that they be reinvested in a church planting movement. In the event the similar entity is unable or unwilling to accept the transfer of all the property of this Church, then such property shall be transferred to an organization operated exclusively for religious purposes with taxâ€exempt status under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Article Eighteen
Fiscal Definitions
Section 1. General
Box Church, through the BOS, shall create and maintain such departments and suborganizations as may be necessary and advisable for the extension of its financial work. All such departments and organizations shall be subordinate to Box Church and shall contribute to the harmony and development of the whole. They shall be under the general supervision of the Lead Pastor and BOS. All significant contracts should be reviewed by a competent attorney and the BOS prior to the signing.
Section 2. Budget & Audits
The Lead Pastor and staff shall prepare, with the approval of the BOS, a unified budget for the Church. Said unified budget shall include all monies received or expended by or for any and all departments of Box Church. The BOS may conduct and arrange for an annual financial review or audit of a type and nature they deem appropriate.
Section 3. Property
All property of Box Church shall be deeded to Box Church and held in
its incorporated name. No property valued at more than 20% of the previous year’s disbursements shall be sold, leased, mortgaged or otherwise disposed of without being presented to the BOS and approved by at least 2/3 of the BOS.
Article Nineteen
Order
In order to facilitate the conduct of business in an orderly and satisfactory manner, all meetings shall be governed by the accepted rules of Parliamentary Procedure in keeping with the spirit of Christian love and fellowship.
Article Twenty
Amendments
These Bylaws may be amended by majority vote of the BOS and approved by the COPs.
“This document is protected under applicable copyright laws, with the reproduction and distribution of the document or its contents without written permission of the owner being strictly prohibited.â€
Non-Profit Status
This church shall be organized and operated exclusively for religious purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, or the corresponding provision of any future United States Internal Revenue law in order to:
1. Minister the Word of God;
2. Conduct regular religious worship services through various forms of ministries;
3. Promote and encourage, through the ministries of the organization, cooperation with other organizations ministering within the community;
4. Spread the Gospel by ministering to all through seminars, radio, television, and other forms of mass media.
5. Conduct a local and international church by direction of the Lord Jesus Christ and under the leadership of the Holy Spirit in accordance with all the provisions set for in the Bible.
6. Maintain local office and missionary facilities as needed.
This church is not organized, nor shall it operate for pecuniary gain or profit, and it does not contemplate the distribution of gains, profit, or dividends to its members and is organized solely for non-profit purposes. The property, assets, profits and net income of this church are irrevocably dedicated to charitable, educational and religious purposes and not part of these profits or net income of this church shall ever insure to the benefit of any individual.
Prohibition against sharing in corporate earnings
No employee, committee member or person connected with the church or any other private individual shall receive at any time any of the net earnings or pecuniary profit from the operations of the church, provided that this shall not prevent the payment to any such persons of such reasonable compensation for services rendered to or for the church in effecting any of its purposes as shall be fixed by the church leadership, and no such person or persons shall be entitled to share in the distribution of any of the church assets upon dissolution of the church.
Exempt Activities
Notwithstanding any other provision of these Bylaws, no employee or representative of this church shall take any action or carry on any activity by or on behalf of the church not permitted to be taken or carried on by an organization exempt under Section 501(c)(3) or the Internal Revenue Code and its regulations as they now exist or as they may hereafter be amended, or by an organization, contributions to which are now deductible under Section 170(c)(2) and 509(a)(1) of such Codes and Regulations as they now exist or as they may hereafter be amended.
Preamble
Recognizing that God has called His people to meet, worship, and serve together in structured ways which the New Testament refers to as local churches, and that it is God’s desire that all things be done decently and in order (1 Corinthians 14:40), we, the people of Box Church, have set forth the following Bylaws as a basis for that structure and order.
Our paradigm for function is like that of a family. While we recognize that Bylaws are necessary for proper order, we also affirm that the attitudes of love, honor, and respect are the true foundation for any healthy group of people who seek to fulfill God’s purpose.
