OUR CHURCH ORGANIZATION
Behind the warm fellowship of loving Christians at Emmanuel is an organizational structure rooted in Scripture and designed to make effective the ministry of this body of believers.
The body of Jesus Christ, the Church, is a living organism with Jesus Christ at the head. He said, "I will build my church." Thus, the organization at Emmanuel Baptist Church is subject to His ultimate authority.
In God's word, there is not a precise structure that we are commanded to follow, but there are principles and specific events in the forming of the New Testament churches to serve as guidelines and models.
LOCAL CHURCH AUTONOMY
Emmanuel Baptist Church is an independent Baptist church, totally self-governing, and separate from any governing hierarchy. Emmanuel is, however, a member of the General Association of Regular Baptist Churches, a nationwide association of fundamental, independent, Baptist churches that are like-minded and committed to the same doctrinal standard. This autonomy requires responsibility, and members of Emmanuel Baptist recognize that the future growth and ministry of the church depends upon faithful, committed, and active members who together strive for the advancement of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. (I Tim. 3:15; Acts 6:1-7; 13:1-4; 14:26-28; I Cor. 5:1-5).
BUSINESS MEETINGS
An autonomous independent church has only one way of conducting its business affairs, through meetings. While meetings are not the most pleasurable aspect of church ministry, it is still a necessary price to pay for autonomy. Even though Christians don't always agree on business matters, at Emmanuel we place a strong emphasis on family unity and right spiritual attitudes. It is therefore important that all present, especially the children, observe a spirit of sweetness during all business meetings.
Although from time to time special business meetings will be called to deal with a matter of special importance, the regularly scheduled meetings of the congregation are held quarterly: the second Wednesday evening of April, July, and October. During these meetings reports are provided and any miscellaneous business is considered. Two annual business meetings are conducted separately. Part one is conducted in December to approve a budget, and elect officers for the following year. The annual meeting part two is held during the month of January, during which all annual reports from all departments are received.
Although anybody may attend and observe the business meetings, only those members in good standing, 18 years or older, may be able to participate or vote.
LOCAL CHURCH OFFICERS
There are only two officers described in the Bible: The Pastor and the Deacons.
(1) The Pastor (I Tim. 3:1-7) is the undershepherd and spiritual leader and advisor of the church. The office of the pastor is described in the Bible with use of different terms, yet all referring to the same office. The terms Pastor, Elder, Bishop, Shepherd appear to be used interchangeably in the New Testament, but unquestionably speak of the same office (Acts 20:17, 28; I Peter 5:1, 2).
(2) The Deacon (I Tim. 3:8-13) is the local church appointed officer whose ministry provides for the spiritual and at times material assistance to the church and the pastor.
The responsible nature of the Deacon is demonstrated in the high standards qualifying one for the office. It must be remembered that both the deacons and the pastor are appointed by the church and thus are responsible to the church, which subsequently is responsible to Christ.
AUXILIARY OFFICERS
In order that the practical needs of our church be met, there are other auxiliary officers that are elected or appointed:
(1) Trustees: Responsible for the financial oversight and care of the church properties.
(2) Treasurer: Maintains the financial records of the church.
(3) Deaconesses: Administer the practical needs of the congregation and guests.
(4) Church Clerk: Keeps an accurate record of all church minutes and records.
(5) Ushers: Provide for the comfort, convenience and needs of the congregation during the church services.
(6) Sunday School Superintendent: Supervises the Sunday School staff and program.
Beside these officers, various committees are annually appointed to care for specific needs that may arise.
CHURCH AUTHORITY
As shown on the organizational chart, the ultimate authority for the congregation is Jesus Christ - Col. 1:18 and the Bible - II Tim. 3:16-17. Under Christ, the congregation delegates responsibility and authority to the church officers and pastor.
Procedurally, however, all members of Emmanuel Baptist are committed to abide by the:
[1] Church Constitution: Describes the operating procedures for our congregation;
[2] Articles of Faith: The statement of faith and belief;
[3] Covenant: The practical living standard that the church family strives for.
A CHURCH FAMILY
We wish not to be known simply as a congregation, but rather a church family, that loves, cares, and ministers for each other's edification. As a family, it is our desire that all members become involved in service and ministry, using the natural abilities and spiritual gifts entrusted to them by God. We are all ministers who are called to be committed, with the guidance and encouragement of the church leaders, to bring honor to our Lord.