Article One
Purpose
Box Church is a contemporary expression of the New Testament Church. Our desire is to imitate, experience, and live out the reality of Christ’s presence in the way the ‘Acts’ church did. Scripture paints a picture of a church committed to five primary purposes: worship, fellowship, discipleship, evangelism, and service.
These purposes are drawn from the two directives given by Jesus Himself, the Great Commandment (Mark 12:28â€34) and the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18â€20) and the Great Example of the early church (Acts 2:42â€47).
It is our stated objective to love God and to love people, joining God in the renewal of all things. We want to exhibit and proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ in our world, to call people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus, and through our love and service to work for the common good.
Article Two
Name
The name of this organization is Box Church, Inc.
Article Three
Prerogatives
Box Church shall have the right to govern itself and conduct its own affairs according to the standards of the New Testament and the values of healthy family function. Our objective, as an organization, is to follow Jesus in a unified and effective way.
These rights for selfâ€governance shall include such matters as the calling of a Lead Pastor, selection of a Board, discipline of people, and the conduct of all its services, ministries, and initiatives.
It shall also have the right to purchase, acquire by gift, own, use, sell, mortgage, lease, or dispose of any real estate and/or property as may be necessary for the furtherance of its purposes.
Article Four
Affiliation
Box Church shall have perpetual existence and is a sovereign assembly. As such, Box Church maintains the right to govern its own affairs. Box Church also reserves the right to network with other organizations of ‘like mind’ as it deems beneficial.
Article Five
Statement of Faith
Box 1: We Believe the Bible is the very word of God, comprising fully the writings of the Old and New Testaments (66 books). We believe it is inspired by God in every word, is completely without error in the original writings, and is the infallible and authoritative guide for one’s lifestyle (behavior) and world-view (beliefs).
(Ephesians 2:8–10).
Box 2: We Believe God is the only One, True, and Living God who is the majestic and infinite, yet personal, creator of the entire universe and all mankind. He sustains and controls all things according to His will, and is one in essence but eternally exists in three fully equal, yet distinct, persons: Father, Son, Holy Spirit.
(Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Genesis 1:1; Genesis 2:7; Acts 17:24-28; John 17:3).
Box 3: We Believe Jesus Christ is fully God, and has always existed as the Son of God. He became a human being by being born of a virgin, offered Himself as a sinless, substitutionary sacrifice for a lost human race through His death on the cross, was physically resurrected from the dead to show that His redeeming work was perfectly accomplished and completely satisfactory to the Father, ascended into heaven in order to begin His present heavenly ministry as our High Priest, Head of the church, and as our Advocate before the Father, and is the Agent of Creation and currently sustains all creation by the power of His command.
(Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 4:15; 7:26-28; 1 Peter 2:21-24; 3:18; Luke 24:50-51; Ephesians 1:22-23; Hebrews 8:1-2; 1 John 2:1; Acts 2:32-33; Romans 1:2-4; 1 Corinthians 15:3-6; Hebrews 1:2-3).
Box 4: We Believe the Holy Spirit is fully God and has always existed as the third person of the Trinity. He was active in the creation of all things, the inspiration of the Scriptures, and the incarnation of the Son. He is active in the world today glorifying Christ, convicting unbelievers of sin, righteousness, and judgment, and is working in believers to produce new life, indwell, provide security, give gifts of service, guide, empower, and transform them toward Christlike maturity.
(Acts 5:3-4; 2 Corinthians 5:17-18; Genesis 1:2; Job 33:4; 2 Peter 1:21; Matthew 1:18-25; John 16:14; 7-11;14:16-17; Romans 8:9-11; 1 Corinthians 6:19; 12:7-13; Galatians 5:22-23; Ephesians1:13-14;4:30;5:18; Titus 3:5).
Box 5: We Believe Humanity is personally created by God in His image in order to glorify God by enjoying him forever. Humanity voluntarily sinned against God in Adam, which resulted in a state of spiritual separation from Him, and are now sinners by birth, by nature and by conduct, and is totally depraved and unable to do anything on his own to gain a relationship with God.
(Genesis 1:26-27; Psalms 8:3-6; Ecclesiastes 5:18-19; 1 Corinthians 10:31; 1 Timothy 6:17; Genesis 3:1-24; Psalm 51:5; Isaiah 59:2; Romans 1:18-20; 3:10-12; 23; 5:12-19; 1 Corinthians 1:30;2:14; Ephesians 2:1-5; Romans 6:23; Romans 5:15-16).
Box 6: We Believe Salvation is entirely a free gift of God’s grace that is neither earned or secured in part or in whole by any virtue or work of man. It is given through personal trust in Christ and His death and resurrection on our behalf, and is an eternal possession of all who are truly born again by the Holy Spirit through faith.
(Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 3:28; 5:1; 1 John 5:11-13; John3:16;10:28-29; Romans 8:30; 38-39).
Box 7: We Believe the Church is an organized assembly of born again, baptized believers (“the called-out onesâ€) and is God’s primary means of accomplishing His purposes in the world today (unto the Lord). The church is the body of Christ that seeks to follow the Great Commandment and fulfill the Great Commission. It is to practice the two ordinances commanded by Christ: believer’s water baptism by immersion as an identification with Christ and his church, and second, the Lord’s Supper which is seen as a continuing memorial of the broken body and shed blood of Christ.
(Matthew 16:18-19; Ephesians 3:10-11; Matthew 22:34-40; 28:18-20; Acts 2:41-47; Matthew 3:13-17; 26:26-30; 28:19-20; Acts 2:41-42; 1 Corinthians 11:23-27).
Box 8: We Believe the Future will include the personal return of Jesus Christ to earth to rule his kingdom for 1,000 years, and will include eternal punishment for all who reject the Lord Jesus Christ and eternal fellowship with God in a new heaven and earth for all who have placed their trust in Him.
(Titus 2:13; Matthew 24:29-30; Revelation 20:1-3; Hebrews 9:27; 2 Peter 3:7; Revelation 20:10-15; 21:1-4).
Box 9: We Believe Marriage is exclusively the union of one biological man and one biological woman, and that intimate sexual activity is to occur exclusively within that union. This Biblical marriage serves as the core foundation of a stable society.
(Genesis 2:18-25; Ephesians 5:21-33; Hebrews 13:4; Exodus 20:14; Mark 10:6-9; 1 Corinthians 7:2; 1 Corinthians 7:2).
Box 10: We Believe Life is sacred and created by God, and is of inestimable worth in all its dimensions, including pre-born babies, the aged, the physically or mentally challenged, and every other stage or condition from conception through natural death. We are therefore called to defend, protect, and value all human life.
(Psalm 139: 13-16).
Box 11: We Believe the Believer is indwelled by the Holy Spirit and is activated by Him to love God above all else and love and serve one another in the context of community as commanded in the New Testament.
(John 14:15-17; John 16:7-11; Romans 8:9-11; Matthew 22:37-39; Romans 13:8; Galatians 5:13; Hebrews 10:25).
Article Six
Ordinances
We believe and practice two primary New Testament Ordinances. First, Baptism by immersion in water is administered to all who profess faith in Christ. It is an outward declaration of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus and the new life that becomes ours as a result of faith in Him. Second, we regularly celebrate the Lord’s Supper as taught in the Scriptures.
Article Seven
Governance
Box Church seeks be led by the Holy Spirit in all its decisions. The Lead Pastor, The Council of Pastors (COPs) and the Board of Stewardship (BOS), all have a role in the body’s leadership. The ultimate goal of the leadership process of Box Church is the implementation and obedience to the specific will of Jesus defined through the Bible and the leading of the Holy Spirit.
The Lead Pastor’s office is responsible for developing and communicating the vision and overseeing the dayâ€toâ€day ministry of the church and developing the proposed budget of the church to be adopted by the BOS. The goal of Pastoral Leadership is to equip the church for ministry in keeping with the purpose of the ministry gifts listed in Ephesians 4:11â€16. When those with ministry gifts are empowered to lead, the entire body is built up, unified, and reaches the fullest measure of its potential in Christ.
The Council of Pastors (COPs) are to protect the church through counsel, prayer, and if required, the discipline of the Lead Pastor, as described in Article Nine.
The Board of Stewardship (BOS) is to serve the church as described in Article Ten. The BOS shall serve as the board of directors of the corporation and exercise all corporate powers. The BOS shall work in cooperation with the Lead Pastor and the COPs for the overall governance of the church.
The Regional Overseers, as described in Article 12, will serve as the lead overseers of the local network of churches in that specific area under the direction of the Lead Pastor, much like the Ephesian Elders did in the Apostle Paul’s day. Their role would be to council, encourage Box Church Leaders, protect the church from false teachers, exhort and admonish the saints in sound doctrine, pray for the sick and judge doctrinal issues as needed.
Box Church Leaders will serve as the local leaders of their particular box as described in Article 13. Their role will be to facilitate Box Church services, encourage the people underneath their care, admonish those under their care, council and support those that God has placed underneath their leadership.
Article Eight
Lead Pastor of the Church/President of the Corporation
Section 1
Qualifications & Responsibilities
(Paragraph1) Qualifications
The Lead Pastor shall meet the requirements of New Testament leadership and be licensed or ordained.
(Paragraph 2) The Dual Responsibilities
The Lead Pastor is uniquely called to be the primary visionary and apostolic leader of Box Church. Because the church has two complementary branches †the spiritual Body of believers and the legal Corporation †it is the Lead Pastor who administratively bridges the gap between the two branches. The Lead Pastor is primarily responsible for the spiritual life of the church; therefore, he must be in a position corporately to ensure that financial strength is directed toward the Ministries of his choice. Therefore, he shall serve as Lead Pastor of the Church and President of the Corporation.
Section 2
The Office of the Lead Pastor
(Paragraph 1) Responsibilities of the Lead Pastor
It is the Lead Pastor’s responsibility to:
1. Provide Biblical vision and direction for the church;
2. Define and communicate the church’s purpose;
3. Oversee and coordinate the dayâ€toâ€day of the congregation and administration of the church, including, but not limited to:
i. All employment decisions
ii. Delegation of responsibilities to all staff
iii. Dayâ€toâ€day operations
4. Chairman of the BOS;
5. Official spokesman for Box Church;
6. Ex Officio member of all committees, teams, groups, and ministries;
7. Recognize and enlist apostolic, prophetic, evangelistic, pastoral and teaching ministries, along with additional staff members as he deems Biblical and necessary for the healthy spiritual development of the body of believers;
(Paragraph 2) The Pastor’s Spiritual Leadership
The Lead Pastor may work with the COPs, BOS, Pastoral Staff or anyone serving in the functions or offices as outlined in Ephesians 4:11â€13 in whatever way he determines is biblical to serve the spiritual needs of the church. Additionally, the Lead Pastor may budget moneys, hire staff, develop projects, create small groups, programs or other ministries within the budget, according to his convictions and Biblical understanding.
(Paragraph 3) The Pastor’s Responsibility for Services
Times, order of services and the leadership of services are to be determined by the Lead Pastor or by the spiritual church structure he establishes. No person shall be invited to speak, teach or minister at a service held in church owned facilities, or in the name of the church, without the approval of the Lead Pastor.
Section 3
The Office of the President
(Paragraph 1) The President
The Corporation defines its leadership under the Lord Jesus Christ and in its president. The Lead Pastor shall serve as the president, Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation and Chairman of the Board of Stewardship. He shall preside at all the meetings of the BOS and shall see that all orders and resolutions of the board are put into effect. He shall execute in the name of the Corporation all deeds, bonds, mortgages, contracts and other documents authorized by the BOS. He shall be an ex-officio member of all standing committees, and shall have the general powers and duties of supervision and management usually vested in the office of the president of the Corporation.
(Paragraph 2) The President’s Administrative Role
The president is the senior administrator of the church. He is ultimately responsible for all dayâ€toâ€day administrative decisions of the church.
(Paragraph 3) The President’s Role With Staff
The president hires, directs and dismisses staff. As the Lead Pastor, his call is confirmed to the church, and those hired by him are to assist him in fulfilling this calling.
(Paragraph 4) The President’s Role in Establishing Salaries
The president, or the spiritual church structure he establishes, determines all salaries and writes pay scales for fullâ€time salaried employees. Pay scales shall be explained to new fullâ€time salaried employees. Changes in pay scales will be given in writing to the affected employees. In addition, all partâ€time salaries and hourly wages are variable and are to be determined between the president and the employee.
(Paragraph 5) Budget
An annual budget must be prepared. The budget is to be set by the president to be adopted by the BOS.
(Paragraph 6) Expenditures
Budgeted amounts are not to be considered actual moneys available. The president can only spend actual funds that are available, and those moneys are to be spent according to the budget. The president may not borrow money, sign leases, buy or sell real estate, or make any agreements that could force indebtedness upon the church. Should the church borrow, the BOS shall give the president authority to spend those moneys on the project for which the funds were borrowed. All undesignated moneys available to the Corporation above budgeted amounts are deemed discretionary and are available to be spent by the president, but he may only obligate funds currently on hand.
Section 4
Manner of Election
The Lead Pastor shall be responsible for naming a successor to replace him when he chooses to step down from his position of authority. If he is removed by the COPs as stated in Section 6, the COPs along with the BOS will be tasked with fulfilling the position of Lead Pastor for Box Church.
Section 5
Term of Office
The term of the Lead Pastor’s office shall be for an indefinite period. The term will expire upon thirty days written notice given either by the resignation of the Lead Pastor or by action of the COPs in consultation with the BOS.
Section 6
Confrontation and Discipline
The Lead Pastor is morally, theologically, and ethically accountable to the COPs. Confrontation and discipline for the Lead Pastor should follow the principles outlined in Matthew 18:15â€20.
1. A member of the Board of Stewardship (BOS), or here or referred to as board member, should initiate the process of Matthew 18 and hold a one onâ€one session with the Lead Pastor to confront the issue.
2. If there is no resolution, the board member should bring a second board member with him to hold a mediation session and attempt to resolve the issue.
3. If there is no resolution, the board members previously involved should contact a member of the COPs to assist in resolution of the matter.
4. If there is still no resolution, the COPs should convene a meeting of the BOS and COPs to decide together upon a course of action.
5. A consensus of the COPs is required to take disciplinary action. With such a consensus, the COPs shall assume complete authority over the Lead Pastor. They may decide to remove him from his position or to discipline him in a way they deem necessary. When a vacancy shall occur, candidates for the Lead Pastor position shall be arranged for by the COPs or whoever they designate.
Article Nine
Council of Pastors (COPs)
(Paragraph 1) Qualifications
The COPs shall consist of no less than three and no more than five. Members of the COPs must include pastors of respected congregations who know and love Box Church and the Lead Pastor.
1. Agree to make themselves available to serve Box Church if requested by the Lead Pastor;
2. Willing to provide spiritual protection to Box Church through prayer and by exemplifying honorable Christian lives;
3. Be in a mentoring or an accountability relationship with the current Lead Pastor;
4. Be committed to the vision and longâ€term success of Box Church;
(Paragraph 2) Biblical Qualifications for COPs
“Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self -controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect. (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?) He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap†(1 Tim. 3:2â€7).
(Paragraph 3) Duties
The COPs serve as an external source of support, wisdom, ministry, and encouragement to the Lead Pastor and overall leadership of Box Church. They will be asked to serve in the following ways:
1. Provide personal mentoring and encouragement to the Lead Pastor;
2. Speak into the life of Box Church through the Lead Pastor through regular visits, consultations, and prayerful input;
3. Provide a place of appeal and mediation regarding conflicts that are unresolved in Box Church (specifically where the Lead Pastor is concerned);
4. Along with the BOS, identify a pastor to appoint as Lead Pastor during a time of vacancy and transition;
5. Stand in support of Box Church during moments of crisis and need.
(Paragraph 4) Terms and Conditions
The COPs shall be selected by the Lead Pastor. They will serve in that capacity indefinitely and without term limitation. Each one shall serve one year at a time and the relationship shall be reviewed annually.
(Paragraph 5) Removal
At any time, a member of the COPs can be removed by recommendation of the Lead Pastor and the affirmation of a majority of the BOS.
Article Ten
Board Of Stewardship (BOS)
(Paragraph 1) Qualifications
The BOS shall consist of no less than three and no more than seven. Board members must be people of mature Christian experience and knowledge, sound in faith and of good report, according to the scriptural standards of Acts 6 and I Timothy 3:8â€13.
(Paragraph 2) Duties
The BOS shall act in an advisory capacity to the Lead Pastor in regard to the strategic planning and ministry development of Box Church. The BOS shall oversee and be responsible as fiduciaries for the management of Box Church. They will approve the budget and set the salary of the Lead Pastor.
(Paragraph 3) Manner of Election
Board members shall be recommended by the BOS Board Selection Committee and affirmed by a majority vote of the BOS.
(Paragraph 4) Term of Office
BOS members will be selected for a threeâ€year term with a maximum of two consecutive terms unless the BOS deems it necessary to continue said term for a specified reason. That continuance term shall not exceed 1 year, making it a full 7 years of total service. Board members may be considered eligible for voting back on after one year. The Lead Pastor will setup an initial system for rotating members off to provide continuity of the group.
(Paragraph 5) Removal
In the event that a BOS member is not fulfilling the duties of his or her office, is not being effective, or is acting in a way that is immoral, unethical, or divisive, recommendation can be made by the Lead Pastor for his or her removal from office. Such action shall be ratified by a majority of the COPs.
(Paragraph 6) Meetings
A meeting of the BOS shall be held on a quarterly basis with two of those meetings being by phone or video conference and two being face to face. The Lead Pastor will set the dates for those meetings. If at all possible, the Lead Pastor is to attend and lead each meeting. If that is not possible, the secretary/treasurer shall lead the meeting. The act of a majority of the BOS shall be the act of the board. In the absence of a quorum at any meeting, a meeting of the BOS members present may adjourn the meeting without further notice until a quorum shall be established.
(Paragraph 7) Compensation
Board Members, with the exception of the Lead Pastor, shall not receive any salaries for their services.
Article Eleven
Officers
Section 1. Board Secretary
(Paragraph 1) Qualifications
The Secretary shall:
1. Be spiritually minded, of mature age and of sound business judgment.
2. Be capable of recording the minutes of business sessions and of doing all correspondence necessary in the conduct of official church business.
3. Have the same spiritual qualifications as the other Board members. The secretary does not have to be a Board member in order to serve.
(Paragraph 2) Duties
Oversee the keeping of records of all business meetings of the Board.
(Paragraph 3) Manner of Election
The Secretary shall be elected by members of the BOS by a majority vote of those present.
(Paragraph 4) Term of Office
The term of office shall be for a period of one year with the option to renew each year by the recommendation of the Lead Pastor.
Section 2. Treasurer
(Paragraph 1) Qualifications
The Treasurer shall:
1. Be spiritually minded, of mature age and of sound business judgment.
2. Be capable of doing the accounting required to maintain the books.
3. Have the same spiritual qualifications as the other Board Members. The treasurer does not have to be a BOS member in order to serve.
(Paragraph 2) Duties
The Treasurer shall:
1. Oversee the disbursement of all funds as authorized by the BOS.
2. Participate in the presentation of an itemized financial report at the regular meetings of the BOS.
(Paragraph 3) Manner of Election
The Treasurer shall be elected by the members of the BOS by a majority vote of those present.
(Paragraph 4) Term of Office
The term of office shall be for a period of one year with the option to renew each year by the recommendation of the Lead Pastor.
Article Twelve
Regional Overseers
(Paragraph 1) Qualifications
Regional Overseers must be people of mature Christian experience and knowledge, sound in faith and of good report, according to the scriptural standards of Acts 6 and I Timothy 3:8â€13.
(Paragraph 2) Duties
Regional Overseers shall act in an authoritative role to the Box Church leaders under their care in their particular region. They will assist those leaders in the care, council and pastoral leadership of the flock.
(Paragraph 3) Manner of Election
Regional Overseers shall be recommended to the Lead Pastor and the BOS by the people of Box Church just like the Biblical manner found in Acts 7.
(Paragraph 4) Term of Office
Regional Overseers will hold their positions as long as they live in the particular area in which they minister unless they are deemed unfit for service by the Lead Pastor or by the spiritual church structure he establishes.
(Paragraph 5) Removal
In the event that a Regional Overseer is not fulfilling the duties of his office, is not being effective, or is acting in a way that is immoral, unethical, or divisive, recommendation can be made by the Lead Pastor to the BOS, or by the spiritual church structure he establishes, for his removal from office.
(Paragraph 6) Meetings
Regional Overseers will meet monthly to discuss ministry, finances and spend time in prayer for the boxes underneath their care. A written report of each meeting shall be given to the BOS, or the entity they have established to oversee this particular area of ministry.
(Paragraph 7) Compensation
Regional Overseers may be financially compensated for their services as they are serving in a pastoral role.
Article Thirteen
Box Church Leaders
(Paragraph 1) Qualifications
1. Professed faith in Jesus Christ and decided to become His disciple.
2. Been baptized in water following their decision to choose Christ.
3. Demonstrate a willingness to be governed by the church and its leaders.
4. Demonstrates a giftedness toward pastoral care.
5. Financially supports the mission and vision of Box Church.
(Paragraph 2) Procedure
Individuals interested in becoming Box Church Leaders must go through the proper training made available by Box Church.
(Paragraph 3) Removal
Regional Overseers have the right to request removal to the Lead Pastor, or to the spiritual church structure he establishes, for the removal a Box Church Leader from his or her position if there is a Biblical cause to do so. Box Church Leaders may be restored by the Regional Overseers in the spirit of 2 Corinthians 2:7-8 and Galatians 6:1-2 when their attitude and lifestyle are judged to be again in accordance with the qualifications for their position of leadership.
(Paragraph 4) Compensation
Box Church Leaders shall not receive any salaries for their services.
Article Fourteen
Selection of Leadership
Section 1. Lead Pastor Search Team
In the event that the office of Lead Pastor is vacated, the Overseers and the BOS shall serve as the official Search Team.
(Paragraph 1) Responsibility
The Search Team will carry out the following responsibilities:
1. Appoint an interim pastor (if that option is available) and a Temporary BOS Chairman, until a new Lead Pastor is selected.
2. Interview, research and appoint any candidates for Lead Pastor.
(Paragraph 2) Lead Pastor Selection
The Lead Pastor must be elected by secret ballot and by 2/3 of the COPs present at a duly called special meeting.
Section 2. BOS Selection Committee
Board Members shall be recommended by the Board Selection Committee. The Board Selection Committee shall consist of two current BOS Members, and the Lead Pastor. The Lead Pastor shall chair this team and its function.
(Paragraph 1) Responsibility
The Selection Team shall consider the following qualifications for Board Members in their recommendation:
1. Active in the overall vision of Box Church.
2. Positive attitude. Ability to keep confidence.
3. Provides some needed competency of expertise to assist the church in its function.
(Paragraph 2) Board Member Selection
Board Members shall be recommended by the Board Selection Committee.
1. Board Members who have a concern about the qualifications regarding any of the recommended candidates shall have the opportunity to express in writing their concern to the Selection Team prior to the Board Vote.
2. Board Candidates who have been duly presented, and have no valid objection to their qualifications, shall be affirmed by a majority of the BOS present at a BOS meeting.
Section 3. Other Pastors, Staff, and Employees
All other pastors, staff, and employees shall be appointed by or released at the discretion of the Lead Pastor and a majority vote of the BOS.
Section 4. Other Leadership
Teams, Committees, Task Forces, and any other ministry positions shall be appointed by or released at the discretion the Lead Pastor or by the spiritual church structure he establishes
Article Fifteen
Indemnification
Section 1: General
Except for responsibility or liability of a Pastor or Board pursuant to any criminal statute or the liability of a Pastor for the payment of taxes pursuant to federal, state or local law, a Pastor shall not be personally liable for monetary damages for any action taken unless the Pastor breached or failed to perform the duties of his office or the breach or failure to perform constitutes selfâ€dealing, willful misconduct or recklessness.
Section 2: Thirdâ€Party Actions
The corporation shall indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (other than action by or in the right of the corporation) by reason of the fact that the person is or was a representative of the corporation, against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with the action or proceeding, if such person acted in good faith and a manner the person reasonably believed to be in, or not opposed to, the best interests of the corporation, and, with such care, including reasonable inquiry, skill and diligence, as a person or ordinary prudence would use under similar circumstances, and with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. The termination of any action or proceeding by judgment, order, settlement or conviction or upon a pleas of nolo contender or its equivalent shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did not act in good faith and in a manner which the person reasonably believed to be in, or not opposed to, the best interests of the corporation, and, with respect to any criminal proceeding, that the person had reasonable cause to believe that his or her conduct was unlawful.
Section 3: Mandatory Indemnification
To the extent that a representative of the corporation has been successful on the merits or otherwise in the defense of any action, suit or proceeding referred to in Section 2 of this Article, or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, such person shall be indemnified against expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection therewith.
Section 4: Supplementary Coverage
The indemnification provided by the Section 2 of this Article shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those seeking indemnification may be entitled under the Nonprofit Corporation Law of 1988, any other provision of law, the Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws or any agreement, vote of disinterested Directors and Elders or otherwise, both as the action in person’s official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding such office, and shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be a representative, and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a person.
Article Sixteen
Discipline
We believe that God has given the leadership of the church responsibility for the care and welfare both of the overall body and also for the individual soul. Our desire to provide effective shepherd like care for both, even in moments of discipline. The purpose of discipline is to protect the churchâ€atâ€large and to promote repentance in the person involved. Discipline is redemptive, corrective, and protective in nature.
Box Church reserves the right to exert discipline in matters of theological or ethical/moral indiscretion as it relates to every official church function, event, or activity endorsed by Box Church.
Article Seventeen
Dissolution
Upon the dissolution of Box Church, none of its funds or assets shall be distributed to any Pastor, Officer, Board Member, or any other individual. The BOS, after paying or making provision for the payment of all liabilities of Box Church, shall dispose of all the funds and assets of the church by conveying to a similar entity, provided that the said entity at the time qualifies as an exempt organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. These said funds shall be conveyed with the express intent and hope that they be reinvested in a church planting movement. In the event the similar entity is unable or unwilling to accept the transfer of all the property of this Church, then such property shall be transferred to an organization operated exclusively for religious purposes with taxâ€exempt status under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Article Eighteen
Fiscal Definitions
Section 1. General
Box Church, through the BOS, shall create and maintain such departments and suborganizations as may be necessary and advisable for the extension of its financial work. All such departments and organizations shall be subordinate to Box Church and shall contribute to the harmony and development of the whole. They shall be under the general supervision of the Lead Pastor and BOS. All significant contracts should be reviewed by a competent attorney and the BOS prior to the signing.
Section 2. Budget & Audits
The Lead Pastor and staff shall prepare, with the approval of the BOS, a unified budget for the Church. Said unified budget shall include all monies received or expended by or for any and all departments of Box Church. The BOS may conduct and arrange for an annual financial review or audit of a type and nature they deem appropriate.
Section 3. Property
All property of Box Church shall be deeded to Box Church and held in
its incorporated name. No property valued at more than 20% of the previous year’s disbursements shall be sold, leased, mortgaged or otherwise disposed of without being presented to the BOS and approved by at least 2/3 of the BOS.
Article Nineteen
Order
In order to facilitate the conduct of business in an orderly and satisfactory manner, all meetings shall be governed by the accepted rules of Parliamentary Procedure in keeping with the spirit of Christian love and fellowship.
Article Twenty
Amendments
These Bylaws may be amended by majority vote of the BOS and approved by the COPs.
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